What Should You Know About Au Cheval Chicago? – Au Cheval Chicago has earned legendary status for its griddled cheeseburgers and elevated diner fare. Located in the West Loop, this Hogsalt Hospitality spot draws locals and visitors alike who are willing to wait for what many call one of the best burgers in America. Whether you are planning your first visit or returning for another round, here is everything you need to know before you go in 2026.
The Story Behind Au Cheval Chicago
Opened in 2012 by chef and restaurateur Brendan Sodikoff of Hogsalt Hospitality, Au Cheval quickly became a Chicago dining landmark. Sodikoff and his team reimagined classic diner dishes using high-quality, house-made ingredients. The restaurant’s signature cheeseburger gained national attention almost immediately and has appeared on numerous “best burger” lists across the country.
Today Au Cheval remains a cornerstone of the West Loop food scene, known for its cozy yet lively atmosphere, passionate focus on eggs, and creative takes on American comfort food. It is part of a larger family of acclaimed Hogsalt restaurants that includes Bavette’s, Gilt Bar, and the more casual Small Cheval concept.
Location and How to Get There
Au Cheval is located at 800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607 in the vibrant West Loop neighborhood, steps from Fulton Market and many other popular dining and nightlife spots.
- Public Transit: The CTA Green and Pink Lines serve the nearby Morgan station. Several bus routes also stop along Randolph Street.
- Rideshare & Taxi: Uber and Lyft are the most convenient options, especially during peak dinner hours when parking is limited.
- Parking: Street parking is scarce. Paid lots and garages are available throughout the West Loop; expect higher rates on weekends.
Current Hours of Operation (2026)
Au Cheval serves an all-day menu with late-night hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:15 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:15 PM
Hours can occasionally change for holidays or special events, so always confirm on the official website before visiting.
Reservations vs. Walk-Ins: What You Need to Know
Au Cheval primarily operates on a walk-in, first-come, first-served basis. Limited reservations for parties of up to 4 guests are available through Resy. A $2.50 per person reservation fee applies to secure online bookings.
Wait times vary significantly:
- Shortest waits usually occur right at opening or on weekdays between 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM.
- Weekend evenings and prime dinner hours often see waits of 1–3+ hours.
- When you arrive, add your name to the list and you will receive a text when your table is ready.
Pro tip: Check the Resy app or website frequently for last-minute openings, especially mid-week.
Book Limited Reservations on Resy | Official Au Cheval Chicago Site
The Menu: Must-Try Dishes at Au Cheval
The menu features elevated diner classics with an emphasis on quality ingredients and house-made components. Everything from salads to desserts is prepared on-site.
Signature Cheeseburger
The star of the show. Choose the Single Cheeseburger ($17.99) or Double Cheeseburger ($19.99). Most regulars add thick-cut bacon and a fried egg. The griddled patties, melty cheese, and perfectly toasted bun create a flavor combination that has earned national acclaim.
Other Standout Items
- Foie Gras Scrambled Eggs & Toast – $26.99
- Roasted Marrow Bones with beef cheek marmalade & toast – $25.99
- General Jane’s Honey-Fried Chicken – $24.99
- Crispy Fries with mornay sauce, garlic aioli & fried farm egg – $13.99
- Chopped Salad with bacon, egg & ranch dressing – $16.99
Full drink list includes craft cocktails, 30+ beers on tap, wine, and spirit-free options. Desserts such as Key Lime Pie and root beer floats round out the meal.
Why the Au Cheval Cheeseburger Is Legendary?
Bon Appétit and numerous other publications have praised the burger as one of the best in the country. The secret lies in the combination of high-quality beef, precise griddling technique, house-made Dijonnaise, sharp cheddar blend, and the option to add house-cured bacon and a farm egg. The result is a juicy, flavorful burger that balances nostalgia with elevated execution.
Many visitors say one burger is enough for most appetites, though the double is popular for bigger hunger or sharing.
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Arrive early or during the weekday afternoon lull (2:00–4:30 PM) for the shortest waits.
- Consider Small Cheval (multiple Chicago locations) if you want a similar burger experience with much shorter or no waits in a more casual setting.
- The restaurant is all-ages friendly but does not have high chairs, booster seats, or space for strollers.
- Payment is primarily card-based; confirm current policy when you arrive.
- Plan to spend $30–$50+ per person including burger, sides, drink, tax, and tip.
- Combine your visit with a walk around the West Loop or Fulton Market District for pre- or post-dinner exploration.
Reviews, Ratings & Accolades
Au Cheval consistently receives strong reviews across platforms:
- Yelp: Approximately 4.4 stars from over 9,500 reviews
- Tripadvisor: 4.5 stars from more than 1,300 reviews
- Featured on Eater Chicago maps for best burgers, iconic diners, and top fries
- Regularly appears on national “best burger in America” roundups
Au Cheval on Eater Chicago | Au Cheval on Yelp | Au Cheval on Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions About Au Cheval Chicago
- Do I need a reservation? Limited reservations are available via Resy with a small per-person fee. Walk-ins are always welcome.
- How long is the wait? It varies. Weekday afternoons are best; weekend evenings can exceed two hours.
- Is there a dress code? Casual attire is perfectly fine. The vibe is elevated diner — come as you are.
- Can kids come? Yes, all ages are welcome, though the space is not ideal for infants or toddlers due to the lack of high chairs and stroller space.
- Is takeout available? Yes, many items travel well. Check the website or call for current options.
- Is there parking? Limited street parking; paid lots and garages are recommended.
Final Thoughts: Is Au Cheval Worth the Visit?
If you love great burgers and don’t mind a possible wait, Au Cheval Chicago delivers an experience that lives up to the hype. The cheeseburger remains one of the city’s most iconic bites, and the full menu offers plenty of other memorable dishes. Plan ahead, time your visit wisely, and you will understand why locals and visitors keep coming back year after year.
Ready to go? Start with the official Au Cheval Chicago website for the latest menu, hours, and Resy link. Enjoy your meal — and that famous burger!