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| - Hearing the words barbecue and central Illinois the association isn't immediately sensible or clear. But take a seat at Black Dog and give the best barbecue in central Illinois and arguably some of the best barbecue in the country a try. The original Black Dog location which has been open a couple years, is a narrow and small place, always packed to the brim. Expect to wait for lunch or dinner and even into the early afternoon and evening, this place will be busting at the seams. But that shouldn't be a discouragement, come ready to wait, and ready to eat, because the food is incredible, the beer selection consistently interesting and varied.
And the food. There is not a bad option, but there is a best option. The burnt ends, for those not familiar with burnt ends, this is the meat from the end of the brisket pieces prepared for lunch, so there is a limited number. The burnt ends name is a slight misnomer, these are not burnt, but they are cooked, ends of meat, and are immensely flavorful. Topped with a variety of sauces there are some really great options, including Georgia peach (spicy and not) and a few acidic sauces. The sides are also a hit with an amazing twice baked casserole as well as great beans, mac and cheese (on the right day), and sweet potato fries.
Don't hesitate, or balk at a wait in line for a table, head here now. Hopefully the new location to be opened in the neat older train station in Champaign will help make some space for meals in both locations, the demand certainly seems to be there.
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