Chicago, IL
Au Cheval
🍔Cheeseburgers · Chicago, IL
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Au Cheval
Chicago, IL
Au Cheval's double cheeseburger is two crispy-edged patties with American cheese, dijonnaise, and house pickles on a Z Baking bun. I've waited 3 hours on a Saturday. Worth it.
Mi Tocaya
Chicago, IL
Mi Tocaya puts a chef-driven spin on Mexican food without losing authenticity. The seasonal taco specials are always interesting.
Pequods Pizza
Chicago, IL
Pequod's caramelized cheese crust is what sets it apart from every other deep dish in Chicago. That ring of mozzarella around the pan gets crispy and chewy at the same time. The wait can be 45 minutes but it's always worth it.
Crisp
Chicago, IL
Crisp's Seoul Sassy wings are the move. Korean fried chicken with that sweet and spicy glaze. The crunch stays even after the sauce. Lakeview staple.
Smoque BBQ
Chicago, IL
Smoque sliced brisket has that proper smoke ring and peppery bark. They don't oversauce it, just let the meat speak. The combo plate with pulled pork is the way to go.
Smoque BBQ
Chicago, IL
Smoque's baby backs with the Memphis-style dry rub are smoked over oak and applewood. The bread pudding with bourbon caramel is the best BBQ dessert in the city. BYOB is a nice touch.
Doughnut Vault
Chicago, IL
The Vault's buttermilk old fashioned is hand-cranked and dunked in hot oil for that perfect crisp shell. River North spot in a literal former bank vault. Get there early, they sell out fast.
High Five Ramen
Chicago, IL
High Five is a basement ramen counter below Green Street Smoked Meats. The tonkotsu is rich and porky. Limited seats, no frills. Pure ramen focus.
