Paradise Pup   

Chicago dog and burger purists find their little section of heaven on River Road in Des Plaines at Paradise Pup. Folks in line are usually salivating and confounded about which they'll choose: the char burger with its crispy exterior and two-napkin juiciness; or the iconic Chicago style hot dog with traditional topping and the soft steamed poppy seed bun. Order your burger any way you like -- but adventurous types may want to experiment with it Pup's way -- topped with soft cheddar from a Merkt's crock. Any way you slice it, it costs an easy $3.49. Frosty shakes in flavors like chocolate-banana, oreo and raspberry are nice additions. Blow the day's calories in one fell swoop; try the three-way fries: capped with the aforementioned Merkts Cheddar Cheese Spread, sour cream and bacon. For over 20 years, there has been a whole lotta eating going on inside cars because the place is tiny, with limited counter space and a couple of tables outdoors in summer.