The best burgers in Chicago are not quiet about their fame, and neither are the lines wrapping around these five spots.
Every patty here has its own legend, from double-stacked diner classics to chef-driven creations built with butcher-shop precision.
You taste the story in every bite.
Au Cheval
The best burgers in Chicago conversation always pulls Au Cheval into the spotlight, because its signature cheeseburger has been praised for years as one of America’s finest.
Critics and locals rave about its rich, griddled patties, glossy bun, and perfect balance of cheese, pickles, and egg, so people happily wait in long lines just to score a seat at the bar.
That slow build of hype turned a West Loop diner into a full-on burger pilgrimage site. 🤤
Food Highlights
-
Cheeseburger Au Cheval: Classic griddled burger stacked with melty cheese and toppings that fans call a bucket-list bite, thanks to its juicy patties and precise balance of flavor. 🍔
-
Single Cheeseburger: A “single” that still feels decadent, with rich beef and cheese layered on a soft bun, loved for giving the full Au Cheval experience in a slightly lighter package.
-
Double Cheeseburger: Two thin patties cooked on the flat-top, loaded with cheese and toppings, famous for its deep beef flavor and craveable char.
-
Single Burger: A simpler order that still brings the same seared edges and juicy center, perfect for anyone who wants that signature taste with a more minimal build.
-
Thick Cut Peppered Bacon: Often added to burgers for extra richness and smoke, this hefty, peppery strip turns an already indulgent burger into a full-on event. 🥓
Atmosphere
The room feels like a moody, updated diner, with low light, big booths, and a buzzing bar that keeps energy high.
Servers move quickly, but the vibe stays relaxed, like a late-night hangout that just happens to serve legendary food.
Expect a steady hum of conversation, clinking glasses, and that sizzle from the flat-top in the background.
It feels like a grown-up burger party that never really slows down.
Address:
800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
📞 (312) 929-4580
🕔 Typically open daily, late into the night; check online for current hours
The Dearborn
The best burgers in Chicago have range, and The Dearborn proves it with a refined, Midwest-focused tavern menu that still knows how to do serious comfort food.
Its burger and famous fish and chips share the spotlight, especially after the crispy cod beat Bobby Flay on TV, which brought a rush of curious diners into this polished Loop favorite.
Today, it hums with theater-goers, office crews, and tourists chasing that “I ate the burger and the fish that everyone talks about” moment.
Food Highlights
-
The Dearborn Burger: USDA prime ground beef with Wisconsin cheddar, special sauce, dill pickles, and bibb lettuce on a brioche bun, loved for its juicy patty and classic tavern flavor that feels both familiar and dressed up.
-
Burger Wellington: Burger meets steakhouse, with USDA prime beef, cambozola cheese, mushrooms, caramelized onions, puff pastry, and dijonnaise, making it a must-try for anyone who wants a richer, more indulgent burger.
-
Chicago’s Finest Fish & Chips: Tempura-battered Icelandic cod with fries, rainbow slaw, remoulade, and malt vinegar, famous for the crispy coating and TV-winning reputation. 🐟
Atmosphere
This spot feels like an urban tavern with polish, blending warm wood, comfy booths, and a lively bar into one big room.
Business diners, theater fans, and travelers share the same space, which keeps the energy upbeat but still relaxed.
Service leans friendly and professional, giving it the feel of a reliable “Loop home base” for drinks and comfort food.
It works just as well for a pre-show burger as it does for a long, laid-back dinner.
Address:
145 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60602
📞 (312) 384-1242
🕔 Open daily; lunch and dinner hours vary, so check online before visiting
Small Cheval – Wicker Park
If you chase the best burgers in Chicago but hate marathon waits, Small Cheval – Wicker Park feels like a cheat code.
Created as a fast-casual spin-off of Au Cheval, it focuses almost entirely on the burger, fries, and a few drinks, keeping the menu tight and the output laser-focused.
People come for that familiar flavor profile in a more casual package, line up, eat, and walk back out onto Milwaukee Ave with burger bliss. 😎
Food Highlights
-
Cheeseburger: Double-patty burger with cheese, dijon, pickles, onion, and a puffy bun, praised for its simple build and flavor that closely mirrors the iconic Au Cheval burger.
