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35th Street Red Hots
Master Critic Review
35th Street Red Hots
8.5
Steps from Guaranteed Rate Field, 35th Street Red Hots is a classic stand serving smash-style burgers, Chicago dogs, and fresh-cut fries to Sox fans and neighborhood regulars. Its Redhot Ranch–style burgers and Depression dogs earn strong multi-platform praise as some of the best-value fast-food burgers in the city.
Must-Try Dishes:
RHR Double Cheeseburger & Fries, Depression Dog with fries, Shrimp Burger
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Ballpark-adjacent stand where thin, griddled burgers and Chicago dogs share the fryer with mountain-like fries.
Who should go: Fans wanting a classic Chicago burger-and-dog stop near Sox Park.
When to visit: An hour before first pitch or after games for shorter lines.
What to order: RHR Double Cheeseburger & Fries, Depression Dog, fried shrimp.
Insider tip: Skip stadium food and plan your pre- or post-game meal here instead.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along 35th Street and neighborhood side streets; can be tight and surge-priced on game days near Guaranteed Rate Field.
Dress code: Very casual — ballpark attire, jerseys, and jeans are standard.
Noise level: Lively during pre- and post-game rushes; otherwise moderate with easy conversation at the counter or outdoor seating.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes on non-game nights; 25–45 minutes around first pitch or right after games.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait except on day games.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — fries and a few sides only; burgers and dogs are meat-focused.
Vegan options: Minimal — fries are generally the only viable option; no dedicated vegan substitutes.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free prep or buns; fries share fryers — best for diners with lower sensitivity rather than strict avoidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date enjoys casual, ballpark-style food — this is more of a grab-and-go neighborhood stand than a sit-down setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — counter-service and first-come seating; expect to stand or take food to-go when it’s busy around games.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals with older kids and teens; limited seating and busy crowds during games mean it’s less ideal for strollers or lingering meals.
Best For
Better for: Top-value smash burgers and Chicago dogs near the ballpark, quick service, and generous fry portions at budget pricing.
Skip if: You want a full-service dining room, alcohol or craft beer, extensive vegetarian/vegan options, or a quiet, linger-friendly meal.