The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern

Nestled in the heart of Peoria, Illinois, The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern stands out as a haven for barbecue aficionados craving richly smoked, flavorful meats and inventive dishes that push traditional boundaries. This barbecue restaurant combines authentic smoky goodness with a modern twist, offering an inviting atmosphere where history and hearty flavors meet.

The moment you step into The Blue Duck, you're greeted by the warm, inviting essence of wood-fired BBQ, a culinary embrace that promises depth and soul in every bite. The restaurant’s menu is a delightful journey through smoked meats and bold accompaniments. Signature offerings like the Pulled Pork Plate and the generous ¼ lb Sliced Brisket showcase classic barbecue executed with precision and care. But it's the inventive specialty tacos — particularly the 3 Mexican Tacos filled with tender pulled pork, topped with diced white onions, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, queso fresco, and creamy avocado crema on freshly made corn tortillas — that elevate The Blue Duck’s menu to an exciting level. The 2 Asian Tacos, marrying brisket marinated in a vibrant Asian barbecue sauce with slaw, house-pickled red onions, and a zingy red pepper aioli, offer an adventurous flavor profile rich with umami and spice.

Appetizers like the Smoked & Fried Wings are a multi-textural marvel: smoked, then crisp-fried wings spun in your choice of Asian barbecue sauce, spicy Asian buffalo, or traditional buffalo sauce deliver a mouthwatering combination of smoky, spicy, and savory notes, heightened by garnishes like green onions and dips ranging from tangy bleu cheese to red pepper aioli. For those looking for a comforting indulgence, the Smoked Meat Poutine and the ever-popular BBQ Mac — creamy mac and cheese topped with your choice of brisket, pork belly, or pulled pork — are must-tries, delivering a decadent marriage of smoky meat and melting cheese that lingers deliciously on the palate.

The Blue Duck also impresses with its perfectly crafted sides such as the Elotes and the Wedge Salad, which blend traditional barbecue flavors with fresh, bright accents that cleanse the palate and add balance to the meal. And no barbecue experience here is complete without indulging in dessert options like the luscious Key Lime Pie or the irresistibly rich Peanut Butter Pie, offering a sweet, tangy finale to your feast.

More than just a place for food, the atmosphere at The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern is distinctly welcoming with a cozy, intimate vibe that ensures patrons feel both at home and part of something authentic. Reviewers consistently praise the attentive service and the manageable size of the space, which fosters a personal connection and timely service without compromising quality. The experience is made even richer by the restaurant’s historic setting, adding a subtle layer of nostalgia and charm.

Patrons like 'Bald Eagle' have highlighted the promptness and cleanliness, noting a smooth dining flow from arrival to savoring their food within minutes. Others, such as 'Jake Gerdes,' have returned with high praise for the ever-evolving menu, particularly lauding the flavorful smoked turkey breast and the unbeatable tacos that keep guests coming back. While minor critiques surface — like 'Sportsquid''s observation of a slightly dry brisket or ribs that could be more tender — these are easily overshadowed by the robust, bold flavors and the genuine character infused into every dish.

In essence, The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern is more than just a barbecue restaurant. It’s a culinary destination where tradition meets creativity, offering smoky, savory plates that tell a story with every bite. Whether you’re a devoted BBQ lover or an adventurous first-timer, the tantalizing menu, carefully balanced flavors, and cozy ambiance make it a memorable dining experience in Peoria’s vibrant food scene.