Chicago (DDN) – The Loyalist, located in the heart of Chicago, provides a unique burger experience. This burger is a culinary masterpiece, featuring juicy, precisely seasoned patties, melty cheese, and a secret sauce. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, The Loyalist’s burger is a must-have, serving up a memorable taste of Chicago delight.
Arrival of Loyalists
When famed chefs John Shields and Karen Urie-Shields opened The Loyalist in 2016, they took a risky step. Their gourmet dining experience, which included visits to prominent restaurants like Charlie Trotter’s and Town House, prepared them well. But it was at The Loyalist that they could show off their culinary skills in a more casual atmosphere.
The Ultimate Chicago Burger
The Loyalist quickly became a popular restaurant, with its burger attracting the most attention. Some even said it was better than Chicago’s legendary Au Cheval burger, which had long been regarded as the best burger. As a former Chicago resident and burger enthusiast, I was curious what all the hype was about.
Nostalgia for Sesame Seed Bun
Speaking with John Shields, it is clear that nostalgia had a large role in the creation of The Loyalist Burger. “I wanted to do something that reminded me personally of a burger I grew up with,” he shares. And that is exactly what they accomplished.
Here’s what sets The Loyalist Burger apart:
- The Burger: This burger, made with chuck, short rib, and bacon, has a mild, smokey flavor and is quite rich. It’s the heart of the burger, perfectly cooked.
- The Cheese: The cheese is gooey and enticing, and it pairs nicely with the burgers. It’s the type of cheese pull that burger enthusiasts fantasize about.
- Onions: Caramelized onions drape over the delectable burger, adding sweetness and depth. They’re properly charred, which intensifies every flavor.
- The Bun: A sesame seed bun holds the masterpiece. It’s delicate but robust, making it the ideal vehicle for this burger symphony.
The Loyalist Versus Au Cheval
Now let us address the elephant in the room: Au Cheval. Yes, the Au Cheval burger is tasty. But am I willing to wait hours for it? Not when there’s a better option nearby. The Loyalist burger exudes nostalgia, flavor, and simplicity without the lengthy wait.
The Verdict
After my first bite, I understood why everyone was so thrilled. The Loyalist burger has a special appeal—it transports you back to childhood cookouts, the sizzle of the grill, and the joy of biting into a classic. It’s a burger worthy of its crown.
So, next time you’re in Chicago, avoid the queues and head to The Loyalist. Order the burger, enjoy every bite, and toast to well-executed culinary nostalgia.
Final Words
The Loyalist, located in the heart of Chicago, has taken burger dining to an art form. This restaurant, run by culinary masters John Shields and Karen Urie-Shields, provides a burger experience unlike any other.
Each bite takes you on a nostalgic journey, made with chuck, short rib, and bacon, sprinkled with gooey cheese and caramelized onions, and wrapped in a sesame seed bun. What is the verdict? The Loyalist burger is unsurpassed, a Chicago specialty that should not be missed.
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