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Wurst Behavior
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Wurst Behavior
8.1
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Wurst Behavior is a craft Midwestern-inspired smoke house and beer garden in Old Irving Park where sausages, brats, and dogs are smoked in-house daily. Guests come for loaded brats, Polish kielbasa, and pierogi-friendly sides that pair well with local beers in a relaxed indoor-outdoor setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Loaded Brat, Traditional Brat, Smoked Polish Kielbasa
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Polish-inspired sausages and brats smoked in-house with a casual beer garden feel.
Who should go: Sausage lovers who want craft beer with their BBQ.
When to visit: Evenings and weekends for the fullest menu and energy.
What to order: Loaded Brat, Smoked Polish Kielbasa, Potato Pancakes.
Insider tip: Check for seasonal specials like Oktoberfest brats or holiday paczki-inspired offerings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is usually available in the surrounding residential blocks; it can fill during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed — jeans, hoodies, and brewery attire fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate — you can usually hold a conversation, though it gets livelier during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a short wait during peak times, especially if the patio is busy.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or very minimal.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — there may be a few sides or specials, but the menu is meat-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited — plan on sides rather than mains.
Gluten-free options: Some sausages and sides may work, but check buns and prep — cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something low-key and fun with good beer and casual vibes — less ideal for a formal or romantic night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes — it’s a casual setup and walk-ins are common, though patio weather can increase waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the relaxed beer garden setup works well for families, especially earlier in the evening.
Best For
Better for: House-smoked sausages, Midwest comfort sides, and an easygoing beer garden atmosphere.
Skip if: You’re looking for traditional Texas-style BBQ, a fully vegan menu, or white-tablecloth dining.
Wurst Behavior
8.0
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Comfort Food Classics
Trendy Table Hotspots
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Wurst Behavior is a modern sausage and smokehouse bar on Elston where smoked pork ribs show up alongside brats, sandwiches, and plenty of beer. It leans more beer garden than classic smoke shack, but still gives rib-seekers a meaty option in a lively, design-forward space.
Must-Try Dishes:
House Smoked Pork Ribs, Sausage Platter, Loaded Fries
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 6.5
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Smokehouse-style ribs and sausages served in a beer-focused patio hangout.
Who should go: Beer lovers wanting ribs plus creative sausage plates.
When to visit: Prime patio hours on mild evenings with a group.
What to order: Smoked pork ribs, sausage platter, loaded fries to share.
Insider tip: Order ribs and a sausage board to split; treat sides as communal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Elston and nearby residential blocks; usually manageable but can fill during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed — jeans, tees, and sneakers are totally fine.
Noise level: Lively, especially indoors and on busy patio nights — conversation is doable but expect some background buzz.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes at peak times, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or very minimal.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few sides and occasional veggie-friendly plates.
Vegan options: Very limited — this is a meat-focused menu.
Gluten-free options: Some items may work gluten-free with modifications; confirm with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something casual and lively with good drinks and outdoor seating. It’s less ideal if you’re looking for quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially on weekdays — but weekend evenings may require a wait, particularly for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes — the casual vibe works for families, especially earlier in the evening. Late nights skew more bar-focused.
Best For
Better for: Pairing smoked ribs and sausages with a strong beer lineup in a stylish, patio-friendly setting.
Skip if: You want classic, slow-smoked BBQ purism or a quiet, formal dining experience.
Hours
Monday11am - 10pm
Tuesday11am - 10pm
Wednesday11am - 10pm
Thursday11am - 10pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 11pm
Sunday11am - 8pm