Whether you're craving a hearty lunch or a reward after a tough workout, it's hard to beat a juicy, mouthwatering burger right off the grill. Here are five of our favorite spots to savor a burger around town—ranked in order of preference.
Au Cheval/Small Cheval
West Town/Wicker Park
If you ask any Chicagoan for their opinion on the best burger in town, chances are you'll hear the words "Au Cheval." This hip diner serves up its burgers simple, with just patties and American cheese—additional items like egg and bacon are extra.
But don't let this burger's simplicity fool you. It was heralded as the best in the country by Bon Appetit a few years ago, and has inspired imitators around the country—including Small Cheval, the owners' burgers-only spinoff in Wicker Park.
bopNgrill
Rogers Park
Those who like an extra kick with their burger should check out BopNGrill's kimchi burger, which piles on spicy kimchi and a fried egg. You can also go for an ultra-umami experience with the duxelle burger, featuring truffled mushrooms, sun-dried tomato confit, bacon, togarashi mayo, and smoked gouda. And be sure to try the kimchi french fries, which are covered in caramelized kimchi, cheese sauce, bacon, scallions, and sesame seeds.
That’s A Burger
Avalon Park
Constantly crave burgers, but seeking a healthier option once in a while? That's A Burger is the place to go for a juicy, delicious turkey burger for just $6.25. The only downside is that you may have to wait in line for 30 minutes or more to get your order at peak hours. But what's 30 minutes for a great burger?
Dusek’s Board & Beer
Pilsen
If you're willing to shell out some dough for the best burger in town, try your hand at Dusek's, which comes from the team behind Longman & Eagle. Its burgers clock in at a hefty $15, but the juicy beef patty and fried egg will take your mind off the bill. Add some sweet potato fries and one of their 23 draft beers to the mix, and we promise you won't look back.
Johnny’s Grill
Logan Square
Need a greasy burger to cure your hangover? Head over to Johnny's Grill for its take on the American classic. For $9, you'll get a burger with two patties, a slice of American cheese melted on top, pickles, and mustard-mayo. Make it a combo with fries and a soda or cup of coffee for just $4 more.
To sample something a little different, be sure to visit on Thursdays, when Johnny's offers a rotating special burger like the "lamburger," with a lamb patty, olives, harissa yogurt, pickled shallots and greens.
