The Burger Bible Author Shares Her Top 5 Chicago Burger Picks

From a towering double cheeseburger to a nostalgic fast-food sonnet, these are the Windy City's must-try burgers.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:35am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Maggie Hennessy, the author of the new book 'The Burger Bible', shares her top 5 favorite burgers in Chicago. Her picks range from the sloppy-good double cheeseburger at Charly's Burgers to the iconic Depression-style cheeseburger at Redhot Ranch, highlighting the city's diverse burger scene.

Why it matters

As a self-proclaimed burger expert, Hennessy's list provides a unique insider's perspective on Chicago's thriving burger culture. Her choices showcase the range of styles - from classic diner burgers to chef-driven creations - that make the city a top destination for burger lovers.

The details

Hennessy's top 5 Chicago burgers include the towering double cheeseburger at Charly's Burgers in Belmont-Cragin, the nostalgic double cheezborger at Billy Goat Tavern in Streeterville, the caramelized onion-packed burger at Ragadan in Uptown, the short rib and bacon-blend 'Dirty Burg' at The Loyalist in the West Loop, and the simple yet delicious cheeseburger at Redhot Ranch with locations across the city.

  • Hennessy spent a chunk of 2025 writing 'The Burger Bible', which is set to be released on April 2, 2026.
  • The WBEZ/Chicago Sun-Times article featuring Hennessy's top 5 Chicago burgers was published on April 1, 2026.

The players

Maggie Hennessy

The author of the new book 'The Burger Bible' who shares her top 5 favorite burgers in Chicago.

Charly's Burgers

A fast-casual burger joint in the Belmont-Cragin neighborhood that is known for its towering double cheeseburger.

Billy Goat Tavern & Grill

A legendary Chicago institution in Streeterville that serves up nostalgic double cheezborgers.

Ragadan

A falafel and burger shop in Uptown that offers an exceptional Oklahoma-style onion burger.

The Loyalist

A chef-driven West Loop bistro that serves a signature 'Dirty Burg' cheeseburger made with a blend of short rib, chuck, and bacon.

Redhot Ranch

A Chicago mini-chain known for its simple yet delicious fast-food style cheeseburgers, with locations in Bridgeport, Lakeview, and Logan Square.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Am I biased? Wildly subjective? Untrustworthy even? Therein lies the joy of our collective burger obsession.”

— Maggie Hennessy, Author, 'The Burger Bible'

“There's also the bread, an important aspect, if not more so than the rest. I profess an inordinate love of raw and griddled onions, the latter of which factor heavily in flavoring the likes of, say, the excellent Big Baby burger at Nicky's The Real McCoy in Alsip, though nowhere more exemplary than Ragadan in Uptown.”

— Maggie Hennessy, Author, 'The Burger Bible'

What’s next

Hennessy's book 'The Burger Bible' is set to be released on April 2, 2026, providing readers with an in-depth exploration of the origins, lore, and most beloved burger styles across the United States and beyond.

The takeaway

Hennessy's top 5 Chicago burger picks showcase the city's diverse and thriving burger culture, from classic diner-style burgers to chef-driven creations, highlighting the passion and creativity that make Chicago a must-visit destination for burger enthusiasts.