Best Burgers in Old Town
Updated June 16, 2026 · Ranked by combined rating and review volume
Where to find the best burgers in Old Town
R. J. Grunts is a cherished Chicago classic in Lincoln Park, offering a laid-back, retro atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and neighborhood-friendly. Beyond its famous massive salad bar, this spot delivers high-quality American comfort food, including delicious, well-cooked burgers and stellar chicken tenders. Don't leave without trying their legendary malt, a standout dessert that perfectly complements the meal.
LuxBar offers a refined yet inviting atmosphere with its elegant wood-and-brass decor, perfect for enjoying a sophisticated meal. Guests consistently praise the exceptional service, with attentive staff ensuring a delightful dining experience alongside their well-prepared sliders, steaks, and cocktails. It's a place where quality food and outstanding hospitality converge to create memorable moments.
Butcher & The Burger offers a unique, upscale customizable burger experience in a retro counter-service BYOB setting that evokes an old butcher shop. Guests appreciate the fresh, fantastic burgers, whether chosen from pre-made selections or built with various options like 100% US beef and unique spices. Despite limited seating and no alcohol, the quick, hospitable service and the quality of the food, including crispy fries and scrumptious cookies, consistently cure cravings for a real, satisfying burger.
Devil Dawgs Rush St is a beloved spot known for its exceptional Chicago-style hot dogs and chili cheese dogs, frequently praised as among the best in the city. While primarily celebrated for its "off the chain" dawgs and perfectly portioned buns, it also offers other quick American bites. Expect fast service and a solid option for classic Chicago fast food.
Epic Burger stands out as a local chain committed to using all-natural and organic ingredients, delivering a fresh take on the classic American burger. Diners consistently rave about the perfectly cooked, juicy burgers and the "best fries ever," especially the Cajun variety, all served with genuinely friendly and attentive customer service that elevates the fast-casual experience. It's a reliable choice for a high-quality, satisfying meal, often exceeding expectations for quick-service dining.
Contenders
Places submitted by the community. The top contender with more points than #5 gets promoted.
How we ranked the best burgers in Old Town
Every place on this list is scored by a Bayesian weighted formula combined with a volume bonus. It rewards consistent positive feedback at scale, not just a high average rating — a 4.9-star place with 12 reviews ranks below a 4.6-star place with 800.
score = (v / (v + m)) × R + (m / (v + m)) × C + γ × log₁₀(v)
The prior m adapts to each neighborhood: it's the median review count among local candidates. So 200 reviews counts as “small sample” in dense markets like the West Village, but “solid” in quieter neighborhoods. Places with extreme review volume that clearly dominate their peers are promoted to #1. No paid placements — every spot earns its position via the public data.
Frequently asked about Old Town burgers
What is the highest-rated burger in Old Town?
Devil Dawgs Rush St has the highest Google rating in our list of the best burgers in Old Town, with 4.6 stars across 675 reviews.
Which burger in Old Town has the most reviews?
R.J. Grunts has the most reviews of any burger on this list — 3,709 ratings averaging 4.5 stars on Google.
How are the best burgers in Old Town ranked?
Each place is scored using a Bayesian weighted formula that combines its average Google rating with its review count. This pulls small-sample places toward the local mean — so a 4.9-star spot with 12 reviews is ranked below a 4.6-star spot with 800 reviews. Volume and consistency matter, not just an inflated average.
When was this ranking last updated?
This ranking of the best burgers in Old Town was last refreshed in June 2026 using the latest Google ratings and review counts. Restaurants and bars change constantly — always verify hours and current status before visiting.
Why isn't my favorite burger on the list of best burgers in Old Town?
To be considered, a place needs enough Google reviews for the rating to be statistically meaningful (at least 5 reviews, ideally 25+). Newer or hyper-local spots can be excellent but score lower until enough people review them. Boundaries also matter — a spot just outside the Old Town area may show up on a neighboring ranking instead.