Best of 20 french fries in Chicago
French fries in Chicago are a culinary delight not to be missed. This bustling city is known for its diverse food scene, and its french fries hold their own against any other dish. Chicago-style fries are often thick-cut, double-fried for extra crispiness, and served with a variety of gourmet dips and toppings. From food trucks to high-end restaurants, the windy city knows how to do fries right.
- 1. Frietkoten Belgian Fries & Beer
- 2. bopNgrill
- 3. The Region - Handcrafted Hamburgers
- 4. Billy Goat Tavern (The Original)
- 5. SALT burgers + fries
- 6. Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
- 7. Butcher & The Burger
- 8. Fry the Coop (West Town)
- 9. Elephant & Castle
- 10. Mister J's
- 11. Shake Shack Chicago Athletic Association
- 12. Kong Dog Downtown Chicago
- 13. Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor
- 14. Devil Dawgs on State
- 15. The Gage
- 16. Eleven City Diner
- 17. Elephant & Castle
- 18. Burger Bar Chicago
- 19. MiMi's Tacos & French Fries
- 20. Billy Goat Tavern (Millennium Park)
1. Frietkoten Belgian Fries & Beer

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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2. bopNgrill
Korean-fusion fast-casual restaurant with a focus on high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations.

The cheese fries at this location are a standout dish. They feature a perfect balance of gooey cheese, crispy fries, and a touch of salt. The result is a truly delicious and satisfying experience for any cheese fry lover.
If you're looking to try something a little different, the kimchi fries are a must-order. These fries are loaded with caramelized kimchi, which adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish. The cheese sauce and bacon toppings add even more depth and richness, making for an unforgettable flavor explosion in every bite.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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3. The Region - Handcrafted Hamburgers
In-house made buns, locally sourced ingredients, sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

Hand-cut fries, a less common but enjoyable variation of regular fries, were a standout feature of the meal. These fries were characterized by their thick-cut shape, which added a satisfying bite and a hearty flavor. The fries were served separately, allowing the diner to appreciate their natural taste, but they were also accompanied by a thick cheese sauce on the side. This sauce, with its creamy texture and rich taste, was the perfect complement to the fries.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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4. Billy Goat Tavern (The Original)
Open 24/7, cash-only policy, unique decor, and lively atmosphere.

Burger and fries is a classic combination that many people, including myself, find satisfying. It's a simple meal, but sometimes simplicity is key to satisfying hunger. However, there is one aspect of this meal that I find disappointing. Despite the popularity of this food pairing, there are some places that do not serve fries with their burgers. This is something that I strongly oppose and finds it quite sad.
In general, I believe that burgers and fries should always go together. The two foods complement each other perfectly, with the crispy, salty fries providing a satisfying contrast to the juicy, flavorful burger. When these two elements are combined, they create a meal that is more than the sum of its parts. That's why it's so unfortunate when a restaurant or other food service establishment fails to serve fries with their burgers. It's a missed opportunity to provide customers with a truly satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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5. SALT burgers + fries
Sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, gourmet burgers and fries

The fries were a disappointment with their lack of taste, indicating a need for more seasoning, particularly salt. Unfortunately, the burger was also soggy, which negatively affected its overall quality.
Additionally, the meal was further marred by a watery sauce. Both the fries and the burger suffered from textural issues, with the fries being soggy and the burger sharing the same fate. This lack of crispness and flavor in both key components of the meal resulted in a subpar dining experience.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
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6. Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
Drive-thru service and a extensive menu with a focus on Chicago-style favorites.

