Seemor
Small Cheval- Old TownB-Worth Trying
1345 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610
· Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1563 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Destination for simple, house-style cheeseburgers and fries with shakes; great on good days, but consistency and wait times can frustrate.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Small Cheval delivers on its focused burger concept with solid food quality and appealing hidden-alley patio charm that draws loyal repeat visitors. However, inconsistent burger doneness and temperature issues and a troubling recent decline in execution prevent a higher grade. The casual counter-service model and peak-time waits are inherent to the format, but reliability concerns—particularly with undercooked or dry patties—undermine what could be a stronger neighborhood destination.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked off Wells Street, this spot feels casual and lively, with counter ordering and a patio that fills fast. Fans rave about the double cheeseburger and garlic aioli for fries: "simple menu, big flavor." On busy nights, waits grow and the experience can feel hit or miss. The cooking leans classic over flashy, a back-to-basics burger with house-style toppings and thin fries. When execution clicks, it is juicy, balanced, and craveable; recent reviews flag inconsistency in doneness and heat. Shakes and soft serve carry the sweet finish, while pricing and a small surcharge keep value merely solid. Families do well here: kids will eat burgers, fries, and shakes, and there are kids burger options plus a plant-based patty. Seating is outdoors and first-come, so arrive off-peak for easier table hunting; bring patience at rush times and keep valuables close given theft reports.
At a Glance
- Simple, focused menu with a standout double cheeseburger and loved garlic aioli
- Fun patio vibe and generally friendly staff
- Inconsistent burger doneness and temperature in recent months
- Peak-time waits up to an hour; delivery/takeout misses reported
- Multiple theft reports on-site; keep valuables secured
What Sets It Apart
- house_style_burger_focus
- alley_patio_setting
- boozy_shakes_option
What People Love
- Juicy, well-seasoned double cheeseburger
- Crisp fries with garlicky aioli dip
- Thick, creamy strawberry shake
- Outdoor patio energy on nice days
Points of Concern
- Recent inconsistency: undercooked or overcooked patties, occasional cold burgers
- Operational hiccups: long waits at rush, missed items in delivery, hard to reach by phone
- Surcharges and add-on costs make totals feel higher than expected
- Reported thefts on-site; vigilance advised
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$28-38 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Go house style on the Signature Double; pair with garlic aioli fries
- For kids: choose Kids Single Cheeseburger with a vanilla soft serve
- Gluten-avoiders: request gluten-free bun (noted by reviewers)
Perfect For
- A quick, satisfying burger after a neighborhood stroll
- Casual patio hang with shakes or a beer
- Pre-show bite before Old Town nightlife
- Families seeking straightforward kid-friendly food
Location Insights
Area: Historic, lively corridor with bars and casual eats; draws locals and visitors, especially evenings and weekends.
Safety: Generally busy and safe, but multiple theft reports at this venue indicate extra vigilance needed.
Nearby: Near Wells Street nightlife, comedy clubs, boutiques; high foot traffic and delivery volume.
Old TownOld Town is characterized by its charming historic architecture, lively bar and restaurant scene, and a blend of upscale dining and casual eateries. The area attracts a diverse crowd seeking trendy dining experiences, comedy clubs, and boutique shopping in a walkable, energetic environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–22:00
Tuesday11:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–22:00
Friday11:00–23:00
Saturday11:00–23:00
Sunday11:00–22:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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