There is something about Sunday that makes you want to wake up early and take advantage of the day. In my home, we try to get the grocery shopping and errands done during the week so once we have the full day to spend together we can enjoy it without stress of having to deal with, well really, anything.
If the sun is shining and the storm clouds are away, we typically set our sails for the closest city, Chicago! The main reason we travel to the city as often as possible, is because there is so much more to do with our fur daughter Gypsy. This big ball of energy is always up for an adventure and we try to take her with us anywhere we go. Before we venture off to get something to eat or explore some shops, we always take Gypsy to the Montrose Dog Beach first. After a couple of hours here, she behaves well anywhere else we take her.
We spent more time a the beach then we realized on this particular Sunday so we were pretty hungry by the time we got to our car. Another thing I love about the Montrose Beach area, is that there are so many activities going on. Although we parked a bit further than usual, we got to see a couple soccer games and families grilling on our way to the parking spot. The food smelled so delicious that we decided to find a restaurant with a patio so we all could sit and enjoy a burger. We were actually on our way to a different place when we spotted Big & Little's on Fullerton Avenue.
We initially passed Big & Little's on our way to another spot but the colors and lights made us turn around. Plus we saw another, smaller dog on the patio so we knew we could bring Gypsy along. It was around 3pm when we finally got here, starving. The outdoor are is super cute with string lights, art on the walls and a ping pong table. They even have a bags set if you prefer that. We decided to sit in the shade, which actually got pretty chilly for June, because we wanted to be respectful of the other couple who had their dog with them.
We sat down and shortly after a couple kids came over to pet Gypsy before they started playing ping pong. It was adorable because Gypsy was so curious about what they were playing and would fetch the ball once if flew off of the table.
The menu has a lot to choose from burgers, tacos, poke, burritos, salads and even dessert, When were were at the beach we could smell the burgers on the grill so I decided to get the classic double cheeseburger. Esteban decided on the Spicy Samurai Chicken Sandwich with Cajun Fries. **Their items do not come with a side so remember to order one if you're interested.
I have to say, we have been to a handful of "pet friendly" patios and I have to applaud this one. Big & Little's had dog bowls filled with water all around the patio. I know it is not a standard, but I always think "pet friendly" places should accommodate the dogs if they allow them there.
Now onto the important part of this post, THE FOOD! Please excuse this photo, we were so hungry that we started eating until I realized that I didn't snap a picture beforehand. Also, I realize I need some food photography help, more on that later. Esteban and I always split our food, which is why the sandwiches are cut in half. After I ordered the burger I realized I wasn't asked how I wanted it cooked, so I'm not sure if they typically make them like this or you should be asked, however the burger was cooked perfectly. It was a little chard on the sides and cooked thoroughly in the middle. The toppings were simple, yummy and had the perfect amount.
Now if the service and the atmosphere doesn't have you coming back, this Spicy Samurai Chicken Sandwich (we got grilled), will have you running back. The sauce on this was like nothing I have ever tried before. It was not really spicy but more tangy and tasted like teriyaki sauce mixed with buffalo sauce, my two favorite flavors for chicken. Thankfully my husband likes to share with me because we could not get enough of this chicken sandwich. Hands down the most amazing thing I have eaten in Chicago.
Honestly, Big & Little's on Fullerton is now one of my favorite places to eat and I cannot wait to go back. They even have a cute painting on the wall for a quick snapshot. This Sunday Funday was made special with Esteban and Gypsy and I can't wait to see what we do next weekend!
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