Hop Haus
At some places, when you order a burger, all you get is a bun and some beef, maybe some cheese. That’s definitely not the case at Hop Haus.
The beef patty has received a makeover thanks to the folks behind the local Leona’s chain. They recently re-concepted the River North outpost and re-opened it as Hop Haus. Burgers, beer, and sports are now what this spot is all about. It’s open until 4 a.m. so it’s the perfect place for a post-party meal after a long night at one of the many clubs in the area (like Club 720, just a couple blocks away).
There’s a casual ambience with pictures of athletes lining the walls and sports trivia books at every table. When it comes to the entrees, you’ll find nothing but half-pound burgers here; over 20 of ‘em. They’re all served with a side of coleslaw and hugely-cut house fries. Prices range from about $9 to $13, and they’re divided into four categories: Cheesy (which are topped with a variety of cheeses), Worldly (burgers with an international flair), Pseudo (sandwiches), and the most popular, Wildish (most of which are wild game like ostrich, lamb, wild boar, duck, and kangaroo). If none of these categories do it for you, try the Control Freak, which offers a selection of 26 toppings so you can make your own.
Each of the gourmet burgers here is also paired with one of 50 different beers (including choices like Reisdorff Kolsch [Germany] and Hen’s Tooth [England]) which can really make the flavors pop. An extensive line of appetizers are on the menu, including one still lingering from the old inhabitant Leona’s: the ever popular big, fried mozzarella sticks.
And while you’re dining at this sports-themed restaurant, don’t forget to look up at the mural at the wall, featuring some of the finest athletes and sports newscasters.
Hop Haus ($$): 646 N Franklin St; 312-467-4287
Sun – Fri: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 a.m.
Sat: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 a.m.
Street parking difficult, valet available Thurs – Sun
Public trans: Bus # 11, 65, 66 or Brown/Purple Line train (Chicago)
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