Wonderburger: The name alone sparks the imagination.
A true adventurer is one who relishes getting into Chicago's neighborhoods now and then. If you're feeling the urge for a great hamburger and fries in a local setting, head to Wonderburger.
Located on the city's Southwest Side in the Mt. Greenwood neighborhood, Wonderburger, also known as Wonderburger: Bill Grant's Grill and Gallery, has been a local favorite since opening in 1954. This small restaurant of 10 or so tables and a cozy counter, is known for its burgers and hand-cut curly french fries. Wonderburger, founded by the late Bill Grant (run by his son for many years and now owned by his daughter-in-law) differed from most hamburger joints of the era because of three distinct offerings.
Grant displayed art work--mostly paintings by local artists (maybe some of his own?) he topped his burgers with a "secret" wonder sauce and served it in a oval plastic basket with curly french fries. Hand-cut in the restaurant's small kitchen where potatoes are impaled on a spike and turned into long curls by a blade rotated by hand, the fries remain among the most unusual and best tasting in Chicago. Uncurled, a fry can often measure up to a foot long.
The grill is open and located in the front of the restaurant and the orders are hung along a wire with clothespins. A seat at the counter is a bit like having a great seat in a play as you're able to watch the cooks slap the burgers on the grill and over-hear the kitchen banter. If you hear the word GAC called out, that's an order for a "grilled, add cheese" simply a grilled cheese sandwich.
So beloved is Wonderburger, cooks and waitstaff alike are usually second generation employees--the sons and daughters of former Wonderburger staff.
Hamburgers--single or double--aren't the only sandwiches on the menu. Wonderburger also makes a good Reuben, Italian beef and chicken breast sandwich. The homemade milkshakes are thick and hearty. During the summer months, Wonderburger opens its back beer garden.
Small local restaurants are rare finds these days. Having survived the arrival of the large fast-food chains says a great deal about Wonderburger. Never is it more welcoming than on a cold winter day. Although this is a neighborhood spot, patrons love chatting it up with new-comers, making sure that by the time you leave you'll become a regular.
Posted by Lori Rotenberk
