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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Illinois

Pretzel burger spots

Pairing a salty, soft pretzel with a hearty burger creates the ultimate comfort-food combination.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Uncle D's Bar & Grille image 1
Uncle D's Bar & Grille image 2
Uncle D's Bar & Grille image 3
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American restaurant

Small dive bar with plenty of TVs and an outdoor area creates a lively atmosphere. Loud and crowded during games, it attracts people looking for great food and affordable prices. The vibe suits those who enjoy energetic settings rather than quiet, cozy spots.

Burgers come cooked perfectly, often medium-rare with lots of juice. The Bacon Jam Burger stands out for its size and flavor, while the mushroom and Swiss option is also highly praised.

Pretzel bites stand out with a strong positive impression. The menu also includes pub pretzels alongside other dishes like Reuben egg rolls and a shrimp bowl.

People are saying

"The burgers here are cooked perfectly and taste amazing."

"This local spot has super friendly service and staff."

"The pretzel bites here were amazing, a 10 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

2

The average meal price is around $15.

3

Seating is available both indoors and outdoors.

02
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company image 1

Brewpub occupies a spacious second-floor spot with modern decor and fantastic artwork. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with good music playing at a comfortable volume. Seating includes wide, cushioned bar stools that add to the relaxed vibe.

Burgers come with two 4 oz smash patties on a sesame bun that highlights the patty's flavor. They are perfectly charred with excellent seasoning and juicy without being messy.

Soft pretzels come with a rich Obatzda cheese dip that stands out more than the usual dijon honey mustard. The pretzels are consistently soft and well-made, making the cheese spread the highlight.

People are saying

"They have a great mix of beers on tap."

"The burgers here are cooked just right and packed with flavor."

"You have to try the soft pretzel with the Obatzda cheese dip."

Good to know

1

The brewery is located on the second floor of the AMC building.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

The kitchen closes at 9pm, so arrive early for food.

03
The GOAT image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small space with upstairs loft and patio seating offers a cozy atmosphere that feels casual and inviting. Music plays loudly, especially near the bar, but conversations remain easy at tables. Walls display famous athlete photos, adding a unique sporty touch to the decor.

Burgers feature juicy smash patties with a good crust and flavorful toppings like garlicky sauce and fresh onions. The chicken gyros burger comes on soft naan bread with seasoned chicken and fresh veggies.

Pretzel bites have a soft core with a slight crunch outside. They pair well with queso and serve as a solid appetizer option.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers were delicious and really good."

"The vibe inside is really cool and casual."

"The pretzel bites have a nice soft core and slight crunch."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 4-6 pm with half-off cocktails.

2

Fish tacos and a fish sandwich are the specials this month during happy hour.

3

Seating is available on the main level, upstairs, or outside.

04
Wolfden Brewing Company image 1

Large indoor space combines with spacious outdoor beer garden featuring a fire pit, stage, and dog-friendly seating. Atmosphere stays cozy and casual with low music volume, welcoming families and pets. Regular live music and craft fairs add to the friendly, community vibe.

Half price burger night on Thursday offers $8 burger and fries, making it a solid deal. Burgers are consistently tasty and good value, fitting well with a relaxed spot for craft beer.

The spinach and feta cheese stuffed pretzel stands out with its piping hot, bubbling cheese. It appears seasonally and pairs well with beer cheese or artichoke dip.

People are saying

"It's a great place to sit and enjoy some good beer."

"The stuffed pretzel was piping hot and perfection in every bite."

"I found the burgers here to be phenomenal and tasty."

Good to know

1

On Thursdays, the burgers are half off.

2

Thirsty Thursday offers 1/2 pound hamburgers for 8 dollars.

3

The brewery is kid and dog friendly.

05
Homewood Brewing Company image 1

Spacious brewery with stylish decor and a laid-back charm combines a lively atmosphere and welcoming energy. Features include an open-air rooftop patio with a stunning mural, ping pong tables, and a photo booth. Serving robots add a unique touch to the modern, clean environment.

Burgers come fresh with various incredible sauces. The Bacon Jam Burger stands out with its bone-marrow aioli that lifts the phenomenal patties.

Soft pretzels come with beer cheese and other sauces that complement them well. The pretzels stand out enough to be considered award-worthy on their own.

People are saying

"I thought the food was excellent and properly cooked."

"The smash burgers here are structurally sound and contained."

"The pretzel here is massive and perfect as an appetizer."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

The kitchen closes at 8 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Parking is ample and free for all customers.

06
R Place image 1

Modern bar with updated look and separate slot room offers a chill atmosphere and great vibe for relaxing or watching games. Music can be loud, especially on Friday nights with DJs. Food features scratch-made dishes like smash burgers and wings, often praised as some of the best around.

