These Are Top 10 Best Places For A Burger In Illinois
You ever take a bite of a burger and immediately think, “Okay, this is what I’ve been missing”? That’s the feeling you get when you find a really great one.
And Illinois? Yeah, it’s got a whole bunch of them.
No matter where you’re at in the state, there’s a burger waiting to make you forget about whatever else you had planned for lunch, or dinner, or both. From juicy, flame-grilled classics to wild creations piled high with everything from bacon to secret sauces, Illinois knows how to make a burger unforgettable.
So, if you’re on the hunt for that perfect bite, keep reading, this list will have you running to the nearest spot with a great burger in hand.
1. Au Cheval – Chicago (800 W Randolph St)
Burger lovers worldwide have been making pilgrimages to this Chicago gem, and for good reason. Au Cheval serves what many consider the ultimate burger experience, with a perfectly cooked patty that practically melts in your mouth.
The signature cheeseburger comes with double or triple patties, thick-cut bacon, pickles, and a dijonnaise sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
Lines form early and stay long, but the wait becomes part of the adventure. People chat excitedly about what they are about to devour, building anticipation with every passing minute.
The atmosphere buzzes with energy as diners snap photos of their towering creations before taking that first glorious bite.
What makes this place stand out is the attention to detail in every component. The buns get toasted to golden perfection, providing just enough structure to hold the juicy patties without falling apart.
Cheese melts into every crevice, creating pockets of gooey goodness that complement the savory meat.
Located in Chicago’s West Loop, Au Cheval has become a destination spot for both locals and tourists. The restaurant also offers other menu items, but let’s be honest—everyone comes here for the burger.
When you finally sink your teeth into this masterpiece, you will understand why people willingly wait hours for a table.
2. Kuma’s Corner – Chicago (2900 W Belmont Ave)
Rock music blasts through the speakers while you feast on some of the most creative burgers in the Windy City. Kuma’s Corner combines heavy metal vibes with heavyweight burgers, each named after iconic rock bands.
The patties weigh in at ten ounces of pure beef bliss, grilled to your preferred temperature and loaded with inventive toppings.
Take the Slayer burger, for instance. This beast features a patty topped with cherry peppers, chili, pepper jack cheese, and a fiery attitude that matches the band’s intensity.
Or try the Metallica, which comes piled high with bacon, cheddar, and barbecue sauce that creates a symphony of smoky sweetness.
The walls showcase rock memorabilia, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a concert venue than a restaurant. Staff members share the same passion for music and burgers, making recommendations with genuine enthusiasm.
Every bite delivers bold flavors that refuse to play it safe.
Vegetarians need not feel left out, as Kuma’s offers plant-based options that receive the same creative treatment. The restaurant has expanded to multiple locations, but the original Belmont Avenue spot maintains that authentic neighborhood feel.
When you crave a burger with personality and volume turned up to eleven, Kuma’s Corner delivers an unforgettable performance.
3. The Region – Chicago (2057 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618)
Hidden in a Roscoe Village storefront, this neighborhood treasure celebrates Indiana’s Region cuisine with Chicago flair. The Region specializes in smash burgers that get pressed onto a screaming hot griddle, creating those crispy, caramelized edges that burger enthusiasts dream about.
Each patty develops a crust that locks in juices while adding textural contrast to every bite.
The menu keeps things straightforward but executed flawlessly. Order the double cheeseburger and watch as the kitchen works its magic, stacking two thin patties with American cheese that melts into a blanket of creamy perfection.
Onions, pickles, and a special sauce complete the ensemble without overwhelming the star of the show.
What really sets The Region apart is the consistency. Every burger comes out looking and tasting exactly as it should—no fancy gimmicks, just honest-to-goodness burger excellence.
The casual atmosphere invites you to relax and enjoy your meal without pretension.
Fries arrive hot and crispy, providing the perfect sidekick to your burger adventure. The portions satisfy without leaving you in a food coma, striking that ideal balance between indulgence and comfort.
Local residents consider this spot their secret weapon, though word continues to spread about the exceptional quality found at this unassuming Roscoe Street location.
