You Gotta Try This: Vegan quesadilla burger at Pig Minds Brewing Co. in Machesney Park

Pig Minds quesadilla burger
The quesadilla burger at Pig Minds Brewing Co. in Machesney Park is made with an impossible burger patty, house pico, lettuce, smoked vegan gouda, cheddar and chipotle mayo in a grilled flour tortilla. (Photo by Kevin Haas/Rock River Current)
By Mary Sisk
Rock River Current
Get our newsletter

You Gotta Try This is the Rock River Current’s dining feature focused on signature dishes at your favorite local restaurants. Want to see one of your favorites here? Email news@rockrivercurrent.com to suggest a local staple. 

Where: Pig Minds Brewing Co.

Address: 4080 Steele Dr., Machesney Park

Owner: Brian Endl

Hours: 3-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; noon-10 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday

You have to try: Vegan quesadilla burger

What’s in it: Impossible burger patty, house pico, lettuce, smoked vegan gouda, cheddar and chipotle mayo in a grilled flour tortilla

More vegan food: You Gotta Try This: Organic vegan chili at Ripe Life Juice Co. in Rockford

Why you should try it: Head chef Brett Robatzek changes up the menu periodically, but the quesadilla burger has stayed on the menu for nearly three years.

Burgers are especially popular at Pig Minds for vegans and non-vegans alike, making it an easy transition food for hesitant customers.

“The quesadilla burger or the burger deluxe are what most people want,” Robatzek said.

(story continues below photo)
Burgers are especially popular at Pig Minds Brewing Co. for vegans and non-vegans alike, making it an easy transition food for hesitant customers. (Photo by Kevin Haas/Rock River Current)

The presentation of the burger is another unique aspect, being wrapped in a flour tortilla and served with your choice of side. The house pico and chipotle mayo add extra flavor to the dish.

“The chipotle mayo is really good,” Robatzek said. “It’s a fried flour tortilla, those are always good.”

Food at Pig Minds is also prepared with herbs from their herb garden behind the restaurant, giving the dishes a fresh taste.

More vegan food: Main Squeeze Vegan brings puts plant-based diet on the move with food truck

Not in the mood for a burger?

“Come try the tacos,” Robatzek said of other worthwhile options to try.

Pro tip: If you’re 21 or older (unlike me) order a beer with your meal, as they’re known for their original brews too.

The quesadilla burger is one of the most popular menu items at Pig Minds Brewing Co., 4080 Steele Dr., Machesney Park. (Photo by Kevin Haas/Rock River Current)

This article is by Mary Sisk. Email her at msisk@rockrivercurrent.com or follow her on Instagram at @maryrrcurrent