"Your cousin is in town for a work conference and wants to go to Au Cheval. You warned him about the long wait, but he insisted on at least trying. Surprise, surprise - he doesn’t want to stick it out. Go to Maillard Tavern in River West instead. You’ll have a number of different (all very good) burgers to choose from, from an old-school classic (with lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup, and pickles) to one with foie gras and truffle. The casual space is small, with wooden booths, tables, and a large bar. It’s a good spot to say “I told you so.”" - adrian kane