Smash burgers stand out with their outstanding flavor and come with pretzel bites that pair well. Cook Tyler serves with a smile, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Pretzel bites come highly recommended and pair well with the smash burger. They offer a tasty, shareable option alongside other favorites like wings and cheese curds.

People are saying

"The food here is elevated bar food, made with care."

"Tyler makes burgers with a smile, elevating bar food."

"Bianca and Tyler were amazing bartenders with infectious smiles."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 minimum for credit card payments.

2

BINGO on Wednesday nights is fun with a few tequilas and friends.

3

A DJ performs every Friday night, enhancing the weekend vibe.

07
The Wooden Nickel Pub and Grill image 1

Rustic bar and grill offers multiple seating options including covered and uncovered patios with dog-friendly spaces. Continuous country music plays, sometimes loud, with a jukebox for variety. TVs and video gambling machines add to the lively atmosphere where locals often know each other.

Double smash burgers come with an extra patty and fries. The Nickel Burger and Frisco Melt stand out as solid choices. Sweet potato fries and house-made chips often accompany the meals.

Pretzel bites come crisp and plentiful, served with a cheese sauce that complements their flavor. Pretzel sticks also appear as a recommended appetizer option.

People are saying

"The patio seating here is available year-round and feels perfect."

"The American food here is amazing, especially the huge nachos."

"I've never had a better smash burger, it's godly."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and is very popular.

2

The pub is dog-friendly, with a patio that accommodates pets.

3

A service charge is added for credit card payments, so check your bill.

08
The Boss's Signature image 1

Restaurant offers a freshly remodeled interior with beautiful chandeliers and an open, modern design. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and chill to lively, with a welcoming vibe and small, closely arranged seating. Features include a private event space and a bar area with slot machines and games.

Boss Burger and Still Burger stand out with exceptional flavor and quality. Both burgers come with crispy fries and pair well with other menu items like prime rib sandwiches and burrata caprese salad.

Pretzel bites and nuggets appear as popular appetizers, served alongside dishes like burnt ends and ribs. These pretzel appetizers come in bite-sized forms and are described as delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the pot roast and brisket, is melt-in-your-mouth delicious."

"I thought The Boss burger was the best."

"You have to try the pretzel bites; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

2

The restaurant offers brunch on weekends, which is a new addition.

3

Happy hour specials are available online; check for details before visiting.

09
Dukes Northwoods image 1

Rustic cabin design with large garage doors opening to river views creates an authentic Northwoods Wisconsin vibe. Loud, lively main area contrasts with quieter back room featuring non-high-top seating and game sounds. Multiple TVs show sports, and outdoor patio seating adds to the casual, fun atmosphere.

Smash burgers stand out as a highlight, often described as amazing and delicious. Burgers come with tasty sides like tots and pair well with drinks such as IPAs.

Pretzel bites come with beer cheese and have a strong salty flavor. The pretzel bun is used for burgers and stands out. Some pretzel items can be soggy or hard, showing inconsistency.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burgers here were the best."

"The pork tenderloin sandwich was amazing and huge."

"The pretzel bites here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm, featuring discounts on drinks and food.

2

The loaded bloody mary is available only on weekends from 10am to 1pm.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere on game days, especially during Packer games.

10
The Garage Bar & Sandwiches image 1

Rooftop seating with a garden and balcony offers great views and a lively atmosphere. Music and sports bar vibes create an energetic environment that gets busy late. Activities like darts and shuffleboard add to the casual, family-friendly setting.

Huge, savory burgers come with options like egg or black bean. The Mac n Cheese and Carmela sandwich also stand out alongside the classic burger.

A gigantic soft pretzel arrives with sides like queso, honey mustard, and house-made beer cheese. Portions suit sharing, enough for four people as noted.

People are saying

"They have a great, long list of beers to choose from."

"The rooftop is really nice and perfect for a sunny day."

"You have to try the gigantic pretzel here."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 8pm.

2

Bingo is hosted every Tuesday night with fun themes.

3

The brunch special is available on Saturdays and Sundays.

11
New Line Tavern image 1
Bar & grill

Small bar with vintage train photos and an old Beaux-Arts building vibe offers a warm, chill atmosphere filled with locals and regulars. Music plays a key role, with a DJ and many TVs creating a lively yet conversational space. Crowds grow after work, making it a popular spot for late-night hangouts.

Juicy burgers come cooked just right with a build-your-own burger bar that caters to preferences. Specials include a burger and beer combo, often paired with truffle fries.

Handmade pretzels come with beer cheese that pairs well. They serve pretzels as a snack or alongside salads, making them a house-made staple here.

