Cheap

Best cheap burger: Darwin's

Photograph by Donna Rickles

WINNER - Darwin’s
It’s the details—juicy, perfectly charred meat; a grilled challah roll; and Parmesan and parsley–dusted tempura-style fries—that make this Bucktown pub’s burger a winner. It doesn’t hurt that Darwin’s offers the same delicious burger (presented on a funky, sculptural three-part plate) every day of the week for $8.50; lowering the price hardly cheapens the experience. $2 on Tuesdays starting at 5pm; cheese costs another buck. 1935 N Damen Ave, 773-252-8530

#2 - Lion Head Pub
Reason No. 1 to hit up this DePaul meat market: a plump hunk of a burger for a hundred pennies. Reason No. 2: dollar drafts. $1 Tuesdays with drink purchase, upgrade to a “meal”—which includes cheese and fries—for $1 more. 2251 N Lincoln Ave, 773-348-5100

#3 - McCormick & Schmick’s
While your inconsiderate, delusional boss won’t be quitting anytime soon, knocking back one of these succulent half-pounders with a happy-hour brew will at least make the rat race tolerable. $1.95 with two-drink purchase Mon–Fri 3:30–6:30pm and Mon–Thu 9:30–11pm. 1 E Wacker Dr, 312-923-7226

#4 - O’Donovan’s
A peppery kick sets this burger apart from its low-priced brethren. For best results, be a man and order medium-rare to medium (bloody to bloodyish). $2 with drink purchase on Mondays. 2100 W Irving Park Rd, 773-478-2100

#5 - Gamekeeper’s Tavern & Grill
Nothing too out of the ordinary here—just a solid, meaty burger with a toasted bun. Extras, like grilled mushrooms, are available for an upcharge. $2 with drink purchase on Tuesdays. 1971 N Lincoln Ave, 773-549-0400