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Sideburns
Master Critic Review
Sideburns
8.0
Smash burger specialist adjacent to The Stache Bar serves 100% grass-fed patties alongside extensive vegan options including Beyond burgers, Chicago-style dogs, and dairy-free sides. Chef Thomas masters the art of cooking multiple burgers simultaneously while maintaining quality across both meat and plant-based options.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Smash Stache Burger, Vegan Smash Stache Burger, Chicago Dog (Vegan Available)
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Equal commitment to quality for both meat and vegan burgers rare in burger joints
Who should go: Burger lovers and vegans seeking comfort food without compromise
When to visit: Late-night cravings or quick lunch on 4th Street
What to order: Smash Stache (meat or vegan), Italian Stallion, tater tots
Insider tip: Vegan Chicago dog recently returned to menu by popular demand
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 4th Street and side streets - easier during off-peak hours, metered until 8pm
Dress code: Casual - t-shirts and shorts perfectly fine, it's counter service
Noise level: Moderate - music playing but can easily chat, mostly outdoor seating
Weekend wait: 10-15 min for food, no wait for seating (counter service)
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min typical, quick turnaround
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options including Beyond burgers, veggie dogs, dairy-free sides
Vegan options: Yes - full vegan menu with Beyond patties, Chicago dogs, and dairy-free options throughout
Gluten-free options: Limited - can do burger patties without buns, but cross-contamination likely on shared grill
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual early dates - it's counter service with outdoor seating, relaxed vibe. Not romantic but fun and low-pressure. Adjacent to The Stache Bar if you want drinks after.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter service. Order at the window, grab a seat outside. Occasionally all tables full on weekend nights but turnover is quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly - casual atmosphere, simple menu kids love (burgers, hot dogs, tots), outdoor seating so noise isn't an issue. No kids menu but regular portions are manageable.
Good for late night? Perfect for late night - open until 2am on weekends, right on 4th Street's bar scene. Ideal for post-drinks food or when everything else is closed.
How does it compare to other burger spots nearby? More casual than sit-down burger joints but quality rivals them, especially for the price. Vegan options blow away typical fast-casual chains. Think elevated fast food rather than restaurant burgers.
Best For
Better for: Late-night quality food, vegan burger options that actually taste good, quick satisfying meal under $15, outdoor casual dining
Skip if: You want a sit-down restaurant experience, need full bar service with your meal, want craft/gourmet burger experience, or require strict gluten-free preparation