People are saying

"The bartender Ryann made the best Spooky Sip drink."

"The American food here, especially the wings, is so crunchy and juicy."

"I loved the house-made pretzels with beer cheese."

Good to know

1

The place gets crowded after work, so arrive early.

2

Happy hour offers summer bucket deals on weekdays.

3

Trivia night happens on Wednesdays, starting at 7pm.

12
The Hive Tavern & Eatery image 1

Humble tavern with a laid-back atmosphere and outdoor space that invites relaxation. Occasional live music and a Photo Booth add lively, fun touches. Crowd enjoys affordable food and drinks with a welcoming vibe.

Smash burgers come with in-house made chips that are thin and crispy. Options include a burger with pub sauce, a western burger, and a seasonal Elote burger. Lettuce wraps replace buns on request.

Pretzel bites come in small pieces about the size of cotton balls. Prices run around $12 for roughly 10 bites, which some find overpriced. Happy hour offers more affordable prices on pretzel bites paired with 16 oz Guinness.

People are saying

"The drinks here are expertly crafted and delicious."

"I thought the Smash burger with pub sauce was delicious."

"I loved the pretzel bites and burger sliders."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for trivia night on Tuesdays as it fills up quickly.

2

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 8pm with a fun atmosphere.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with affordable drink specials.

13
Rep's Place image 1
Sports bar

Sports bar splits into separate bar and dining areas with about 16 flat-screen TVs showing sports. Atmosphere feels neighborly and relaxed, with classic rock and live music adding to the vibe. Large open space suits groups, while outdoor seating sits on a strip mall sidewalk.

Burgers come huge and customizable with options like medium rare cooking, Pepper Jack cheese, and jalapeรฑo bacon. They sit on a soft brioche bun that holds together well and include fresh vegetables and tasty sauces like BBQ and ranch.

Soft pretzel bites stand out with their delicious flavor and work well even without cheese, though cheese adds a nice touch. The pretzel bun is also solid, though sometimes replaced by brioche by mistake.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers were great and huge."

"You have to try the pretzel bites; they're the best soft pretzels ever."

"The live music here sounds like pretty decent country."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on game days.

14
Culverโ€™s image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with consistently clean interiors and a unique burger flavor. The menu features tasty ice cream and juicy Butterburgers, creating a straightforward spot for quick, satisfying meals.

Burgers here stand out with their butter burgers that offer a unique, rich flavor. Options include a double patty deluxe and a burger topped with big cheese curds, all fresh and juicy.

Pretzel bites come with cheese and taste quite delicious. Some batches can be burnt.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and hot."

"I loved their butter burgers; they were delicious!"

"I missed the walleye pike they sometimes have."

Good to know

1

Culver's charges an extra 50 cents when you ask for everything on the burger.

2

The drinks have a free refill.

3

Culver's has a good menu with options beyond burgers.

15
One Lake Brewing image 1

Rooftop patio offers a beautiful city view and a lively atmosphere. Space feels open concept but can get noisy, especially with large groups. Beer selection includes some in-house brews with mixed reviews on quality.

OLB burger stands out with an impossible patty and an egg option. Burgers come with a $2 upcharge for cheese and extra toppings. Overall, the burger options are solid and reliable.

House pretzels come out fresh and delicious. They pair well with drinks and have a satisfying texture.

People are saying

"The beer here is great and enjoyable."

"The rooftop patio here is really nice and lively."

"I thought the house pretzels were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features half-price bottles on Thursdays.

2

Trivia night occurs weekly with fun entertainment.

3

Extra charges apply for toppings on burgers, like a $2 upcharge for cheese.

16
Madisons Pub and Grill image 1

Quaint bar and grill with unique New Orleans-themed decor and a large wooden centerpiece table. Atmosphere feels warm and cozy, with jukebox music playing classic hits from various decades. Seating options include both high and low tables, creating a relaxed and inviting vibe.

Burgers come out cooked perfectly with options like the jalapeรฑo burger standing out for its flavor. Unique starters like pretzel bites complement the meal well.

Pretzel bites come cut into pieces and are heavily toasted with cheese. The cheese topping feels heavy and sometimes not fully melted. They appear as a common appetizer alongside other dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"I loved the burgers here; they were cooked perfectly."

"I really loved the pretzel bites, they were unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour savings are available before 6pm.

2

The parking lot is large and well-lit.

3

Handicap access is available, but there are stairs at the entrance.

17
The Galway Arms image 1

Cozy Irish pub with multiple rooms featuring fireplaces and woodwork that evoke an authentic Ireland feel. Live traditional music most nights creates a lively, community atmosphere. Outdoor patio adds a relaxed space for gatherings.

