Beef Shack - Elgin

The food here is fantastic, but I have some advice: If you walk in and see them busy with a large catering order, it’s best to just turn around and leave. I visited the other day about 30 minutes after they opened, and there were around 10 staff members scrambling to prepare a big order. Two guys were at the counter—one talking on the phone and the other seemingly doing... who knows what. I stood there for five minutes, and neither of them bothered to acknowledge me or let me know to wait. I felt completely invisible. After five minutes with zero interaction, I decided to leave and find another place to eat. Clearly, my business wasn't as important as the large catering order they were handling. Oh well.

I ordered a hot dog and enjoyed my meal there, but the hot dog was only at room temperature. I decided to order another one, and while the bun was hot this time, the hot dog was again at room temperature. However, the fries were excellent. After that, I got a mini beef and it was tasty.

I really enjoyed the hot dog I ordered, although I wasn't too fond of the crinkle fries. The woman at the counter was very patient, especially since it was my first time there. My food was served warm, which I appreciated. They also provided me with plenty of napkins, unlike some places that skimp on them.

I'm sorry, the items on the menu can hardly be called a menu. 2 burgers, a hot dog, a couple chicken sandwiches and not much else that looks interesting. The burgers are fried even though they have a chain broiler like Burger King. The burgers aresupposed to be 6.8 oz, but who knows? The burgers are smashed so thin there's only one way to serve them- greasy! It tasted likepate'! And looked like wipped meat! The fries were just as greasy. No iced-tea either. I walked out of there for $15.50! What awaste of money. My colleague wasn't impressed either. I wish them well but we won't return. Go to Jimmy's Charhouse or BurntToast instead.

I had the chance to try a beef snack from a friend before I even knew about this place, and I promised myself I would come and check it out when I could. So, on a Tuesday, I visited and found they had a hot dog special for just $1. I definitely took advantage of that! I ended up trying a few cheeseries and really enjoyed them. I can confidently say I will be coming back here more often!