If there’s one food that brings Americans together in mouth-watering harmony, it’s the classic cheeseburger. Recently, the “Yelp Elites” of burger aficionados assembled a sizzling “20 Best Places to Grab a Cheeseburger” list and Illinois is in the #2 spot.

This wasn’t just a casual burger chat; these burger reviews were meticulously ranked by Yelp’s editors, analyzing a mix of review volume and star ratings, all weighed and stacked to produce the ultimate all-time list of top burger joints.

Au Cheval via Facebook, Canva
Au Cheval via Facebook, Canva
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Kicking things off at No. 1 is a spot in Wahiawa, Hawaii, Shige’s Saimin Stand, where cheeseburger mastery meets tropical bliss. That means for the best burger experience, you’d technically need to book a flight.

Yet, for most of us without immediate plans to fly to Hawaii, there are still gems across the mainland to satisfy that burger craving. From coast to coast, the list holds tantalizing spots that even the most dedicated cheeseburger enthusiasts would drool over.

But let’s cut to the chase: among all these sizzling destinations, one burger joint stood out for its massive reputation, and it’s a lot closer to home for Midwesterners.

At No. 2, the BEST cheeseburger in Illinois

Au Cheval via Facebook
Au Cheval via Facebook
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Chicago’s beloved Au Cheval claimed its spot, earning top marks with more than 9,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating. Known for its diner-style ambiance and bar seating, Au Cheval isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience.

And as a reservation-free zone, the only barrier between you and this unforgettable cheeseburger is the patience to wait in line. Au Cheval is located at 800 W Randolph St, in Chicago.

MORE: The 5 'Must-Try' Chicago Hot Dog Experiences In Illinois

Au Cheval via Facebook
Au Cheval via Facebook
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Rounding out the rest of the top 5 best cheeseburgers:

No. 3 —The Friendly in San Diego, CA

No. 4 —4 Charles Prime Rib in New York, NY

No. 5 —Bunz in Huntington Beach, CA

20 Best Places to Grab a Cheeseburger, click HERE for the full list.

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