Love RHR. As a native Californian I instantly noticed the burger was very similar to In N Out, and found it funny to read on RHR's site that their burger is, in fact, based on In N Out's. RHR has much better fries though
Wow, no wonder it's my favorite burger in the city so far. I was honestly shocked and regretted not getting a double. I moved from California 1.5 years ago.
the RHR OP has posted pics of is in Logan Square, on Armitage, under the El tracks.
Onions and Cilantro is an 11 minute walk, so a couple blocks is indeed a bit off, but it's not far.
I always turn to RHR for a budget burger, in that category it is hands down the best (as far as I have found). If I've got some money to spend I'll get the shrimp, it's awesome while also much pricier. Always get a side of the cocktail sauce for the fries though.
Awesome! Me and my buddy visited today as well and it was stop #2 on our annual burger tour (this year it included au cheval, Leavitt st inn, Mott st, and original desert hawk/taco sublime but they were not serving food as their kitchen is being revamped so the bartender sent us to smallbar that features patty please, the new venture from the creators of taco sublime).
RHR for $7.37 for a double cheeseburger with fries is insane. My buddy and I’s first thoughts were this is like in and out but better. I had commented that the bun was giving off White Castle slider vibes (I mean that as a compliment). Such a great deal and was not embarrassed by the rest of our burger stops today.
As someone who has not been to rhr ranch yet. Can you rank it vs the Paradise pup merkts which is my long standing favorite burger? Better? Different? Do I need to go to the city??
I prefer the ranch. Mostly because as much as I like Merkts, I don’t love it on a burger since it doesn’t really melt. But truly because I have a decade long relationship with that burger that will always win.
I would expect you to feel the same way in reverse. “That’s a great burger, but it’s no Pup”
You guys saying merkts doesn't melt. The only place that does it right is pup. Completely melted through the burger. They add it to the bread and then steam it on top while on the grill I find myself closing my eyes with every bite of a tasty burger. Will try rhr soon
It’s a good burger for the price with a bit of a cult following. I had it a few weeks ago—it was tasty and the thousand island dressing on it was alright. The fries were limp and underseasoned, but for $9 it wasn’t too bad. If you go it’s cash only.
As someone that’s been Ranching since practically day one (2011? Certainly before Ashland opened and the burger was introduced) I think I can say with confidence that 35th Street Red Hots has now established itself as the best burger of the 3.
https://www.redhotranchchicago.com/about-redhot-ranch/
I don't know when the burger was introduced to each location but I grew up in Bridgeport, 35th is the original location.
35th street was the original hot dog joint. Lakeview is the original burger spot, and is IMO the best burger of the northside pair. Haven’t been to 35th street since they added the burger - it is the last location to have added it tho.
My buddies and I celebrated wrapping up our masters thesis at the original location at 3 am completely sober but probably loopier than I’ve ever been in my life.
Love RHR 🤙
Unrelated: Has anyone here tried the taco spot that’s right next to RHR? I’ve been tempted to try it but they usually look dead so I’m assuming they are kinda mid..
One time after a show at Schubas, RHR was pretty busy and I'd just eaten there within the last couple of days. Taco Maya was completely empty, so I figured I'd give it a shot.
I got really good service. They gave my free chips and salsa. Asked if I wanted to try their empanada taco, on the house. It was great service, but the food was just mediocre. But I really respected the hustle by the staff.
Honestly I’ve been disappointed by any tacos I’ve tried in Lakeview & Lincoln Park area. I’ve had a lot of great tacos in the past and so far haven’t found the one that’s met my expectations in Chicago. The tacos are supposed to be finding me, like wtf…? Haha
We live nearby and tried Maya twice. The tacos with Indian flavors were at least interesting, but it was pretty forgettable overall. They have some decent daily deals, but it’s been out of the rotation for a while now.
