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Small Cheval - Wrigleyville
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Small Cheval - Wrigleyville
8.4
A Wrigleyville griddle-burger spot built around a tight, repeatable format: smashed patties, sharp pickles, and a tangy house sauce, plus fries and shakes. It hits best when you keep it simple—double cheeseburger, fries, and move on before the order sprawls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double cheeseburger, Fries, Milkshake
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Focused griddle-burger execution with a tight, repeatable menu.
Who should go: Wrigley-area burger-and-fries loyalists
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early dinner
What to order: Double cheeseburger, fries, shake
Insider tip: Order tight: burger plus fries is the cleanest experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; very limited around Wrigley Field, especially on game days or after 6pm
Dress code: Casual—jeans, sneakers, and game-day attire are all normal
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; easier to talk during weekday lunch
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes typical; longer on Cubs game days
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or under 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some locations offer a veggie burger, but the menu is meat-forward
Vegan options: Very limited—no dedicated vegan mains
Gluten-free options: Limited—gluten-free bun available at some locations, but cross-contamination is possible
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, low-pressure dates—quick ordering and shared fries keep things easy, but it’s not intimate or quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Order at the counter and grab a table when one opens.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple burgers, fries, and shakes work well for kids, though seating can be tight at peak times.
Best For
Better for: Consistent smash burgers, speed, and a focused menu that delivers every time
Skip if: You want table service, customization-heavy burgers, or a relaxed sit-down experience
Small Cheval - Wrigleyville
7.6
A counter-service burger stop that becomes a real outdoor-dining move when the patio’s in play. The best order is the classic cheeseburger setup, fries for the table, and keep it moving—this is about speed and consistency, not a long sit-down meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cheeseburger, Fries, Chocolate shake
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 6.4
What makes it special: Fast, focused burgers with outdoor seating nearby.
Who should go: Burger fans who want a quick patio bite
When to visit: Off-peak hours for fastest lines
What to order: Cheeseburger, fries, chocolate shake
Insider tip: Go right after lunch rush for the easiest patio grab.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots nearby and residential restrictions apply. Expect some circling during Cubs games or evenings.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, tees, and sneakers are standard.
Noise level: Moderate outdoors; conversation is easy between bites, louder during peak Wrigley foot traffic.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak patio hours; faster if you’re flexible or ordering to-go
Weekday lunch: Often minimal to no wait outside the noon rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — a vegetarian burger is available and commonly ordered.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications, but not a core strength.
Gluten-free options: Limited — no dedicated bun, but lettuce-wrapped burgers are an option.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure meet than a romantic sit-down. It works if the goal is quick food and conversation, not lingering.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service. Grab food first, then claim patio seating as it opens up.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple burgers, fries, and quick pacing make it easy with kids, especially earlier in the day.
Best For
Better for: Fast, reliable burgers with outdoor seating when you don’t want a full-service commitment.
Skip if: You want table service, a long meal, or a destination-level burger experience.