Chicago Willy’s: Burgers and shakes with plenty of flavor

The hamburger is something Americans never seem to get tired of, and its revered like no other fast food.

Chicago Willy’s in Auburn dishes out a tasty version of fresh ground chuck on a kaiser bun. Each burger comes with lettuce, tomato, pickles, red onions, relish, mayonnaise and mustard.

While there are plenty of other knock-your-socks-off burgers in this region, the prices at Chicago Willy’s are relatively inexpensive and will set you back just $2 to $6.

The menu: It’s all about the burgers, but there are a wide range of other choices: a fish sandwich; Chicago-style hot dogs; chicken sandwiches/burgers; fish or prawns and chips; tacos (new item); and chicken strips and fries.

Sides include chicken wings, chili, salads, deep-fried mushrooms or cheddar jalapeños and an all-you-can eat nacho bar.

Shakes, soft-serve ice cream and self-serve sodas or bottled pop round out the menu.

What to write home about: The shakes were thick, not overly sweet and flavorful. Our kids enjoyed the Creamsicle and banana shakes. There were 15 other flavors — from basic strawberry, chocolate and vanilla to Almond Roca, mocha, mint, root beer and pineapple.

The deep-fried mushrooms came out hot and crispy. Try them (and other deep-fried fare) with the secret Willy sauce, which resembles a mix of Thousand Island dressing and mayonnaise with a mildly spicy kick.

The setting: While it resides in a former Skipper’s, the décor is different, with brightly mural-painted walls, palm trees, two big-screen TVs and 21 bench-seat-style tables.

Summing up: A Willy Burger ($1.99), Willy Burger with bacon ($2.99), Kid Burger Meal ($3.99), two large milk shakes ($3.29 each), Double-Double Meal (burger includes two beef patties, two layers of cheese and bacon; $7.99) and deep-fried mushrooms ($3.29) came to $29.38, including tax.

Mark Yuasa: 206-464-8780 or myuasa@seattletimes.com

By Mark Yuasa