The Loyalist
Pete West · 131 Google reviewsThe Loyalist — honest american in Fulton Market, where the Burger is worth ordering. This is where you bring someone you're trying to impress. Strong pours and a bartender who takes pride in the work. "Onion aioli that comes with the plate is also incredible with the fries" — Carl
What 777 diners keep saying
What 777 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“The burger is what most people come downstairs for and it absolutely delivers on that premise. A thick, well-seasoned patty with American cheese, pickles, and a special sauce on a pillowy potato bun, it's the kind of burger that tastes like it was designed by people who also know how to make beef taste like a considered, ingredient-led experience rather than just a quick protein delivery. The French onion soup is the starter that earns its own conversation, deeply savory broth with properly browned Gruyère on top in a way that makes the version at most other places feel approximate. The fried chicken sandwich is the other order that regulars talk about with the same conviction as the burger, a properly crispy, juicy bird on a soft bun with enough sauce to make it interesting without making it a mess. The truffle fries are the side worth ordering alongside anything, shoestring-thin and properly seasoned. The cocktail program is excellent in the way you'd expect from a bar run by a kitchen that thinks this carefully about everything else. Walk-in friendly, no reservations, and all the more relaxed for it.”
“The Loyalist won our favorite burger in our ongoing Chicago burger crawl! The OG burger was the most delicious burger I have ever tasted. I dream of her. Her brine. Her onions. Her sauce. I do wish there was an alternative to the sesame bun- but nobody can be that perfect…for anyone who doesn’t eat pork- make sure to ask them to make the patty without it and indulge. I would also suggest swapping the fries for a different side- the burger outshines her companion”
“The Loyalist definitely lived up to the hype! From their signature cocktail to the chocolate chip cookie for dessert, everything was fantastic! The French Onion Soup is among the best I've ever had, and the O.G. burger was perfection!”
“Service was spectacular and the space was beautiful. Avocado toast was good and the burger was incredible. They offered so many freebies for the birthday we were celebrating too!”
“After an outstanding dinner at The Loyalist, it’s easy to understand why this has become one of Chicago’s favorite neighborhood restaurants. From the moment when we sat down, we decided to give our server, Allison, complete freedom to choose our meal. We simply told her to surprise us, and every recommendation she made was outstanding. Her knowledge of the menu, enthusiasm, and confidence created a wonderful dining experience. We started with the tête de cochon, a dish I probably would have overlooked on my own. Thanks to Allison’s recommendation, it became one of the highlights of the evening. It was a creative, beautifully balanced combination of flavors and textures that made for a memorable start. Next came the mussels, served with a rich brandade cream, bacon, and herb butter. The portion was incredibly generous, and the broth was so flavorful that you’ll want plenty of bread to soak up every last bite. For our entrées, Allison selected the duck special and the legendary Loyalist cheeseburger for us to share. Both were exceptional. The duck was expertly prepared with crisp skin and perfectly cooked meat, while the cheeseburger reminded us why it’s considered one of the best in Chicago—simple, rich, and absolutely delicious. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between warm, inviting, and effortlessly cool, with the comfortable feel of a neighborhood pub elevated by thoughtful design and genuine hospitality. Every member of the staff we encountered was welcoming, engaging, and seemed genuinely happy to be there, making the experience feel even more special. It’s no surprise that The Loyalist shares a home with its three-Michelin-star sister restaurant, Smyth, just upstairs. While the two restaurants offer very different experiences, they clearly share the same commitment to exceptional food and hospitality. The Loyalist delivers exactly what great dining should be: outstanding food, knowledgeable and personable service, and an atmosphere that makes you want to linger. A special thank you to Allison for guiding our entire meal with such confidence and care. We left feeling like we had experienced the restaurant exactly as its chefs intended, and we can’t wait to return.”
“This place never disappoints. Drinks are fire. Place is cozy and the food is fantastic.”
“Husband took me to the best burger in Chicago as part of our honeymoon trip. And that it was! Also, as someone who works in customer service, they know how to do it. I came not expecting very much at all, and left very impressed. Thanks again, we will be back!”
“Went with family for the burger they wanted to try and left with the best oysters and cocktails ever! The Tomato Tomaato is a must, the frites are excellent and so is a side of their mushrooms and that cookie for dessert. Our server Erick is one of the best we’ve had and sooo funny and fun!I can’t wait to come back because the vibes were terrific! @chicagopescetarian”
“An absolutely fantastic experience from beginning to end. I have been dying to come here for brunch for a long time and brought a group with me today. I have raved about Smyth for a while now and can see that the care and attention from upstairs has easily made its way to this wonderful spot. Every drink was perfectly designed and the food was spectacular. We all will definitely be back soon.”
“DAMN. Best cocktails I've ever had. Food was great. Service on point. Michelin level quality in a more casual setting. Order as a group, share everything, even your drinks.”
“Lovely experience with excellent staff! Thank you to everyone involved for making my party feel so welcome. Loved every second of my experience.”
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