Au Cheval

Why the best burger in Chicago is served at a bar with a French name might be a question for the ages. But rather than question it, just go there! The single burger at Au Cheval is actually a double, and don’t even ask about the double cheeseburger! You will get your burger(s) covered in cheese, served with Dijonnaise and a fried egg—just as the French have always intended. That first bite will make you think you’ve never really had a burger before; maybe you’ll even start to wonder about your country allegiance. Au Cheval calls itself a diner but the space, cozy with dark wood, dim lights over a row of chrome-leg barstools, and tufted leather booths along the wall, has the look of a classic bar and lounge.

I had Au Cheval’s meaty double patty, ooey gooey cheeseburger three days ago and I’m still dreaming about it. It is the best burger I’ve ever had hands down. It tastes like a Big Mac but without the marketing and the processed meat. Amazing. Go at lunch - a wait on a Friday night is easily about 2 to 3 hours and sit at the bar. Best. Ever. Notes: the fries are a big portion and $6. It’s too much if you’re by yourself. The bloody mary here is ace. The burger is served with a mighty dill pickle. The mille feuille looked AMAZING as well.