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Recommended Reviews - Chicago Fire Grill
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The price was good, and the service was fine, but those are the only things I liked about this place. Maybe I just came on an off day, but the burger was greasy and flavorless, and I was not a fan of the neon green relish on the Chicago dog. There was also something off about the garlic fries - though I did appreciate the fresh garlic.
Yum!! Such a solid spot with huge and filling burgers. I came a little before closing and made it just in time before the kitchen closed. They said it was only outside seating at the time and food would come in a box. The food took awhile but I assume it was due to the time. I was pretty satisfied and appreciated the portion size. Overall I'd def come back!
Disappointment. I should've ordered what they're known for, instead, I ordered a lemon chicken salad, because the photos looked really good on Yelp. My chicken was so burnt. It was little tiny pieces all over my salad. It was not enjoyable The dressing was plain mostly olive oil I'm so sad. I'll probably give it a try and try their actual items they are known for.
I stopped here for lunch on a Wednesday, because my work colleagues recommended it. The place is very lively, with the FIFA Soccer playing on the TVs. There is outdoor seating up front and inside seating as well. I saw 2 colleagues on the way in. They recommended the burger, which was a popular choice. I went to the front counter to order and the owner was very kind. He took my order and indicated that my drink and fries were included, this is nice! My food was ready after about 7minutes. I did a to go order. The burger was great and the fries were good too. This is impressive for a take out burger in this area. I will return to try the good Mediterranean food options, as that is my passion. Stay tuned on my next visit.
One of my all time favorite local spots to have a burger at! There is always a crowd here, which makes it feel very lively. The prices are affordable with their generous meals that come with both a drink and fries! There is a large drink selection to choose from ranging between teas, sodas, and even energy drinks. The owner is also extremely friendly and makes the restaurant feel like a second home. The food always comes out quick and tastes amazing. Big Shoulder - Juicy, seasoned perfectly. The fries are seasoned generously and have a fresh taste to them.
A classic whenever we're in the area for their $11 burger, fry, and beer or non alcoholic drink special! They seemed to have up their game recently - last night the fries were well seasoned and the burger was even more flavorful. The food comes out promptly. The non alcoholic beverages are self serve in the fridge. Great spot for dine in or take out.
First time here even though I've walked by Chicago fire grill multiple times. Seems like the owner is usually there and is aware his prices are affordable. I got a grilled chicken sando with fries for $10 and that's hard to find these days. Without a doubt this place loves Chicago. It's a unique find in San Diego and I would say that it feels like he gotta be ready for the gruff of the service and hopefully you are there for the hotdog dogs, the burgers and the fries. My chicken sandwich was seasoned well and you could actually see that they use fresh ingredients and they get away with it at a good price so I can see why so many helpers like this place
Wow! Just stopped by for a burger & fries... an excellent burger and the fries were seasoned so good. The owner offers free bottled water when you walk in. Family owned and super good!!!
Always come here when I'm in the area. Such a great spot for a good burger and some beer. Nothing can beat the price!! 11$ combo and +2 for beer is amazing. George(owner) is great to talk to as well!
Highly recommend this place! It definitely hit the notes for Chicago food and the owner, George, is the nicest guy. Truly showed me Midwest hospitality before knowing I was from Chicago or Greek. I got Da Beef and they actually dunk it! It was a real Chicago Italian beef and I couldn't get enough of it. Paired with the giardiniera equals *chefs kiss.* I upgraded to Garlic Fries and they had plenty of fresh garlic and were freshly cut potatoes. Even as leftovers, everything was delicious! The Pita and homemade Tzatziki was also very good! You honestly can't go wrong with anything.
Everything there is amazing! George really loves what he does and he loves. Sharing his creation. Get the breakfast in America! Fries are good also!
