Best Veggie Burgers In Chicago
Just because the word "burger" is typically associated with meat, doesn't mean there aren't amazing meat-less options out there. Some of the best burgers in Chicago, are made of black bean, mushrooms or vegetarian patties. Not a vegetarian? Go ahead and give it a try. Your cholesterol will thank you!
Take a look at our picks for some of the best veggie burgers in Chicago.
Flying Saucer
1123 N California Ave
Chicago, IL
(773) 342-9076
www.myspace.com/flyingsaucerchicago
This huge, crumbling patty, has a smoky flavor that's been keeping Humboldt Park locals lining up. The Veggie Lentil Burger is chock full of veggies, lentils and tofu and topped with lettuce, tomato, red onion and sprouts ($7.75). Sides include; Mixed Greens, Home Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, or Vegetarian Chile ($1). You can also substitute vegan margarine for an additional $0.75.
Kuma's Corner
2900 W. Belmont Ave.
Chicago, IL
(773) 604-8769
www.kumascorner.com
If you're sick of the same old veggie burger, Kuma's is the place to go for something different. They offer their full list of burgers (over 15 burgers) with an option to substitute a garden burger. Hello, options!
Burgers include: Iron Maiden- Avocado, Cherry Peppers, Pepper Jack, Chipotle Mayo ($12); Neurosis-Cheddar, Swiss, Sautéed Mushrooms, Caramelized Onions, Horseradish Mayo ($11); Thin Lizzy-Seared Mashed Potato Pancake, Brown Gravy, and Chives ($12).
Chicago Diner
3411 N. Halsted
Chicago IL 60657
773-935-6696
veggiediner.com
This popular "Meat-Free Since 83" diner is sure to please vegetarians and meat eaters alike. Known for having some of the "meatiest" dishes for vegetarians, non-vegetarians swear they can't tell it's not meat.
Veggie burgers include: Whopping Deluxe- A corn black bean & pepper veggie patty, with lettuce, tomato, onion & spicy cajunnaise sauce on toasted multi-grain bun; BBQ "Bacon" Cheezeburger- thick seitan burger with crisp veggie bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion and BBQ sauce with melted Daiya vegan cheese on a multi-grain bun.
Sable Kitchen & Bar
505 N. State
(312) 755-9704
sablechicago.com
Chef Heather Terhune focuses on the concept of social plates. Distinct from tapas, the social plate menu is divided into sections: Hors D'Oeuvres, Farm & Garden, Meat, Fish and Flatbreads. Each dish allows guests to share amongst the group or stand alone as a personal entrée. Mini Wild Mushroom Veggie Burgers are great to share or eat alone ($6-$12). Made with red onion jam, wild mushrooms and goat cheese, it's hard to pass these to friends!
Bandera
535 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL
(312) 644-352
www.hillstone.com/#/restaurants/bandera
Located on Chicago's Magnificent Mile, Bandera is a favorite spot among tourists and hungry Michigan Avenue shoppers. Bandera's Veggie Burger is made with rice, veggies, sweet potatoes and topped with monterey jack cheese ($14). The side of Roasted Peanut Coleslaw is almost as good as the burger. If you're in need of an appetizer, the Cornbread & Focaccia is baked and served in an iron skillet. Highly recommended!
Cleo's
1935 West Chicago Ave.
(312) 243-5600
2048 W. Armitage Ave.
(773) 227-6700
www.cleoschicago.com
Get ready to bring your appetite. The 1/2 pound veggie burger at Cleo's is a mouthful of greatness. Your choice of toppings include; beer braised onions, crumbled blue cheese, cheddar, jalapeno jack, mozzarella, gouda or feta (enough cheese for you?) ($8). Add a portabello mushroom for only a $1.
--Lauren Wulf, CBS Local Chicago