"If you live in Chicago (and probably even if you don’t) you’ve heard of Au Cheval in the West Loop. And despite this popular spot being around for more than a decade, two things remain the same: They make a good f*cking burger, and there’s always a ridiculously long wait for a table. But if you show up alone, snagging a bar seat is the best way to avoid the two-hour purgatory in the front vestibule. And since most of everyone behind the bar is too busy to play 20 questions with you, you can eat and drink in peace." - john ringor, veda kilaru