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Guide to Illinois

Smash burgers and salad

You want the balance of a fresh salad alongside the intense, savory sear of a smash burger.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Migos Fine Foods image 1
Migos Fine Foods image 2
Migos Fine Foods image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with eclectic decor and real plants creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Classic hip hop music plays, setting a chill vibe throughout. Outdoor patio and kiosk ordering add to the casual, comfortable experience.

Salads feature fresh ingredients and come with flavorful dressings. The Migos chicken salad stands out alongside other options like chicken pastor salad and lamb carnitas greens.

Lamb smash burger stands out with bursting flavor and perfect cooking. It satisfies well on cold days and earns praise for its excellent taste.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The chicken in the salad was so good."

"The lamb smash burger was bursting with flavor and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Everything at this place is halal, as indicated by the logo.

2

There are many vegetarian options available on the menu.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours.

02
Ballers Bar & Grill image 1

Old cabin setting hosts a full bar surrounded by eight big TVs for watching multiple games. Atmosphere feels welcoming and casual, often crowded and lively during game days. Crowd enjoys great food specials and a variety of drinks including unique options like Crown Chocolate and blended margaritas.

Salads feature a homemade taco shell that is hand-rolled, grilled, and lightly fried for crispiness. The Ballers salad includes a spring lettuce mix, cucumbers, shredded cheese, boiled egg, bacon, hand-battered chicken, and diced fries.

Smash burgers come with flavorful meat and get cooked to perfection. Specials often feature these well-crafted smash burgers.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"I had one of the best smash burgers I've ever had."

"The Ballers salad with hand-battered chicken did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $1 tacos, a popular weekly event.

2

Wings are half off on Wednesdays, making it a great midweek treat.

3

Fish fry is available on Fridays, a local favorite.

03
Soulcial Kitchen Campus image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor space offers an outdoor festival atmosphere with live music, food trucks, and a family-friendly vibe including playgrounds and a dog park. Casual setting encourages relaxation while enjoying smashburgers and drinks at the outside bar. Community focus shows through a pay-it-forward meal token system.

Salads come with a sweet vinaigrette dressing that keeps them light and fresh. The Sweet Italian Salad and the house salad stand out for their consistent freshness and flavor.

Smash burgers stand out with solid flavor and quality. Options include the Italian Bistro Smash Burger and a Southern Comfort Smash Burger, both paired well with sides like loaded fries.

People are saying

"The pasta and pizza here are amazing Italian food."

"The Sweet Italian Salad here is always fresh and tastes wonderful."

"I thought the smash burgers were on point."

Good to know

1

Live music and food trucks are featured on Friday nights.

2

Saturdays also have music with food trucks available.

3

The establishment promotes a pay-it-forward culture through meal tokens.

04
Touchรฉ French Creole image 1
Creole restaurant

Louisiana-inspired Creole restaurant with New Orleans-style decor and a beautiful mural sets an elegant, classy atmosphere. The space feels cozy yet upscale, often busy with a lively crowd. Music and a full-service bar add to the chill vibe perfect for date nights or celebrations.

Salads come with well-dressed frisee and sometimes feature cornbread croutons in the Caesar. They pair well with seafood like crab cakes and oysters.

The smash burger comes with fries and suits all ages, including kids. It offers a straightforward, classic burger experience.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here serve amazing, flavorful food that's perfectly seasoned."

"The crab cakes and salad were delicious."

"I thought the smash burger was solid."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait for tables without a reservation.

3

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

05
Uptown Taproom image 1
Restaurant

Long, narrow space with diner-style layout and original tile floors creates a cozy, local vibe. Noise spills outside through wide-open windows, mixing indoor chatter with street sounds. Large outdoor patio offers a chill spot, while indoor areas host comedy nights and show sports on TVs.

Salads feature fresh, crisp house greens and a Caesar salad with nicely seasoned croutons. Side salads come as a decent option alongside burgers for $15.

Smash burgers come out excellent with a juicy, flavorful profile. The Beyond Smash Burger offers a mouthwatering plant-based option.

People are saying

"The patio is a really nice, chill spot to relax."

"I found the Smash Burgers here to be mouth watering."

