Empire

3.3 (940 reviews)

ModerateBurgers, Music Venues, Bars

Open • 11:00 am - 1:00 AM (Next day)

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Empire - GOAT burger - A burger with bacon, a fried egg, and various toppings is presented on a metal tray. A hand is placing a bun on top of the burger. The tray also includes a side salad with mixed greens, strawberries, and diced fruit, along with small containers of dressing. The background shows a wooden table with some dishes and glasses, indicating a casual dining setting. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - One of my favorite oddities (call it an architectural Easter Egg) is this spiral staircase to nowhere, just above the hostess stand - A spiral staircase with gold-colored metal railings and dark steps is situated indoors, adjacent to a wooden wall made of horizontal planks. The staircase has a central support pole and curved handrails, with lighting highlighting its structure. The ceiling above features exposed pipes and ductwork, indicating an industrial-style interior. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - Poutine fries - A serving of poutine fries is presented in a small cast iron skillet on a rustic wooden table. The dish includes crispy French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, with a dollop of white cheese curds on top. The background shows a blurred view of a person and some plates, indicating a casual dining setting. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

+692

Empire - Tator tots - A round metal dish with handles contains four fried appetizers, possibly croquettes or arancini, topped with a white creamy sauce and garnished with chopped green onions. The dish is placed on a rustic wooden table, with a blurred background showing a plate with a fried egg, glasses of water, and a closed menu or tablet. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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EMPIRE ATMOSPHERE

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Casual

Trendy

Live music

Moderate noise

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Food Menu - Menu from Empire restaurant in Naperville, IL, displaying sections for bites, sandwiches, greens, burgers, and sweets. Items include Empire Tots, Gronk Burger, The Empire burger, and fried donuts. The menu emphasizes ingredients and options such as certified Angus beef, gluten-free buns, and various toppings. The design is simple with clear categories and item descriptions, including prices and dietary notes.

Randy P.

Delicious burger option in downtown Naperville. We ordered a variety of bugers and it was all delicious. I recommend the doughnuts as it was nice and hot with the delicious cream dip. The ambience on the weekends is fantastic. The restaurant was very busy with our wait time about 20 minutes. Thanks

Matt W.

Always fun! Beautiful night to be up top (Sep 16) and easy to get a seat at the bar. Great beer selection, great cocktails, and great service! I don't need anything else to have an awesome night (and YES, get the donuts- even if to "go" - they are spectacular).

The image shows a fried food item, possibly a fish or chicken fillet, served in a small metal dish. It is topped with a creamy sauce, drizzled with a darker sauce, and garnished with chopped green onions. The dish is placed on a wooden table, with a glass of water and another drink in the background. The setting appears to be a casual dining environment.

Audra M.

We recently spent the day in Naperville and decided to hit a few places for small bites in order to try a few intriguing menu items. One place we wanted to try was Empire, for their "burger cigars." They are an angus and pimento cheese spring roll, which are very tasty. Also, our server treated us well. The interior is pretty cool, and the outdoor seating (I could see from outside) seemed neat. My two-star review comes from other issues with my time at Empire. I went to the restroom before eating, and in the accessible stall, huge drops of water were coming from a partially taped up pipe above the commode. It was extremely gross. They really should have done a better tape job and checked on it to see if the dripping was happening. When our burger cigars were served, the sauce, which I had requested to be on the side, was not on the side. The bottom of the three stacked "cigars" did not have much sauce on it, so I opted to just scrape off the minimal sauce instead of bringing it up to my server. The water served at the table was warm, not even a tad chilled, and the air-conditioning was either not on or not set at a comfortable temp. The textured water bottles served at the table are shaped much like wine bottles, so I wonder how well they are sanitized due to something else I witnessed. I watched a table being cleared. The table setup in the restaurant is they have appetizer plates already set up in the middle with napkin-wrapped silverware on top of them before patrons are seated. The person clearing the table left the unused small appetizer plates left there from the last guests. When the table was sprayed and wiped down, the guy held the plates in one hand and wiped the table down with a rag with the other hand. I feel it is very unacceptable to leave unused dishes on the table when guests have already sat there with said plates at the table. They could have been touched or coughed or sneezed on. This was so gross, which made me really get the ick from the fact I'd drank from their "wine bottle sized" water vessel. I doubt they care much about sanitation, given how they "reuse" the appetizer plates.

The Sophia Loren ($16), a burger with fresh mozzarella, pesto, tomato, basil and balsamic glaze

Eric S.

NAPERVILLE STATE OF MIND Serving extraordinary burgers with an all-seasons top floor, Empire stands tall. Downtown Naperville is packed with all manner of places worthy of your Instagram feed, but I find myself drawn to Empire for a number of reasons. In addition to top notch food, the vibes at this restaurant along the river between Main St and Washington keep me coming back. Their cocktails always satisfy, especially their mules & mojitos. Try the root beer old fashioned! Draft list is big, they always have plenty of nice options on tap including local area brews. For apps, we love the poutine ($10): fries with cheese curds, gravy, bacon, and sour cream. Their burgers are 1/2 lb and come with a wide variety of toppings. The signature Empire burger ($16) has a 50/50 bacon patty, sunny side egg, cream cheese, spring mix, and maple bourbon syrup on a pretzel bun. It sounds chaotic, but don't knock it until you've tried it.....it's amazing! Last visit I ordered the Sophia Loren ($16), a burger with fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, artichoke pesto, and balsamic glaze. It was tasty, though not the best choice here. I loved the patty melt ($16) with grilled onions, jalapenos and chipotle mayo on Texas toast. Their house chips are dusted with a unique sugar-salt seasoning. The Key West ($15) might be the best turkey burger in existence with chili garlic aioli, a pineapple ring and maple glaze. The Yardbird ($15) is another solid pick, a fried chicken sandwich with bourbon-tomato jam (!) and dill salsa. Crispy fish tacos (3 for $16) come with cilantro, avocado, radish slaw and jalapeno crema; those too, are aces. Bread = 5 Circuses = 4.5 Empire's fried doughnuts ($11) are legendary. These irresistible bites are rolled in cinnamon sugar and served warm along with crème anglaise dipping sauce. I'd say they're as good as, if not better than, the doughnuts at Next Whiskey Bar in Plainfield. In case all of that wasn't reason enough, Empire has the only retractable roof deck in the Chicago suburbs. I prefer the top floor because the ambiance is much more open and airy than the darker (and trendier) first floor. Also, they've got trivia on Monday nights. Last time my wife and I won 1st place and got $30 off our bill! * TL;DR * Across several visits I've come to expect delicious food and great vibes at this downtown Naperville restaurant. Service has rarely faltered and being able to enjoy the rooftop bar year-round is incredible (I've sat up there in the dead of winter, and although it's not shorts-and-T-shirt warm, the heaters go a long way towards comfort). Doughnuts are probably the best thing here, a must-order. Whether for a quick drink or long meal, Empire is very much worth your time. P.S. look for the quirky spiraling 'staircase to nowhere' inside! Call it an oddity or architectural easter egg, but every time I'm here I take a moment to appreciate its delightful weirdness.

