If you are searching for the best gourmet burgers in Chicago, you have come to the right place. Chicago boasts a vibrant food and drink scene with some of the finest burgers in the world – ranging from classic American patties to exotic international flavors, offering a burger that suits every palate. This blog post will explore 6 must-try restaurants for gourmet burgers in Chicago as recommended by Ryan Bluestone. These restaurants, from traditional taverns to trendy bistros, serve some of the most excellent burgers in the city. So, bring your appetite, and let’s discover the best gourmet burgers in Chicago.
Gourmet Burgers in Chicago: 6 Must-Try Restaurants
Chicago is known for its famous gourmet burgers and with Ryan Bluestone’s recommendations, you can explore the best of the best. From Au Cheval’s single cheeseburger, which can be topped with thick cut bacon and a fried egg, to The Loyalist’s burger also named one of the best in the country by Bon Appetit magazine, there are endless options for gourmet burgers in Chicago.
1) Au Cheval: An iconic culinary gem in Chicago’s West Loop. Since opening in 2012, Au Cheval has become a destination for food enthusiasts. Its legendary cheeseburger has garnered widespread acclaim, drawing burger aficionados from far and wide, and being named the Best Burger in America by many. Made with prime beef, melted American cheese, tangy dijonnaise, and house-made pickles, this burger is a symphony of flavors. Au Cheval’s attention to detail ensures that each bite is a revelation; Ryan Hunter Bluestone would recommend adding the Fried Egg and Thick Cut Bacon on top for the ultimate experience. The menu also features house-made foie gras, fried chicken, and luscious egg dishes. Beyond the food, Au Cheval exudes timeless charm, making it a truly unforgettable dining experience.
2) Small Cheval: A sibling of the renowned Au Cheval, Small Cheval has carved its own niche in the Chicago burger scene. With a smaller, more casual setting, Small Cheval serves up classic simplicity in each bite. The menu features their signature cheeseburger, which stays true to its roots—a perfectly seasoned beef patty topped with melted cheese, tangy sauce, and crisp pickles. What makes Small Cheval famous is its ability to deliver big flavors in a no-frills package. It’s a neighborhood spot where locals flock to indulge in a satisfying, no-nonsense burger experience that hits all the right notes.
3) Kuma’s Corner: Nestled in Avondale, Kuma’s Corner is a rock ‘n’ roll-inspired burger haven that has been a Chicago favorite since 2005. Known for their heavy metal-themed burgers, Kuma’s Corner combines bold flavors with a head-banging atmosphere. Each burger is a masterpiece, featuring a juicy patty topped with unique ingredients like hot sauce, bacon, fried eggs, or even mac and cheese. What truly sets Kuma’s Corner apart is their dedication to the local music scene, with walls adorned with memorabilia and a playlist that rocks as hard as their burgers. From the Slayer-inspired Slayer burger to the Black Sabbath-infused Iron Maiden, Kuma’s Corner brings together two beloved Chicago passions: music and mouth watering burgers.
4) The Loyalist: Nestled beneath the critically acclaimed Smyth restaurant, The Loyalist in West Loop offers a refined twist on the classic burger. Their famous “Dirty Burg” has earned them a devoted following. This masterpiece features two griddled ground short-rib, chuck, and bacon patties draped with American cheese, slathered with onion-infused mayonnaise, and topped with house-made pickles. The Loyalist’s commitment to using the highest quality ingredients and meticulous attention to detail results in a burger that is both elegant and decadent. With its intimate ambiance and impeccable service, The Loyalist offers a burger experience that is as refined as it is indulgent.
5) Mott St: Mott St stands out in the Chicago burger scene with its fusion of Asian flavors and American comfort food. This innovative restaurant in Wicker Park offers a unique take on the classic burger. Their “Mott Burger” combines the juicy goodness of a beef patty with bold Korean flavors, featuring gochujang mayo, pickled shallots, and American cheese. The result is a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory elements that excite the taste buds. Mott St’s inventive approach to burger creation and their ability to seamlessly merge culinary traditions have made them a favorite among adventurous foodies looking for something extraordinary.
6) Billy Goat Tavern: Located beneath the vibrant streets of Lower Michigan Avenue, the Billy Goat Tavern is a cherished Chicago landmark with a captivating history. Since its inception in 1934, this legendary tavern has woven itself into the fabric of the city’s cultural landscape. Founded by the charismatic William “Billy Goat” Sianis, the tavern gained fame for its lively atmosphere and the occasional presence of a live goat. This goat was also the inception of the 1945 Curse of the Billy Goat, when Sianis was not allowed to bring the goat into Wrigley Field to watch the Chicago Cubs play. However, it is the tavern’s simple yet delicious offerings that have truly made it famous. The iconic “Cheezborger, Cheezborger” has become a culinary icon—a mouthwatering double cheeseburger, adorned with American cheese, crispy onions, pickles, and mustard. Billy Goat Tavern’s enduring fame can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to providing a timeless, no-frills dining experience that celebrates the city’s rich history and culinary traditions.
To Sum Up
Chicago has a vibrant food and drink culture that offers some of the best dining experiences in the world. Specifically, Chicago’s burger scene is a foodie’s paradise, boasting classic dishes such as the famous “cheezborger” and Michelin-starred spots. Whether you’re searching for classic American patties or exotic international flavors, this blog shares it all! Ryan Bluestone will guide you through all these amazing places so that you can find your perfect meal! Start your culinary adventure today and experience the greatness of Chicago’s food culture.