"The house salad is so fresh and crisp."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers 20% off pours, typically around $7.20 for a draft.

2

The place is extremely dog friendly.

3

The menu includes vegan options without an up-charge.

06
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.

Salads feature poached pear, apple/cranberry goat cheese, and blueberry ingredients. The harvest salad offers a fresh, flavorful option.

Smash burger stands out with juicy, flavorful meat and a satisfying texture. It pairs well with other options like the Portobello mushroom sandwich for variety.

People are saying

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

"The smash burger was really good, especially with the bone-marrow aioli."

"I loved the beet salad; it was a flavor bomb."

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.

07
The Dock on Front image 1

Bright, modern space with indoor and outdoor seating featuring garage doors that open to fresh air. Atmosphere is loud and lively with a friendly vibe created by staff. Large tables accommodate groups, and a private room supports events.

Salads here come in varied styles like buffalo, garbage, and strawberry field, often paired with grilled chicken. The salmon and side salads stay consistently fresh and well-prepared.

Smash burgers come out huge and delicious with solid flavor. Sliders and kids menu options also hold up well.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, hot, fresh, and full of flavor."

"The American food, especially the pulled pork, is juicy and packed with flavor."

"The smash burgers here are delicious and huge."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour features daily drink and food specials from 4-6pm.

3

Expect a 5-minute wait for a table on busy Sunday evenings.

08
Cravers image 1
Restaurant

Quaint space with superhero-themed decor creates a unique vibe separate from the menu. Food offers original items like the Crispy Gymshoe sandwich and fresh-cut fries, with generous portions and a community-focused spirit. Atmosphere feels welcoming and clean, suitable for groups or solo diners.

Salads come with fresh ingredients and a Greek style option. They pair well with gyros and fresh cut fries.

Smash burgers come in bold flavors like the jalapeรฑo smash burger and the Double chipotle smash burger. Options include the Cuban Smash burger and the Crispy Texas Beef, paired often with DUI Fries.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the crispy beef and chili cheese fries, is amazing."

"I thought the Smash Burgers here tasted amazing."

"This salad helped me start my evening of entertaining a large crowd on the right foot."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times due to the restaurant's popularity and newness.

2

Online orders may come with a 10% discount or a free hot dog.

3

The menu features unique sandwich creations not found elsewhere.

09
1101 Bar and Grill image 1
American restaurant

Spacious bar and grill with multiple TVs and a jukebox creates a sports bar vibe. Atmosphere feels chill and clean, attracting a friendly crowd. Affordable prices and notable pizza stand out among local options.

Salads come with a generous portion and a tasty ranch dressing. They sometimes arrive without usual toppings like onions, and can be served alone without fries.

Smash burgers come with a classic, crispy edge and juicy interior. They stand out alongside other favorites like the Philly cheese steak sandwich and pair well with fries and onion rings.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and well prepared."

"The house salad was generous with tasty ranch."

"I found the smash burger to be great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger parties.

2

The bar can accommodate about 40 people comfortably.

3

Prices are very affordable compared to other local bars.

10
Golden Boy Barbecue image 1

Outdoor space features heating lamps and a large patio with a laid-back atmosphere and dog-friendly areas. Interior includes a glass atrium that brings in natural light and a rough finished shed look. Live music adds to the inviting vibe, creating a cool environment for gatherings.

Broccoli salad offers a perfectly balanced tanginess with a DILL-icious flavor. Caesar salad also stands out as a solid choice.

Crispy edges and melty cheese define the smash burgers here. They deliver a rich, beefy flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket and ribs, is unbelievable."

"These smash burgers have perfect crispy edges and rich, beefy flavor."

"This smash burger was a pleasant surprise and tasted very good."

Good to know

1

Half-price margaritas are available on Saturdays.

2

Daily specials are offered, check the menu for details.

3

All meats are sold by the pound or half-pound.

11
Cured & Crafted | Artisan Sandwiches image 1

Sandwich shop offers a cozy, neighborhood feel with a fresh, modern interior featuring subtle TV show nods. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting with a super chill but classy vibe. Crowd includes families and locals enjoying quality sandwiches and unique menu options.