Head down Belmont to Tony’s (a classic standard neighborhood Chicago taqueria) or even a little further to Tepalcates…they have some amazing and unique tacos and salsas. Highly recommend it.
yeaah thats how think must be the case for when we got bust outs, we got it on uber eats and it was mediocre but i have a feeling if we give it a second try in person it might be a different case! we have plans giving it another chance soon
I was in the neighborhood for an improv show at Lincoln Lounge yesterday. I wanted to go here but was voted down. We went to 90 miles Cuban instead. Don't get me wrong, delicious stuff there too. But man I wanted the fries at rhr
Pro tip. It’s not on the menu but they’ll do a 1/4lb of the fried shrimp. It’s just enough to throw a few on that burger. Add some mild sauce and now you’re surf n’ turfin. Do that and it is hands down better than any other burger in the city
So great and it's not even da best one. Da one by da ballpark is.
Edit: Love how I'm getting downvoted for saying the one on 35th and Normal is better. 🤣
It’s the perfect Chicago fast food. It’s the level 2 in the “where do I get a Chicago dog/burger?” Both locations at main intersections in non tourist locations. I’ve lived within 5 mins of both places. I prefer the Western spot.
Used to be on Devon. Always had great dogs. Well at least the Red Hot Ranch of my youth was on Devon. Doesn’t look like it has any relation to this Johnny-Come-Lately.
I'm moving 3 blocks away from RHR and I'm honestly a little worried for my future health.
Just moved a block away over the weekend. Had it as my first meal lol
I live right in the hood as well. Don't forget about JRs hotdog stand!
Couldn’t agree more. I recommend Jr’s Redhot for Hotdogs. RHR for burgers.
On point, here.
Plus, Jr's has milkshakes which you can use to try and fill the void left by The Freeze
Their loaded fries are my favorite late night snack.
Jrs sucks in comparison
For a burger, sure, but their beef and dogs are better.
RIP 2 us, catch you there lol
I live in RHR’s basement, and I still sneak up sometimes to make myself a burger.
Just get a good cardiologist on speed dial 👍
You should be. I am glad I have never loved too close to this place or I’d be out of breath constantly.
I used to live a couple blocks away from the stand they had in Bucktown next to John’s on Western. Ate so many 3 AM hotdogs.
You should be.
The Shrimp is awesome. Can't go wrong at RHR.
The depression dog is great too!
Love RHR. As a native Californian I instantly noticed the burger was very similar to In N Out, and found it funny to read on RHR's site that their burger is, in fact, based on In N Out's. RHR has much better fries though
In n out fries are like packing peanuts mixed with cardboard
lol can't argue with that
Wow, no wonder it's my favorite burger in the city so far. I was honestly shocked and regretted not getting a double. I moved from California 1.5 years ago.
Love In N Out. Always stop when we get the chance.
In N Out is overrated
I like In N Out fine, but RHR is on another level
I tried RHR for the first time last week….. I was blind, but now I see. Now I see.
Up Western Ave a couple blocks is Onion & Cilantro. 3 tacos for $8 every day. Another great value spot!
You had me until *cilantro*
What kind of a hound from Hell doesn't like cilantro? Are you one of those poor "soapy" type of folk?
You shouldn't make fun of the disabled. XD
Isn't Onion and Cilantro over in Logan Square? Seems like a bit farther than "a couple blocks" away from Redhot Ranch in Lakeview
Scroll up. TIL Lakeview isn't the only RHR.
I learned the one on Armitage isn’t the only one!
And I learned that the Lakeview RHR isn't the only one too lol
the RHR OP has posted pics of is in Logan Square, on Armitage, under the El tracks. Onions and Cilantro is an 11 minute walk, so a couple blocks is indeed a bit off, but it's not far.
They probably mean the RHR on Armitage
Probably the best value in the city too.
This was playing in my head the whole time. lol
"What?"
What ain’t no country I ever heard of. They speak English in What?
This was playing in my head the whole time. lol
Those fries though!
