Our Rankings

Updated: 3/18/09

This will be a updated section after each burger joint we go to. We have attended 5 burger joints in downtown Chicago and all have very different opinions. Some are here for the flavor of the meat, others are here for the fun styles of burger combinations. This is why we love what we do. All coming together for 1 goal. Hamburgers!

Here are the Founding members top 5 so far:

Sam:
1. Kuma's Corner(not pictured)
2. Hamburger Mary's
3. Counter Burger
4. Hackney's
5. Rosebud (by default since I got sick and left early)





Ryan:
1. Kuma's Corner
2. Rosebud
3. Hackney's
4. Counter Burger
5. Hamburger Mary's










Jamie:
1. Kuma's Corner
2. Hamburger Mary's
3. Hackney's
4. Counter Burger
5. Rosebud











Danny:
1. Kuma's Corner
2. Counter Burger
3. Rosebud's
4. Hackney's
5. Hamburger Mary's

Hackney's - 2/23/09

Located in one of the oldest buildings in Printers Row, this is the first city location of the family-owned suburban chain. Brothers Ed and Jim Hebson have brought a cozy pub atmosphere to this historic neighborhood. Hackney's offers something for everyone, from their famous Hackneyburger and French-fried onion loaves to a strawberry spinach salad with raspberry vinaigrette. Patrons can also enjoy one of many imported beers on tap, like Stiegl Pils, Tucher Hefe Weiss, Bass and Harp.


Here is our experience:

Onion strings - Loose and Fried

Blue Cheese - Pumpernickle Bun

Swiss Cheese/Grilled Onions

American Cheese - Stuffed with Bacon/Cheese!

Rosebud's - 1/26/09

Rosebud. A rare steakhouse, well done. Our medium is prime beef, including bone-in filet mignon. One block east of Michigan Avenue near the Drake Hotel, we offer an irresistible menu that will tempt your stomach as much as the cool, hip atmosphere will tempt your eyes.

A hideaway for locals and celebrities, our menu is as diverse as our clientele. From our wall-spanning granite bar featuring a wine list with over 300 selections, a variety of single malt scotches that will keep you warm during any Chicago winter, you can be assured that your experience at Rosebud will be like none other you've ever had.


Here is our experience:

American Cheese/Bacon - Pretzel Bread Bun

Grilled Onions/Bacon - Pretzel Bread Bun

above - cut in half...

Swiss Cheese - Pretzel Bread Bun

Juicy Swiss Burger...

Hamburger Mary's - 12/08/08

Hamburger Mary's franchises are "open-air bar and grilles for open-minded people," where guests enjoy a flamboyant dining experience. Everyone is welcome at Hamburger Mary's, but our concept is unique in that we are the ONLY national franchise actively marketing to the gay community.

When you walk into a Hamburger Mary's it's like walking into Mary's home, where you will be greeted with a warm smile and friendly (if somewhat saucy) service. Each restaurant may be unique in its eclectic décor, but they all provide the friendliest service and highest quality food.


Here is our experience:

Pepper-Jack Cheese/Pico de Gallo/Stuffed with Chorizzo - topped Chipolte Ranch & tortilla strips

Swiss Cheese/Fried onions/Mushrooms/Lettuce

See decriptoon below...

See burger below...

The Counter - 10/29/08

Step into The Counter® and you’re greeted with a clipboard and an extensive list of fresh mouth-watering ingredients that allow you to build your own gourmet burger. Our 312,120+ different burger combinations make every burger as unique as each customer. Rarely is the same burger made twice in one day.

Anti-Established in 2003, The Counter® is the 21st century’s bold answer to the classic burger joint. Ushering in a fresh era of industrial decor, today’s music, cold beer, unique wines, cocktails, and burger options that are only limited by your imagination.


Here is our experience:

Fries/Onions Rings/Sweet Potato Fries

Blue Cheese/Grilled Onions/Lettuce/Tomato

Blue Cheese/Bacon/Peppers/Tomato

above - now cut in half

Swiss/Grilled Onions/Chives/Fried Egg

above - now cut in half

Founding Members

The Founders

We have made a commitment to find the bext burgers in the Chicaoland area. The Windy City Burger Club is built on a well-charred love for meat. What better way to prove that love, then to get together as often as possible trying the countless burger joints in and around Chicago. We meet monthly and discuss our likes and dislikes about the creations made to order.

Here we are...
The Windy City Burger Club



Sam...



J-me...



Ryan...




Danny...