Lexington Betty Smokehouse is a Black-owned barbecue restaurant in Chicago’s Roseland neighborhood, serving Chicago-style smoked meats, Southern-inspired sides, and chef-driven comfort food. Founded by chef and pitmaster Dominique Leach and her wife, Tanisha, the restaurant brings together traditional barbecue techniques, family recipes, and the flavors of Chicago’s South Side.

The restaurant takes its name from Leach’s grandmother, Betty King, of Lexington, Mississippi. Inspired by childhood memories of her grandmother’s home cooking, Leach developed a barbecue concept that combines Southern food traditions with her professional culinary training.

Lexington Betty Smokehouse specializes in slow-smoked meats, including beef brisket, rib tips, spare ribs, pulled pork, and chicken. Its menu features hearty barbecue plates and sandwiches alongside soulful sides such as macaroni and cheese, collard greens, candied yams, and cornbread. The restaurant also identifies itself as vegan-friendly, offering options for guests with different dietary preferences.

Before becoming a pitmaster, Leach worked in several respected Chicago kitchens, including Spiaggia and the Art Institute of Chicago. She and Tanisha launched their catering business in 2016 before expanding into a food truck and eventually establishing Lexington Betty’s permanent restaurant.

Leach has appeared on Food Network’s Chopped and Food Network Canada’s Fire Masters. Lexington Betty also received national attention when Good Morning America recognized it for its Chicago barbecue.

Beyond dine-in and takeout service, Lexington Betty provides catering for corporate events, private celebrations, and group gatherings. Offerings include barbecue packages, boxed lunches, and food truck catering.

With its combination of smoked meats, Southern hospitality, and family-inspired cooking, Lexington Betty Smokehouse offers a distinctive barbecue experience on Chicago’s Far South Side.