Ellen - A meal on a metal tray includes a burger with a pretzel bun, lettuce, cheese, and a beef patty, with a small container of ketchup. French fries are served in a bowl next to the burger, with ketchup in a small cup. A glass of beer and a glass of water are also visible on the table, which is made of dark wood, indicating an outdoor dining environment.

Ayad F.

We were walking around Naperville and the weather was nice so we decided to visit this restaurant with a nice rooftop view. Tasty food. Great selections of drinks. Amazing service. Well maintained. I Strongly recommend visiting Naperville and trying out Empire.

Soudary K.

This bar and restaurant is located in downtown Naperville. I'm here on a business trip and this is where our group had dinner. If I live here, this would be the type of place that I would frequent. Our private dining area was upstairs with outside the patio over overlooking the river. They also had a full bar upstairs. We were treated to appetizers and drinks. Downstairs they had live music starting at 9pm. Staffs was attentive and made sure our drink orders were filled and appetizers kept coming out. Some of our group left after dinner but a few of us stayed till the very end. It was a fun time for all.

Luigina L.

A few gluten free options. Only fries and the caprese salad for vegetarian gluten free. But it was yummy. Had an old fashioned, it was ok. Was really loud so me and my friends had to yell to hear each other.

Bar area - nice floor spacing. - The photo depicts the interior of a bar or restaurant with a central curved counter, surrounded by bar stools. Hanging pendant lights illuminate the space, and two large TV screens display a scene with the label 'Ramy Brook.' Patrons are seated at tables and the bar, with some standing and walking in the background. The decor includes wooden paneling and shelves with bottles, creating a cozy yet lively atmosphere.

Brian P.

My buddy and I met up to watch sports, have drinks, and share some burgers. Overall, we had a great experience and I absolutely plan to revisit this organization when I'm in the area. The burgers were FANTASTICALLY juicy. The fries were a bit plainer than I thought they would be, but not a turnoff. The prices are actually pretty reasonable as well considering it's in downtown Naperville. The only two annoyances we had is one of the bartenders kept putting our whiskey in liqueur glasses. We sent at least 2 drinks back. And the other thing was they don't have the FULL sport packages for the tvs in the sports bar (we were advised only local sports). No nba package. No nfl season pass. So they were unable to tune into the Celtics game - which was the very reason we went there. Sports bars should have sports tv packages.

Jodi K.

Had an amazing lunch at Empire. We sat in the inclosed atrium which was super cool. I live about 45 min from Naperville but I had some shopping to do and it was recommended by some friends. We had the Poutine and Burger Cigars for an app. We should have stopped there because they were sooo filling. Then my niece and I split the Chicken Sandwich special (Romaine Empire) which was perfect!!!! Our waiter was awesome and friendly! The manager stopped by to ask how everything was. Highly recommend!

Ishani B.

Spacious restaurant to go with a group to celebrate a special event. They have live performances and outdoor seating as well. The beer is sourced from across IL and keeps changing keeping the place interesting and the burgers never disappoint. To add to this if you are celebrating a special event then they give a bag of hot donuts!! Staff are knowledgeable and have good suggestions

October BOM "The Fall Guy" - A detailed close-up of a gourmet burger featuring a beef patty topped with melted cheese, diced vegetables including corn, tomatoes, and cucumbers, and a shiny, toasted bun. The burger is presented on a metal tray, with a blurred background suggesting an outdoor dining setting.

Stephen B.

Had a business lunch on Friday with one other person. I wish I remembered our server's name. She was the bartender covering the floor and was fantastic. She knew the menu inside and out and offered great recommendations. I went with the October BOM, "The Fall Guy," cooked to perfection and paired it with a Big Muddy Pumpkin Smasher. My colleague had the crispy fish tacos, which he orders every time. Great atmosphere for any occasion.

Two men wearing black Empire-branded shirts stand close together in a bar or restaurant with a dark, industrial-style interior. Behind them, a bar counter with bottles and two TV screens showing sports are visible. The table in front has glasses, a water pitcher, and a black bag. The setting appears lively with dim lighting and a festive atmosphere.

Adrian, Julia and Ryguy are the best bartenders and managers here at Empire. They satisfied our Friday night and GNO to start off 2026! Looking for fun? they'll make sure you have a good time!

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Gene A.

2 years ago

I'd give 4.5 stars! Very good!! It was a nice day out, so we sat on the roof. Both the food and cocktails were excellent. We ordered the summer frozen Fraloma and Hurricane Harbor. Excellent!! They had quality alcohol in them. We had the appetizer Empire Tots. There were 4 large great flavored tots. We finally had 2 great quality burgers, the GOAT and the Cartel. Both excellent. Our waitress was very nice and attentive. I highly recommend for outdoor day drinking and good food. Can't wait for them to open in Lombard. read more

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Oscar R.

Elite 26

268

630

4 years ago

This place is located in downtown Naperville so parking is not fun. Once your able to find parking it's a quick walk to restaurant. We had a party for 6 on a Sunday evening. No reservations but were seated with in 10 minutes. We chose to be seated outdoors so they seated us in the roof top dinning area which had a decent view. This place has a bar on the first floor if your looking for a more private dining experience. They have a small one page food menu but 4 pages of liquor so I would consider this place a fancy bar instead of a burger joint. We tried the Goat burger, and the Pork Belly Cobb salad. I have to say the food was delicious. We also had a few drinks. $113.00 for a party of 6 with 3 alcoholic drinks is not bad. I noticed they only have 2 deserts. Not sure if that's a good thing or bad. Over all our experience was great. Noise level was medium. Place was clean just parking sucks but on a positive note at least parking is free. Will definitely come back to try there other burgers. read more

Empire - Pork Belly Cobb Salad - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - Goat Burger with a side of crispy fries and a cold Cona Big Wave Beer! - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Janet P.

Elite 26

151

4 years ago

Mmmmm! I just had some appetizers and a salad but they were great. Burger Cigars and the Caprese Salad-yum! Delicious drinks-Hey Mambo! Had me dreaming of the islands. But, the best part was the atmosphere! Can you say ROOFTOP? Just a sublime evening out. read more

Empire - Rooftop! - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Meredith M.

105

1 year ago

Location and atmosphere are great. I really enjoyed the fish tacos. One friend got the tater tots app and he didn't enjoy. But burgers were a hit, fries too. And then the donuts at the end were worth the calories!! A must share. Service was fine. We waited a minute to get waters but overall good experience, I would definitely go back! read more

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Donna H.

2 years ago

Love the house chips and atmosphere. Cocktails were on point. Pleasant surprise and I can't wait to return.

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Tamara Z.

174

2 years ago

Burger/Sandwich/Salad restaurant. The food is ok. The outdoor seating is fun on two levels. The waitstaff was attentive. I would go back for the atmosphere before the food. read more

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Debra W.

2 years ago

7/13/24 Our fantastic server JASMINE who waited on us was AMAZING. She has a wonderful personality and is so polished in her performance. To me she is one of the BEST employees of this FANTASTIC establishment! This will be our second time here with in a 48 hour period. The food was beyond my expectations and was so delicious. Our burgers, fries and chicken sandwiches were so yummy. I will give JASMINE 5 stars for sure. The same goes with the food too! The serves here are FANTASTIC! Believe me, you will not be disappointed coming here. ENJOY! It is not like other burger places. top notch professional. read more

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Rachael Z.