4. Little Bad Wolf – Chicago (1541 W Bryn Mawr Ave)
Chef David Posey brings fine dining techniques to the humble burger at this Edgewater gem. Little Bad Wolf earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand, proving that burgers deserve serious culinary recognition.
The signature burger features a custom beef blend ground fresh daily, cooked with precision that would make any steakhouse jealous.
Toppings change seasonally, reflecting the chef’s commitment to using fresh, quality ingredients. You might find caramelized onions in autumn, heirloom tomatoes in summer, or roasted mushrooms during winter months.
Each component receives careful consideration, elevating the burger beyond typical diner fare.
The intimate space seats only a handful of guests, creating a cozy atmosphere where you can watch the kitchen team work their craft. Reservations fill up quickly, especially on weekends when burger cravings hit hardest.
The attention to detail extends beyond the food to the service, with staff offering thoughtful recommendations and ensuring every guest feels welcomed.
While the menu includes other exceptional dishes, the burger remains the main attraction for most visitors. The bun gets baked specifically for these burgers, with a texture that complements rather than competes.
When you want a burger that respects both tradition and innovation, Little Bad Wolf delivers an experience that justifies every bit of hype surrounding this neighborhood favorite.
5. The Loyalist – Chicago (177 N Ada St, Chicago, IL 60607)
Beneath the acclaimed Smyth restaurant lies this underground burger sanctuary. The Loyalist proves that simplicity, when executed with unwavering commitment to quality, creates magic.
Their burger features just a few ingredients: a perfectly seasoned patty, melted cheese, pickles, and a soft potato bun that practically dissolves on your tongue.
The beef comes from premium cuts, ground in-house to achieve the ideal fat-to-meat ratio. Cooking happens on a flat-top griddle where each burger receives individual attention from skilled cooks.
The result is a patty with a gorgeous crust outside and a juicy, tender interior that reaches the exact temperature you requested.
The dimly lit space creates an intimate vibe that feels both relaxed and special. Exposed brick walls and industrial touches give the room character without feeling overdone.
You can sit at the bar and watch the kitchen team work with choreographed efficiency, turning out burger after burger with remarkable consistency.
Despite the pedigree of the restaurant above, The Loyalist maintains approachable prices that won’t break your budget. The burger tastes like the platonic ideal of what a cheeseburger should be—no unnecessary frills, just pure burger excellence.
When you crave perfection in its simplest form, this West Loop spot delivers satisfaction in every single bite.
6. Paradise Pup – Des Plaines (1724 S River Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018)
A suburban legend since 1983, this tiny hot dog stand serves burgers that rival any Chicago establishment. Paradise Pup operates from a small building with outdoor seating, giving the whole experience a nostalgic, summertime feel.
The char-grilled burgers arrive with that distinctive flame-kissed flavor that only open-fire cooking can provide.
Order the cheeseburger and marvel at the generous portions. The patty extends beyond the bun edges, ensuring every bite includes meat, cheese, and whatever toppings you choose.
Grilled onions come highly recommended, adding sweetness and texture that complement the smoky beef beautifully.
Lines snake around the building during peak hours, filled with families, couples, and solo diners who have made this spot part of their regular rotation. The wait moves quickly as the efficient staff takes orders and keeps the grill fired up.
Prices remain remarkably reasonable, making this an excellent value for the quality you receive.
The casual atmosphere encourages you to relax and enjoy your meal without rushing. Picnic tables provide seating where you can watch the world go by while savoring your burger.
Local residents fiercely protect their Paradise Pup tradition, though they’re happy to share this treasure with visitors who make the trip to Des Plaines for an authentic suburban burger experience.
7. Hackney’s on Harms – Glenview (1241 Harms Rd)
Since 1939, Hackney’s has been serving their famous Hackneyburger to generations of loyal fans. The secret lies in their unique preparation method: the burger gets cooked on a special grill, then finished in the oven to lock in juices while developing a distinctive texture.
Dark rye bread replaces the traditional bun, giving this burger an unforgettable character.
The onion rings deserve their own paragraph because they are legendary. Golden, crispy, and perfectly seasoned, these rings have won countless awards and turned skeptics into believers.
