Who Has The Best Burger In Chicago?

Who Has The Best Burger In Chicago? Chicago, ILChicago is known for its love of meat, so it’s no surprise that burgers are a big part of the city’s culture. The Loyalist has been declared the best burger in the city by locals and national publications alike.


The Loyalist Serves The Best Burger In Chicago
Photo: The Loyalist

The Loyalist Serves The Best Burger In Chicago


The Loyalist is the brainchild of celebrity chef couple John Shields and Karen Urie-Shields. Their acceptable dining resumes include time at the vaunted Charlie Trotter’s and Town House in Chilhowie, Virginia, and they wanted to bring their fine dining skills to a more casual environment. With The Loyalists, they have achieved just that—creating a burger unlike any other in Chicago that is worthy of its rightful crown.

John Shields explains that he wanted to create something familiar and nostalgic with his burger. He chose sesame seed buns from Martin's because they reminded him of the burgers he grew up with, and he ground his beef blend to ensure consistency. He also created an onion mayonnaise, which adds flavor to the patty, which is pre-pressed before being pushed down on the grill slightly (but not as much as a smash-style patty). The burger is topped with double cheese, pickles, charred onions, and onion mayo for an unforgettable flavor experience.

The Loyalist’s burger has become an iconic dish throughout Chicago since it opened in 2016. It was met with a wave of eager anticipation upon its arrival and has only grown in reputation since then—earning it a place among Bon Appetit’s list of top 12 burgers nationwide.