The 50 Best Burgers Across the U.S.

Butch Cassidy’s Café in Mobile, Alabama, has been a neighborhood favorite since 1993 (established by Roy Seewer), known especially for its signature burger, the “Now Famous” Butch Burger. The Butch Burger is a nearly 9-ounce, "almost plate-sized" patty, served fully dressed with bacon, cheese, lettuce, onion, tomato, and exactly four pickles. Butch Cassidy’s emphasizes freshness and attention to detail: all food is cooked to order, and the restaurant offers daily specials, a low-carb menu, and a lively atmosphere, including live music and happy hour.

Nora J., one of the nominators for Butch Cassidy's Cafe, highly recommends the Butch Burger as the best burger in the establishment. She added that the burger is "cooked to order," making it, quite simply, "great food."

Club Paris has been a downtown Anchorage staple since 1957, widely regarded as the oldest steakhouse in Anchorage. But what many might not know is that the burgers also reign supreme here. When it comes to burgers, Club Paris treats them like miniature steaks: the hamburger beef is ground in-house, using high-quality cuts. The filet mignon burger section includes specialty versions, such as the Teriyaki Burger (ground tenderloin with Swiss cheese and a pineapple ring) and a Bacon Cheddar-style burger.

Original Hamburger Works is a casual, counter-serve burger joint located in Phoenix, Arizona. These burgers are mesquite-broiled over charcoal, not gas, which gives them a distinctly smoky, grilled flavor. Original Hamburger Works offers a wide variety of specialty burgers: the Big One is a classic choice, plus there’s the Border Burger (jalapeño cheese & grilled green chili), Fiesta Burger (guacamole, bacon, jalapeño cheese), Hawaiian Burger (teriyaki, pineapple, provolone), and a Bacon Cheese Burger. 

Hugo’s has been a Fayetteville mainstay since 1977, located in a cool basement spot at 25 ½ North Block Avenue, just off the Historic Square. It serves classic American fare with an eclectic touch—homemade fries, craft and seasonal beers on tap, and desserts like grasshopper crepes. The burger menu is a big draw: Hugo's uses 100% Black Angus beef, offers flat-top-style cooking, and burgers include options like the Bleu Moon Burger (with melted bleu cheese), Smoky Cheddar Burger, Guacamole Burger, Swiss & Bacon Burger, and a Jalapeño Cheeseburger, among others. 

The Peg House is a rustic general store, deli, and grill nestled along Highway 101 in Leggett, surrounded by redwoods and near the Eel River. It’s built in a historic post-and-beam redwood structure held together with wooden pegs—hence the name.

The burger menu here is a huge draw for travelers, who indulge in menu items like the grass-fed beef burger, a Salmon Burger, Big Foot Burger, Sunset Burger, Ortega Burger, Aloha Burger, Wildwest Burger, plus vegetarian and vegan options. The Peg House is well known for unique burger combos, such as the Apricot Brie Burger, and a nominator recommended "Lost Coast Burger" (thanks, Diana D., for the tip).

Bob’s Atomic Burgers is a local favorite in Golden, Colorado. It makes burgers the old-fashioned way: fresh-ground beef patties cooked to order, not premade or frozen. The place offers a “build-your-own”-style burger where you fill out a burger sleeve specifying your bun, cheese, and toppings, with options including green chiles, grilled onions, fried egg, bacon, and specialty sauces.

Bob's also caters to non-meat eaters: there are quinoa and black bean burgers available. One of its specialty offerings is the White Bronco, topped with a hashbrown patty and blue cheese.

Zack’s Burgers & Shakes is a casual burger joint and a fan favorite in Connecticut. The menu emphasizes fresh ground burgers with classic options like the Black & Blue Burger, Mushroom Burger, Baja Burger, High Road Burger, and a Build-Your-Own Double Smash Burger. Alongside burgers, it serves milkshakes and classic sides. Diners praise the juicy patties, friendly service, and solid value, making it an easy addition to our 50 Best list.

The Farmer & The Cow is a burger-and-bourbon restaurant located in downtown Wilmington. This restaurant believes in quality: the burgers are made with a house blend of brisket, chuck, and filet, ground fresh (never frozen) and cooked on a flat-top griddle.

