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Small Cheval - Wicker Park
Master Critic Review
Small Cheval - Wicker Park
8.8
A stripped-down offshoot of Au Cheval, Small Cheval’s Wicker Park stand focuses almost entirely on double-patty burgers, golden fries, and shakes, drawing steady lines from lunch through late night. Locals use it when they want big-flavor smashed burgers without committing to the full sit-down ordeal of the original.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cheeseburger, Hamburger, Golden Fries
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 6.9
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: A high-volume burger counter that delivers an Au Cheval–style burger with far less friction.
Who should go: Burger purists who care more about patties than seating.
When to visit: Off-peak afternoons or early evenings to dodge the longest lines.
What to order: Cheeseburger with bacon, golden fries, and a chocolate shake.
Insider tip: The rear patio is the move in decent weather; treat it like a quick, focused burger stop rather than a long hang.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking and neighborhood side streets; can be tight during peak evenings and weekends — expect to circle.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are; most guests are in jeans and everyday wear.
Noise level: Moderate — ordering area can be loud, but patio and perimeter seating are workable for casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes in line at peak hours; food comes out quickly once ordered.
Weekday lunch: Often 5–15 minutes, occasionally no wait during off-peak hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — fries and shakes are available, but the core burger menu is meat-focused.
Vegan options: Minimal — fries may work for some diners, but there are no dedicated vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: No formal gluten-free buns or prep separation; burgers and fries may share surfaces — best for diners with low sensitivity only.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual, low-pressure burger date — it’s counter-service and lively, better for relaxed conversation than a formal sit-down meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations. Seating is first-come, first-served; most guests order, eat, and turn over quickly, especially outdoors in good weather.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes — simple menus, quick service, and patio seating work well for older kids; space is tight inside, so strollers are easier outdoors or off-peak.
Best For
Better for: Fast, high-impact smashed burgers with Au Cheval flavor DNA, minimal menu distractions, and a quick in-and-out experience.
Skip if: You want a full sit-down restaurant, broader menu variety, vegetarian/vegan options, or guaranteed seating without lines.