New ‘Best Burgers in America’ Features Three Joints Close to Rockford

I hope I never end the hunt for the world's best burger.

Because exercises like these would be pointless. For every great burger experience I would have I'd reply with "well, I've already had the best so I guess this is second-best."

So that's why I was juiced when I saw Thrillist put together a list of the Best Burgers in America for 2021.

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I was also stunned to see longtime Chicago burger heavyweights Au Cheval and Kuma's Corner left off the list. The burger I told you about last week from Community Tavern was also missing.

That meant I was potentially getting a chance to set my sights on a couple of new burger joints.

I guess I lucked out because three of the best burgers in America can all be had in relative proximity to Rockford.

LET'S START IN WISCONSIN

Thrillist says Kopp's Frozen Custard in Milwaukee is a must for 2021:

...upon further review (Kopp's) has that magical alchemy of melty cheese, glutenous bun, and perfectly seasoned patties that only the greats possess.

NOW HEAD TO CHICAGO FOR A BURGER OR TWO

The Loyalist, in Chicago's West Loop also one of the best spots for a burger this year.

Thrillist:

The thick and juicy OG comes loaded with pickles, two slices of American cheese, and saucy onion-infused mayonnaise on a sesame seed while the Dirty Diane Burg steps it up a notch with maitake mushrooms, capers, black pepper, and a douse of Cognac for good measure.

JUST A COUPLE OF MILES AWAY

So close to The Loyalist, the last destination should be a stop at Fatso's Last Stand according to Thrillist.

There’s nothing quite like perching on a rickety picnic table along Chicago Avenue while devouring a Super Ooey Gooey (two smash patties bursting with bacon, cheddar, and spicy giardiniera) and wiping Fatso sauce from your chin.

Have you had burgers from either of these places before? Is it worth the trip? If I were to go to only one joint for a burger which would it be? Kopp's, The Loyalist, or Fatso's Last Stand?