Portillo's offered a satisfying meal for the individual, which included delicious French fries and a Chicago hot dog. The French fries were a standout, highly recommended for anyone visiting Portillo's. To avoid the long order line, it's suggested to order online for pickup.
Portillo's is a great place to try Chicago's famous hot dogs, which the individual was able to enjoy thanks to the restaurant. The French fries were also a hit and were best enjoyed after ordering online to bypass the long queue. Overall, Portillo's provided a tasty and authentic Chicago culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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7. Butcher & The Burger
In-house aged beef, house-made sausages, and house-made condiments

I recently ordered food from Uber Eats and was pleased to find that my meal arrived fresh and well-prepared. The fries were a particular highlight - thick cut but cooked to perfection. The burger was also delicious, with a seasoning of salt and pepper that gave it a homemade flavor, as if it had been cooked at a backyard cookout. Although it was a bit messy to eat, I found it to be well worth it.
In a separate occasion, I stopped at this establishment randomly while out for a walk and looking for a place to get a burger. I was not disappointed with my choice. I ordered the 'all American' burger with fries, which proved to be a flavorful and satisfying meal. The fries were crispy and salty, while the burger was cooked to perfection. The experience was so enjoyable that I would consider returning if I were to find myself in the area again.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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8. Fry the Coop (West Town)
Family-owned business with a fun, casual atmosphere

This place offers a delicious chicken sandwich that is sure to satisfy. The chicken is cooked to perfection and the bread is fresh, making for a tasty and satisfying meal. In addition to the sandwich, their french fries are a must-try. They are always fresh and crispy, and can be enjoyed with a variety of seasonings.
The restaurant also offers a great happy hour, with discounts on drinks and appetizers. One of the highlights of their happy hour is their hot-level spiced fries. The spice adds an extra kick to the fries, making them even more enjoyable. Whether you're looking for a satisfying meal or a place to enjoy happy hour, this place is a great option.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. Elephant & Castle
Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, local favorite

French fries are a popular menu item, and opinions on them can vary. In this case, one person expressed enthusiasm for the french fries they tried, praising their hot temperature and freshness. However, another person had a more subdued reaction, finding the french fries to be unremarkable and nothing special.
Both individuals were able to form an opinion on the same dish, highlighting how personal experiences and preferences can shape our perceptions of food. While one person appreciated the hot and fresh qualities of the french fries, the other was left unimpressed by the same qualities. This just goes to show that taste is subjective, and people may have different reactions to the same dish.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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10. Mister J's
Cash-only diner with a retro atmosphere and famous for its charming staff.

I decided to try the cheese with my fries option, which cost an additional $1.22. The fries were warm and tasty, and the cheese was a nice addition. My overall experience with the fries was positive, as they were cooked well and had a good flavor.
I particularly enjoyed the fries at this location. They were hot and fresh, and the quality was excellent. The temperature and texture of the fries stood out to me, making for a satisfying and enjoyable snack.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Lunch
- Dinner
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11. Shake Shack Chicago Athletic Association
Located in the historic Chicago Athletic Association building, offers unique atmosphere

The fries in question, served with a crinkle-cut style, had a taste that was slightly too heavy on the salt for one individual. Despite this, they were still found to be a pleasurable addition to the meal. In a separate assessment, the fries were described as crispy and delightful, providing an excellent accompaniment to a burger.
Both assessments highlight the enjoyable quality of the fries, despite the first noting a slight excess in salt. The second assessment focuses on the crispy texture and savory taste of the fries, praising their ability to enhance the dining experience when paired with a burger. Together, the evaluations emphasize the fries' flavorful and satisfying nature.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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12. Kong Dog Downtown Chicago
Features a fun, industrial atmosphere and offers vegetarian and gluten-free options.

French fries are a popular and beloved snack around the world. These crispy golden potato fries, seasoned to perfection, are sure to satisfy your cravings. At a price of $4.75, they are a reasonably priced and delicious option for any occasion. With an impressive rating of 100% and 9 reviews, it's clear that customers love the French fries.
The French fries are made with high-quality potatoes, cooked to achieve the perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. The seasoning adds an extra layer of flavor, making these fries stand out from the rest. The positive reviews and high rating are evidence of the fries' quality and delicious taste. So, whether you're in the mood for a quick snack or a side dish for your meal, the French fries are an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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13. Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor
Drive-thru service and a lively atmosphere with a classic American diner feel.