Elite 24

309

489

3 years ago

For years, I've had friends rave about Empire. Finally, I find the time to schedule a lunch here...and I'm counting calories. I figured this would be a failure of a lunch, but it was still delicious! The space is really trendy; I imagine this would be a great location for special events and private rentals. Even more so if the outdoors is included in the summer! Service was also quick and friendly. I ordered the GOAT with no bun and a Beyond Burger. I am so NOT that person, but I was putting in a serious effort to be smart and thus, my order was made. Even if I hadn't been calorie counting, I'm not sure what I would have ordered. Pretzel buns aren't for me - I want to taste the meat and the toppings, not a dense bun! But, I digress. My burger and toppings were perfectly portioned, seasoned and cooked. The fries were delicious and I could have drank the side of ranch that I ordered. I'd love to come back and order more off the menu! read more

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Adan S.

10 months ago

waited 30 min and no one came up to ask me what I wanted there racist and they looked and me and kept walking away never coming back again..... and the food looks like ass read more

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Barbara H.

1 year ago

Extremely rude staff on New Year's eve. Went there with a friend to have a couple of drinks. We were told there was no cover charge if we went upstairs, so that's where we went and sat at the bar. We had just ordered our drinks when a guy with such an unfriendly attitude approaches us and says if we want to stay, we need to pay $20 per person (a cover charge for 9 pm New Year's event) or we had 5 minutes to leave. Bouncers standing by ready to kick people out if they don't pay. All of a sudden everyone is being rushed to leave. $20 is nothing to me but this cold threatening attitude is unacceptable. read more

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Katie N.

Elite 26 All-Star

1560

1883

1412

5 years ago

Decided to stop in for lunch. Our server Dean was very attentive and the manager checked on us as well. Our group tried a variety of burgers. I had the GOAT which had a nice amount of goat cheese. I opted for the chips and they had a nice seasoning. My other friend had the turkey burger with pineapple which she enjoyed. Our other friend had the brisket sandwich. She opted for the side salad which looked great. Not just a basic salad. I would recommend for a burger! read more

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Eric W.

139

3 years ago

Great place to go for happy hour. The burger cigars are delicious. A perfect small appetizer with a cocktail. Definitely recommend. read more

Empire - The burger cigars are a must have. Great small appetizer when you're having drinks? Great atmosphere. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Paige N.

Elite 25

185

130

232

3 years ago

My friends and I just stopped in for drinks so I cannot comment on the food . But we sat upstairs on the rooftop and it was a great atmosphere! So nice to be outside and with a great view of the river. Drinks were typical bar drinks, the atmosphere really makes this place a fun spot to hang ! read more

Empire - Margarita, Jack and Coke , and table water - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - Rooftop seating - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - Stairwell - decor - The image shows a metallic spiral staircase with LED strip lighting along the steps, located inside a room with wooden wall paneling. The ceiling features exposed pipes and ducts, and there is wall art made of metal gears. The staircase is central in the image, with a black railing visible in the foreground, and a small seating area with two people at the bottom of the stairs. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Alison C.

Elite 26

410

203

300

3 years ago

I love the upstairs of empire, especially in the summer when they can open the roof! Service here is okay--nothing special but no complaints and have always gotten what I ordered correctly. Along with the food--nothing great but nothing to write home about. They have a good selection of beers (vanilla bitch slap is my personal fav and this is the only place near by I've seen it at) and convenient location. I'll go back! read more

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Troy G.

176

1 year ago

Not bad. Trying really hard. Some seafood type choices even as sandwiches would be nice.

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Red P.

1 year ago

This was my first time here and it was my birthday. I mentioned to my daughter that I wanted a great hamburger for my birthday dinner. She brought me to Naperville and brought me to this burger place. Empire had only showed 3.5 starts online. I must tell you that this was the BEST Burger ever. Our server Brice was the best, as well. I highly recommend this place. I give it 5 stars for food, service and ambiance. read more

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Rachel B.

5 years ago

Stopped by Empire for cocktails on the patio to cool off the other night. Hostess was friendly and let us go up to the roof to sit. The secret garden and peach buck were super refreshing cocktails on a hot evening. The only downer to the experience was that it took 20 minutes to get our tab and cash out. Overall, it was a great cocktail experience and Empire still remains on my list of places to visit in downtown Naperville. read more

Empire - Peach buck cocktail - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - Secret garden cocktail - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Cool fire P.

2 years ago

Chloe is a very good waitress hope you get her if you go if you get her she is nice they forgot to put bacon on my burger. I told her this and she simply took it back and put bacon on it. Customer service is very nice and so is the food place looks pretty cool and the seats are comfy. read more

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Cindy S.

Elite 21

438

5 years ago

Came here with some coworkers last Friday. They don't take reservations, but we walked in and found a table right away! They have indoor seating downstairs and outdoor seating upstairs on the rooftop. We sat on the rooftop and we could see the riverwalk. Nice view. I ordered the Jane burger with cheddar, bacon, and caramelized onions for my add-ins. Other than the soggy/wilted lettuce, the burger was cooked well and the add-ins with the burger tasted great. Also had the strawberry mo-tito! Loved it!! Overall, good place for burgers and drinks. read more

Empire - jane burger with cheddar, bacon, and caramelized onion add-ins - A cheeseburger with a pretzel bun, melted cheese, lettuce, bacon, and other toppings is presented on a white rectangular plate. Accompanying the burger are a metal bowl of French fries and a small container of ketchup. The meal is set on a dark wooden outdoor table with other plates, glasses, and utensils visible in the background. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - strawberry mo-tito - A pink cocktail with ice cubes is presented in a clear glass, garnished with a lime wedge and a mint leaf. The drink is on a dark wooden outdoor table, with a glass of water, menus, and a pen visible in the background. The setting appears to be an outdoor dining area or patio. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Mandy P.

Elite 26

1056

834

317

5 years ago

Adding some additional food reviews: Burger cigars - empire does apps right. This was my favorite of the night. Not cigar size, more like a fat egg roll. Very decadent and heavy on the pimento cheese. With the egg roll wrapper it was like an American crab Rangoon. Shredder - love the heavy chewy greens in this - kale, broccoli, Brussels. Strawberries added a nice sweetness with the poppyseed dressing and a nice crunch and tartness from the walnuts and goat cheese Sophia Loren - got this with the black bean burger and it was very flavorful from the patty. This totally masked the pesto though and I couldn't really discern any specific flavors. Sizable piece of moz. Big Dipper - a pretty standard burger with cheese and veg. read more

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Steve J.

2 years ago

Went for lunch with 3 kids. Sat up top in the sun. Beautiful views and very friendly staff. Prices were reasonable for the type of place this is. They do offer Beyond meat which is cool. Tasted great! Interior was very industrial and set a great vibe. Kids thought it was cool, adults did too. Would recommend and return. read more

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Michael L.

5 years ago

Good start with a Tito's highball, Sox on the tv, and such a beautiful staff. So just found out the have a burger that's 1/2 beef and 1/2 bacon.... BACON!!!! yes I said BACON.... so good In the immortal words of the former California governor..... i'll be bac!! read more

Empire - The Empire burger - A plate features a burger with a fried chicken patty, topped with a fried egg and chopped green onions, served with a side of French fries. A glass of iced beverage with lime slices is placed nearby. The setting appears to be a restaurant or bar with a menu and bar area in the background. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Britt J.