Dressing stands out as incredible and flavorful, making it worth savoring every drop. Salads come well-prepared and are consistently excellent.

Smash burgers come with crispy edges and a juicy center. They pair well with fries and a rich cheese sauce.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are packed with flavor and taste unbelievable."

"I loved the Big Mac salad; it was delicious."

"I loved the smash burger and cheese sauce."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the lot adjacent to the restaurant.

2

They only accept card payments; no cash is accepted.

3

The menu includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, and vegetarian options.

12
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.

Salads include a cob salad and a wedge salad with fresh ingredients. They come alongside dishes like burgers and fish and chips, adding a crisp, light option to the meal.

Smash burgers stand out for their amazing flavor and juicy texture. They often come as specials or during happy hour and pair well with other favorites like bratwurst.

People are saying

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

"I thought the smash burger was the best I ever had."

"I enjoyed the wedge salad."

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.

13
Richardson's Downtown Sports Bar and Grill image 1

Sports bar and grill with cozy, feel-good atmosphere and a family-like vibe. Offers outdoor seating and a full bar with cold beer and unique shots. Interior shows some unfinished details but maintains a warm, inviting energy.

Salads come with grilled chicken but often do not match the menu description. Ingredients like avocado and egg are missing, replaced by white onion, old carrots, and dry chicken. Salads are priced around $19 but may not reflect the listed components.

Turkey smash burgers stand out with fresh cut fries on the side. The smash burger pairs well with a solid sports bar vibe.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket sandwich; it's fall-off-the-bone tender."

"You have to try the turkey smash burgers, they're full of flavor."

"The owner was so nice and understanding about my salad order."

Good to know

1

Fish fry is available on weekends with a live DJ.

2

Bingo nights occur every Friday, providing a fun atmosphere.

3

Expect longer wait times during lunch rush hours.

14
Top Butcher Market image 1
Butcher shop

Market combines butcher shop, dining area, and open kitchen in a comfortable, clean space with homey atmosphere. It offers high-end meats and handcrafted sauces, creating a welcoming environment with occasional noise. Sampling of soups and culinary items happens while waiting.

Salad comes out fresh and tasty with good flavor. Forks for salad are not provided automatically.

Smash burgers come with rich, decadent flavors and are cooked to perfection. Options include a double pastrami smash burger and a single that pairs well with expertly seasoned fries or tater tots.

People are saying

"This place is a hidden gem with phenomenal sandwiches and meats."

"The Smash Burgers here are juicy, fresh, and cooked perfectly."

"I found the salad to be delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer a wide selection of high-quality meats and ingredients.

2

Prices increased by 20-30% recently across the board.

3

They make their own ketchup, which is a unique offering.

15
Steep Ravine Brewing Company image 1

Small brewery with cozy atmosphere featuring low tin ceilings and holiday lights. Outdoor seating in front and back creates a relaxed vibe with live music and sports on many TVs. The space feels intimate and lively, offering a unique setting that blends a storefront brewery with a comfortable bar experience.

Falafel salad stands out as a notable option. Other salads like the border bowl have unappealing presentation and lack appeal.

Juicy smash burgers come with sautรฉed onions, cheese, pickles, and ketchup on a shiny brioche bun. Double cheese options add extra flavor layers.

People are saying

"I loved the great beer selection and delicious quesabirria."

"I had the falafel salad and it was great."

"The smash burger had tones of flavor and juicy toppings."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The brewery is a 10-minute drive from Ravinia and 6 minutes from the botanical gardens.

3

The menu includes a variety of options, including vegetarian dishes.

16
Schoop's Hamburgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Retro diner style creates a 60โ€™s vibe with quaint decor featuring throwback paintings and a large mural. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, with a relaxed energy and plenty of seating. Burgers stand out as a signature offering with a reputation for quality.

Crisp greens, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers make up the house salad. A tangy dressing ties the fresh ingredients together, balancing the richness of the burger.

Specializes in Indiana style smash burgers with an old school approach. Burgers have a classic smashed patty that stands out.

People are saying

"I thought Schoop's Hamburgers served the best burgers I ever had."

