The first review at the bottom cracks me up. You "forbid" your fiance to eat at Mr. J's? I wonder how that marriage is working out. I bet you guys are a ton of fun at parties. Hahahaha. Anyway, this place is a staple in the diet of any busy Loyola Law or MBA student, as it is right across State Street from the Water Tower campus. Finishing up my 3rd year at Loyola law, I can tell you I have eaten here probably a couple dozen times. I've never gotten sick. I've never seen anyone smoking while preparing food or cleaning the restaurant. Every time I go in there, it's the same 4 Mexican dudes running the show. They are efficient if not courteous, the dining area is clean and orderly compared to similar establishments I've seen, and the food is cheap and you get a lot for your money which is important to me. It's not 5-star dining but it's ludicrous to think they would be any more or less "sanitary" than your local BK, or the Subway next door, or the McDonald's on the corner of Chicago & State. Mister J's offers no pretensions: it's a Chicago-style "Eat it and get out" joint, with the usual hot dogs, burgers, gyros, polish sausages, and Italian Beef. I have tried nearly every one of their 20+ combos, and my personal recommendations are either of the chicken sandwiches, which feature an enormous chicken breast on a tasty crusty french roll, their grilled polish, or the aforementioned "Dagwood", a big burger fixed any way you like it. I can't believe I just wrote this much about Mister J's but I felt like I had to defend it after reading reviews from people who gave it one star without even setting foot in the place. For shame, Yelpers. read more

Duped by Yelp! Don't be fooled by the other glowing reviews. These dogs are undercooked and undersized. The cheesesteak is made with gyro meat. There's a reason why "there will be no line inside". Other than a 1am post drinking hunger fix, I couldn't imagine going back here on purpose. read more

If I'm spending a weekend afternoon shopping up and down Michigan avenue, I always stop in here to fuel up before dealing with the masses. It looks a bit scary from the outside- but don't worry, its delicious on the inside. Anyone I've taken here always gives me the "where the hell are you taking me?" look, but they always leave happy. A friend who lived nearby taught me the ways of this place, and now I'm telling you. The guys who run this joint are serious. When you get in, you'll see a huge menu, and you order everything by number. When they ask you, you need to be ready with that number- say it loud and like you mean it. You might be the 10th person in line when they ask you. After you say your order, you just kind of snake along counter. Eventually, someone will ask you to pay. There might be 3 people ahead of you in line, but the guy comes to you to collect your money. Cash only. Hands down, this is the best gyros in the city. Yes, I just did say that. I'll defend this gyros' honor forever. They do a few things that a gyros fan might not be used to. First, their tzatziki sauce is a little thicker than you normally see, and the put a lot on there. i always end up dipping my fries in the excess. Also, they dice the onions instead of slicing them. I didn't like it at first, but I have converted. it allows for more onion distribution throughout the gyros, which is a good thing. They put a lot of meat on the gyros, you definitely need a fork to eat some of the meat by itself before you can stuff the gyros in your face. This gyros is a consistent, reliable good friend that will never let you down. The fried chicken sandwich is also great. They flour the chicken breast right in front of you before frying it up- its not some prepackaged patty from a box in the freezer. When they ask you if you want cheese on the sandwich, say yes. There is something truly magical about the combination of fried chicken, cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo on french bread. Again- not healthy, but sometimes it just needs to be done. It does take awhile to fry up. You'll see many people behind you walk past with their food before you get yours, but the wait is worth it. The fries are great too- be sure to ask for cheese fries. Its a cup of cheese on the side. They are kind of weird about the ketchup. They keep the bottles of ketchup behind the counter. I usually just look around and see if there are bottles of ketchup out and whoever is at the table if I can borrow their ketchup. They also charge for soda refills, which is strange. I've never seen someone ask for a refill, and I've also never seen anyone go up and refill without paying. All sorts of people come in here. Business types, construction workers and Loyola all come together for the love of all things delicious. Some of the crazies that hang out around the Chicago Red line stop and that McDonalds make their way in here, which always proves interesting. I love this place. read more

Can't really say too much about Mister J's - I waltzed in here blind drunk at 4AM. Got an Italian beef sandwich. It was tasty. It was cheap. It was fast. It was huge. I wanted to steal their sign and hang it up in my room: Home of the ORIGINAL J-Dawg. read more

Mister J's - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I've been coming here periodically for the last 10 years. I pretty much always order the same meal, a number 10, grilled chicken with cheese on French bread. It is simple and good. This was my go to spot after partying all night; I can't stand Tempo down the block. read more

Mister J's - Charbroiled chicken breast on French bread - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I found the food to be much tastier than that famous place a few blocks down the road. I wish I came here first it would've been cheaper, quicker and better tasting. I only had A few different hotdogs and they were all delicious. Steph was nice and the service was quick. I'll be back before I head home. read more

This place has my vote. Exactly what you want in an otherwise stuffy area for somewhat cheap meal... solid gyros and burgers

We always like the smaller type restaurants. This one fits the that description to a t. Small local and pretty good. We are in Chicago for food basically. A Chicago dog is a most since I pretty much like meat in tube form. Don't take that wrong I make sausages and like to eat them too. I got the pure beef polish sausage and a regular beef frank both Chicago style all the way. Mustard, bright green relish, onions, tomatoes, and hot peppers. My dog was good I liked the sausage it had a good snap and seasoning package. The regular dog was old and had been in the water for a while. Almost like the dirty water dogs you get on the streets in NYC. In all not bad but next time I'll go further down the street for my dog read more

Mister J's - The pure beef polish dog - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I've been coming here since high school.... No need to give my age. I always get the #10 which is the grilled chicken on French bread. This place is great for late night eats after clubbing or just hanging out and having the munchies. (no judging) I used to get the Dagwood special back in the day but I cut back on the red meat as I got older. I'm sure you would enjoy it if you like burgers though. Next time you are in the area on a late night stop in and tell them you know me lol. Enjoy! read more

These boys are crafty. You walk in.. order a burg, dawg, and fries.. they tell you they're all ready.. you pay.. walk away... check the bag.... BAM!!!! The fries aren't there. These spineless goons will lie to your face. The food ain't bad, but certain things are unforgivable. Better luck next time, J-DAWG!!!! read more

I've been here twice now for late night foodsies whilst up by chicago ave, while it's a little more expensive than your usual hot dog stand, you for sure get your money's worth and the food is solid, ive gotten the hotdog and cheeseburger and fries, plus there aren't any other (or maybe just one or two) late night cheap food places like this in the area read more

Mister J's has been around for literally generations. The college students from a couple of blocks away have been coming here for years to get classic, cheap Chicago food. Just in the last two years they've remodeled so it's not so much of a dive and the prices went up a little... but hey, that's gotta happen at some point, right? In any case, get the #1 for a cheap, fattening, and delicious burger, fries, and milkshake. Get the #2 for a classic chicago dog. Experiment around the menu for other surprises. You'll be keeping company with students, businessmen, cabbies, cops, and old-school Chicago guys that have clearly come here for years. read more

Mr. J's Dawg and Burger is Chicago cuisine. Maybe not at its finest, especially in this day and age in which pretentious little eateries are popping up from Hyde Park to Ravenswood, but this place represents a hefty chunk of the soul of the city (and probably is partly responsible for that heftiness as well). Like many other people I've talked to, I first went into Mr. J's when I was weary of the nutballs who hang around/in the McDonald's across the street while looking for a quick bite during my lunch break. The place looks absolutely frightening at first glance--the kind of place where you're led to believe that the cooks pull their hamburger patties off the floor. But nothing could be farther from the truth. The place is usually spotlessly clean, and the staff (usually the same three guys) are always helpful and efficient. They're matter-of-fact and to the point, but they seem like friends who are just busy rather than people who are irritated that you even exist. As soon as you walk in, they'll ask for your order and start making it in seconds. Often just shouting out the number of the combo is enough. It's restaurants like this that I'll remember Chicago for. I can imagine that Mr. J's felt much the same way in 1965. And the food is endlessly tasty. Their menu panel over the counter positively beams with indulgent splendor, and I've often seen newcomers change their minds three times because it all looks so delicious. Mind you, no one comes in here to lose weight, so if you want to watch the pounds then all you're going to do here is watch them accumulate. But that's the glory of it. I'd choose this place over Al's, over Portillo's, and indeed over any other similar restaurants. My first meal here was the breaded deep fried chicken sandwich (with cheese!) and it was unforgettably tasty. The chicken is cooked and fried right in front of you and the three guys are always eager to make it just the way you want it. The hamburgers are exactly the right kind of greasy and the fries have that old America taste and texture that warms you up and makes you smile. And the gyros are divine. Normally I am deeply hesitant to go to places that only accept cash, but Mr. J's is an exception. (And there are three ATMs immediately nearby--one inside the restaurant itself, one right outside on the sidewalk, and one a couple of doors down to the south on the same block.) At lunch, this is the kind of place where you'll see all kinds of people walking in (which is also a testament to its appeal to many different backgrounds). It's the kind of place to chat with a friend or to sit on the counter facing State Street and watching Chicago's daily life go by while you chew slowly on a divine, juicy burger and sip from your orange Crush, pitying them for what they're missing out on. For what it is, this place is an easy five stars. I, too, love this place. read more

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The food is pretty good. Small business for a quick bite to eat. The only problem which is a huge problem is NONE of the cooks wear gloves or hair nets. If you mind them touch your food with their bare hands, then go for it. Otherwise, the food is good. read more

Since moving to Chicago over 6 years ago I have fallen in LOVE with the Chicago style hot dog! I never knew what one was before coming here and now I know I'll miss it should I ever leave! I had been craving a hot dog for weeks. And on the coldest day ever, you know the one, I decided to walk to here since it's around the corner from work and grab a couple for me and co-workers. The bun wasn't poppy seed which isn't a big deal but still. And I didnt see any celery salt. It was o.k. I got 2 but wouldv'e been ok with just one. The fries were good though. A co-worker got a chili dog and said that was just OK too. I dont think I'll go back only becuase a friend who lives in the area said theres a better place nearby. I'll be trying them soon. read more

This is a hole in the wall burger joint where the food is great. Get the grilled chicken with all the toppings. Warning! The above statement assumes the following: 1)You are willing to stand in line with people who haven't bathed in three days 2)You don't mind eating food off of a grill that hasn't been cleaned yet this year read more

Recently, I have been discovering late night haunts around the city. I am usually in a movie when i'm out severely late. I'm sounding like I have a curfew, ha! Anyway, I was coming from an interview in River North; When I hopped on the #66 (Chicago) and stumbled upon this place. I could see the bright yellow sign from the street on state. It was not until last night/Sunday morning that I went to take a look. A friend and I was coming from seeing "The Rite", When we realized we were hungry. It was after 12am so, a lot places downtown were closed . I suggested that we go to Mr. J's that I saw earlier that week. He was like "Lets go!". We walk from Ohio and State to Chicago and State. I was hoping they were open 24 hours as, we like to linger when its cold. We walked in and realized it was cash only but, they have a ATM machine inside. I could not decide what I wanted with so many greasy options. I just wanted some grease! So, I ordered the double play (#17). Those were the best Vienna Beef hot dogs I've had since Superdawg. I say thumbs way up for this joint being a good greasy spoon and clean place after 12am! read more

For the fast food category, its a 5 This place used to be bad, but they did some remodeling and cleaned it up a lot. Now you can find a nice menu, with food that is grilled, and slightly charred. just pure deliciousness. For the price and taste, this place is a great value. Walk by and check it out, there are folks in there enjoying the neighborhoods version of "In & out burger" I recommend anyone of their steak sandwhiches read more

Don't foget about the Dawg n' Burgers!!! (sounds like something Randy Jackson would say on American Idol) Okay we were looking for Gyros...the first place we wanted to go to was closed at 5pm on a Sunday...there loss! As we were driving down the street Mister J's Dawgs n' Burgers had a huge sign in his window...2 Gyros for 8.99! We had to stop...right...it was a sign! I have been driving past this place for almost 40 years and finally decided to try it. Actually my wife said, "Let's go in because every time we go by you say..."hey that place looks good...we will have to try it one day"!" Well that day finally came! The Gyros were really good. There was so much meat on the gyro I had to take a bunch off becaue I could hardly close the pita bread. The sad part is that this place is not even near Greektown (the fast food gyro joints near Greektown are not that great...it is kind of sad). The guys working inside were a little Seinfeld Soupish..."NO GYRO FOR YOU!" I think they were ready to throw my wife out because she likes her sauce on the side and I do not want onions on mine. I think the special order thing is not welcome here, but in the end we got it the way we wanted and we were extremely happy with our food. Next time we are craving a gyro, we will definately stop here. This place has been here since 1962...they must be doing something right! read more

I don't know if I really wanted to give four stars or not. Maybe I don't want to admit my very unhealthy food habits...but I'm sure I'll be back. Why? Well, they're open late on Sunday but most places around here aren't. A lot of us were very, very hungry and needed food now and didn't want to wait forever. We saw many similarly minded folks come in while we were there too. They are conveniently located close to my house. When it gets cold and I get one of those grease cravings...yeah. You have many different, greasy options here that are cooked to order. I chose the gyro, but others went with the hot dog, burger, etc. They have many sandwich choices... I wonder if they have a breakfast menu? Maybe breakfast burritos (will have to check on that!). Super clean in here- which is something I don't take for granted in a gyro place anymore after a frightening rodent experience in Paris. But, you're almost given too much food, and it took them about ten minutes to put together my gyro. It didn't look like the grill was that crowded- they took their time. Maybe they could tell I'm not one of those people who will complain to their face. The fries weren't undercooked for me, but I couldn't finish off all of my food, and I usually eat everything on the plate. Yes, I'll be coming here again for a not so quick fast food meal, most likely if I end up wanting to eat around my area or have someone staying with me. Just don't be sketched out to come in because of their appearance. Better than the McDonald's around the corner, right? read more

There are places in the world where late-night falafel makes the cut, and unfortunately there are places in the world where late night McDonald's is your only option. However this is Chicago, and when you've had 1 drink too many and have a late night craving, you've gotta have some Chicago classics. Mister J's fits the bill perfectly for that "late night Chicago craving". Mister J's serves up all the classics (Chi style hotdogs, Italian beef, Italian sausage, gyros etc) and for a great price! What's more? They grill it right in front of your face, so you know you're getting something fresh off the grill! When its 2-3am and you're looking for some of those Chicago classics in River North just stumble on into Mister J's, your belly will be glad you did. read more

Growing up, Mister J's and Mister G's were quintessential lunch with Dagwood burgers, milkshakes, Italian beefs, and hotdogs. These were classic Chicago restaurants that should have lasted for generations. read more

If you are looking for the true meaning of the word Grease Pit or Hole in the Wall, this is the place for you, plus it is cheap! Health Food Nuts need not apply... The Gyros are pretty good, and I like the chicken sandwich, but I can usually only do it about once maybe twice a year. Normally it is because with my MBI ID Card I get a discount. Apparently MBI Students and Employees keep this place open. Who would have guessed. It must be the really cheap food cause it is not the ambience or the menu selection. read more

Had to get a Chicago dog late at night. Mister J's was open and gave it a shot. Typical Chicago hot dog joint menu - features Chicago beef, burgers, and dogs. Have a large selection of specials - I got the two dogs, fries, and drink. Dogs were Vienna beef and had the snap that signals a great dog. Pickles and peppers made the dog. Fries were fresh and hot. It's a hot dog joint - worth the stop read more

They had me at dyed green relish. The fries are just about perfect, (much better than Grillers) and not outrageously greasy. I had a burger for lunch five hours ago and since I am still in the library, I am thinking about having another for dinner. It's cleanish, the granite counter (or faux granite counter, I don't know how to tell the difference) classes the joint up and I find it a way better alternative to McDonalds. Mister Js reminds me of Dear Franks in Deerfield. I don't have a higher compliment to give for burger joints. read more

Not great. Overpriced for what you get. I had just gotten off the train station that is near here and this was my first meal (unfortunately) in Chicago in about 10 years. I tried the Italian Beef and it was so greasy, I was sick. The taste wasn't too bad, but the grease was overwhelming. I've had many Italian Beef in my days, but nothing like this. The customer service is really what I remember, and in a bad way. I had a few questions and the guy completely ignored it and kept trying to push me along. It wasn't busy at all, there was only two other people in the restaurant, so it wasn't like I was holding anyone up. They were unnecessarily rude and I was glad to get out of there. read more

I'd never had a Chicago-style hot dog until I came to Mister J's. Now I don't know if I'll be able to go back to plain ol' mustard! (It was the relish. I dream about the relish.) My family of 5 ate here for $17. The French fries were crispy. It was as unpretentious as it gets. All in all, excellent lunch place. read more

We were in here once at 2 a.m. and a guy came in and argued with us. Asking for money and telling us he was hungry, we offered him a full hot dog (not touched) and some fries. He told us he wanted money to buy his own, we informed him what money was not spent at the bar was this hot dog special. Then, he took a Red Eye (good for something) and scooped it up and cursed at us all the way out of the door. The kicker, he ate the hot dog outside the window staring at us and tapping on the window. Mister J's...you are a beautiful establishment. P.S. The Gyros are chronic. read more

I have been wanting to try this place solely for the name of the restaurant, and I finally did the other day. Since I'm still newish to Chicago, this place seemed like a place to go if you pretty much know the area. I mean it doesn't really come across like a place to go if you're not from here. I didn't get a burger or a hot dog (I'll do that next time.) I got a gyro, and it was tasty. They give you a whole lot of meat on a little piece of pita bread. I like meat so it was all good. I ordered the meal because it comes with fries and a soda. From the menu though, it seems like they have tons of stuff. The gyro was really good. And the fries were good. The burgers smelled awesome. I will really be trying that next time. The restaurant itself is kinda small, which I kinda didn't like. It gets cramped in there. But then again it was lunchtime. Other downside is that they're cash only. read more

Way underrated hot dog. This place was better than weiner s circle and hot dougs. So good it was the best dog I had in Chicago. Unassuming little place and the burgers are awesome as well. I don't freely give away stars but this place earned them. Try the dawned burger amazing. read more

Honestly speaking, if it's not 1am, or you don't need a really quick bite for lunch, I suggest you should just go to Portillo's, which isn't that far away. That being said, it's not "bad" per se. It's a small greasy-spoon that has dogs and other fried delicacies. And... a terrifyingly dark alley right next door. And a toilet around the corner. Which is nice. Every time I've been there, it's because somewhere else wasn't open and I needed to eat. Again, not bad. But it's definitely a "I guess we'll go here since ___ is closed" kinda joint. read more

Would've been tasty had it not been cold. Grubhub blamed the restaurant and Mister J's claimed the driver arrived too late. Either way, I won't go again. read more

The food was good the fries outstanding. I'll be back. Give it 5 stars. Disappointed in the drinks selection of coke garbage.

After working at the hospital at day I just wanted some cheese fries. What I got was shit service and over charged for horribly cooked food. NEVER COMING BACK. read more

Fast food place in the gold coast. Got a gyro sandwich with fries and a drink special for $9.49 Large serving of meat with sandwich. Worth the price. New updates look nice. Note: menu prices have not been updated new prices are $1-$2 more. read more

Mister J's - Gyro sandwich and fries special - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

adequate joint in River north. The size of the food was big, but there was nothing spectacular about the food. a perfect example of "just ok" food. read more

Yet another half-way decent inexpensive fast food place offering self lubricating foods. Overall, the food is a pretty good deal. read more

First off, totally screwed up our order forgetting several sandwiches, fries etc. And mayonnaise-based tzatziki sauce? MAYONNAISE?! This crap was disgusting. Either it was mayo with a dash of spices, or seriously rotten yogurt based sauce. Absolutely disgusting. read more

I thought this place wasn't too bad! I didn't eat in there but it seemed pretty clean! I had a hamburger, and I should say that I prefer thin patty hamburgers which is what they had and it was pretty good! The fries were ok, my fav fast food french fries are McDonalds and Steak and Shake a close 2nd! I love shoestring fries! Not a fan of big fries, steak fries or crinkle cut fries and for burgers, Burger King hamburgers are my fav... ... I downed a burger and a half of my bf's burger when we got home, ate all the fries and a can of coke! I thought this place was GOOD! I would have given it a 5 if the fries were the shoesting kind! I was pretty hungry and a little inebriated! read more

Mister J's Dawg and Burgers, State&Pearson St. The food is good and the prices are reasonable. Good Kate night hours if you have the munchies! read more

Mister J's - Mister J's Dawg and Burgers, State&Pearson St. The food is good and the prices are reasonable. - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois