A burger a day keeps the hangry away.
Whether you're at a family barbecue, a dinner date or just on your lunch break, this American classic leaves you full and satisfied with multi-layer flavors and textures that always hit the spot.
Whether you're looking for a simple pub burger or an elevated Michelin star meal, the burger is a versatile canvas with which to experiment—and there's no wrong way to fill your buns.
See Also: 7 Must-Try Vegetarian Restaurants in Chicago—Even if You're a Meat Eater
We found six must-visit burger spots in Chicago that will keep you coming back for more. From homemade sauces, in-house pickles and the classic fried egg, these burger spots may become your new weekend go-to.
When you're through with burgers, check out our list of the best restaurants in Chicago you must try this year.
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1541 W Bryn Mawr Ave., Andersonville / Website
Located in Andersonville, Little Bad Wolf is a cool and calm gastropub serving upscale bar food, from Asian and Mexican cuisines to the American burger. Though it only offers two burger options, they are a delicious handful. The Bad Burger and the Wolf Burger are big hitters, with two or three patties, American cheese, red-onion mayo, house-made pickles, fried onion straws and—last but not least—a fried egg. Little Bad Wolf is the place for a burger that will keep you warm and a strong choice of sides to boot.
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1345 N Wells St, Old Town / Website
Au Cheval is highly-regarded as the best burger joint in Chicago, but we're taking the time to highlight Small Cheval. This burger spot hits the high marks of the renowned Au Cheval burger, but serves patties up in stripped-down diner fashion. This burger spot is perfect for a quick bite, but the flavor will linger in your mind, making this happening hot spot your new favorite. Served with dijonnaise, pickles, onions, American cheese and a side of golden fries, Small Cheval delivers the classic cheeseburger with a refined taste.
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2545 N Kedzie Blvd, Logan Square / Website
Located in Logan Square, get your hands on the “Shiddy Burger” (an ironic name for something so amazing), and dive into the original smashburger. After being smashed and put on the griddle, this burger comes with American cheese and shredded lettuce topped with creamy shiddy sauce. It's a grab-and-go burger that hits all the flavor marks and stays juicy, even after being smashed.
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4038 N. Milwaukee Ave, Portage Park / Website
Community Tavern is helmed by husband-and-wife team that runs an elevated “mom and pop” restaurant, mixing Midwestern ingredients with pan-Asian influences. While the menu is filled with delicious options, the one burger on the menu is worth that extra bite. Served on a brioche bun with American cheese, caramelized onions and a spicy sauce, it's the perfect meal for a laid back date night.
3057 N Ashland Ave, Lakeview / Website
Once a hot dog-dominated menu, the RedHot Ranches burger has taken over the Chicago burger scene. A constant contender on multiple best burgers in Chicago lists, it's a must-try. Served with lettuce, tomato and onion, the smashburger hits the marks of a classic burger with a yummy secret sauce on top. There are also Chicago Style options for your burger, including mustard, ketchup, relish, onions and sport peppers. See what the RedHot Ranch burger is all about.
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2345 N Leavitt St, Bucktown / Website
With deep roots in the neighborhood of Bucktown, the Leavitt Street Inn & Tavern is a beloved local favorite. Boasting family and neighborhood values, the food is made with just as much love and care. The L. St Smash burger comes with house sauce, caramelized onions, American cheese and homemade pickles. Along with your burger, drink a beer from one of the 21-rotating local and Midwestern breweries the Tavern supports.
Photography by: Amirali mirhashemian / Unsplash