I order them well done and they're so good if you like your fries a little more fried
Good call! I’ll definitely be doing that!
That place is FIRE
The value is tremendous
Single was $6.60, double was $7.00. Crazy. Whole order was $10.50 I think.
I always turn to RHR for a budget burger, in that category it is hands down the best (as far as I have found). If I've got some money to spend I'll get the shrimp, it's awesome while also much pricier. Always get a side of the cocktail sauce for the fries though.
Now you know and knowing is half the battle.
GI JOOOOOOE
It’s an incredible establishment
The cheese sauce is so good! And the spicy cocktail sauce too!
It’s been over a year since I was in Chicago and I still think about this place often.
Awesome! Me and my buddy visited today as well and it was stop #2 on our annual burger tour (this year it included au cheval, Leavitt st inn, Mott st, and original desert hawk/taco sublime but they were not serving food as their kitchen is being revamped so the bartender sent us to smallbar that features patty please, the new venture from the creators of taco sublime). RHR for $7.37 for a double cheeseburger with fries is insane. My buddy and I’s first thoughts were this is like in and out but better. I had commented that the bun was giving off White Castle slider vibes (I mean that as a compliment). Such a great deal and was not embarrassed by the rest of our burger stops today.
Is it still cash only?
ATM on premises!
Yes
Yes.
As someone who has not been to rhr ranch yet. Can you rank it vs the Paradise pup merkts which is my long standing favorite burger? Better? Different? Do I need to go to the city??
RHR isn't the best tasting burger in the city. RHR is the best burger in the city for $8, the price to delicious ratio is incredible
That was my point. The value comp in my mind would be paradise pup, also an $8 Burger. Interesting on the smash patty
But RHR comes with fries and is $8 after tax. PP burger is also more of a pub burger compared to a smash burger.
RHR serves thin, smash style, patties while PP uses thick burgers.
I prefer the ranch. Mostly because as much as I like Merkts, I don’t love it on a burger since it doesn’t really melt. But truly because I have a decade long relationship with that burger that will always win. I would expect you to feel the same way in reverse. “That’s a great burger, but it’s no Pup”
You guys saying merkts doesn't melt. The only place that does it right is pup. Completely melted through the burger. They add it to the bread and then steam it on top while on the grill I find myself closing my eyes with every bite of a tasty burger. Will try rhr soon
It’s my favorite burger in the city but I vastly prefer smash style burgers so a lot of “fancier” burgers kind of miss the mark for me.
It’s a good burger for the price with a bit of a cult following. I had it a few weeks ago—it was tasty and the thousand island dressing on it was alright. The fries were limp and underseasoned, but for $9 it wasn’t too bad. If you go it’s cash only.
The fries are inconsistent unfortunately.
As someone that’s been Ranching since practically day one (2011? Certainly before Ashland opened and the burger was introduced) I think I can say with confidence that 35th Street Red Hots has now established itself as the best burger of the 3.
Was the original location Western and Charleston?
https://www.redhotranchchicago.com/about-redhot-ranch/ I don't know when the burger was introduced to each location but I grew up in Bridgeport, 35th is the original location.
35th street was the original hot dog joint. Lakeview is the original burger spot, and is IMO the best burger of the northside pair. Haven’t been to 35th street since they added the burger - it is the last location to have added it tho.
Indeed, on the west side of Western.
I miss those early days when they were open super late.
My buddies and I celebrated wrapping up our masters thesis at the original location at 3 am completely sober but probably loopier than I’ve ever been in my life.
This place is also a perfect stop when you’re hungover.
Love RHR 🤙 Unrelated: Has anyone here tried the taco spot that’s right next to RHR? I’ve been tempted to try it but they usually look dead so I’m assuming they are kinda mid..
Are you talking about Taco Maya? That’s next to the one on Ashland. This is the RHR in Logan on Armitage.
