Burgers have a special way of bringing people together—whether it’s a backyard grill-out or a spontaneous stop at a roadside dive. But the real magic happens in those unassuming, hole-in-the-wall joints that serve up the kind of burgers you’d happily drive hours to devour.

Dream Job: Burger Joint Detective

In my next life, I’m calling dibs on a job that involves road-tripping through all 50 states to find the best little burger joints in America. Imagine tasting your way through every hidden gem with creaky barstools and checkered tablecloths—sounds like paradise, right?

Well, MSN did just that, and guess what? They stumbled across a burger joint in Illinois that’ll knock your ketchup-loving socks off.

Illinois Bar and Grill on 47th via Facebook, Canva
Illinois Bar and Grill on 47th via Facebook, Canva
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What Makes a “Hole-in-the-Wall” Burger Joint?

Let’s set the scene. A true hole-in-the-wall burger joint is a small, unassuming spot where you’re more likely to rub elbows with locals than influencers. Think neon signs that flicker, a counter with a little grease history, and walls adorned with everything from license plates to Polaroids. It's the kind of place where they know your order before you say a word.

What’s the Secret to a Perfect Burger?

Here’s the thing: a hole-in-the-wall burger isn’t about being Instagram-ready. It’s about being unapologetically delicious.

Picture this: a patty that’s juicy enough to require extra napkins, cheese that melts like it’s doing you a favor, and toppings that are gloriously chaotic. Oh, and the price? Less than a gourmet latte, please.

The Illinois Burger Joint That Made the Cut

MSN’s burger sleuths crowned one Illinois spot as a must-try. I won’t spoil the surprise, but let’s just say it checks all the boxes: unpretentious, insanely tasty, and worth the trip. Want to know where it is? Better start planning your next burger pilgrimage!

One of the Best Hole-In-The-Wall Burger Joints in America is Illinois Bar & Grill on 47th

Illinois Bar & Grill via Facebook
Illinois Bar & Grill via Facebook
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You'll find a bit of hamburger heaven at 4135 W. 47th Street on the south side of Chicago.

The famous Chicago Burger at Illinois Bar & Grill weighs 13 ounces. They put that beef on a scale each time before it hits the heat. It comes with two slices of cheese and all the condiments you desire.

Jose C. on Yelp
Jose C. on Yelp
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Pro Tip: Order it with a blanket of bacon

Illinois Bar & Grill via Facebook
Illinois Bar & Grill via Facebook
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The reviews on this place are outstanding:

Yelp reviewer Araceli R. said,

Omg. My new favorite place! I've been here several times and the waitress/bartender is the sweetest. She makes the best Long Island Iced Teas!

Now the food,  the burgers are amazing! Onion rings are the bomb! Prices are unbeatable!

Yelp reviewer Edgar V. said,

AMAZING BURGERS!!! Everything is made fresh and they put the thickest slices of bacon you'll ever have on a burger!

If those photos didn't have you already putting Illinois Bar & Grill into Google Maps, check out all this beefy Instagram love:

 

Food Porn is right

 

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