Small Cheval- Wicker Park

"We all know the Au Cheval burger is the best out there. But as good as it is, that’s also how big of a pain in the a** it is to get a table. That’s why Small Cheval is so great. The Small Cheval burger is not quite as good as Au Cheval’s because you can’t order it with bacon, but it’s pretty damn close, and you can always get in." - sam faye, adrian kane, john ringor

"Small Cheval serves a similar burger, along with fries and milkshakes... The Freeze’s revival will include the ninth location of Small Cheval, the mini-chain that grew from seeing long lines of customers waiting for a burger at Au Cheval." - Ashok Selvam

"Could they really recreate the Au Cheval burger in a small second location dedicated to burgers alone? Verdict: They come pretty damn close. The patties feel a bit smaller, but the flavor is equally as great, plus the pickles, sauce, and bun are identical too. But the major difference, and it’s a major one, is the fact Small Cheval doesn’t serve Au Cheval’s signature thick-cut, pork belly-like bacon. You can get crispy bacon strips, which is still better than no bacon, but the mothership bacon is on another level. You also can’t get a fried egg at Small Cheval. That’s not as big of a loss as the bacon, but a loss nonetheless. One thing Small Cheval does have going for it is accessibility. Since Au Cheval doesn’t take reservations, waits have become so long that it’s rarely practical to eat there. And that’s why Small Cheval is an excellent option - get a burger to go, pop in for a quick bite, or linger a bit inside or on the excellent patio out back. Food Rundown Hamburger/Cheeseburger This is a great burger. It’s tough not to compare to Au Cheval since that’s what it’s supposed to be, but aside from the bacon and lack of fried eggs, they are virtually the same. A simple burger with two patties, pickles, garlic mayo, cheese, and crispy bacon if you choose. French Fries Good fries. Make sure to get yourself some ketchup and garlic aioli on the back counter for dipping purposes." - Sam Faye

"Au Cheval in the West Loop is considered by many to be making the best burgers in the country. Unsurprisingly, the wait to get in often runs three hours or more. Luckily you can get a burger faster and cheaper at the casual sister brand Small Cheval. There are three locations around the city, but the neighborhood feel and nice patio make the Wicker Park location the best. It serves beer and cocktails, but the milkshakes are also delicious.Where: 1732 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647" - MATADOR_NETWORK

"For When You Wanted Au Cheval If Au Cheval is your Plan A we made an entire guide for you: Where To Eat When The Wait At Au Cheval Is Three Hours Long." - adrian kane