3 years ago

This place was worth stopping in when you're craving a burger. We also ordered the southwest salad and it was who would've thought! read more

Empire - Southwestern salad - A bowl contains a salad with fresh green lettuce, grilled chicken slices, crispy tortilla strips, black beans, corn, and a creamy dressing. The ingredients are arranged with the chicken and tortilla strips on top, and the dressing is visible on the lettuce and other vegetables. The bowl is placed on a wooden surface, and part of a person's arm and clothing are visible in the background. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Ed C.

2 years ago

Great little spot on the river! We got a table on the deck right over the river. Service was very fast. Food came out quick and was very tasty. Got the brisket and chicken sandwich. Brisket was great, chicken could have used some seasoning. Overall very satisfied. We will be back! read more

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Kimberly G.

2 years ago

Went to this restaurant after an appointment and was pleasantly surprised. Service was excellent friendly and helpful. Clean and charming atmosphere. The selection was great and the food was outstanding. It will be a destination for us next time we are in Naperville. read more

Empire - Salad burgers - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - Happy husband - A man with gray hair and glasses is sitting at a wooden table in a restaurant with a rustic interior, featuring wood-paneled walls and large windows. He has a burger with pink filling, fries, and drinks on the table. The setting includes leather seating and ambient lighting. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Roderick R.

3 years ago

I've been twice already. I love the place. Still haven't enjoyed the rooftop yet due to weather. The burgers are pretty good. The truffle fries are everything. Service was not bad. They a pretty quick, but I usually go late night on weekdays. read more

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Olivia P.

2 years ago

We have been here a few times. We have no had really good service and the food has been decent. We have enjoyed the burgers. What we really love is the extensive beer, wine, and whiskey list. If you want to try local, craft beers, Empire has several on tap. read more

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Vita P.

Elite 26

210

359

5 years ago

Stopped into Empire with a party of 6 on a surprisingly pretty busy Saturday evening. They are first come first serve so we figured we would go around 5:30 to heat the crowd. We arrived only to find a busy crowd! Hostess was nice and seated us right away downstairs. Tables are so spaced out properly requiring masks when you walk around. Waitress was attentive and nice, wish I remembered her name. When asked on favorite dishes and drinks, she didn't hesitate. She pointed me to a local lager which paired nicely with my burger. Table ordered the following burgers: empire, Jane, G.O.A.T and Key west. Another friend ordered the burger cigars as an entree and really enjoyed it. Food was ordered and arrived quickly, probably about 15 minutes later. Everyone enjoyed their burger, I recommend the GOAT burger if you're a fan of goat cheese which was generously smeared on my bun and paired nicely with a sweet sauce and apple smoked bacon. Fries were piping hot (temp) which are always a plus! I ended the dinner with a strawberry mo-Tito drink which is semi sweet but the ginger beer cuts the sweetness nicely. We had a 2 hour maximum table reservation and they stick to it, but we ordered, ate dinner and finished with an hour to spare so plenty of time. I wish they had a little bigger menu options or more appetizers other than chips and fries, things that come with my burger already, but the burgers were excellent. read more

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Sam H.

Elite 26

991

274

5 years ago

Good idea for food buy lacks on execution. The dirty chips and poutine fries were not hot, thus it got a little soggy. The burger I got was okay, buy lacked salt. I realize covid is making it hard to restaurants; however, food should still be hot and fresh. read more

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Lisette J.

162

185

2 years ago

Delicious burger(veggies burgers are my favorite), great ambience, attentive and friendly staff.

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Charlotte W.

4 years ago

Great, friendly service - fantastic food - and food is pretty good too. I only got a salad and poutine fries - but both were excellent. My server wasn't super knowledgeable about the wines offered - but she looked young - and asked the bartender my questions. I'd say that's a plus on her side - you can't know everything but being confident enough to find he right answer - that's worth it's weight in gold. Also, it's a beer type establishment - so there's that too. read more

Empire - The image shows the exterior of Empire, a rooftop bar and restaurant, with outdoor seating on an upper level illuminated by string lights. The building has a modern gray facade with the name 'Empire' displayed prominently. A street lamp and a brick and concrete sidewalk are in the foreground, with a railing separating the sidewalk from the street. The sky is partly cloudy, indicating early evening or dusk. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - The image shows a large bowl of salad containing fried chicken pieces, leafy greens, shredded cheese, and other vegetables on a dark wooden table. Next to the salad is a small skillet of French fries topped with a dollop of sour cream and fried chicken pieces. A glass of white wine and a glass of water are also visible on the table, which appears to be outdoors or in a patio setting. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Kangni X.

Elite 26

399

215

658

7 years ago

The food was mediocre in terms of flavor, price and portions. I ordered pork belly Cobb salad and my friends both ordered the vegetarian burger with the side of fries. I was expecting roasted thick, succulent cubes of pork belly but it turned out to be basically thicker bacon - dry, salty. There was quite a bit of blue cheese but it wasn't at all pungent, not sure what that says about the cheese. The cheddar looked like packaged shredded cheese. The tomatoes were lil cubes like in salsa. The burgers were also pretty small and the veggie patty looked like anything you could get at a grocery store rather than house made. The 'pork belly' and fried egg also arrived cold. It seemed like the dishes were just 'assembled' rather than freshly made. The whole point of a fried egg is that it's faster than boiling and can be made to order for the salad. We also ordered a fried cheesecake which was also small (think a single ice cream sandwich) that had a sauce that was more a black and had a burn sugar taste. We asked the server what fruits w're in it because you can feel the texture of blueberries and strawberries but the burnt sugar taste overwhelms the fruit. Would have been better with simple fresh jam. The service was good and the glass enclosed rooftop was a nice touch - a nice touch of vitamin d in the middle of winter. It was also much warmer in the upstairs glass portion than the first floor, sort of like a green house. The server checked in a lot but was very polite about it. I was able to substitute the romaine in my salad for arugula without question at no extra charge. Food 3/5 - generically assembled feeling Atmosphere 5/5 read more

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Annette B.

Elite 26

596

2124

5162

8 years ago

While Empire makes a darn good burger, my recent visit there was disappointing for several reasons. I dropped in on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend to enjoy a patio/rooftop somewhere in the downtown Naperville area. I hadn't done Empire's outdoor area before, so I decided to give it a try. Understandably, there was a bit of a wait, but they team up with Yelp to show you where you are on the waiting list. However, once we got to the table, I was disappointed to see that it was pretty dirty with someone's crumbs and ketchup on the table and on the chairs. I should have turned around right there, to be honest. Service was also abysmal--my boyfriend and I didn't get water until well after our food came, and even then, there was gunk floating around in my glass. Our waitress never came back until she gave us the bill, so that was never dealt with. The drinks were just OK in my opinion--nothing too exciting. We had the cheeseburger cigars, which I thought were gross and greasy. I'll definitely stick with a plain old burger when I'm there next time. Oddly, our utensils were also noticeably bent, which was weird and didn't help the experience. Honestly, the fastest thing to come to the table was the bill, and boy were we glad to get out of there. read more

Empire - Bent forks and slow service! - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Sheri W.

2 years ago

Food was very good . Good tap list . Had the empire tots and the Gronk burger. Service was great read more

Empire - A menu page from Empire restaurant located at 48 W. Chicago Avenue, Naperville, Illinois, displaying food options such as Empire Tots, Dirty Chips, Poutine Fries, and Burger Cigars. The menu includes descriptions of ingredients and prices for each item, with a section for greens and other dishes. The page is printed on white paper with black text, and part of the menu is visible, focusing on the bites section. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - Pipeworks- Cherry Chariot - A clear glass filled with a red beverage, likely wine or a cocktail, is positioned on a crumpled napkin on a light-colored table. The drink appears chilled, with condensation on the glass. The background is blurred, showing an indoor environment with natural light coming through windows and some indistinct objects or people, indicating a restaurant or bar setting. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - Empire Tots - A fried egg with a runny yolk and some greens on top is placed in a small metal pan. The egg covers a meatball or similar item at the bottom of the pan. The dish is on a white table with a fork, knife, and a menu in the background. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - The Gronk Burger - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

Empire - The image shows a breakfast dish on a white square plate, consisting of a fried egg topped with chopped green onions, and a sausage roll with icing. The plate is placed on a table with utensils, a menu, and a clipboard visible in the background, indicating a restaurant setting. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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Angelique H.

Elite 24

160

168

6 years ago

First time visiting this location with my mom and, personally I wouldn't come back again. For whatever reason I thought this place was more classy as far as ambiance, scenery (etc). But, it's more laid back. The wait was only 20 minutes, but when we were seated the place was fairly empty on the inside. Food wise, it just wasn't for me personally. I tried the Empire Tots which had a weird taste and substance, and wasn't what I expected either. We also tried the BBQ brisket which was actually really good and fresh, that came with a side of kettle chips which they could've kept. Their menu is pretty limited food wise, but drinks they have more than one section. The fries were pretty good, fresh and a nice portion. Service wise - we we're greeted nicely, but our waitress wasn't as attentive as we would've liked. She had other tables to wait on, so that didn't bother me as much. read more

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Noemi M.

2 years ago

Went with friends. The food and atmosphere were great! The cider was so good. It was a Monday, so we tried it with no liquor. They could stand to give you a few more fries our waiter was the best. Can't wait to have time to go again! read more

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Alex H.

2 years ago

Been here multiple times since it's opened. Amazing location in downtown Naperville that overlooks the river. Parking is relatively easy with all the parking garages near by. Their food is great and consistent throughout the years. Price is slightly on the higher end as you'd expect from a restaurant in downtown Naperville. Overall a great dine. My go to spot for all occasions! read more

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Adrianne B.

3 years ago

Went for restaurant week and everything was fantastic! The meal came with burger cigars, a burger, and the donuts. I also ordered the strawberry mo-tito and my friend got the hot pear cider, both were very good! read more

Empire - Strawberry mo-tito and hot pear cider - A person is holding a pink cocktail with ice, garnished with a lime wedge and mint, on a wooden table at a restaurant. The table also has a glass of water, a menu, and a mug of tea. In the background, other diners and tables are visible, with some people using their phones. - Burgers Near Me - Naperville, Illinois

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A. Brooke S.

Elite 23

220

550

6 years ago

A friend and I were in Naperville for a YEE event. Since we were all dolled up, we decided to make a night of it and head to Empire for some food! I'm not big on hamburgers, but they had a chicken sandwich that sounded very tasty, which is what I ended up ordering. The chicken sandwich was delicious-- so were the fries! They were served simply, making the meal really standout when plated. The menu is a bit light, but if there's something for everyone, I think! It was too cold to sit on the rooftop, so we chose to sit on the first floor. Our table was a bit of a let down because it wobbled a lot! I was *this* close to trying to jury rig something with napkins to stop it from wobbling when we moved our plates or cut our burgers. It looked and felt more like a bar to me than I expected, especially when open mic started. It got really loud really fast. Not that I have anything against open mic nights, in general, I just don't like being surprised by them. They make it hard to have a conversation while dining without shouting at one another. Overall, I enjoyed the food and wouldn't mind going back in warmer months for lunch to check out these amazing views other reviewers have commented on! So, all in all, not too bad! read more

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Phil M.

3 years ago

Food was pretty good. Service was very good. However a Mojito and a margarita don't come in a whiskey glass. If you're going to charge $10 or 12 they better be in a full size glass. If I return it won't be for a cocktail. read more

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Page 3 of 24

48 W Chicago Ave
Naperville, IL 60540
Directions
(630) 355-9000
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.empireburgerbar.com

Hours

What time does Empire open?

Empire opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Empire close?

Empire closes at 1:00 AM (Next day) on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Empire closes at 2:00 AM (Next day) on Friday and Saturday.Empire closes at 10:00 PM on Sunday.

Mon-Thu 11:00 AM - 1:00 AM (Next day)Fri-Sat 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM (Next day)Sun 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Empire take credit cards?

Yes, Empire takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Empire have catering options?

No, Empire does not have catering options.

Does Empire have a drive thru?

Yes, Empire has a drive thru.

Does Empire have a happy hour?

Yes, Empire has a happy hour.

Does Empire serve alcohol?

Yes, Empire serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Empire allow dogs?

Yes, Empire allows dogs.

Does Empire have TVs?

Yes, Empire has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Empire have bike parking?

Yes, Empire has bike parking.

Does Empire have outdoor seating?

Yes, Empire has outdoor seating options.

Does Empire have parking?

Yes, Empire has parking options. Garage Parking, Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Empire wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Empire is wheelchair accessible.

Does Empire allow outdoor smoking?

No, Empire does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does Empire have free WiFi?

Yes, Empire has free WiFi.

More Info

Health Score

Ask the Community - Empire

Is there a brunch menu?

No brunch options. Not even specials on mimosas .

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Are dogs allowed in the outside dining area?

Yes, our dog was with us when we ate there, and there was a dog at the table next to us.

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I want to go on a date for my anniversary with my fiancé but I have never been here and I would definitely love to go around 7:30/8 but is it busy at that time and how long is the wait for the patio?

Typical burger joint 2 levels outside it get busy , but anniversary seems special to me , go to santo cielo , down the street , it's beautiful and made for a special occasion. Hope that helps cheers !

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Review Highlights - Empire

“We saw an order of Burger Cigars go by and next time we come back, we are definitely ordering those, as well.”

Mentioned in 12 reviews

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Two-Nine

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Closed in, claustrophobic, and no room to move around in or even dance as your shoulder-to-shoulder…read morewith so many people trying to squeeze through or lounge around. This happens very often on weekends that it almost feels like a potential hazard waiting to happen.

I went to club Two-Nine with friends on Friday, February 17 and will NEVER step foot in there…read moreagain. The bartender (I didn't catch his name, but had brown hair and facial hair was incredibly rude and disrespectful. I was waiting patiently to be served - not saying a word - and finally he came by me and raised his voice to me in a disrespectful tone saying that he is not serving me because he came by me twice and I wasn't paying attention. So, I waved to the other bartender who was female and she politely served me. I also found out that same male bartender kicked out two other friends of my friend I was with for no reason. Plus, when I reconciled my receipts the next day, I discovered that in my "not paying attention," they handed me two other receipts to sign which totaled about $80.00. (At the time, I thought maybe they were just helping each other out with ringing my order up) There's NO way I ordered that much, because it was SO crowded, I couldn't get served more than once, so that's why we left. So, basically I was robbed $80.00, because I wasn't "paying attention." Both receipts say "Potter's Place," even though we were upstairs at Two-Nine, and that's what it says on my credit card statement. Potter's Place was closed downstairs. I have one receipt that makes sense to what I normally order that says "Two-Nine". So on my credit card statement, I have one charge that says "Two-Nine," then two that say "Potter's Place." They scammed me. NEVER again.

Jackson Ave Pub

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Most places had a long wait time for a Saturday, and this one didn't, which was a nice surprise. We…read moredid wait a little to get helped at first and the host wasn't around, but once we were seated things picked up. For drinks, I tried the lychee mojito -- it was strong but had really good flavor and was enjoyable. For an appetizer, we got the pretzels. They had a nice garlic seasoning on them and were pretty filling. These were good. For mains, we ordered the Hangover Burger, tenders, and the Bulleit Bourbon Burger. Everything was really delicious. My fries just needed a tad bit of salt, but the burger itself was cooked well (I asked for medium). The flavors were good, and the honey running down actually worked well with everything. Our waiter was also really good and provided solid service. Overall, a great experience -- will be back.

Good bar food! Burgers were hearty and flavorful. When the burger was served, I was pleasantly…read moresurprised by the sheer size of the burger. They were massive! Fries were as expected, nothing special. The Spicy Tater Tot appetizer was great. Not Terribly spicy, but had a nice heat and kick to them. Seating was limited. There were only a few tables available that could accommodate more than 4 people. The staff were friendly, helpful and attentive.

Altavida

(13 reviews)

Altavida is a new addition to the downtown Naperville area as they have only been open for 3 weeks…read more It has taken over The Craftsman building which offers three floors. Altavida's concepts for the three levels are Publico, Rumba, and Altura. Publico (1st Flr)- A South American fusion of food and drinks that will be rotating. The cocktails will be more tequila and mezcal based and food will be subtly rotated based on trends happening in South America. The food menu currently offers tapas, empanadas, ceviche, guacamoles, larger format meat/seafood entrees, and more. They will have a front of our bar as well as a back bar that will specialize in more coffees/coffee cocktails. Rumba (2nd Flr)- The entertainment floor! There is a separate bar on this floor that will specialize in more Rum based cocktails. Additionally, they will have a wine bar area with wines in tap. Lastly, they will have an open area for live music as well as dancing. Their hope is to have a mix of jazz, club music, salsa dancing options available. Altura (3rd Flr)- This floor is still under construction but will have a rooftop patio. The hope is that this space will be an event space both for public and private events. Back to my experience! My partner and I stopped in for a cocktail and to see what Altavida was about. Our first bartender was very nice but was still getting used to the drink recipes and was leaning on their cheat sheets. While we waited, another bartender kindly told us all about the restaurant and its focus on hospitality. Unfortunately, each bartender had a slightly different explanation of the restaurant's goal concepts which was confusing. We ended up ordering the El Toro and Vaquero (both mezcal drinks). Both were VERY spirit forward to the point that it may have needed better balance. Both drinks had a nice presentation with garnishes, color, and a skull feature at the bottom of the glass. Lastly, we saw many people walk up and look confused as there was no formal host stand. They didn't know if they should seat themselves or wait for someone. Overall, there still seems to be some kinks needing to be worked out as well as some conceptual editing. I feel they are trying to achieve too much and it ends up being confusing for staff and guests. I hope with time, Altavida is extremely successful in the Naperville area and I hope to circle back after some time passes.

This place is a wonderful addition to DT Naperville! I was able to get a last minute dinner…read morereservation on a Friday night. I arrived at 6:30 and there were plenty of people already in the restaurant, but I was seated promptly. My server Richard came over to greet me right away. He went over the menu options and gave great recommendations. We put our order in pretty quickly because we've been to tapas restaurants before. I loved the modern decor and lively music being played. The place is truly colorful and has a very energetic vibe. The service was excellent. Everyone was extremely kind and happy to help. Edwin, the general manager was so friendly and accommodating by making sure that everything was to our liking. He is a gem. My husband and I ordered a few different tapas to share. We started with the empanadas and they were truly 10/10, highly recommend! We had the beef and chicken with the chimichurri sauce. We also tried the papas bravas and those were delicious as well. They are spicy and have a nice kick. The portion is pretty big and shareable. Last, we had chicken en mole. Omg, so good! They knocked it out of the park with this one. The presentation is very pleasing and the flavor is 10/10! I'm a hot sauce girly and even carry it in my bag just in case. The sauce they had in the dish was so good that I didn't even think about adding hot sauce! The rice and chicken along with the sauce is chef's kiss. I also tried the Brussels sprouts but they were my least favorite of everything. They should go back to the drawing board on that one. The drinks we had were solid. My husband had an espresso martini and dragonfruit margarita, while I had a mango margarita. All were good. Needless to say, I had an amazing evening at Altavida! The dancing on the second floor was also very fun and entertaining. I will definitely be a regular here!

Hizemans

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5 stars for Tony the manager!…read more We were watching the Bears game and our server had an off night. She was definitely trying, but there were some hiccups that affected us to the point of needing to speak with someone. Tony happened to be walking by, so I flagged him down. He listened patiently, spoke to his staff, and took care of us. Mistakes happen, we're all human; but the way he went about it was definitely appreciated. We'll be back!

Stopped in to sit at the bar on a biz trip. Really friendly…read morebartender and good prices. Was surprised just how empty it was; it deserves a visit.

The Northcott Liquorette

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We were so excited to check out Northcott Liquorette. The decor and atmosphere were swanky and fun,…read morebut it did not really give 'speakeasy' vibes. There was no fun entrance or password; we waited at the bottom of the stairs, never got greeted, and walked up. We got seated right away and ended up asking to move seats because we were seated in the middle of a large/loud party. Our new seats were good; we did have to share a table with another couple. Our server was the best part; his name was Z. He did, however, have to cover the entire room, which seemed impossible for one person. The service did slow down mid-experience, and then we were given the option to move or leave to accommodate their next reservation, which was odd. We had some appetizers, which were okay, but we had no plates or napkins, so it was a bit messy to eat. The dirty chips were a highlight. The drinks were alright, but for being the 'main event' I thought they would offer more options for people who enjoy sweet drinks. They did not have any. The sweetest option was a pineapple option that had a thick foam on it. I took one sip and gave it to my husband. He did enjoy the fun Absinthe Foundatian; however, they only had one, so there was a lot of waiting for many tables as it was passed around. The best part was our server, Z, surprised us with donuts for my husband's birthday. They were very yummy! Overall, it was a super cute place, but definitely a one-time only visit for us.

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Let me start by saying this is the best dining experience in 2026 for me so far. Our attendant,…read moreMaria, was fantastic. She was very attentive and recommended some really good dishes. The venue was very nice at the top of a hotel with a very nice view of Naperville and the Riverwalk. Let's start with my favorite dishes. The mahi mahi ceviche, braised beef, and octopus dish was fantastic. The braised beef was cooked perfectly, ceviche was popping with flavor and the octopus was very fresh. We did get the skirt steak and branzino. The skirt steak was a little bit overcooked to my liking. The Branzino was perfectly cooked and crispy but the portion was small.. But the best thing was that dessert. We had some type of pudding cake that was soaked in eggnog with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on it. It was fantastic. Best dessert in a long time. Definitely will be hitting this place up again

Had dinner at Santa Cielo in Naperville and honestly it blew us away…read more We ordered the empanadas, shrimp tacos, hanger steak, pork shank, and a few cocktails and every single thing that came to the table was incredible. Not one miss. The empanadas were perfectly crisp and packed with flavor, the shrimp tacos were fresh and balanced, the hanger steak was cooked exactly right, and the pork shank was fall-apart tender and easily one of the best dishes we've had in a long time. The cocktails were just as good as the food, which says a lot. You can tell there's real attention to detail across the whole menu. On top of that, the space itself is beautiful. Really unique interior, great atmosphere, and an awesome view right over the river that makes the whole experience feel even more special. It's rare to go somewhere where the food, drinks, and atmosphere all hit this level. Santa Cielo absolutely delivered. One of the best dining experiences we've had in the suburbs and we'll definitely be back.

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Crab cake Oysters…read more Clam chowder King crab Cheeseburger with fries Filet Brussel sprouts Bread pudding This is a nice, comfortable, inviting environment, if a bit loud. $275 before tip leads me to expect an excellent meal and only the bread pudding was excellent. The king crab was particularly disappointing. For the price point this isn't worth the money and there are far better restaurants.

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The atmosphere was festive and upbeat. I went initially because I had a birthday coupon, but my…read morefriend and I were glad we went. Service was fast and friendly. Drinks were excellent, and we were very happily surprised with the quality of food. Actually went back a second time a week later! Try the drink flights!

If you've been to Momento in the Chicago Loop, then you're familiar with the concept. I was…read moresurprised Tapville Social isn't owned by some large hospitality group, and is instead a locally-run, small-ish business. The drink concept is self-pour (except for cocktails). Beers, wines, and champagnes use an RFID card, and you pay by the ounce (or fraction thereof). The good news is you can try a bonafide sip of just about everything and anything without feeling bad. The bad news is that while the cost isn't high, if you're not careful, it adds up quickly. I truly did enjoy the variety, and especially loved that they have the special glassware, complete with bases, that you may pour yourself a flight. I also enjoyed seeing how everything was organized by category, so that you may find something more your speed rather than a recent brewery experience where I am looking for something that isn't an IPA. For food, I ordered the Brussels Sprouts. While not mind-blowing, these were above average. The sprouts were pretty well roasted (not quite perfect, but not bad), and I liked the sweet, savory, and acidic notes of the bacon, maple, cranberries, and balsamic. Everything was well-balanced and I happily cleared my plate. Next, especially for a place that is largely self-service, I want to recognize my server for being kind and attentive throughout the experience. In terms of value, I feel as though their prices are around average, given the area and the product, for I am sure the tech is not cheap! The vibe is something I can only describe as brewery-esque, with brick, metal, and wood. I am less concerned about the walls, though, what I do want to highlight is how clean everything was! With the amount of hands touching everything, this is no easy feat. Final verdict: Sometimes, especially on a warmer day, it's not about fancy whiskey or food, but about simple food and drink done well. Tapville Social is that place. There are more than enough beers that you're sure to find something you like, and solid food that you have something to wash down, and aren't drinking on an empty stomach.

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The food was great and so was the service. I loved the Potato Leek soup. The atmosphere was like…read moredining in Ireland.

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Wait isn't it called club Malibu? If not we gotta fix the font. It's a place you go to see people…read morefrom high school and I'm into it. Very small and jazzy. Never saw anyone on that stage though. It's a bar, get your drinks, go sit, shut up, enjoy!

I can't really comment on the place itself as an experience but I can say that I called and left…read moreSEVERAL messages back in early December. I called so many times make a reservation for a Christmas party for a group of 10 people . I NEVER received a return call back... it was very disappointing due to our group wanting to experience Club Mamalu.

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Moises T.

Elite 26

425

517

2 years ago

Empire Burgers + Brew is a true gem located in the heart of Naperville. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a world where rustic charm meets industrial chic. The ambiance is electric, with reclaimed wood accents, and an impressive bar that beckons you to pull up a stool and stay awhile. One of the highlights of Empire Burgers + Brew is the presence of a music stage, promising live performances that add an extra layer of excitement to your dining experience. Although I arrived late at night and missed out on the live entertainment, the stage itself hinted at the vibrant atmosphere that this establishment cultivates. I had the pleasure of indulging in the Gronk burger, featuring double C.A.B. patties, cheddar cheese, fried onion straws, applewood smoked bacon, all tucked between a pretzel bun and drizzled with beer BBQ sauce. Let me tell you, this burger was a sight to behold. It was a monstrosity of a creation, towering impressively on the plate. But it wasn't just its size that left me in awe; it was the explosion of flavors with every bite. The juicy patties, perfectly cooked, paired harmoniously with the sharpness of the cheddar cheese and the crunch of the fried onion straws. The applewood smoked bacon added a smoky richness, while the beer BBQ drizzle tied everything together with its sweet and tangy notes. And that pretzel bun? Pure perfection, adding a hint of saltiness and a satisfying chewiness to each mouthful. By the time I finished my meal, I was already planning my return visit. Not only to satisfy my craving for another Gronk burger but also to experience Empire in all its glory, complete with a live performance that I'm sure will only enhance an already unforgettable dining experience. If you're a carnivore looking for your next culinary adventure, look no further than Empire Burgers + Brew. Trust me, you won't be disappointed. read more

Stephen K.

10 years ago

BRAND NEW! & ready for action! Now, I've been there about a handful of times and each time its been different but exciting. I've had TREMENDOUS waitstaff from upstairs to downstairs to outside and inside. I don't recall everyones names but Ashley knew so much about each beer she made it easy for me to order quickly and confidently. I've had Louis and he was just one of the best servers i've had in my life! And Sydnee who was fairly knew but attentive and hilarious which made my experience of the atmosphere more comfortable! The Empire is my Favorite burger, the bestwurst sandwhich is delicious.... dont forget the donuts! WOOW The hostesses were a bit caught off guard when my friends and I walked in, wasn't a hello how are you just a "three?" but you could tell some were training.. Other than that this place just keeps making me want to go back and try more! read more

Matthew J.

10 years ago

First off... I'd like to say thank you to the door staff! We had a party here and they made sure all my guests were taken care of. I see a lot of bad reviews and it's a shame that people get to use Yelp to whine and complain about the slightest thing that doesn't go their way!! I've managed several clubs/bars in downtown Chicago and have seen celebrities and regulars visit my establishments for over a decade. So I can spot a successful place when I see one!! Empire definitely has what it takes to be successful for years! Ambiance! Space! Great hostesses and wait staff! And like I said... The door staff definitely made my guests and myself feel welcomed because when you treat people with respect... You get respect in return!! Sorry for not bitching like a drunk 21 year old for not everyone pampering to my every need!! Great job Empire!! read more

Ronnie J.

10 years ago

Mallory H.

217

9 years ago

Great atmosphere, delicious cocktails, great burgers and appetizers! What more could you want? They have live music and book talented local musicians. They have managed to create a family place and a great night scene! Their staff are friendly, helpful, and informative. They are a brand new establishment which means they can only get better from here. As more time passes, they will only improve. They definitely know how to create an exciting place to dine, to party, and enjoy live music. Their food comes out promptly. Their draft beer list and bourbon list is curated to intrigue any kind of a spirits lover! It is the place to be on the weekends and have an ever changing beer list so you will always be able to try different beers every time you visit. The draft beer list is very impressive! read more

Stephen D.

4 years ago

this establishment let me down majorly! After confirming with the Manager weeks before if we arrived there after my wedding at midnight - would there be any issue getting - I was told there would not be an issue at all! But on the night- that same manger through up a few road blocks to allow this to happen. Including trying to ID the bride in her dress (some discretion can be taken) and also asking our parents for ID (Very clearly over 21- even clearly over 50) Not allow drunk people in- i get that 100%- but the way we were treated at the door was not nice and dismissive of our previous conversation. will not be returning- nor will the many locals in our wedding party and their friends. thank you Jackson Ave pub for saving the night!! read more

Isabel D.

10 years ago

Went here for lunch on a Sunday afternoon around 12 or 1. It wasn't crowded probably 10 or so tables filled. We waited probably 5 minutes for a host to take us to a table even though there wasn't a line. We were seated and handed a menu. The food menu is EXTREMELY EXTREMELY tiny, and a bit expensive. We ordered the poutine and it was $9 for a super tiny dish. Then we ordered entrees. They gave me fries instead of chips and the server noticed that I got fries so she gave me chips. And then on my sandwich I noticed a piece of hair that looked like it came from a beard or a guys hair. And then my sister found another piece of hair in her dish. Much better places in the area. Don't waste your time. I hope this place gets better. read more

Meaghan K.

6 years ago

I came here with my boyfriend for our anniversary and I ordered a burger! I was super excited and decided to get it medium well. It came rare towards walking and ice cold in the middle. I am not one to complain at all but i feel completely nauseous and sick. We were talking with our lovely waitress and "there was not much she could do" she said (which is understandable). But as soon as we asked for the manger, he was rude and unreasonable. We asked for them to take it off our bill because it was not good at all. He was talking back to my boyfriend and I to the point where I was crying and he didn't care. Again I am not one to complain but it was just not good. read more

Karina G.

6 years ago

I have always noticed Empire's beautiful patio and positive energy while walking through downtown Naperville. My boyfriend and I tried this place for the first time a couple of weeks ago and have already returned 4 different times! We really enjoy the roof top, the great drinks and food, the lights, tvs, music, cleanliness, professionalism! Thank you to Kenny and our server a nice Irish man, which unfortunately had their last day yesterday. Also, to the hostesses who are also very kind and friendly! This restaurant has a cozy feeling, the guests are nice and polite. We really appreciate your outstanding service and will continue to come back! read more

Monixa M.

8 years ago

Ive tried hard to like this place. It's the premiere location and facility in downtown Naperville, but every single time, six in the past 18 months, the staff treats me as though late 30's is ancient, but even if I were ancient, whomever pays the note on 20,000 + feet of best location n downtown Naperville .. how are they NOT trained in the most basics of standards of the service industry. It's, honest to god the training is not "we want the millennials on Fri and Sat to not only bring in all our revenue, but we want to be open ONLY 5 hours on Fri and Sat." I'm wet to get across the street to Sullivan's and see Dave, a professional. read more

Sandy R.

8 years ago

John S.

8 years ago

This bar employs racist bouncers, After many years apart me and my legal age friend wanted to get together and have a drink. As we had both recently turned of age, our IDs were vertical. The bouncer stated the policy was to not allow people with vertical IDs into the bar. However, he allowed my tall white friend in with his vertical ID in and then said I could not be let in because of my vertical ID. My complaint is not with the policy of the bar but the blatant, racist attitude that allowed my friend to freely walk into the bar and that left me out in the cold. read more

Laurie G.

5 years ago

If you are fond of live action role play in which you are a subject of a repressive Post apocalyptic dictatorship this is the place for you. When you cross the threshold you are no longer in possession of anything resembling human rights or dignity. That being said the food passes for something suitable for human consumption. if you are a former member of the Stazi you will feel right at home and may even be offered a position on the staff. Avoid this place if at all possible, spend your time and money with those people who still respect human dignity. read more

Kristyne K.

10 years ago

Went here today for dinner with three friends of mine, first time going excited to try their food. We where seated right away and after 20 mins of wait for someone to come to our table we got up and left. HORRIABLE SERVICE... No one ever came to us until they saw us get up and leave and they where not even that busy. We had the manager walk By our table 2 times and many waiters and no one stop to ask what we Would like to drink or eat. Would not recommend this place to anyone. read more

Hannah G.

136

9 years ago

Went here with a party of 6. They told us there would be a 30 minute wait but, we were seated rather quickly. Which is nice! Then we sat there for about 10 minutes until our waitress came with water. That's my only complaint. I got the goat burger and it was delicious. It was cooked to my liking and the bacon on there made was so good. We also got the fired donuts which were amazing. Definitely worth it. If I'm in the area I would love to go back. It has a great decor too! read more

David G.

9 years ago

Unfortunately Johnny's is located in a strip mall that isn't doing too well. I hope it can stay alive. The restaurant is small, so it's not great for groups, but they do have take out. The gyros are awesome!! They give you a ton of meat and the pitas are so fluffy and delicious. The gyro lunch special comes with salad or fries. If you want a quick bite and you're in the mood for gyros it's a great place!! read more

Corinne E.

118

10 years ago

This restaurant is awesome. The atmosphere is wonderful, the food is very good, and the service is top notch. I definitely recommend the empire burger( also substitute for chicken..soooo good. ), the southwestern salad, the empire tots and the burger cigars. The fried donuts are a must try for dessert! The rooftop is amazing! The beer list is very impressive and their specialty drinks are delicious! read more

Ashley B.

6 years ago

I love the rooftop... I love the view and the atmosphere. By far the nicest place around, best beer selection and amazing burgers. RECOMMENDATIONS: The G.O.A.T. Burger The STK Sandwich Burger Cigars Fried Donuts And to drink... I'm usually one to stick with beer, but I suggest trying some of their specialty cocktails! The Mayan Monk is my favorite so far. I love this place! read more

Nicole P.

9 years ago

This place smells like a frat bro threw up and no one ever decided to clean it up. Do not come here. Edit: please fire the door guy who wears the DePaul hat. He decided to sucker punch a poor guy in the back of the head after being extremely rude to several patrons. He may think he's "doing his job" but he just made probably 25+ customers commit to never coming back. read more

Jennifer R.

2 years ago

Not a place for Mexicans !!! The upstairs bartender ( Justin Ringle) is Racist ... he asked for payment before he gave the food and drink AND when asked why ? He said listen I CAN KICK YOUR ASS OUT OF HERE RIGHT NOW... When explained this to management she said that it should be a misunderstanding... so you are all a bunch of RACIST , discriminative people ! read more

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66 Empire reviews that are not currently recommended

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66 reviews that are not currently recommended

Empire - burgers - Updated May 2026

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