Fast-food

WINNER Patty Burger
This is fast food as it used to be—hand-formed Angus beef patties that are uncommonly uncomplicated—so the only choice you have to make is whether you’re going to get a single, double or triple. Oh, and whether or not to add cheese and the killer peanut butter–chocolate shake. $3.29. 72 E Adams St, 312-987-0900

#2 Feed
The unsung hero on a menu chock-full of chicken, this simple, satisfying burger has a perfect meat-to-bun ratio. And it’s not only grilled to order, but hand-formed to order as well. $5.99. 2803 W Chicago Ave, 773-489-4600

#3 That’s-A-Burger
Okay, so maybe fast isn’t quite the best word for this burger—it can take up to 20 minutes. But this carry-out spot is worth the wait, even if you have to eat your burger in the car. The parked car—this baby takes two hands. $3.45. 2134 E 71st St, 773-493-2080

#4 Billy Goat Tavern
You can hit eight locations these days, but we prefer the griddle at the original (made famous by the “Cheezborger, Cheezborger” Saturday Night Live sketch), where veteran spatula-wielders know just how much pressure to put on the thin, lacy-edged classics. They’re small, so go with a double with cheese to fill up. $4.55. 430 N Lower Michigan Ave, 312-222-1525

#5 Paradise Pup
It’s a hike for the average college student, but if you need to pick up Aunt Betty at O’Hare, be sure to visit this 25-year-old roadside stand. Freshly ground, never-frozen (Okay, they’re preformed) patties are delivered daily, the grill leaves an unmistakable char flavor that has legions of fans, the challah bun is delicious, and the Merkt’s cheddar melts into a gooey mess once it’s cheek-to-cheek with the hot meat. $3.99. 1724 S River Rd, Des Plaines; 847-699-8590