Specialty burgers include the FTC (bacon, minced onion, house sauce, housemade pickles, American cheese), Moo Caliente with habanero relish, Reaper aioli, onion straws and avocado crema, and That’s What Brie Said, topped with brie, prosciutto, and bourbon pear. Beyond burgers, it offers creative sides (like seasoned tots), over 400 whiskeys, craft cocktails, and elaborate milkshakes.

Blue Dot Barbecue, a Pensacola institution since 1946, is renowned for its no-frills approach and exceptional burgers. This cash-only eatery offers a straightforward menu featuring a classic hamburger topped with mayo, mustard, onions, and tomatoes. For an extra kick, patrons can opt for the BBQ Hamburger, which includes a generous serving of tangy barbecue sauce.

Despite its humble appearance, Blue Dot consistently delivers flavorful, juicy burgers that have earned a dedicated following. Just asked patron Jimmy S., who recommends you "get there early...it's only open for lunch and sell them till they are gone for the day."

Willie’s Famous Burgers & Fries is a family-run burger joint located in Dalton, Georgia. Established in 1991, the restaurant is known for its fresh, made-to-order burgers crafted from 100% certified Angus beef patties. The menu features a variety of specialty burgers, including the Slammer series, which are topped with Willie's signature chili sauce, mustard, pickles, and onions.

The restaurant also offers a selection of sides such as hand-cut fries, onion rings, and fried zucchini, along with real ice cream milkshakes in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Shelly W., who was one of the nominators for Willie's, said, "The Willie’s Smash burger is my fave. The Lil fish sandwich runs a close second."

The Daley is a contemporary smash burger joint located in Honolulu's historic Chinatown. Founded by Danny Kaaialii and Jonny Vasquez, it offers a straightforward menu centered around quality ingredients. The signature Daley Burger features a Kaua‘i grass-fed beef patty, American cheese, house-made "Boss sauce," and diced onions, all nestled in a toasted La Tour potato bun. For those with a heartier appetite, the Double Down adds an extra patty and slice of cheese. Sides include classic crinkle-cut fries and Ho Farms pickles.

Main Street Burger is a beloved local spot in Meridian, Idaho, known for its classic American fare and friendly service. The menu features a variety of juicy 1/3-pound burgers, including favorites like the Bacon Cheeseburger, Bourbon Bacon Burger, and Guacamole Bacon Cheeseburger. Each burger is crafted with fresh ingredients and served with crispy fries. The restaurant also offers milkshakes and a nostalgic atmosphere that keeps patrons coming back.

Kuma’s Corner is a renowned burger bar with locations in Illinois, celebrated for its bold, heavy metal-themed burgers. Each burger is named after a legendary metal band and features creative, hearty toppings.

Signature burgers include the Kuma, topped with applewood-smoked bacon, cheddar, a fried egg, lettuce, tomato, and red onion on a pretzel bun, and the Plague Bringer, featuring deep-fried blackened chicken tenders, cheddar, bacon, Belgian waffle strips, maple syrup drizzle, and raspberry aioli. The restaurant also offers a rotating Burger of the Month, which becomes increasingly inventive and delicious.

The Workingman's Friend has been serving the community since 1918. Known for its classic American fare, the establishment offers a variety of dishes, including the Big John, a hearty sandwich featuring a breaded pork tenderloin. But we're here to highlight the burgers at this joint, which are as fresh and delicious as they come. Enjoy a double cheeseburger and onion rings, paired with a Schooner of Bud Light, and you'll be in heaven. Just make sure to bring cash to this cash-only spot.

Big Head Burger is a locally owned burger joint known for its flavorful smash-style burgers and inviting atmosphere. The menu features classics like the Classic Burger, topped with Big Head sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and cheese, as well as the Bacon Cheeseburger with crispy bacon and melted cheese.

For a unique twist, try the Big Head Fries, which are seasoned fries topped with beef, cheese, Big Head sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle. Pair any of these with a homemade milkshake, and you have a slice of nostalgia in one meal.

