Ahh... the mighty hamburger. The cornerstone of American society, pioneered by none other than Ray Crock himself. A juicy all beef patty submerged between two slices of bread and topped with whatever your heart desires. And that’s where it becomes fun. From the home cook to the professional chef, anyone can individualize a hamburger accordingly. That’s what the folks at Kuma's Corner have been doing for five plus years. And excelling at it I might add.
Featured on national and public television Kuma's has had a reputation for pushing the boundaries when it comes to hamburgers. From its avant garde approach to burgers down to its casual requiem that is metal, Kuma's truly has an identity that sets themselves apart from the competition. Even with the recent “slider” craze in the past few years Kuma’s has stuck to it guns dishing out nothing but a tasty plate of food that is Americana.
Located on Belmont Avenue in the Avondale neighborhood of Chicago Kuma’s Corner is indeed on a corner as its name suggests. Upon arrival you will most likely be presented by line of meat eaters pouring out the door, along with sound of Black Sabbath and the smell of char-grilled beef; the latter being the most enticing. So plan on at least an hour wait. But it’s worth it.
The menu is comprised of a few salads, a few appetizers, a few sandwiches and a lot of burgers. Twenty-three to be exact. And sixteen of those have some kind of pork product incorporated into its toppings. Whether it is bacon, pancetta, prosciutto, chorizo, andouille or pulled pork, the marriage between beef and pork has its place on the menu for the carnivore in everyone. You won’t find American cheese, ketchup, mustard or plain ole’ mayo on any of the burgers. They have gone above and beyond the conventional. Instead you will find toppings like roasted red peppers, bourbon soaked pears, chimichurri sauce, roasted corn salsa, grilled pineapple and the list goes on. A gastronomic burger filled heaven!
Another unique little quirk Kuma’s has going for itself is that all of the signature burgers have been named after metal bands like Slayer, Iron Maiden, Metallica and Pantera. Inspiration has been drawn from the music they love and infused product they serve. Even the ketchup served with the waffle fries has a spicy kick; I like to call it “death” catsup.
A Chicago institution and tradition, Kuma’s should be on your list of restaurants to visit at least once in a lifetime. There are so many aspects that make this restaurant a must. The beer list is comprised of many microbrews; the bathrooms are lined with pictures of pin up girls and nostalgic old school tattoo designs. They have whiskey on tap for Christ’s sakes! Go now.
Kuma's Corner
900 West Belmont Avenue
Chicago, IL 60618-5804
(773) 604-8769
www.kumascorner.com