Pair them with your burger for a combination that has stood the test of time.
The Glenview location maintains that classic supper club atmosphere with dark wood paneling and comfortable booths. Families celebrate milestones here, couples enjoy date nights, and friends gather for casual meals in a setting that feels both timeless and welcoming.
Service comes with a smile from staff who often remember regular customers and their usual orders.
What makes Hackney’s special is the consistency across decades. People who ate here as children now bring their own kids, creating new memories while honoring old traditions.
The burger tastes exactly as it did years ago, providing comfort and satisfaction in a world that constantly changes. When you want a burger with history and heart, Hackney’s delivers an experience that transcends mere food.
8. Schoop’s Hamburgers – Tinley Park (16703 Harlem Ave)
Step back into the 1950s at this retro burger joint that has been serving Northwest Indiana and Illinois suburbs since 1948. Schoop’s brings authentic diner vibes with black-and-white checkered floors, red vinyl booths, and staff wearing classic uniforms.
The burgers get prepared the old-fashioned way, grilled fresh to order with no shortcuts or compromises.
The menu offers straightforward options that let quality ingredients shine. Beef patties arrive juicy and flavorful, dressed with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pickles.
Cheese melts perfectly over the meat, creating that iconic burger experience that never goes out of style.
Milkshakes made with real ice cream provide the perfect accompaniment to your burger. Thick, creamy, and available in classic flavors, these shakes complete the nostalgic dining experience.
The portions satisfy without overwhelming, hitting that sweet spot between generous and reasonable.
Families have been making Schoop’s part of their traditions for multiple generations. Kids press their noses against the glass watching burgers sizzle on the grill, just as their parents and grandparents did decades ago.
The prices remain affordable, making this an accessible treat for everyone. When you crave a burger that tastes like simpler times, Schoop’s delivers authentic diner goodness with every bite.
9. D’Arcy’s Pint – Springfield (661 W Stanford Ave)
Springfield’s favorite gathering spot has been slinging their famous horseshoe sandwiches since 1985, but the burgers deserve equal recognition. D’Arcy’s creates thick, juicy patties that get cooked to perfection and served with genuine hospitality.
The casual pub atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re a regular or visiting the capital city for the first time.
The burger menu offers variety without becoming overwhelming. Classic cheeseburgers satisfy traditionalists, while specialty options provide adventure for those seeking something different.
Fresh toppings and quality cheese elevate each creation beyond ordinary pub fare. The kitchen takes pride in consistent execution, ensuring every burger meets their high standards.
Located near the University of Illinois Springfield campus, D’Arcy’s buzzes with energy from students, professionals, and families alike. The walls display local sports memorabilia and community photos, creating a distinctly Springfield feel.
Service comes quick and friendly, with staff who genuinely seem to enjoy their work.
The restaurant has become a Springfield institution, the kind of place locals recommend without hesitation when visitors ask where to eat. Prices reflect the value you receive—generous portions of quality food without inflated costs.
When you find yourself in Illinois’ capital city with a burger craving, D’Arcy’s Pint provides exactly what you need in a comfortable, unpretentious setting that feels like home.
10. R.J. Grunts – Chicago (2056 N Lincoln Park W)
Located in the heart of Lincoln Park, R.J. Grunts is a beloved Chicago institution that has been serving up classic American comfort food since 1971.
Known for its signature burgers, R.J. Grunts has earned a spot on many locals’ top burger lists for its consistently delicious offerings.
Their “Grunt Burger” is a classic, made with a juicy beef patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a special sauce, all served on a toasted bun that perfectly holds everything together. The burger is cooked to perfection, with the beef being flavorful and perfectly seasoned.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the “Bacon Cheddar Burger”, topped with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar, or go for the “Mushroom Swiss Burger” if you prefer a more savory twist.
What really sets R.J. Grunts apart is their atmosphere, casual, inviting, and family-friendly, making it a great place for any occasion.
The casual setting, along with their fantastic milkshakes and fries, makes this spot a complete burger experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
With a long history in the city and consistently great food, R.J. Grunts is a perfect choice for anyone craving a solid, no-frills burger in a great location.