Small Cheval- Old Town
Chicago
At a glance
Small Cheval in Old Town, Chicago, is a laid-back eatery that captures the essence of classic American fare with a focus on quality ingredients and a nostalgic atmosphere. Nestled along N Wells St, this spot is known for serving up simple yet flavorful burgers and fried chicken, complemented by a curated selection of beers. The venue combines a retro chic design aesthetic with a warm ambiance to create a space that appeals to anyone looking for a casual dining experience with family, friends, or just a solo visit. Guests can enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the neighborhood charm of Old Town.
The menu is straightforward, spotlighting their signature burgers which have gained a reputation for their juicy patty and fresh toppings. Fried chicken also makes an appearance, adding a crispy and savory option for those in search of comfort food staples. Meanwhile, the drinks menu offers a variety of draft beers that are perfect for both a refreshing midday sip or a relaxing post-work happy hour. Speaking of which, patrons can take advantage of happy hour specials available throughout the week, making it an appealing spot for both lunch and early evening gatherings.
In keeping with a simple and efficient service model, Small Cheval allows guests to conveniently order ahead via their app, reducing wait times and ensuring a smoother dining experience. This function is particularly handy for those with tight schedules who wish to enjoy quality food on the go. The blend of classic menu items and a modern approach to service ensures that each visit feels welcoming and memorable. Whether one is a local resident or a traveler passing through, Small Cheval offers a slice of classic American culinary culture in a contemporary setting.
Reviews
I’m a big fan of Small Cheval so I had to take my tourist friends here! There was a line but the staff were awesome about getting through it quickly. It’s a cute location with seating but fills up fast! Got the single cheeseburger with lettuce and tomato, an order of fries, and a caramel shake and it was all DELICIOUS!!! I really enjoy Small Cheval and this was no exception! Even got to pet a dog while I was there.
We had to add the OG Small Cheval to our list of restaurants when visiting Chicago. The doubles are a good size, no skimping on portions here! Milkshakes are a perfect thick and creamy treat, chocolate was our favorite. The garlic aioli dipping sauce was delicious on the fries. This place was packed on a Tuesday, but service was quick. The outdoor seating area is awesome! Shade and air spaces were available.
Solid burger, pretty big for the price. Added tomato and lettuce. Garlic aioli made the flavor of the fries next level. Seating was nice both indoor and outdoor. Would return for a casual lunch/dinner.
This restaurant was recommended to us as a great place to try burgers, so we decided to give it a shot. I ordered the vegan burger made with Beyond Meat (or a similar plant-based patty). Unfortunately, the experience was disappointing. The menu is extremely simple — just a few burger options and fries, with very little else to choose from. The burger itself was average at best. It was edible, but not particularly enjoyable or memorable, especially considering the reputation of the place. One thing I did enjoy was the non-alcoholic beer, which was surprisingly good. The outdoor seating area is also nice, with plenty of tables available. We were actually caught in a rainstorm during our visit, and the covered patio provided great shelter, which we appreciated. What I found most confusing was the service model. Customers place their own orders, pick up their own food, and are expected to clean up after themselves. That’s perfectly fine, but then I don’t understand why a 20% tip was added. There is essentially no table service being provided. Overall, neither the food nor the service justified the price or the hype. Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend this place, as there are many better dining options available.
