When you're craving delicious food, nothing beats a classic Carolina burger complete with fries and an ice-cold, creamy milkshake. With so many burger joints in North Carolina, the options can be downright overwhelming. Fortunately, we've narrowed down the contenders and present to you what we believe to be some of the very best burgers in North Carolina. These local restaurants may be modest on the exterior, but what you'll find inside is the real backbone of simple, southern-style, flat-top cookin'. So gather your dining companions, bring your appetite, and prepare to be amazed by what these lovable burger restaurants in North Carolina have to offer.

1. Johnson's Drive-In, Siler City

Johnson’s Drive-In is the home of what many North Carolinians consider the best burger in the state: the Velvet Cheeseburger. This popular establishment has been serving up burgers, hot dogs, and French fries since it opened in 1946. When you visit this diner-style restaurant, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time in the best way. For more information about Johnson’s Drive-In, you can visit the website by clicking here.

2. Brooks' Sandwich House, Charlotte

What you get at Brooks' Sandwich House is no-frills, no-nonsense, mouthwatering food. One of the most popular orders is the cheeseburger topped with either bacon or chili (or both!) If you stop by early, you might even be tempted to try one of their breakfast sandwiches. Brooks' is typically open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Also, keep in mind that this spot is cash-only. For more information on this delicious burger joint, click here.

3. Melvin's, Elizabethtown

Melvin's has been around since 1938, so visiting is both a treat for the tastebuds and a fascinating insight into North Carolina's dining history. Visitors rave about the chili dogs and hamburgers, complete with a tall drink and a bag of chips. It's a true culinary experience that everyone should enjoy at least once! For more information on Melvin's, you can visit the Facebook Page by clicking here.

4. Clyde's, Waynesville

In the heart of the mountains lies one of the best comfort food restaurants you'll find. On your next trip to The Smoky Mountains, make sure to drop in and try a Pimento cheeseburger. Or, if you're anything like the diner who snapped this photo, a large pile of fries. Why not? For more information on Clyde's, click here.

5. Emma Key's Flat Top Grill, Greensboro

Distinguished as one of the "best burgers in the triad" Emma Key's brings Mississippi cooking to North Carolina. And hear the Hotel California burger is quite a crowd-pleaser. The diverse options spice up your usual burger, yet don't stray too far from classic. For more information about Emma Key's, click here.

6. Big Oak Drive-In & Bar-b-q, Salter Path, Atlantic Beach

It's not a beach trip without a shrimp burger from Big Oak! Sure it's not your conventional burger, but this seaside take on a classic meal is unbeatable. The fried shrimp burger is served with steamed buns, tartar sauce, slaw, hot fried shrimp, and ketchup. Learn more about Big Oak by clicking here.

7. El's Drive-In, Morehead City

Another contender for the best shrimp burger is El's Drive-In. But El's has so much more than just shrimp burgers. Grab a 'Carolina Style' hot dog or classic cheeseburger and you won't be disappointed! For more information about El's, click here.

8. Al's Burger Shack, Chapel Hill

Al's Burger Shack is the most sustainable, environmentally-friendly little joint that also provides some seriously delicious burgers. The whole interior is made from recycled wood from their old space, while the outdoor picnic tables are constructed from reclaimed wood. In fact, some of the steps are over 200 years old. Moreover, the burgers are made from 100% all-natural, pasture-raised North Carolina cattle. So, the cows are Tarheels too! As you've probably gathered from the photos above, Al's doesn't skimp on portions or flavors. Learn all about Al's by clicking here.

9. Beaches Burgers, Ocean Isle

Beaches Burgers is quaint, beach-y, and downright delicious. The quality is top-notch and the burgers are always fresh. Beaches is a favored vacation pit stop for many families. While the exterior is modest, the burgers are not! Click here to learn more about Beaches Burgers.

10. Pete's Burgers & More, Reidsville

This mom-n-pop shop does not skimp on the bacon, the flavor, or the burger. You can be sure the perfect greasy lunch is waiting just for you at Pete's. Pictured above is the triple cheeseburger. Is your mouth watering yet? Learn all about Pete's by clicking here.

What are your thoughts on this list of the best burgers in North Carolina? Which restaurants would you add to the list? We'd love to hear your thoughts — join in on the conversation by leaving a comment below!