-
Burger With Bacon: The same cheeseburger with thinner bacon that adds crunch and smoke without overpowering the rest of the toppings, popular with regulars who like a little extra richness.
-
French Fries: Crisp fries that shine when dragged through the garlicky aioli offered alongside ketchup, making them a must-add to any order. 🍟
Atmosphere
The Wicker Park location feels casual and lively, with a steady stream of locals grabbing burgers before or after a night out.
You hear the rumble of the Blue Line overhead and the general buzz of Milwaukee Ave outside.
Inside and on the patio, people eat quickly, chat, and move on, making it feel like a classic fast burger stop with Chicago personality.
The focus stays firmly on the food and the quick, satisfying experience.
Address:
1732 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
📞 (773) 697-4096
🕔 Hours vary by day; generally open midday to late evening, so confirm online
Little Bad Wolf
Talk to locals about the best burgers in Chicago, and Little Bad Wolf in Andersonville comes up with a grin and a knowing nod.
This spot built a cult following with creative bar food, strong drinks, and a burger that regulars describe as one of the city’s greats.
Word of mouth, social posts, and endless “you have to try it” recommendations turned this neighborhood hangout into a destination for burger lovers. 🐺
Food Highlights
(Dish names at Little Bad Wolf can vary slightly by menu and updates, so focus on their burger lineup and popular staples when you visit.)
-
Signature Burger: Stacked patties with American cheese and house toppings, frequently praised in reviews for its juicy interior, seared edges, and generous size that easily satisfies big appetites.
-
Burger Variations With Bacon Or Egg: Many guests customize with bacon or a fried egg, adding smoky or rich flavor that takes an already bold burger to the next level.
Atmosphere
The room feels like a cozy, slightly moody neighborhood bar, with dim lighting, a long bar, and art-filled walls.
It gets busy and loud, especially on weekends, but the staff keeps things friendly and welcoming.
Cocktails and beer lists add to the “come for a drink, stay for food” personality.
It feels like the kind of late-night spot you remember long after the trip is over. 🍻
Address:
1541 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago, IL 60660
📞 (773) 942-6399
🕔 Typically open daily until late night; check current hours before heading over
Butcher & The Burger
The best burgers in Chicago are not limited to classic diners and bars, and Butcher & The Burger proves that with a format that blends burger counter with old-school butcher shop.
Guests pick their protein, seasoning blend, and toppings, turning each order into a personal creation built from a case full of high-quality meats.
Locals love that they can eat a burger at the counter, then grab patties, meatballs, or meatloaf to cook at home, which helped this Lincoln Park shop build a loyal, repeat-heavy fan base. 🥩
Food Highlights
-
Prime Angus Burger: A house favorite built from high-quality prime Angus beef, appreciated for its deep beef flavor and juicy texture that shines even with simple toppings.
-
Grass-Fed Beef Burger: Popular with guests who want a richer flavor and more mindful sourcing, this option lets you enjoy a classic burger with a slightly leaner, cleaner bite.
-
House-Made Vegan Burger: A go-to for plant-focused eaters, praised for having real texture and flavor instead of feeling like an afterthought. 🌱
-
Fresh Salmon Burger: A lighter option made from fresh salmon, giving seafood fans a chance to join the burger fun without skipping the butcher-shop quality.
-
Shrimp Or Other Specialty Patties: Rotating proteins from the butcher case such as shrimp or game let adventurous diners turn their burger into something unique and memorable.
Atmosphere
The shop feels casual and compact, with counter seating, chalkboard-style menu details, and a vintage meat-locker vibe.
You see the butcher case and know real work gets done there, which makes the food feel crafted instead of factory-made.
Families, solo diners, and neighborhood regulars all share the same space, which gives it a warm, familiar energy.
It feels like a local spot that just happens to turn out serious burger magic.
Address:
1021 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
📞 (773) 697-3735
🕔 Hours vary by day; usually open midday through evening, check ahead online
Bottom Line – best burgers in chicago
Big-city buzz, chef-driven menus, and real neighborhood charm all collide at these five spots.
Visit for legendary patties, creative builds, late-night vibes, and true butcher-shop quality.
You leave full, happy, and planning which Chicago burger you will conquer next. 😋