Mikkey's Retro Grill

Author: Madeline Mahoney

Photographer: Karina Mak

A twenty minute walk from the North end of campus, Mikkey’s Retro Grill is a great option for students looking to satisfy their craving for a burger and some fries. Although placed in a decidedly modern building, the red and white décor gives the restaurant a fun, retro vibe. The space itself is quite cozy, containing three small tables along the window and a few chairs that serve as a waiting room for those who are picking up to go orders (which, with the new indoor dining restrictions in place, is all of us). A lengthy menu is posted behind the counter; Mikkey’s offers many different burgers, wings, shakes, and other indulgent options. The restaurant has counter service, and with a standard burger coming in at eight dollars, the prices are reasonable. 

After placing our orders, there was a short wait during which we could see the staff preparing our food in the kitchen. I got the jerk Impossible Burger. Even before trying the burger, I was impressed by the attention that went into making their interesting vegetarian options. I’m used to seeing the same classic veggie burger on every restaurant menu (that’s frequently more expensive than the meatier options). This was my first time trying a jerked meat alternative, and it did not disappoint. The Carribean spices added a kick to what would have otherwise been a replaceable meal. 

The snack pack was a bargain, offering three wings, fries, and a drink all for just  six dollars. The wings, which we ordered as Mikkey’s hot option, were more sweet than spicy. They were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, but the meat didn’t quite fall off the bone. The fries had good flavor but were on the soft side - I prefer the crunch of the curly fries from Bartlett. Is that just me? Finally, the oreo milkshake was good...but let’s just say, it was no threat to Kelis’.

Mikkey’s Retro grill is part of the YDYR restaurant group which operates several restaurants in Hyde Park and beyond. Through the Litehouse Whole Food Grill, also part of the YDYR restaurant group, they have given away more than 150,000 meals to those in need over the past seven years. If you’re looking for good value classic diner food, Mikkey’s Retro Grill is the place to go. For those who are able to, this is certainly the time to support a local Black-owned business, especially one that has historically supported and given back to the community. I’d especially recommend the jerk Impossible Burger to any vegetarians or curious omnivores.