"The onion rings here are tasty and served in generous portions."

"I always enjoyed a good smash burger here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect to wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant closes at 9 PM, but may close earlier if they choose.

3

Be prepared for a crowded lunch rush; arrive early to avoid long waits.

17
The Hampton Social - Burr Ridge image 1

New England seaside style shapes a coastal-chic and airy atmosphere with live music enhancing the relaxed vibe. Spaces include walls as backdrops and a notable pizza oven, creating a setting suited for special occasions and casual gatherings alike.

Salads include a plentiful poke salad bowl, a recommended Caesar Salad, and an excellent beet salad. Options come from a new lunch menu with fresh choices.

Smash burgers come with full flavor and work well on a gluten-free bun. Groups find them consistently really good across different orders.

People are saying

"The food here is well-prepared, flavorful, and thoughtfully presented."

"The Caesar salad here is fresh and delicious."

"The Smash Burger here is really good and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

An 18% gratuity is added to every bill automatically.

2

Reservations are required for dining; bar seating is available without one.

3

Two tacos cost $23.00, which may be considered pricey.

18
Grove Tavern image 1
Restaurant

Small space with large folding windows opens to a beautiful outdoor patio featuring electric fire warmers. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with comfortable seating and a relaxing vibe. Patio creates an airy, spacious feel that stands out in a downtown setting.

Steak salad stands out with its rich flavor and fresh ingredients. Salads also come as sides, like with the French dip sandwich.

Smash burgers come with sidewinder fries and cook exactly to order. They taste delicious and satisfy consistently.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"I thought the steak salad was amazing."

"I found the smash burger to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available behind the restaurant off Main Street.

3

ID is required for age verification at the entrance.

19
Lassen's Tap image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill offers three distinct areas including a heated outdoor patio and a rentable basement for groups. Atmosphere ranges from loud and lively indoors to comfortable and social outside, with a public jukebox influencing the sound. Regulars enjoy well-crafted cocktails and a menu known for standout wings and burgers.

Roasted sweet potato salad stands out with its rich flavors and is a seasonal highlight. Caesar salad features homemade croutons and dressing, while Brussels sprout salad pairs well with grilled shrimp for a unique taste.

Smash burgers come on brioche buns with options like gruyere cheese. The Summer smash burger pairs well with onion rings or chips.

People are saying

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

"I wish the roasted sweet potato salad was available year-round."

"The smash burgers here had thick patties, not a traditional smash burger feel."

Good to know

1

On weekends, arrive before 4pm to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is limited, so consider rideshare or walking.

3

The kitchen may close early, so check hours before visiting.

20
Sauce & Bread Kitchen image 1

Small space with a hole-in-the-wall deli atmosphere offers a cozy and friendly vibe that feels like home. Ethically sourced homemade food includes technically perfect pastries and standout sandwiches. Occasional live jazz adds to the relaxed, charming environment.

Salads here stand out with pickled beet salad that pairs well with other items like bagels. They serve salads fresh enough to enjoy any time, even at breakfast.

Smash burgers stand out with a creative and comforting style. They leave a lasting impression among other menu items like ramen and reubens.

People are saying

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

"The pickled beet salad here is amazing."

"I found the smash burger unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Dinner is available only on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Fridays feature spoken word or jazz nights.

3

Pizza night is a popular community event.

21
Williams Inn Pizza & Sports Bar image 1

Big-screen TVs cover every wall, creating a sports-focused environment with rustic charm. Loud music from a live DJ energizes the space, encouraging singing and dancing. Seating is ample, designed for casual family dinners and lively game nights.

Fresh ingredients make the house salad a nice portion. The Caesar salad stands out as a favorite choice alongside the wings and thin crust pizza.

Smash burgers stand out for their savory flavor and juicy texture. Adding an egg on top enhances the experience, making it a star of the show.

People are saying

"This deep dish pizza is amazing and straight out of the oven."

"The atmosphere here has a really nice ambiance and decoration."

"I found the smash burger to be excellent and savory."

Good to know

1

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

2

Parking is difficult; consider using a ride share or park a block away.

3

A DJ performs on Friday nights, creating a lively atmosphere.

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