Stumbled upon this gem of lunch spot about 1 month ago. I have been back countless times since then. I have tried it all and haven't been disappointed! The gyro, fries, sandwich, burger (you must get the egg) and the salad all amazingly great food. They even have a garlic side sauce that is so good! Oh and you also get a beer with your order!!! Besides the food.... Friendliest owner and big personality! I love supporting small businesses and this place deserves it all.
This place is awesome. Super cheap burger fries and beer combo. The burger itself was pretty damn good - great char and juicy. The fries were crispy and well seasoned. The owner was also extremely nice.
4 days ago
Started coming here in 2018 during my college years and they had a killer deal of $10 for the fattest, 1/2 pound beef burger WITH FRIES and WITH A DRINK. I wasn't 21 yet, but a beer was only $1 extra. I've never been to Chicago, but the owner, George, had a gruff but deeply hospitable Chicagoan uncle feel and was always made us feel taken care of. This spot was my go-to for the next 3 years until graduation. Unfortunately, I've moved back home and have been struggling to find a spot anywhere close to the quality and value that Chicago Fire Grill had. Today was my first time back in years and it was as beautiful as the day I left. George is still doing great. The burger is still a massive meat puck, fries perfectly cut and seasoned. The craziest part is that throughout it COVID and all these crazy inflation, prices literally only went up ~$1 for in the past 8 years! I truly owe George and this restaurant for getting me through college. read more
2 months ago
2 months ago
The price was good, and the service was fine, but those are the only things I liked about this place. Maybe I just came on an off day, but the burger was greasy and flavorless, and I was not a fan of the neon green relish on the Chicago dog. There was also something off about the garlic fries - though I did appreciate the fresh garlic. read more
Yum!! Such a solid spot with huge and filling burgers. I came a little before closing and made it just in time before the kitchen closed. They said it was only outside seating at the time and food would come in a box. The food took awhile but I assume it was due to the time. I was pretty satisfied and appreciated the portion size. Overall I'd def come back! read more
2 months ago
Disappointment. I should've ordered what they're known for, instead, I ordered a lemon chicken salad, because the photos looked really good on Yelp. My chicken was so burnt. It was little tiny pieces all over my salad. It was not enjoyable The dressing was plain mostly olive oil I'm so sad. I'll probably give it a try and try their actual items they are known for. read more
I stopped here for lunch on a Wednesday, because my work colleagues recommended it. The place is very lively, with the FIFA Soccer playing on the TVs. There is outdoor seating up front and inside seating as well. I saw 2 colleagues on the way in. They recommended the burger, which was a popular choice. I went to the front counter to order and the owner was very kind. He took my order and indicated that my drink and fries were included, this is nice! My food was ready after about 7minutes. I did a to go order. The burger was great and the fries were good too. This is impressive for a take out burger in this area. I will return to try the good Mediterranean food options, as that is my passion. Stay tuned on my next visit. read more
One of my all time favorite local spots to have a burger at! There is always a crowd here, which makes it feel very lively. The prices are affordable with their generous meals that come with both a drink and fries! There is a large drink selection to choose from ranging between teas, sodas, and even energy drinks. The owner is also extremely friendly and makes the restaurant feel like a second home. The food always comes out quick and tastes amazing. Big Shoulder - Juicy, seasoned perfectly. The fries are seasoned generously and have a fresh taste to them. read more
A classic whenever we're in the area for their $11 burger, fry, and beer or non alcoholic drink special! They seemed to have up their game recently - last night the fries were well seasoned and the burger was even more flavorful. The food comes out promptly. The non alcoholic beverages are self serve in the fridge. Great spot for dine in or take out. read more