The French fries were a disappointment during my latest visit, despite being a usual favorite. The oil used for cooking seemed to be different and negatively affected the taste and quality. Accompanying our fries were onion rings with a cheese sauce, which thankfully were not part of the disappointing experience.
I am a fan of their French fries, but unfortunately, they failed to meet expectations on this occasion. It is unclear what type of oil was utilized, but it did not enhance the fries' flavor. On a positive note, the onion rings paired with a cheese sauce were not affected by the oil and provided a satisfying experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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14. Devil Dawgs on State
Using high-quality ingredients and offering vegetarian options.

The chili cheese fries were a standout dish during my meal. They served as an excellent companion to my Chicago dog. The fresh cut fries were skillfully fried to a perfect crispiness and generously topped with a savory chili and melted cheese.
My taste buds were delighted with the well-seasoned fries. They had a freshly cut texture that was incredibly satisfying. Combined with the chili and cheese, the fries created a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that made for a truly enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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15. The Gage
Located in a historic building with a beautiful bar area

The cost of most sandwiches at the establishment ranges from $15 to $20 and is accompanied by a serving of excellent French fries. The restaurant is also child-friendly, as evidenced by my experience taking my six-year-old granddaughter there. They specially prepared chicken tenders and fries for her.
The place offers a la carte sandwiches that are a bit on the pricier side, but they do not skimp on the quality of their food. The French fries that come with the sandwiches are consistently excellent. Furthermore, they cater to families with young children, guaranteeing a positive dining experience for all ages.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
16. Eleven City Diner
A retro diner atmosphere with a menu that blends traditional Jewish comfort food with American diner classics.

The French fries at this establishment are truly exceptional. They stand out as some of the best I've had in a long time, and I strongly recommend giving them a try.
These fries have an ideal texture - crispy on the outside, yet soft and flavorful on the inside. The exterior offers a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the interior is satisfyingly tender. Furthermore, the fries are perfectly seasoned, adding to their overall appeal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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17. Elephant & Castle
Classic American diner with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients

The french fries in question had a desirable level of crunchiness and were well-cooked. However, the salt content was a bit excessive, making them slightly overseasoned for some preferences.
On a positive note, the french fries served with the fish and chips were crispy and seasoned appropriately, making them an excellent accompaniment to the meal. Despite the slight issue with salt in one instance, the fries were generally enjoyed due to their satisfying crunch and overall flavor profile.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
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18. Burger Bar Chicago
Customizable burgers with a variety of toppings and sauces, and a lively atmosphere.

The fries in question were not prepared to standard, with an excessive cooking time resulting in a lack of potato flavor. The texture was altered as well, becoming overly crispy and resemling a potato chip rather than a fry.
In particular, the truffle fries were affected by this poor preparation. They were saturated in oil and extremely crispy, making them difficult to distinguish from greasy potato chips. The intended flavor of the truffles was likely lost due to the excessive cooking.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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19. MiMi's Tacos & French Fries
Family-owned business with a unique fusion of Mexican and American cuisine

MiMi's Tacos & French Fries is a restaurant that offers delicious food and exceptional service, making it a hidden gem in the area. Their jerk Birria and walking tacos are customer favorites, and the restaurant consistently has a steady flow of patrons. In addition to their taco and burger options, they also offer Italian ice, adding to the variety of flavors available.
The food served at MiMi's Tacos & French Fries is both tasty and flavorful. Each dish is carefully prepared and presented, with a range of options to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for tacos, burgers, or fries, you're sure to find something you love on their menu. The restaurant's popularity is a testament to the quality of their food and the level of service they provide, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
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20. Billy Goat Tavern (Millennium Park)
Unique atmosphere with charming staff and historic charm

I ordered a double cheeseburger, fries, and a drink for $8.50. This was in Chicago, and I found the price reasonable considering the location. The restaurant offered a self-serve condiment bar along the side, which included relish, onions, pickles, and chopped onions.
The food arrived quickly and was delicious, possessing a perfect level of greasiness. The fries were a standout and lived up to my expectations. I highly recommend this place, even if you're too young to remember the skit it's named after.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots