I've been coming here since I was a kid. My dad would take us to eat here every other Sunday. Our to go till this day is the Swiss chicken sandwich with a side of 3 layer fries topped with chives. This place hasn't changed much except the line keeps getting longer so I always order ahead lol. The food is always fresh and you can tell as soon as you take that bite. Highly recommend read more

Good place. Uhhhhhh, I had the cheddar burger. I agree with one of the yelpers that seeing pink meat is not a turn on for me. Nevertheless, the food was good. I enjoyed the fries and onion rings. I am looking forward to going back to try the Italian beef with onions. I recommend coming hear but don't travel a great distance. read more

Nice to have a char burger. Everything is a smash burger now, It seems. it was nice to have a great grilled burger. I do recommend.

I dream of their chicken sandwich! My husband loves the burgers- overall good food. Since it's popular- it's a bit of a wait but totally worth it. read more

Honestly, top five burger in Chicago and that I have had in my life. This has been a staple of my diet since I moved to Chicago. There's been no looking back. The staff is friendly, caring, and attentive. When I first went here, they did not accept credit cards. They only accepted cash and they would do all the math in their heads and they never overcharged me. It was so impressive, however they now accept credit cards and cash. I mean if I can't persuade you to try the Pup, maybe Guy Fieri can. He stopped here for his show Triple D. They have decorated the small operation with walls covered in famous individuals who have stopped by. One thing to take note of is the parking lot is small but they are quick. It is not uncommon to see a line of 15-20 people. I love their Merkts Cheddar burger and their Merkts Fries, but they have plenty more to offer. They also have delicious shakes some even seasonal, like their pumpkin pie shake. It is so satisfying and delicious, you'd be transported to your family's Thanksgiving dinner without the drama. I can't speak higher of this place. *As I do with anyone I take or recommend the Pup to, I feel I need to be clear that the Merkts Cheddar is for those with a particular taste. It is not bad at all, but it is something to be aware of, but not hesitant of. read more

How can you not love this place. From the char dogs to the burgers to the beef and malts this place has what you want. Don't forget the 3layer fries and say yes to chives. read more

The food is just great and perfectly cooked every time and ever since I started coming here I have not gone anywhere else. I would recommend the Bacon cheddar chicken sandwich with everything. read more

Everytime i do the food is great and such sweet workers. The outside seating is super cute too

DDD Highlighted restaurant...North Chicagoland suburb staple classic burgers joint! Rund by two brothers always there and they are the only ones that grill the burgers witch is awesome. I always get a char cheese burger single patty double is huge and very messy to eat. Burgers are cooked to order fresh! The grill flavor plus seasoning really come thur and they are always super juicy I've never had a dry burger here. 100% recommend! read more

Paradise Pup - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

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After a 12+ year leave of the Chicago area....finally had a chance to return. And I am glad I did. The char-grilled burgers are simply the best. The buns are perfect and easily hold whatever else you throw between them beyond the perfectly grilled meat and cheese without crumbling in your hands. And then there's the perfectly caramelized onions....now you are in Paradise! I wish there were more burger places like this. Can't go wrong with a perfectly char-grilled burger from Paradise Pup. Keep up the good work burger pros! read more

The Disclaimers: *Cash Only *11-5, M-Sat. *Don't Go In Through the Out Door unless wearing a Raspberry Beret *Check with your Doctor before starting an exercise regimen, or eating at Paradise Pup The Perks: *Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives http://www.foodnetwork.com/videos/pup-cheddar-burger/17096.html *Janet Davies likes it! *ABC 7's Hungry Hound, Steve Dolinsky does too! Famous for their Merkt's Char Cheddar Burger and their 3 Layer Fries, I ordered both. The burger was as perfectly cooked (medium) as I've ever tasted outside of a backyard cookout! It was so good that next time I'm going to forgo the cheddar so I can taste more of the burger itself, in all it's meaty splendor. Have you had your heart checked recently? Passed the treadmill stress test? Talked with your doctor about Lipitor? If not, do so immediately! Because only those people who have should be eating the 3 Layer Fries! Crinkle cut fries topped with cheddar, sour cream, and real bacon. Elizabeth, I think it's the Big One! I'm coming to Join You! Mmm, heaven in a styrofoam container, people. And I lived to tell about it. Paradise Pup also serves hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and specialty shakes. The wait wasn't bad during a weekday lunch hour. There's barely any seating inside, but plenty of picnic tables, and also a lovely Forest Preserve or two nearby. Get it to go! Pardise Pup's great food just might make my employment in Rosemont worth the commute! read more

I finally was in the vicinity of this place at a time that they were open, so I had to stop in and check it out. Now I have seen this place featured on a couple TV shows (Chicago's Best, Diners, Drive-Ins, + Dives, etc.) so here I was. About 3 in the afternoon and about a half-dozen people in line as I walked in. Had the basics: A cheeseburger, fries, + a root beer. Service was friendly, fast, and soon I was parked on a bench outside ready to chow. (Picture included). I thought the burger was pretty good. It had a nice charred flavor. The fries were pretty standard and root beer is root beer. Overall, it was pretty good. I didn't wet my pants over it like some reviewers, but I would give it a go again if I was in the neighborhood. I will try one of their hot dogs next time I can't give 3 1/2 stars so I will give it 3 which is still pretty good in my book. Cheers to all. read more

Paradise Pup - This is what my burger + fries looked like before the attack - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Paradise Pup, a little stand-alone off of River Road, offering char burgers, char sausages, hot dogs, and sides (fries, onions, mozzarella sticks, etc.). My friend and I tried their Char Cheddar Burger and their Char Polish Sausage; while it had a nice charred taste, I prefer the Poochie's location for these. The patties themselves were not as juicy as I expected them to be, and the charring wasn't much. I would like to come back and try out their Italian Beef, which happens to be char-grilled marinated. There's plenty of spots to park your car, and this is more of a carry-out establishment. There are plenty of tables outside to dine al fresco. +off of River Road +free parking read more

Key Yelp: If in Des Plaines, Niles, Park Ridge or Rosemont and you want outstanding burgers and FRIES....you must go. Punto. Review: My faith in the wonder of the Cheeseburger was restored Saturday. I had not been to Paradise Pup in a year, since I don't work in this area anymore. However a 1:00 DePaul game at the Allstate Arena screamed for a return to trip to 'da pup. These guys have it down. What's special? Quality of the meat, cooking skill/grill, bun and grilled onions. Among the litany of Chicago style char places, and I have not been to that many, this is the best burger I have had. Juicy, textured, hot, personalized. Eat it at the counter or better yet, get it for "there" and eat in your car..fun! Final words: 3 layer fries. I am not a big french fry eater. They are terrible for you and usually disappointing and I am picky. I also NEVER eat cheese fries. But this concoction is, in essence, a tricked out, vertical, pyramid and off the charts delicious version of potato skins. Real cheddar, a scoop or two of cold sour cream and finished with chopped bacon - all apportioned well and so fresh. Its a saturated fat party and you must attend. SICK! Zero ambiance, tiny hut, spring time is a nice time to go - you can eat outside. It gets packed at lunch during the week. They also do a great job with dogs and all the other usuals. But its a burger thang. I would go back today if they were open. read more

Definitely a gem of a place. Nothing fancy. Few seats (although nice outside in the summer). But the food is excellent. Burgers, brats and of course their cheddar fries are a must. Seriously. If you don't order them I'll be sad. Expect long lines most of the day. But it moves quickly and they have the system down pat. Note: cash only. (If you're in a hurry know your order. And Italians beef comes up fast). Did I mention the cheddar fries? read more

Paradise Pup - Menu with one their outstanding staff working. - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

The hype about cheeseburgers from this place seems to be greatly exaggerated. It seems to me that it's one of those self perpetuating scenarios. There was a long line out the door when we arrived. After about a 20 minute wait, we placed our order and waited about another 10 minutes for our food. The beef of the burgers was good, but it did not appear to be hand packed. Biggest problem I had was the fact that the meat was not cooked to the point where I felt comfortable. As stated in other posts, I usually order Medium Well. When not given the option (not sure of any stands or fast food that does), I would expect at least Medium Well for safety reasons. The burgers my son and I got were Medium Rare at best. The thought of getting sick on this raced through my mind - I don't detest medium rare - just not my cup of tea! The toppings and bun were fresh. The fries were done just right. With Merkt's cheese option, they were delicious. The business needs to work on the anticipated demand concept - people are there to buy burgers! Have them almost cooked before the order is placed - easy to do when you have 25 folks waiting in line. I might try on a weekday to see if better, but probably not until my stomach settles down. read more

Paradise Pup - Long line on a nice Saturday! - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Yum, my mouth waters thinking about the awesome char grilled burgers. I order just a char grilled burger with grilled onions, and I was able to finish the whole thing without feeling super gross/weighed down. My whole family also felt the same way. It's nice to eat such a satisfying burger without feeling like you can't eat anything again for the next 2-3 days. Other things we ordered that deserve a mention: whole banana milkshake (sooo creamy), 3 layered fries (order it, you won't regret it), and holy moly what crispy onion rings. Only down side of this place is the huge Guy Fieri posters/pictures on the side of the building. P.S : CASH ONLY read more

Paradise Pup - My family and I enjoying our amazing burgers - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Over - Rated! I don't understand what's the big deal just because they pour a ton of Merks cheddar cheese on their hamburgers. I was actually going to give them two stars on Yelp but I gave them a '3' because it's a one-of-a-kind experience. The ordering process reminds me of the soup nazi in Seinfeld (not bec they are mean but bec how the counter is set up & how you keep moving to the left as you order, pay, pick up). Go early to avoid the lines. read more

Paradise Pup - Cheeseburger with Fries. Delicious!!!! - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

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When I order a beef, I like that bun to be soggy with delicious gravy, and I say I want it "dipped." But here you have to order it "make it wet." For some reason this strikes me as crass as a young lady ordering a beef and requesting "make it wet" to the gentlemen taking the order. Luckily, I'm as crass as they get. My pop, the 'hunter' for the family in terms of finding delicious good Chicago eats, 'found' this place by word of mouth alone about two years ago. And he hasn't quit talking about it since. He's a snow bird and lives in the warm sunny but barren of Chicago style beefs state of Florida. I've never seen the man salivate while talking about a restaurant quite like this before. He said to me "Portillo's got nothin' on these beefs." So I went. And it was good. Damn good. Best yet. That cheddar is so sharp, it will cut you. To order: - Italian beef with italian sausage, swiss cheese, sweet and hot "Make it wet" (ooooh baby) - cheddar dog (kiss your monthly sodium intake goodbye!) - triple layer fries (RIDICULOUS) - sour cream, cheddar, and bacon. read more

Paradise Pup - an italian beef with sweet n hot, swiss cheese, served "wet" - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

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Yes, everything is as good as the reviews say. The paradise pup is good, but my favorite is the char burger. My second favorite is the polish sausage. No ketchup needed on either because the taste is in the meat. The fries and onion rings are also good. The five stars are for the dogs, burgers, and sausage. Oh yum, yum, yum! If you just go there on a whim expect to wait...long...and just put up with it. Here's what we do at work. We give one guy at work a few bucks to drop off the order (and yes, you pay when the order is dropped off) for pickup the next day at 11:15. When he gets there the line is already 30 min long. He just walks past them all to the pickup window and walks out with the boxes of food. People die with envy every time. $10-$15/pp for lunch or dinner, depending on how big your appetite is. read more

Here's what you need to know: if I could give this place 10 stars, I would... BURGER PERFECTION - perfect quality of meat, texture, bite, seasoning, char, size, bun, toppings, price, and thee best customized merkt's cheese. I jones for burgers at least twice a week, and easily eat 100 burgers a year. If I ate paradise pup 50 of those 100 times, I would be a happy camper :) These brothers are improving the Chicagoland area with their offering; Any success they receive, they earn and deserve. There is no better charred backyard burger - that I've eaten through my extensive travels and culinary excursions - in America (and resulting my the world since our burgers are by far the best). The challah bun is just the right amount for a 1/3 lb thick, charred, perfectly seasoned patty. The grilled onions are spectacular and not too greasy. The merkt's cheddar cheese is thee best version of the Wisconsin cheese I've ever eaten. I always get a side of merkt's to dip my fries in - they have decent Kringle cut fries. They also make their own italian beef but I've never been able to try anything but the burger because why mess with perfection... Love Love Love paradise pup and will continue to patronize it forever. read more

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We went at noon on Saturday and there was a line around the building. Moved fairly quick, though, and was worth the wait. I'd recommend the American Char burger over the Cheddar. The Char pup was good, too. The buns were super soft and fresh. Best part was the Chocolate Malt + Oreo Shake. Yum!! read more

Paradise Pup - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

This is a no frills, greasy spoon, hot dog / burger stand type joint that every Chicagoan / Chicago suburbanite has come to love. The parking is limited and the seating outside consists of about 2 benches, so if you can... stalk the seating like a hawk and slam a jacket down and claim your turf while you wait for your food. If it's a nice day outside during your visit good luck though! The crew of guys inside who prepare the food and take your orders are friendly and have a good energy behind the counter. Nobody likes a dull crew right? Any who, the specialty at this place is the char dogs and the fresh burger. The char dog with all the trimmings is delicious and reps the Chicago dog well. The burger, while moist and fresh however, is good but lacks flavor. Add some lawrys or Morton's salt and this could very well be a perfect place amongst the seven kingdoms. read more

I dont think I've ever had a better burger (Cheddar Char Single/Double) than at Paradise. Its flippin' amazing. Let me explain: 1.) Their cheddar is Merkts...its completely different that what one is normally use to. These appears to be able to remain silky soft in Antarctica. It just melts, along with the meat. 2.) Their patties are one of the juiciest I have ever had the privilege of putting in my mouth. I dont think you need saliva for this. Go single patty unless you are a fearless warrior. 3.) Their bun is just right. None of that artisan bread/pretzel/ciabatta/glutinous stuff that confounds our judgement. 4.) The entire setup has that great charred BBQ flavor that we absolutely yearn for post-partum. 5.) If you just stare at the work of art, its so basic and simple with lettuce, tomato, raw+grilled onions (yeah, I did that) . And yet, it kicks the crap out of many many many places. 1.) Their fries are crinkle cut - need I say more? 2.) Their fries can be topped with Merkts cheddar - need I say more? Antarctica remember? 3.) Their fries can also have sour cream and bacon - these guys got have a PhD. in this I swear. 1.) Their cheddar char polish is a BBQ'd work of art; just like it's burger friend, its also charred to perfection. 2.) Once again, Merkts cheddar, what do you know about that? 3.) Raw+grilled onions on that bad boy...its like a revamped dirty dog Ok if you ate all of the above, you a massive food coma may ensue. GL. read more

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Since we were already out in Des Plaines to visit one of my favorite garden stores Pesche's we decided to check out Paradise Pup. I saw Paradise Pup on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dive's and since I love a great cheeseburger thought what the heck. First off, we did have to wait in line but it wasn't too bad. The total wait time was about 20 minutes. The line doesn't move fast as they prepare everything as it's ordered. It was a beautiful day so we didn't mind waiting outside and we also got to eat outside which was a bonus today. We ordered the Char Cheddar Burger and the Char Dog. The Char Cheddar Burger comes with Merkt's Cheddar which I'll admit sounded gross when I saw it on DDD. I love cheese but the thought of putting on a spread just didn't appeal to me. But I went with it and was not disappointed. The cheese added a great cheddary flavor and was nicely melted and oozing over the side of the bun. The bun was unbelievable! Soft brioche style with sesame seeds (I love bread). The burger itself was charred nicely and huge, 1/3 pound. We got it with everything grilled onions, mayo, ketchup and pickle. Very nice. The burger was cooked perfectly still had plenty of juices flowing, and nice beefy flavor. My only comment would be that the onions were sliced really thick, would have liked them a little thinner. I have to say that the Char Dog was my favorite. We had it Chicago style with cucumber, pickle, relish and mustard (no onions, or hot sport pepper). It was a skinny little char dog but loaded with big flavor. Also tried the crinkle cut french fries which were also excellent, very crispy, yet tender on the inside. Don't know if I'd drive out to Des Plaines for a special Paradise Pup trip, but would definitely stop by if I were in the neighborhood. It reminds me of Johnnie's Beef in Elmwood Park. Verdict: Good burger, great char dogs and fries. Stop by if you're in Des Plaines. read more

Paradise Pup - Char Cheddar Burger and Char Dog - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Always amazing even after all these years. I love their char broiled chicken sandwich and the 3 layer fries!!!

I've loved eating at this "joint" for years. I've turned so many people onto this establishment I should get a commission. First their three layers fries (fries, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and bacon bits) are awesome. The cheddar burger and cheddar chicken are superb. The use Merk's Cheddar and that make a world of difference. The shakes are a great accompaniment to the food. Unfortunately the pumpkin shake is no longer but the banana-chocolate is the next best thing. They even have a tuna pita sandwich for those of us who take part in Lenten meals. The only down side to this place is the parking. The lot only holds around 7 or 8 cars but don't let that stop you from visiting. The line out the door during lunch is a sure fire tell that this place is a local favorite. read more

Paradise Pup - Paradise Pup - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

After seeing this place on Drive-Ins, Diners & Dives, I wanted to make a trip to visit, so I grabbed my Italian beef connoisseur and set out for Des Plaines. This place is so teeny-tiny only about 10-15 people can fit in at a time. The few times I've been out there, the line is usually out the door. The food is really good (the connoisseur said the Italian beef is the best he's had), and I loved the layered fries. The cheese is pretty sharp, which was unexpected, but it was tasty. I can't wait to have the chocolate banana shake! read more

It's funny how this is the first place I go to as soon as I got back from vacation. Man, I was dying for a double cheddar burger from the Pup. I knew the drill. I stopped for cash on the way over. As usual, I had to wait a bit but then everything is cooked to order. The smell of charred beef was promising. As I bit into the cheddar burger, my brain stopped processing...what's that thing again?...uh...words. This was just soooo good. My peanut butter banana shake was a perfect side of overkill too. Nothing could disturb this joyful balance. Being at the Pup has always felt like being invited to someone's backyard grill, except that the guy doing the grilling has been perfecting his craft since 1983. For the sake of burger lovers everywhere, let's hope they never stop doing what they do best. read more

I was in the area and was in the mood for a double char dog, so I stopped here one day based on good Yelp! reviews, and I wasn't disappointed. I'm a Vienna Red Hot nut who grew up on them while growing up in Chicago, and who misses them terribly when I'm in my adopted city of Indianapolis. A few places serve them in the Indy area, but they're just not the same. The double char dog at Paradise Pup (no, I don't get them loaded -- just with American cheese, which they usually steam on the dog to melt it before serving, and pickle) was exactly what I was looking for -- very tasty and juicy in its simplicity, just as I would expect it to be. It's counter service and standing only, although it looks from the pictures like there are tables outside in the warmer weather. But if you go in the cold weather like I did, probably plan to take it home or eat in your car. One word of caution -- Don't raise the ire of the regulars by exiting out the the entrance door. I did this by accident and thought one guy in line was going to bite my head off. "IN, not OUT" he barked at me ... Sheesh! I'll be more careful next time! (Because there most definitely WILL be a next time!) Don't go at a busy time -- It's a small building and the line can easily back up out the door -- but DO GO! read more

Great lunch spot. This place has great food. Had an Italian beef topped with sweet peppers & caramelized onions. It was delicious. Burgers always fresh & equally great. Char dog & chocolate banana shakes also a special treat. This is a Chicago gem not to be missed. read more

Paradise Pup - Italian beef sandwich with sweet peppers & caramelized onions - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

This is most likely the best burger that I've ever had. No much for inside dining but you can sit outside if the weather is permitting

4.5 stars!! So I was sitting in my hotel room close to O'Hare starving for good food. I looked on yelp for some good deliciousness and found this gem. Given the stellar reviews I had to check it out. Paradise Pup does not disappoint! Everything is made to order. No precooking! Friendly staff. Not open all day so when it is open, expect a crowd. We waited 20 mins to order. Bacon cheddar burger: 4.5 stars delicious, juicy 1/3lb of charbroiled beef with perfectly cooked bacon! It seems to be a favorite among most! 3 layer fries: 3.5 stars. Not spectacular but definitely makes your fries a bit more exciting. Mozzarella sticks: 4 stars. Better than most. The marinara sauce is what makes these especially delicious. Banana milkshake: 4.5 stars. The creamy goodness within that cup is unspeakable. read more

Paradise Pup - 3 layer fries and bacon cheddar burger with grilled onions! - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Did not see it on DDD but heard all about the episode while we waited in line for half hour this past Saturday, in the rain, anticipating a damn good burger and it was! Fresh never frozen 1/3# patties, I got American cheese -- but they are known for their Merkt Sharp Cheddar spread burgers - grilled onions, egg twist buns, plain fries - perfectly salted, crispy, hot and a choc/banana shake - the creamiest I've ever had! Fantastic and well worth the wait. Take one for your gut - it's bound to be a bit rounder after this meal... mine was! read more

Don't be turned off by the long line!!! It is truly worth the wait. Hands down the best char cheddar bacon burger in town. We also tried the 3-layer fries and it is to die for with layers of sour cream, Merkt cheddar cheese and topped with lots of bits of bacon. Root beer float and strawberry shake topped everything off. Bring cash coz they do not accept credit/debit cards. Happy eating!!! read more

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Great Burger. Everything is always fresh made to order good service only downfall is they close early.

What the heck?!?!? Why didn't I read anywhere to not order a "Double" Cheddar Cheese Burger??? There's no way on earth I'm going to eat that and live to write about it!!! It was a wonderful Saturday afternoon in late October, so I hopped on the bike and went down to Chicago for what I thought was going to be a hotdog... Then I remembered reading an article online that the burgers at Paradise Pup are amongst the best in all of Chicago. That article couldn't have been more true! Holy smokes!!! Super delicious!!! Just be warned, the double is HUGE! I ended up pulling a patty off and still didn't finish. I am not winning any eating contests anytime soon I guess... Go there and get good food. You won't go wrong with a dog or a burger! read more

Paradise Pup - This is way, way too much food! - Fast Food Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Amazing food and friendly service!!!! The burgers w grilled onions are the best and my favorite.

I've been to this little shack many times through the years but I always got a Combo, so the other day I decided I'm going to get this much heralded Burger. I got a double on rye because I like 'em that way, and a Combo. I got everything on mine except tomato along with grilled onions. I take my first bite and yes the edges are charred and that was great but the patties were really dry and well done. There were hardly any condiments on it, and only a few slivers of grilled onions so it wasn't what I expected or read at all. Very disappointed. So I eat half the burger and get the Combo going because I know this will be good. Not so fast. The beef was really dry and barely covered the good sausage and the sandwich was really small, not what I've had in the past and only a tiny bit of giardiniera. Very disappointed again! Maybe I'll try the burger again but next time I want a beef I'll go to Johnnies or Luke's. I hope they didn't goof up the 3 layer fries. I don't want that memory squashed too. read more

Better be by lunch cause it's slammed the food is crazy good always can't go wrong here burgers & dogs are fire