First time here even though I've walked by Chicago fire grill multiple times. Seems like the owner is usually there and is aware his prices are affordable. I got a grilled chicken sando with fries for $10 and that's hard to find these days. Without a doubt this place loves Chicago. It's a unique find in San Diego and I would say that it feels like he gotta be ready for the gruff of the service and hopefully you are there for the hotdog dogs, the burgers and the fries. My chicken sandwich was seasoned well and you could actually see that they use fresh ingredients and they get away with it at a good price so I can see why so many helpers like this place read more
2 months ago
Wow! Just stopped by for a burger & fries... an excellent burger and the fries were seasoned so good. The owner offers free bottled water when you walk in. Family owned and super good!!! read more
4 months ago
Always come here when I'm in the area. Such a great spot for a good burger and some beer. Nothing can beat the price!! 11$ combo and +2 for beer is amazing. George(owner) is great to talk to as well! read more
1 year ago
Highly recommend this place! It definitely hit the notes for Chicago food and the owner, George, is the nicest guy. Truly showed me Midwest hospitality before knowing I was from Chicago or Greek. I got Da Beef and they actually dunk it! It was a real Chicago Italian beef and I couldn't get enough of it. Paired with the giardiniera equals *chefs kiss.* I upgraded to Garlic Fries and they had plenty of fresh garlic and were freshly cut potatoes. Even as leftovers, everything was delicious! The Pita and homemade Tzatziki was also very good! You honestly can't go wrong with anything. read more
4 months ago
Everything there is amazing! George really loves what he does and he loves. Sharing his creation. Get the breakfast in America! Fries are good also! read more
5 months ago
Stumbled upon this gem of lunch spot about 1 month ago. I have been back countless times since then. I have tried it all and haven't been disappointed! The gyro, fries, sandwich, burger (you must get the egg) and the salad all amazingly great food. They even have a garlic side sauce that is so good! Oh and you also get a beer with your order!!! Besides the food.... Friendliest owner and big personality! I love supporting small businesses and this place deserves it all. read more
1 year ago
Chicago Fire Grill is a refreshing, homey break from the upscale options in University City/La Jolla. This is a small walk-up to order restaurant with ample seating inside (better suited for parties with a few people; although there are some seating options outside). Menu items include various hotdogs, sandwiches and burgers focusing on beef & sausage with different toppings as well as gyros, soup/salad and fries. I tried Da Beef & Da Sausage with au jus and peppers as well as Da Sausage with marinara sauce and peppers and truffle garlic fries. These sandwiches are tasty and simple. The meat is definitely seasoned well and little spicy with some kick. The fries tasted good as well but I thought that they could be more crispy. Overall, great place and I will be coming back! read more
Easily one of the best burgers I've had. Genuinely, this is a burger that I would make myself at home which means it has everything I want. Well seasoned, thick, juicy, and medium well with PERFECT caramelized onions (not burnt) and generously seasoned fries. For me though, making a burger of this caliber is so tedious that I only ever do it for special occasions (for others). However, for a simple price of $11, you get ALL of that PLUS a beer. Legitimately, you cannot beat this. The owner is extremely friendly and shows his passion. He loves checking up on his customers to see if they like his food and even gave out water bottles if needed. I sat outside on a cloudy day, and it felt like the sun came out with this burger. Idk what else to say I love this place and will be back. read more
Best deal in town! This place is across from UTC mall, in the CVS shopping center and they have the best deal in town. For $11 you get a gourmet burger. French Froes and a local craft beer. Today I had a Kona big wave. You can even upgrade to garlic fries or truffle fries for a small fee. I challenge anyone to find a better deal in the Holden Triangle area! read more
4 months ago
I was in the area and decided to try this place! So glad I did! Not only was the chicken gyro AMAZING (chicken so tender and juicy) but the drinks and service are top tier! The owner is the sweetest man and the environment is very family oriented! Highly highly recommended and excited to come back to try different items on the menu! read more
Dirt, cheap, Chicago eats - but it's good too. $11 burger, fries and local beer special - can't be beat. Tried the chicken sandwich and it was freshly grilled and flavorful. Came with fries and a free water bottle too. There's a small indoor dining area and a TV. But you come here for the cheap food and not the ambience. I would highly recommend this place when you want. Comfort sandwiches or a burger and beer. I hear their gyros are pretty good too. read more
4 months ago
This is the best burger shop I've ever been to!! George is the owner and I love seeing him every time I walk into this shop. He really brings the life and energy and connects with each of his customers in a way that draws them to come back. On top of that, the deals here are amazing. A burger, beer and fries, ALL FOR $11?? This is by far one of the best restaurants I've experienced in San Diego and I will keep coming back and recommending it to everyone :') read more
Hands down the best burger and best deal in all of San Diego! I go here pretty frequently for the lunch special. $10 for a juicy thick hand formed patty burger with super fresh toppings and grilled onions. A large helping of fresh hand cut shoestring fries and a local craft pint of beer. Your crazy not to give this place a try. They also offer other Chicago favorites like Italian beef, Chicago dog, sausages etc. George the owner is usually working up front and is definitely from Chicago. He brings a lot of great authentic Chicago flavor recipes and a lot of character to the place. read more
A great casual eatery located within a shopping complex with indoor and outdoor patio seating. Order at the counter and grab a table. The staff and service were fantastic. Food & Drinks - Really enjoyed the Maxwell hotdog, made flavorful with it's mustard + sauerkraut combination. Da Sausage had a delicious spice to it and was perfectly grilled. The accompanying shoestring fries were perfect with the cold draft beers. IPAs and pilsner available on tap. Overall a great casual Chicago themed family-friendly restaurant to enjoy a straight forward delicious menu. read more
1 year ago
It's been about four years since I first stumbled upon this absolute gem of a burger joint--and I'm thrilled to say it's still just as amazing as I remember. In a world where restaurant prices have basically doubled, this place has only nudged theirs up a couple bucks. Seriously, it's still one of the best deals in town. The owner wasn't around this time to drop his legendary New York stories and chat politics, but honestly, the vibe didn't miss a beat. Our order taker brought the energy--fun, personable. I found this place for my son four years ago and this would be his go to place with the guys when they needed a big juicy burger, but then my son and his girlfriend moved walking distance from here and enjoy eating once a week. I was excited when they said they wanted me to come with them there when I was visiting. And the food? Still on point. Juicy, flavorful burgers, a killer steak sandwich, and a solid selection of craft beers to round it all out. They haven't lost a step. Pretty sure I gave this place five stars the first time, and it's an easy five stars again. Delicious food, craft beer, unbeatable prices, great people--what more could you want? read more
My wife, some of my in-laws, and I met up for an impromptu family massage at our fave massage parlor. A family who gets massages together stays together. After our massages that resulted in our bodies feeling relaxed, we were hungry and I recommended Chicago Fire Grill (CFG) for dinner since it was close by. This was my first time grubbing here and what I ordered was satisfying, the cost to feed our family of five was affordable, and the young lady behind the counter, who's a vegetarian, provided great customer service and displayed a strong work ethic. My 4-star rating is because they were out of their homemade Italian beef. Chicago Fire Grill is located not too far from the UTC Westfield Mall. It's specifically located on Towne Centre Drive within the Renaissance Towne Center strip mall. The anchor store at this strip mall is CVS Pharmacy with CFG as one of several restaurants along with Everytable, Peet's Coffee, and Which Wich. CFG is next to Nature Forward SoCal Bistro and Star Anise Thai Cuisine. There's a good amount of parking here, but there are several 30 minute parking spaces and the parking spots are really tight. CFG's name should give you a clue of what the decor is and the type of food they serve. It's all about The Windy City and that's evident by the framed pics of Chicago Bulls royalty Michael Jordan, banners of Chicago professional sports teams, and pics of Wrigley Field. There is a good amount of indoor table top seating, small section of counter top stool seating overlooking the kitchen, and there are outdoor umbrella covered picnic tables. There was one big screen television mounted on the wall showing the Chicago Cubs vs the Milwaukee Brewers. The young lady who took our order was friendly, answered our questions patiently, and showed hustle handling the many customers ordering and dining in the