This Restaurant Makes The Best Burger In Illinois

ILLINOIS — There is no shortage of places in Illinois to grab a burger, an all-American classic. But connoisseurs who want the best should head to JT's Genuine Sandwich Shop, according to a new list.

Tasting Table, a food and drink news site, published a list of where to find the "absolute best burger" in each state, with some being simple creations from ultra-casual spots and others being gourmet bites from classy, time-honored establishments.

The list called the JT's Special burger a "standout" — it's topped with two Angus patties, caramelized onions, cheddar, sliced apple, applewood smoked bacon and dijonnaise.

"JT's is a Chicago mainstay, from its burgers to its sandwiches to its sides," Tasting Table said. "In 2024, it earned the People's Choice Award for best burger during Chicago's annual Hamburger Hop, when chef Chris Cunningham created an outstanding meal from basic ingredients provided by the competition."

Google reviewers especially rave about the pork tenderloin sandwich.

"I'm not much of a fan of pork sandwiches, but after reading the reviews of the pork tenderloin, I gave it a shot," one person wrote. "And let me tell you, I didn't regret it. It was delicious! My husband had the steak and potato sandwich, and he loved it as well. This spot is a gem!"

Another person echoed the sentiment, saying she also didn't typically go for pork but "absolutely loved the pork and greens sandwich." She gave the food, service and atmosphere 5 stars across the board.

Americans consume about 50 billion burgers a year, or three burgers a week, whether at a restaurant, from a food truck or at home, according to multiple sources.

Burgers have only been around for about 100 years, but have become a quintessential example of Americana. While the “contentious debate” over which state can claim to be the birthplace of the burger has never been settled, “every state in the U.S. is home to some mind-blowing takes on America's favorite sandwich, from classic iterations with just meat and cheese to towering icons of beefy, saucy, veggie-laden splendor.”

To be considered for the list, burgers had to have amassed some serious recognition among burger lovers, whether with culinary awards, positive reviews or “best of” competitions.

“Many of these eateries are local linchpins with histories dating back nearly a century, while others are newer spots that are rapidly accruing cult followings,” Tasting Table said. “The best burger in each state is subjective, and there are plenty of restaurants around the nation that came close to earning our title of best in the state, but we stand by our top picks. These burgers earned their shining reputation and our vote thanks to unique recipes, top-quality ingredients, or expert burger craftsmanship, and all act as a quintessential example of the one meal that can encapsulate America's culinary history.”

If You Go To JT's Genuine Sandwich Shop:

Address: 3970 N. Elston Ave., Chicago

Phone number: 773-754-7729

Website: www.jtsgenuine.com

Hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday.