Love this place! Best burgers I've had in my entire life. Other menu items are generally great as well. read more

The Peanut Gallery - Menu Feb 20, 2026 - American Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

Stopped in at Peanut Gallery and tried the Shaolin Burger and the Korean Hot Chicken -- both were solid. The flavors were on point and everything tasted fresh. My only gripe is that it was a bit on the greasy side, but honestly it didn't take away from the overall experience too much. You order at the counter and find your seats either by the kitchen or dow stairs. The vibe inside is cozy and relaxed -- exactly what you'd want from a neighborhood spot. Prices are reasonable, nothing that'll make you wince. Would definitely come back and try more of the menu. read more

This is one of the best burgers o have had in a while! I was surprised how good it was! Also military gets 50% off so dont forget to ask! I came here with some friends and we walked up and placed our order right away. The inside had a very simple but inviting vibe with a self serve soft drink station. You place the order then grab a seat and theh bring the food out to you. I ordered the ODB burger and a side of cheese fries with ranch. The burger was so juice and very well seasoned with bacon that was a little too crispy for my taste.. but my friend's burger had bacon that was cooked perfectly and not crispy so we switched bacon straps lol. The sauce on the burger was really nice and the pickled jalapeños really complimented all the flavors nicely. The fries were cooked perfectly also with a satisfying crunch on the outside and pillowy soft in the inside. The ranch was just okay. Not a house made ranch, just a bit sour but still good. The cheese was also a nice touch but it ended up getting cold fast so dipping fries in it was a little challenging. They also serve ice cream here! My friend got a smores ice cream with pumpkin ice cream in it and the marshmallow qas perfectly toasted! It was beautiful! Ranch score: 6/10 Over all the service was good, the food was freshly made and absolutely excellent and the price is well worth the amount of food you get! I will definitely be back! read more

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Waited 15 minutes past the given timeframe for an online to-go order. When I got my order and opened it, they didn't even give me the top half of the burger bun. Only redeeming factor for two stars was that it tasted good. read more

Loved the kimchi fries and burger! Good place, chill vibes. Small inside but would def recommend for the food and the friendly staff

Looking for a good, seasoned smashed burger with good crispy edges? Looking for fresh cut fries cooked perfectly? Looking for a delicious milkshake to go with it? This is the spot!! The customer service was perfect! Shelby was an amazing person who had great ideas for good milkshakes. The only thing that I didn't like, and it's only because I'm not big on it, but the burgers were a little greasy... BUT THEY WERE SOOOOO GOOD...!! read more

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We went off the recommendation of friends claiming the best burger in the North Shore. With only a few tables, the evening crowd packed the small burger joint but the staff turned tables quick. Now the burgers are definitely something else! The flavors on the Shaolin and Iron Flag were a perfect mix of savory and sweet that carried the burger to the four star rating! The Seoul Fries were crispy but a little too saucy for what we were looking for but nonetheless packed with flavor. Definitely a noteworthy burger joint in the Northern Chicago suburbs if you're in the area! read more

Hole in the wall burger joint serving up a variety of smash burgers and chicken sandwiches with twists from Korean Kimchi to Nashville hot and garlic aioli. read more

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My first visit was memorable. I really enjoyed their ODB Specialty Burger. Only issue was the burger is so hot the styrofoam melts onto the burger. Had great flavor. Busy place, they have one table out back for Al Fresco dining. Had to finish with a scoop of CAPPUCCINO BREAK from Chocolate Shop Ice Cream. Very friendly staff offering samples of ice cream and a cup for water. read more

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The mad scientist/evil genius who came up with the menu at The Peanut Gallery knows a thing or two about umami. I mean, just reading the menu and imagining the burgers/sandwiches paints a pretty satisfying image, but then when you taste it...mwah! (Chef's kiss) I tackled the Shaolin Burger -- 2 patties, cheddar, carmelized onions, mushrooms, black garlic aioli -- TBH this burger was pretty intimidating -- very large and I was afraid to put the two halves together because I didn't think I could pick it up. So I used a knife and fork ( classy!) The beef patties were well-seasoned, had a good flavor but was a little greasy. The carmelized onions, mushrooms and black garlic aioli was very tasty -- I could have eaten a bowl of that. The fries are a very generous portion, although they were too crisp. The Shaolin burger was masterful at defeating my hunger pangs. It was pricey--my burger, fries and drink was $24. I would come back to try the ODB burger or Seoul fries. The ice cream/ shakes sound very tempting as well. read more

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I'd really say this place is a 3.5 star experience. It's a small shop but they have a bit more seating, as well as some arcade games, downstairs. I love the rap inspired burger names, bonus points for that. I had the iron flag burger, Seoul fries, and the keays to happiness shake. I'm embracing my burger snob arc and this burger was just okay for me. The toppings were well executed but the thinner gridded patties just aren't my preference. I found the flavor of this particular burger to be a little bland, on a return visit I think I'd just build my own burger. I WOULD come back for the fries and shake. The fries were great, both the fries themselves and the toppings. I also liked that the kimchi and sauce weren't just on top but layered into the fries so I never had a dry fry. The shake was a great finish. I don't know anything about zanzibar chocolate but it was very tasty. The workers were nice enough, while this seems like a counter style place they do bring you your food so there is some service. I would say I recommend this spot, the burger wasn't amazing for me but It was far from bad. read more

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I wish I lived closer!! Working in Lake Forest for a couple of days and wanted a burger. This is an amazing hidden gem. Menu is way above and beyond a normal burger spot (see pics). I had the dirty bird, and she was duuuuuuurty!! Messy, and surprising, and complicated, and so forking good. (See what I did there ) Fries were perfection. Small seating area inside, small seating area outside in the back, but the treasure is in the basement !! Prices are incredibly reasonable, considering the location. Milkshakes and ice cream seem to be kind of a specialty too. Definitely definitely going back!! read more

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Omg! Best burger in north shore. I didn't know you could make a double thin patty 'smash burger style' burger so amazing! Crisp yet moist. I just did blue cheese and burger! Simple! Hubby's ODB is amazing in its own way with the egg yolk and jalapeños. The fries was nicely salted and is an excellent vehicle for me to soak up whatever yolk, cheese and stuff mixture leaked out from his burger! Lol read more

The Peanut Gallery - people working in the kitchen - American Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

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When I think of restaurants in Lake Forest, The Peanut Gallery, or better yet, the style of restaurant that it is does not come to mind. One thinks of Lovell's, The Deer Path Inn, MLG (from Marcus Lemonis) and other rather more upscale locations. The Peanut Gallery is not in the same league as those other locations, however, it has stood the test of time and is a staple of downtown Lake Forest. It's a tiny place when you walk in. If there are 4-5 people in line to order, then you're standing outside waiting. There is seating along the opposite wall from the counter and a few table beyond the counter in front of the soda fountain. There is a downstairs area with a counter and two longer tables, a couple of arcade machines, and a TV. We each ordered our burgers and fries. It was definitely a messy burger, but it was juicy and kind of flavorful. They also have ice cream from Maggie Moo's. The ice cream is pretty good too. Overall the burgers were good and messy. Not sure if I'd want a greasy, messy, burger, but it had good flavor and is a nice spot if you're craving a burger and fries and ice cream. Great for families! read more

I found this gem on Instagram. One of the best burgers I have had in a long time. I ordered the Patti melt. Delicious! My husband had a blue cheese burger. We couldn't believe the amount of blue cheese on it! Fries were wonderful. The staff is super nice. There is limited seating as the restaurant is small. You can order from their website for pickup. Definitely worth checking out. I think they are going to need to find a bigger place soon. read more

Greasy burger that falls apart after the first bite. Overloaded with fries, but also greasy. Definitely not going back with these prices. Found a hair in my burger as well, kinda of ruined it for me. read more

The food is amazing! Best burgers I have ever had. The ice cream and milkshakes are also delish. The service is nice and you order at the register. The ambiance is amazing with a casual feel. read more

The Peanut Gallery - Single scoop of Zanzibar chocolate ice cream in a cake cone - American Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

So good. Literally the best burgers in the world. And their ice cream and milkshakes are to die for, especially Zanzibar chocolate. Staff is incredibly kind and welcoming. This will always be my favorite burger joint read more

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I love the service here and I've never had terrible food! My family and I go here all the time and love it! My only complaint though is that my egg the past four times on the ODB was overcooked ! It sucks because when it is done correctly it's genuinely the BEST burger in lake county! read more

Review written by military service member. The Peanut Gallery exceeded all my expectations. The food was absolutely delicious, and to our surprise, the restaurant even treated my group to a free meal. We were blown away by the exceptional service, the warm hospitality, and, most importantly, the outstanding quality of the food. We will definitely be returning for more! read more

This is by far the best burger joint in the north shore. The meat is cooked perfectly, food is served very hot, quick, cheese melted on, bread is fresh, and the signature sauce is amazing. This is a city caliber restaurant. The ODB is absolutely amazing. My kids love the chicken tenders. They are very good, crispy, and juicy. Finally, they have many different ice cream flavors. read more

Food was amazing and the service was great too. The fries were delicious and something I've never had before I would recommend! read more

The Peanut Gallery - Build my own burger - American Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

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This place is soooo good. Been here for five years and tried for first time three weeks ago and have been there again since. Shaolin burger is so good!! Everything is great. read more

This is the best burger in the Lake Forest Lake Bluff area. It's my go to for mushroom Swiss burger. It's a build it yourself. They also have fantastic ice cream and alcoholic slushies read more

My son just graduated bootcamp and wanted a good burger. This place did not disappoint. Burger was juicy and delicious! I would definitely recommend. read more

Our son said it was the best burger he has ever had. Shakes were great, service was great and overall recommend if you are looking for an excellent burger and fries (try the Cajun seasoned fries). read more

In town for the weekend , checked out this place and it was excellent! The staff was a great vibe and the food was extraordinary. 10/10 recommend! read more

great burgers and the thai fries were good. but the regular fries were just not my thing: too limp. very clean and wonderful service. takeout and eat in tables are available. read more

The Peanut Gallery - eating area - American Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

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Delicious and sloppy burgers dripping w cheese & everything on it, they were a mess but did enjoy. Order on-time, pick up a breeze, but someone behind the counter who touches the food didn't wash their hands bc an IMMEDIATE bathroom rush about 5 mins after we finished the foodthat only happens if non clean hands prepare food. read more

Finally got to try this place out today and I was so excited to do so! Went here for a fun date night after seeing the drool worthy pics of the burgers on the yelp-misphere. We're local so when my bf and I arrived, there was still some good parking available which was nice. When we first entered, I was enchanted by the fun drawing of Elmer fud in a Viking hat paying homage to a milkshake that says "Peanut gallery". It was super cute and totally endorsed that a fun atmosphere awaits. As you keep on walking, you are greeted by a small, quaint room with ice cream on the left and tables on the right. We were immediately greeted and asked where we would like to sit as they had the main dining area open with an additional dining area downstairs. To be honest, I was shocked that there was a second dining area because this place looks small when you first enter but the second dining area is easy to find when you see the stairs in the back. Anyways, I digress. We sat on the main floor and were given a paper menu. Our waiter was so sweet and attentive and gave us water glasses as well. Seeing that we were given actual water glasses instead of just plastic or paper cups was interesting because it speaks to the quality of this establishment. Now a days, it's rare that we are given actual water glasses so this was a welcomed change. My bf ended up ordering The Shaolin burger which consists of two patties, cheddar, carmelized onions, mushrooms and black garlic aoli. I ordered the ODB which consisted of two patties, American cheese, bacon, fried egg, pickled jalapeno and Billie sauce. For drinks, my bf got the Anti hero beer and I got the root beer rum float. Neither of us were crazy about our drinks but our feelings were quickly changed when we received our burgers. My bf loved his burger. He said the meat was tender, juicy and them patties were thick. The mushrooms added a nice subtle flavor while not being overpowering, the same with the onions. Super yummy. I enjoyed my ODB. The patties were perfectly cooked, juicy and thick. The bacon was thick which I absolutely loved and the fried egg, Billie sauce and jalapeños added some bite-y texture and tangy flavor which complemented the overall taste profile. It was delicious but honestly when I go back again, imma get that Shaolin burger because when i tasted my boyfriend's, it was just *chefs kiss* perfection! We ended our meal with the doughboy milkshake and the strawberry milkshake. Both were creamy, thick and absolutely delicious. Overall, this place is a dream. Customer service is great and the food is so good. It is a tad bit pricey but I thoroughly believe you get what you pay for here. While this place is just a regular old burger joint, the flavor, quality and quantity of the food here is superb. So come on in and try it, I promise you won't regret it. Oh and!!! They have the best creative names for their food items. I know when I come back and I have a sweet tooth, im totally trying their "brownie on crack". Haha! I mean with a name like that, who wouldn't?!?! read more

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Things looked so good online. We ended up taking the food to go because there was nowhere to sit as they only have five tables upstairs and a counter downstairs. by the time we got home, the fries were so greasy they almost broke through the bag. The smash burgers were good, but also super greasy. If you're young and have stomach, that doesn't upset easily it's worth it otherwise I'd pass. read more

As lifelong connoisseurs of burgers, my brother and I had some of the best burgers of our life yesterday at The Peanut Gallery! We both agreed that the caramelized onions were partially responsible for the elevated flavor, and while I enjoyed the generous portion of cheddar, my brother was amazed at the quantity of blue cheese on his burger. read more

This place was legit. One of the best smash burgers I've ever had. We got the OBD burger and the Buffalo Chicken sandwich. The egg on the OBD was perfect and took the burger to another level. No cheap bacon here either. The bacon was thick, juicy, and perfectly cooked. Bonus was we got 50% off for being in the service. Thanks Peanut Gallery! read more

The burger was Epic!! Make sure when you order the fries ask for crispy. The service was good. read more

The Peanut Gallery - The Seoul Fries - American Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

Way overrated. Takes forever to get ur meal. The burger is overpriced and full of grease. Hate to say but the lantern has a better burger and they suck too. read more

Excellent customer service and food!! Highly recommend! Ordered a create your own burger and it was delicious. read more

The Peanut Gallery - American Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

Went for lunch today with coworkers, this place is a gem!!!!! They took care of me for being military with great service and incredible food. Will 100% be coming back! Bonus downstairs they have an arcade nba jam game! Great establishment. read more

The Korean chicken sandwich I had was good, although it was very messy. I ended up eating it with a fork and knife. It was big so I cut part of it off and brought it home with left over fries. I loved the fries. This place has my very FAVORITE ice cream, "Chocolate Shoppe". I got a scoop to take home. The inside is tiny, maybe 4 tables. The music was good, Doors and Zeppelin while we were there. As it is now a-days it is expensive! read more

Good food and great service! The Buffalo fries are very tasty and the burgers are bomb!

Food here is always amazing! One of my favorite places to eat at. One thing I will say, the cooks need to remember that other people speak Spanish and understand everything they say. Maybe next time they shouldn't be swearing about it people coming in to order. Other than that food is 10/10. read more