
Excellent | Worth a Detour
Carl’s Drive-In
Review by: Michael Stern
Carl’s Drive-In has a style of burger found throughout the central Midwest south of Chicago and Milwaukee. It’s not unique to this area (The Sycamore Drive-In of Connecticut serves the same thing, calling it French-style); but it’s a must-eat on the trail of notable American hamburgers.
What to eat at Carl’s Drive-In
The Burger is slider-thin but significantly wider, getting smashed down hard on the grill as it cooks, its edges turning into a crisp filigree of glistening beef. It is thin enough that a double or a triple makes good sense, as does the addition of cheese plus lettuce, tomato, and all available condiments.
Burgers are the main attraction, but Carl’s also is a source for Midwest chili in multiple forms: as three-way chili and as a topping for tamales and foot-long chili dogs. The thing to drink is root beer drawn from the barrel, served in a frosted mug.
Expect to wait for a seat at lunch time. But not too long. Turnover is quick; and it is mesmerizing to watch the staff juggle cooking for sit-down and take-out customers.
Directions & Hours
Information
Price | $ |
Seasons | All |
Meals Served | Lunch, Dinner |
Credit Cards Accepted | No |
Alcohol Served | No |
Outdoor Seating | No |
What To Eat
Carl’s Drive-In Recipes
Discuss
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