Zaab Burger

A rare thing happens at Zaab Burger, an Essex Market smashburger outpost of one of our favorite Thai spots in Elmhurst . The fries coated in chili and dehydrated makrut lime powder completely outshine the burgers. Don't get us wrong, the burgers themselves are still worth a pre-movie or lunchtime visit to the Market, especially if you order the ka pow version with an herby, spicy ground beef stir fry that almost gives a sloppy joe effect. But again and again, it's the fries, which don't even need a swipe through their spicy mayo, that we're drawn to take another bite of.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Will Hartman

Ka Pow Burger

This burger—made with a regular smash patty and stir-fried beef with chilis and basil—is cooked to a delightful state of lacy crispness. It's pretty intense, but the pickled jalapeño cuts through some of the grease. (We think it'd be even better with more Thai basil flavor, though.) Go with a single patty rather a double, because you're already getting a second patty's worth of meat from the kra pow.

photo credit: Will Hartman

Zaab Fries

If a bag of Takis Fuego hung out in Northern Thailand and then fell for a local potato, their love affair would probably taste like these. Crunchy, battered, bright, and a little hot, these are a non-negotiable order.

photo credit: Will Hartman

Khao Jee Burger

Remember buns made out of ramen? These buns are made out of sticky rice, and while the rice is as sticky as advertised, they’re a little bland and take away from the punch of the burger. Stick to the potato rolls.