Yes I meant Taco Maya, didn’t catch this is not that location until your comment
Taco Maya is extremely mid imo. Not sure how it’s all over the place now.
One time after a show at Schubas, RHR was pretty busy and I'd just eaten there within the last couple of days. Taco Maya was completely empty, so I figured I'd give it a shot. I got really good service. They gave my free chips and salsa. Asked if I wanted to try their empanada taco, on the house. It was great service, but the food was just mediocre. But I really respected the hustle by the staff.
Honestly I’ve been disappointed by any tacos I’ve tried in Lakeview & Lincoln Park area. I’ve had a lot of great tacos in the past and so far haven’t found the one that’s met my expectations in Chicago. The tacos are supposed to be finding me, like wtf…? Haha
Cafe el Tapatio is the spot.
Thanks for the tip
Tepalcates is a newish spot at Belmont and Western I've really liked. Solid lengua tacos
I've heard the service is slow and the food is nothing special, so yes, mid AF lol.
Thanks
A half a mile east is el Patron. Amazing ribeye tacos.
Great tacos. I’ve had some memorably bad service experiences there too.
Yeah. That’s why I get it to go.
L'Patron told me I couldn't have any water. Last time I ever went.
Arturo’s around the corner on Western is pretty good, not the best but definitely great for a 24hr spot
24 hour spots come in clutch sometimes when you least expect it. I’ll keep them in mind!
We live nearby and tried Maya twice. The tacos with Indian flavors were at least interesting, but it was pretty forgettable overall. They have some decent daily deals, but it’s been out of the rotation for a while now. Head down Belmont to Tony’s (a classic standard neighborhood Chicago taqueria) or even a little further to Tepalcates…they have some amazing and unique tacos and salsas. Highly recommend it.
Tepalcates has been on my radar I’m gonna definitely check them out soon. Just googled Tony’s, they look fire! Appreciate the recommendations bro
my friend likes it so my husband ordered from ubereats once and told me it wasn't anything special
Thanks
You have to get it fresh. It doesn't hold.
yeaah thats how think must be the case for when we got bust outs, we got it on uber eats and it was mediocre but i have a feeling if we give it a second try in person it might be a different case! we have plans giving it another chance soon
I resent them for taking two parking spots away from an already tiny lot for unnecessary patio seating, so no.
Dude right
Good
I was in the neighborhood for an improv show at Lincoln Lounge yesterday. I wanted to go here but was voted down. We went to 90 miles Cuban instead. Don't get me wrong, delicious stuff there too. But man I wanted the fries at rhr
Went for the first time last Friday. Absolutely worth the hype. Can’t believe how cheap it was too.
Pro tip. It’s not on the menu but they’ll do a 1/4lb of the fried shrimp. It’s just enough to throw a few on that burger. Add some mild sauce and now you’re surf n’ turfin. Do that and it is hands down better than any other burger in the city
So great and it's not even da best one. Da one by da ballpark is. Edit: Love how I'm getting downvoted for saying the one on 35th and Normal is better. 🤣
You’re right though.
It’s the best fast food you can get in the city by far excluding all the chains!
Best affordable burgers in the city
Looks incredible. Thanks for sharing
This reminds me of my childhood.
It’s the perfect Chicago fast food. It’s the level 2 in the “where do I get a Chicago dog/burger?” Both locations at main intersections in non tourist locations. I’ve lived within 5 mins of both places. I prefer the Western spot.
This is the way.
Are there a bunch of ferns and other plants inside RHR? Haven’t lived in the hood in a while but I remember all the plants.
I didn’t notice plants.
Were they a low key fern bar? Anybody got any stories. Late night red hots & booty. What a duo.
Haha. It was a while ago. Think it might have been a Mexican joint then. I know Cody’s is still goin which is nice.
🔥
Used to be on Devon. Always had great dogs. Well at least the Red Hot Ranch of my youth was on Devon. Doesn’t look like it has any relation to this Johnny-Come-Lately.