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Fatso's Last Stand
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Fatso's Last Stand
8.2
Fatso’s Last Stand in Ukrainian Village is a late-night counter where char-grilled and smashed burgers share space with Chicago-style dogs and fried shrimp. The Double Fatso’s and Ooey Gooey burgers, cooked fast on a small line, deliver unapologetically rich, classic flavors at prices that keep locals returning after concerts, bar nights, and casual dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Fatso's w/ Cheese, Ooey Gooey Burger, Char Dog w/ Fries
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Char-grilled and smashed burgers with true Chicago stand energy late into the night.
Who should go: Night owls and locals craving indulgent burgers and dogs fast.
When to visit: Late nights after bars or casual evenings when you want a quick fix.
What to order: Double Fatso’s w/ Cheese, Ooey Gooey burger, char dog with fries.
Insider tip: Order a burger and char dog together, then ask for everything cooked “Fatso’s style” for maximum sear and sauce.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; typically available on nearby residential blocks but can be tight late at night.
Dress code: Completely casual — hoodies, jeans, and late-night bar attire are all normal.
Noise level: Moderate to loud, especially late at night and during peak hours; expect music, chatter, and kitchen noise.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes at peak; late-night rush can push waits closer to 30 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, often just a few minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — fries, grilled cheese, and a few sides are available.
Vegan options: Very limited — sides only; burgers and dogs are not vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Limited — no dedicated gluten-free buns and cross-contact is likely on the grill.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for casual and fun — it’s counter-service, messy, and loud. Great for low-pressure hangs, not fancy date night.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations. Order at the counter and grab any open table or take it to-go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families stop in earlier in the evening. Late-night crowds skew adult and can be rowdy, so earlier visits are best for kids.
Best For
Better for: Late-night burger cravings, char-grilled Chicago stand vibes, and big, indulgent flavors served fast.
Skip if: You want a quieter sit-down meal, lots of healthy or vegan options, or strict gluten-free precautions.
Fatso's Last Stand
8.7
Fatso's Last Stand is a walk-up counter in Ukrainian Village where fresh-cut fries, cheese fries, and char dogs are treated with the same attention as the burgers. Late-night crowds lean on it for crispy, well-salted fries under melted Merkts cheddar and chili after bars let out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Homemade Fresh Cut Fries, Merkts Cheddar Fries, Chili Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Walk-up stand where fresh-cut fries rival the char dogs.
Who should go: Late-night eaters chasing loaded fries and classic Chicago dogs.
When to visit: Post-bar hours or game nights when the line buzzes.
What to order: Cheese fries, chili fries, Fatso Burger with everything.
Insider tip: Split one order of Merkts cheddar fries; portions run generous.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; typically available on nearby residential blocks but can fill up late at night.
Dress code: Totally casual — think hoodies, tees, and jackets over late-night bar clothes.
Noise level: Moderate — it’s a walk-up stand with some outdoor/limited seating, so conversation is easy but lively.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes depending on bar traffic and late-night rush.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal or no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — fries, cheese fries, and some sides work well.
Vegan options: Limited — plain fries are the safest option.
Gluten-free options: Very limited — fries may share fryers with breaded items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates casual, late-night comfort food. It’s more fun and messy than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations and seating is limited. Most people order takeout or eat quickly outside.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals earlier in the evening. Late-night crowds skew adult and can feel hectic.
Best For
Better for: Loaded fries, late-night eats, and classic Chicago comfort food done with care.
Skip if: You want a sit-down meal, lots of seating, or extensive healthier/diet-specific options.
Fatso's Last Stand
8.7
Fatso’s Last Stand in West Town turns out char-grilled burgers, Chicago dogs, and late-night fries that show up on most local hot-dog and burger shortlists. Lines build well past midnight on weekends as people queue for smoky char dogs, burgers, and loaded fries from the compact walk-up counter.
Must-Try Dishes:
Char Dog, Char Burger, Chili Cheese Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Char-grilled dogs and burgers that rank among Chicago’s most-loved late-night bites.
Who should go: Burger and hot-dog fans finishing the night near West Town.
When to visit: Late weekend nights; expect a line but fast-moving service.
What to order: Char dog with everything, char burger, chili cheese fries to share.
Insider tip: Order your fries upgraded with chili and cheese if you’re sharing with a group.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the neighborhood; spots can be tight late at night, so expect to circle a bit on weekends.
Dress code: Very casual — late-night, come-as-you-are counter service.
Noise level: Lively outside around the line; ordering area is quick and functional, not for long conversations.
Weekend wait: 15–35 minutes depending on bar and concert traffic nearby.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait or none.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — fries, cheese fries, and a few sides are the main options.
Vegan options: Very limited — fries and basic sides only.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free program; buns and fryers are shared.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your idea of a great date is grabbing late-night burgers and laughing in line — it’s casual, quick, and messy in the best way, not romantic dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service with limited seating. Most people grab food and go, so spaces turn over quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? During the day, yes — simple menu and quick food. Late nights skew adult-crowd and can be hectic, so earlier visits are better for families.
Best For
Better for: Late-night char dogs and burgers with real grill flavor — especially when you want fast, satisfying comfort food after hours.
Skip if: You’re looking for healthy options, lots of vegetarian choices, or a sit-down meal with full service.
Hours
Monday11am - 12am
Tuesday11am - 12am
Wednesday11am - 12am
Thursday11am - 12am
Friday11am - 2am
Saturday11am - 2am
Sunday11am - 12am