Ram4 wrote:
In the near-Highland Park area, some of the burgers I also like are at Di Pescara, Hackey's (on Lake - Harms is WAY overrated, and I've given up on them after repeated chances), C.J. Arthur's (Wilmette), Michael's/Stash's (toss up), Steak N' Shake (Glenview), Meatheads (Northbrook), J. Alexander's, and Cheesecake Factory (Skokie/Lincolnshire - Kobe Burger sooo tender!) to name a few. I also had the burger at Rosebud in Highland Park a couple of times. It seemed to be similar to the one served at Rosebud Steakhouse downtown that had been mentioned as the best around. But I found it to be a letdown. It had the pretzel bun too, but it might have been just too thick (12oz) for it's own good.

I want to check out Abigal's Bistro and Prairie Grass for their burgers too.

I also live in the area. I would add Norton's to your list.

Ronnie Suburban wrote:Are they not crinkle-cut? That's what I seem to remember at Beinlich's.

Cathy2 wrote:No crinkles.

I was at Beinlich's yesterday. The fries were definitely crinkle-cut. I did not inquire as to their origins, but from the taste, I'd guess a freezer bag. They were crisp and well-prepared for that type.

My cheeseburger was good, not remarkable, but a solid example of a bar burger. Ordered medium-rare, it came out closer to medium, and the deluxe order with the fries and very nice creamy coleslaw cost $9.50. (The menu is on a board with no prices.)

It's a neighborhood tavern, not a destination, but I understand the appeal for north suburbanites, who have so few similar nearby options (Meier's in Glenview and what else?).

Gone fishing until July 12th.

Mrs Willie & I went with a good friend last night to Beinlich's, I hadn't been in 25+ years. Based on the following quote, we did try the shrimp/crabmeat cocktail.

wlingjpera wrote:Seriously, this bar in Northbrook has the BEST Shrimp Cocktail combo (Shrimp + crab meat) I've ever had.

Cocktail had a good amount of crab and a couple shrimp cut up into bite sized pieces. While a bit light on the shrimp and heavy on the sauce (I'd ask for sauce on side in future), the quality/taste of the crab & shrimp was just terrific. So while I can't say it was the best shrimp/crab cocktail I've had, it was VERY good and certainly worthwhile to order.

Fries were crinkle cut, definitely pre-frozen in my FF expertise, but done well, nice crispy w/soft interior.

Side of creamy coleslaw was devoured by the 3 of us and Mrs Willie doesn't really like coleslaw.

Burgers were delicious, especially with grilled onions. I don't think I'd go out of my way for a burger here but if in the area & your timing is right, this is a worthy burger. We were all very pleased & satisfied with our meals.

I mention timing as we pulled into the lot ~6:15pm on a Friday night, we were fortunate & a table cleared as soon as we entered the restaurant. Within 10 minutes there were 3 parties waiting to be seated & the bar was full. By the time we left ~7:30pm, I'm guessing there were 9 parties waiting to be seated, line was almost out the shelter door.