Russell's is one of those ancient restaurants that you take for granted until an out-of-town guest comments on how great a place it is. This barbecue great has seen its share of history since opening in 1933, and if you take a look around the joint, not much has changed. And why should it have? The same crowd that once frequented Russell's as a late-night hangout 50 years ago now pack the place during lunch, while successive generations keep the restaurant from settling into social rigormortis. The antique-feeling, wood-laden dining hall is so large it often seems reminiscent of a cafeteria, but cafeteria food this is not.

Russell's is most famous for its barbecued beef and pork sandwiches, which are served with cole slaw, fries and all the Russell's sauce you want. At first it may seem that the sauce is runny, but the taste is so unbelievable and unique that consistency isn't even a factor. After a few visits, you begin to crave the sauce, and find yourself stealing the little packets (for you non-kleptomaniacs, they also sell bottles of their famous recipe).

Russell's serves beer and wine at reasonable prices, and also has a children's menu (complete with token for the "Big Russell Machine," a glorified gumball machine). It's definitely worth a trip out to the 'burbs to see why Russell's has been a Chicago favorite for over 50 years.

Average cost: <$10