Kuma’s Corner

Bring your earplugs before hitting this heavy metal biker 'n' burger haven

Why it’s nominated: Succulent ground beef burgers made fresh; unexpected harmonies among the moshpit of flavors mashed together—all formed in the crucible of creation long before boutique burger trend was given birth. Plus, hefty doses of gnarly heavy metal.

What they make: At Kuma's, a steely stomach’s a prerequisite, whether you've chosen the Lair of the Minotaur (caramelized onions, pancetta, brie, bourbon-soaked pears), the Iron Maiden (avocado, cherry peppers, pepper jack cheese, chipotle mayo), or the Plague Bringer (roasted garlic mayo, tortilla strips, house made hot sauce, fresh garlic, pepper jack cheese, sliced jalapenos). Come to think of it, a defibrillator might not hurt, either.

The scene: Some restaurants are meant for contemplative moments, polite conversation, and maybe a nice cold glass of Chablis. Kuma's Corner is not one of these restaurants. Consider the gruff ground rules you'll find placarded on menus and throughout the propaganda, from the warning that the establishment's proprietors—bearing the requisite tattoos, piercings, and road-weary comportment—will not "put on the game bro," to the opprobrium on music requests. Then there's the music itself, a thick carpet of aggressively loud sound, all of it angry and most of it drawn from the darkest reaches of the heavy metal canon. Would the gentleman like some Sabbath with his Slayer? Kuma's corner isn't for dates (unless she has some serious tattoos), and it most certainly isn't for business (unless, you know, you're one of several death metal bands that frequent the place). It's a mess hall for demons, an evil temple to the manliest food in America, a haunt for axemen, bikers, and groupies. Come get some.

Quote: From Kuma’s Corner’s website, explaining the restaurant’s name: “As the Tyrant’s eyes flickered red and hooks spewed forth from his hands and horns from his ears, Kuma now knew her opponent. As the Tyrant reeled to strike, Kuma reacted. With a flash of insight and the knowledge of the world, Kuma used the last of her powers to transform into an Akita. Lunging at her foe, she took a chunk from his steel clad neck. The bite was so strong and deep it tore out the tyrants spine, with the brain still attached.”

The take home: Hefty burgers require the reinforcement of a hearty bun to withstand the weight of piled-high toppings. If you’re making a monster burger, opt for the strength of Kaiser roll, sourdough bun, or a brioche roll.

2900 West Belmont Avenue
Chicago, IL 60618-5804

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