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Where To Get The Best Burgers in Chicago

Did your favorite make the list?

By Sara Yaniga, Macaroni KID Chicago July 1, 2023

Who doesn't love a good burger? We have a few favorite spots in Chicago we like to head to when craving a burger! Some you will catch at the annual Burger Fest, but in case you miss it - don't worry!

Whether you like your burger plain and simple, dressed up with traditional toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, or loaded with trendy toppings, we've got you covered with these best burger spots in ChicagoWant vegetarian options? We have added those too!

Hungry for burgers in Chicago yet? 

I am! I've rounded up my family's choices for the top five burger joints in the Windy City area, along with the reasons my family loves them! 


Au Cheval

800 W Randolph St (West Loop)

What we love: Okay, this place definitely has a bit of a cult following and once you take a bite of that griddled burger (go for the double stack, trust me!) you will understand why. First of all, they have mastered the art of a patty that is crispy, yet juicy and flavorful. I don't know how they cook these burgers, but they are special - even if you don't dress them up with an egg or thick bacon. Now that you are wanting to try one let me tell you that this upscale diner DOES NOT accept reservations and wait times can be measured in hours instead of minutes. No time to wait? Swing by a Small Cheval for a little taste of what you are missing. The Small Cheval burger is a bit smaller and thinner, but the patties are still magical. 


AJ Hudsons Public House

3801 N Ashland Ave (Lakeview)

What we love: At its heart, AJ Hudson's in an English pub, and Chicago's original soccer bar, a home for Chicagoans and ex-pats from all over the world to watch the beautiful game and all sorts of other sports. With a full menu of upscale pub fare and over 100 beers plus a historical cocktail program, AJ Hudson's Public House is a welcoming neighborhood gathering spot, offering lunch and dinner seven days a week along with brunch on the weekends. Their Classic Burger is always a hit with our crew, but check and see what the "Burger of the Week" is if you are looking to try something new.  They also can make a perfectly delicious burger for your kid's palate too!



Arijuhani via Canva

Redhot Ranch

2449 W Armitage Ave (Bucktown) or 3057 N Ashland Ave (Lakeview) or 500 W 35th Street (near Guaranteed Rate Field)

What we love: Redhot Ranch combines this mom's two favorite things - great food and a great price! The burgers are seared to perfection and the toppings are always fresh! I love to get my burgers "Chicago Style" because I am a sucker for sport peppers and the kids stick with a RHR Cheeseburger (oh that melty cheese!) and don't forget to save room for the French fries!


Reggies Chicago

2105 S State Street, Near South Side; 60616

What we love: Truth time - I seek this burger out at the annual Burger Fest in Roscoe Village year after year. This char-grilled treasure is indescribable but with one bite you will quickly understand why they are out to defend their title year after year! Reggies is super easy to get to from the Red and Green Lines, known as a killer music, and comedy, venue but do not miss out on ordering something from their menu. It's all great, but especially those burgers!


The StopAlong

1812 N Milwaukee Ave, Bucktown; 60647

What we love: The real question is, "What don't we love?" when it comes to The StopAlong!  Located right off of the 606 in Bucktown, this spot is a true gem. They keep the menu simple, the service fantastic, the atmosphere is reminiscent of my childhood bedroom and the food is delicious from the first bite to the last. Inspired by the burgers of a certain West Coast chain with a "not so secret" menu, the burgers are served hot, straight from the griddle and when you are done you may be a little sad and wishing for more. 



 Jacob Lund via Canva

Hungry yet? Me too. Time for burgers. The bonus about going out for burgers tonight? No cooking or cleaning up for me!

Have a fave that didn't make the list? Drop me a note at sarayaniga@macaronikid.com and let me know who we missed.