restaurant. Chicago Fire Grill has been on my Yelp Want To Go list for a long time, so I was blessed our family's massage excursion afforded us an opportunity to eat here. CFG's menu isn't too extensive serving beef & sausage, burgers, sides & drinks, hot dogs, soup & salad, gyros, sandwiches, and beer. I'm not a beer drinker, but they've got beer specials that are practically a steal. Speaking about affordable, you definitely get value for your money for their food that isn't going to break the bank. As you can guess what type of decor CFG would have, its name gives you an idea that it specializes in Chicago fare. When my wife and I were contemplating where we would be eating for dinner and CFG was an option, I already had in mind before walking into the restaurant what I was going to order. I was really looking forward to eating their Da Beef & Da Sausage, but it wasn't meant to be. When we were placing our order, the diligent young lady informed us that they were out of their Italian beef. What a bummer! Instead of chowing down on why I chose CFG for, I settled for Da Sausage, which is Italian sausage served on an authentic Gonnella roll, topped with grilled onions, hot giardiniera peppers or sweet peppers or both and their housemade marinara sauce. Da Sausage can be made a combo, which comes with hand cut fries and a canned soda. Da Sausage was hearty, grilled, and I recommend you ask for both spicy and sweet peppers. It really wasn't spicy for me, but I'm used to spicy food, so if you're not, go with the sweet peppers. The savory sausage, grilled onions and peppers combined with the toasted roll made for a satisfying meal. Their hand cut fries were seasoned, cooked perfectly, and ate really well especially when you dip them into their aioli. My family and I had a fun day getting much needed massages. It would have been an ideal day if I got to experience Chicago Fire Grill's Italian beef, but I enjoyed my first time experience here and will need to visit again to eat a much clamored for Chicago staple. read more
Pros -Delicious burgers: nice chew to it, nicely salted, good flavor. -Though fries were not crisp, they were well seasoned (my kiddos did not like the seasoning) and tasted delicious with the burger. -burger order ($11-$12) comes with complimentary fries and bottled water -Easy to find parking Cons -Dirty tables Verdict: quality burgers. would absolutely come back. read more
2 years ago
First time here and the burger combo is so cheap? $10 for a burger, fries and a drink. You can upgrade to flavored fries for additional cost. The burger is huge and pretty juicy. Everything tastes so fresh! The Chicago dog was so good. It had pickles, relish, juicy pepper, mustard, tomato and onion and comes with fries. We sat outside on the tables and there are ketchup bottles for your food. Bottled water is refrigerated and complimentary. It's very busy here, and I can see why! read more
7 months ago
First time coming here. I always go to other places but decided to come here for lunch. I got the burger special and its hand made beef patties, just like going to a family bbq! The owner has top tier customer service and brings the order out himself. There is a line and now i know why!! read more
3 months ago
Came here for dinner. We ordered at the countered and they brought the food at our table. I had the chicago dog and my mom had the packer brat. The chicago dog was full of condiments and it was very good. My order came with fries and i upgraded it to truffle fries. Our order also came with free bottled water. My mom also enjoyed her packer brat. read more
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Always delightful easy parking friendly service I'm happy to be here. Fantastic food, incredible price point. What's not 2 love? Free Root Beer, fries, handcrafted burger, fat and juicy (please see photos), grilled onions, also free, just pay for the toasted bun, $10.87 all in. read more
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More info about Chicago Fire Grill
8935 Towne Centre Dr
Ste 109
San Diego, CA 92122
University City
Directions
(858) 622-0224
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https://chicagofiregrill.com
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Ask the Community - Chicago Fire Grill
Is the food halal?
The owner says that the food is halal. I can put vouch for the ground beef and am not sure whether the food is strict halal (e.g. different grill if any non-halal food is in fact cooked there)
Is this the same place from back in the day called "Chicago on a Bun?
Sadly no. I miss that place!
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
94 reviews that are not currently recommended
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