Krekel's Springfield

Krekel's is a Springfield, IL institution.  It's a custard stand that specializes in super thin burgers.  Apparently in the past it was known for fried chicken, but it has achieved iconic status because of it's burgers and custard shakes.  The custard shake was very good, although to be honest I have little to compare it to.  The burgers other hand are outstanding.  They sell a single cheeseburger for 1.95, and consists of about 2.5 oz. of  beef cooked until it is crunchy.  I recommend the triple cheeseburger for 3.95, which is pretty close to a half pound of beef and three slices of cheese.  If you have been to the Billy Goat in Chicago, it is a similar size, however the burgers are slightly smaller at and definitely crunchier at Krekel's.  I know crunchy isn't generally a common adjective used with burgers, but in the case of Krekel's it works.  Additionally, unlike the Billy Goat, these burgers are NOT from a box.

I wish I could report the fries were hand cut, as the burgers are hand patted, but they are not.  As is common in Springfield, the fries are frozen crinkle cut (and as is always the case with fries out of bag, mediocre).  I suggest you use any calories you normally a lot for french fries for another burger or a bowl custard.  

This is one of several locations Krekel's has, most of which are in Decatur or a couple of small towns in central Illinois.

If you are in Decatur, I highly recomend you go ( or Pawnee or Mount Zion, IL), or if you are in Springfield and you have already been to Kozy Dog and Joe Roger's Chili Parlour.