Wagyu burger stands out for its rich flavor and tenderness. The Galway burger pairs well with fries and a soft pretzel for a filling meal.

Soft pretzels come with a cheese dip that stands out. The giant pretzel pairs well with fish and chips, and the pretzel also complements sausage rolls and burgers.

People are saying

"This bar has live Irish music and dancing sessions."

"The staff here is so quick and friendly!"

"I thought the burgers here were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Live Irish music sessions occur five nights a week, with the biggest on Sundays.

2

Everyone is welcome to join the music and dance sessions.

3

Reservations can be made online for larger parties.

18
The Barn Hockey Bar image 1

Sports bar with hockey memorabilia and multiple TVs at every table creates an immersive game-day experience. The atmosphere stays fun and sporty with golf simulators and arcade games adding unique entertainment. Cold draft beer and standout food like pizza and cheese curds complement the lively vibe.

Smash burger stands out with a fantastic taste that meets expectations. Burgers rank among the best items on the menu, alongside wings and pretzels.

Pretzels come baked perfectly and are good-sized. They serve them with homemade cheese sauce that tastes very good, though extra cheese costs an additional dollar.

People are saying

"The food here is great and reasonably priced."

"I thought the burgers here were delicious and fantastic."

"I thought the pretzel was baked perfectly."

Good to know

1

The 'For the Girls' event features espresso martini flights and photo booths.

2

Happy hour is available during the 'For the Girls' event.

3

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

19
The Philly Special image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Philly sports-themed decor with cozy, casual atmosphere and upbeat music. Small space includes slot machines and TVs for games, creating a relaxed vibe. The setting feels like a slice of Philadelphia with memorabilia and warm energy.

Smash burger stands out with its rich flavor. Burger bun feels very hard, which affects the texture.

Soft pretzels come out hot and tasty but tend to be over seasoned with salt. Fries served alongside share the same saltiness issue.

People are saying

"This Philly Cheesesteak is the real deal, just like back home."

"I finally found an authentic, delicious cheesesteak."

"The Philly Special burgers were amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $20 for a cheesesteak and drink.

2

Parking is ample and available on-site.

3

The restaurant sources its bread from Philly for authenticity.

20
Rizzo's Bar & Inn image 1

Big, spacious bar with a huge glassed-in, open-air patio offers dozens of TVs and an 80-inch screen for watching games. Atmosphere shifts between electric excitement on game days and intimate gatherings with varied seating options. Outdoor area and retractable roof maintain comfort while hosting lively celebrations or private events.

Burgers come with decent quality but the cheese tastes like Velveeta. Prices can feel high for the quality offered.

A giant pretzel serves 4-6 people and comes with cinnamon butter that tastes like a sneaky dessert. The pretzel is massive and pairs well with other items like wings and wraps.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the flatbread pizzas and pretzel."

"You can grab great food and drinks while watching live sports."

"I'm still confused about the billing discrepancy with the burgers."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Fridays with $7 cocktails and $8 espresso martinis.

2

Rizzo's Bar & Inn can host events for over 100 people with ample space.

3

Food is not guaranteed during special events, so plan accordingly.

21
FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar image 1

Bar and grill with a full bar and outdoor patio offers a warm, inviting vibe with live piano and vocal entertainment. Seating is comfortable and well-designed for dining. The atmosphere can be loud due to acoustics and music volume.

Burgers come in generous portions with perfectly matched meat, sausage, and toppings. They taste fresh and well executed, consistently delivering a delicious experience.

A mega pretzel weighs two pounds and stands out for its massive size. It comes with top notch beer cheese and honey mustard that complement the pretzel well.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared."

"The cocktails here are creative and cleverly named after Chicago places."

"I thought the burgers here were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Mondayโ€“Thursday from 4โ€“7 PM, offering good value.

2

Live music occurs on Fridays and Saturdays at the upstairs cocktail bar.

3

Reservations require full payment upfront, refundable upon arrival.

22
GoodTimes Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Massive bar and large open space with oak detailing create an inviting setting. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly with brewing equipment visible, adding to the vibe. Multiple TVs and games make it a chill spot for groups and events.

Burgers come in good sized portions and include fries, offering decent value. The Patterson pub burger stands out for its freshness and medium cooking, while the Smash Burger is juicy and flavorful, with in-house vegetarian patties also available.

Soft pretzels come with cheese and mustard sauces that stand out. The pretzel appetizer pairs well with varied dips and is generally well-seasoned.

People are saying

"The German and Czech style beers here are some of the best I've had."

"The smash burgers are juicy and melty."

"The pretzels here are delicious, especially with the sauces."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

3

On Mondays, the BYO pizza is half off.

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