Do-B's Burgers, located in Emporia, is a beloved local eatery known for its hearty burgers and Southern-inspired sandwiches. The diverse menu features options like the Luau Burger, topped with grilled onions and pineapple in a teriyaki glaze, and the OMG Burger, which includes pastrami, grilled onions, and pepper jack cheese. Vegetarian options, such as the Black Bean Burger with fresh avocado, are also available, so don’t worry if you have dietary restrictions.

We’d be remiss not to mention the Carolina Reaper Burger Challenge, for those who want to test their spice tolerance with the world's hottest pepper. Or, if you want something a little less spicy, Hannah G., a fan of Do-B's, suggests the Creole Gouda Burger—which had me at gouda.

Mussel & Burger Bar, in Louisville, offers a gourmet twist on classic American fare. The burger menu features inventive options like the Bacon Breakfast Burger, topped with caramelized onions, aged white cheddar, maple syrup aioli, glazed pork belly, and a fried farm egg. The Argentinian Burger combines a brisket-sirloin patty with provolone, caramelized onions, chorizo, chimichurri sauce, and arugula.

For a unique flavor profile, the C.E.O. Burger includes Gruyère cheese, truffle aioli, caramelized onions, and oven-roasted tomatoes. Each burger is served with pommes frites and showcases the restaurant's commitment to quality and creativity. These aren’t your average burgers by any means.

Located in Leesville, Fatboy & Skinny’s occupies a vintage gas station, offering a nostalgic setting for burger enthusiasts. The menu features a variety of burgers, including the Fat Boy, a classic olive burger with mayo, lettuce, tomato, and cheese; the Bacon Mac N’ Cheeseburger, topped with homemade macaroni and cheese; and the Sweet Jalapeño Bacon Burger, combining sweet jalapeño sauce with crispy bacon.

For those with a hearty appetite, the Sloppy Boy is a 1.5-pound burger loaded with multiple toppings. The restaurant also offers hand-cut fries, onion rings, and milkshakes made to order. It’s the food, of course, that draws people in, but the retro charm and flavorful offerings really elevate the meal.

Blazes Burgers, located in Westbrook, Maine, is a locally owned burger joint known for its fresh, flavorful offerings and ultra-friendly service. The menu features a wide variety of burgers, many of which are inventive and fun. A fan-favorite is the Crack Cheeseburger, topped with grilled onions, bacon, a choice of cheese, and a signature Feisty Feta spread.

For those seeking a spicy kick, the Jack Burger combines jalapeños, habaneros, pepper jack cheese, and buffalo sauce. Blazes Burgers has earned recognition for its quality and customer satisfaction, making it a must-visit spot for burger enthusiasts in the area.

Leo’s Smash Burgers & Dogs offers a modern twist on classic comfort food in Maryland. The menu features creative burgers like the East Coast Animal Style, which includes a mustard-seared beef patty, secret sauce, Monterey Jack cheese sauce, lettuce, tomato, griddled onions, and bread and butter pickles. Another standout is the Dad's Burger, topped with smoked gouda, millionaire bacon, bread & butter pickles, chipotle ketchup, and griddled onions.

For a unique flavor combination, try the PB&J Burger, which combines a beef patty with applewood bacon, peanut butter, grape jam, and pickled jalapeños. Sides include shoestring fries, sweet potato fries, and hand-spun milkshakes in various flavors. Suzanne, who nominated Leo's, raved about the place, saying, "amazing burger joint and there’s nothing like it anywhere around."

The Cormorant, in Newburyport, Massachusetts, is a cozy, family-friendly eatery celebrated for its inventive smash burgers and nostalgic diner vibes. The burgers here are top-notch, with creations like the Hangover Burger, featuring double patties, pepper jack cheese, bacon, a fried egg, and bacon beer aioli, and the Elotes Burger, combining street corn salsa, pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, and red onions. Sides include hand-cut fries, beer-battered onion rings, and a rotating veggie of the day.

The Cormorant also offers a selection of boozy milkshakes and floats, making it a must-visit spot for burger enthusiasts in the state. Need some more convincing? Ask this Massachusetts resident, who nominated The Coromorant, "The burgers are the star, but the milkshakes (with and without booze), pies, and cakes are homemade and luscious! Very low-key exterior, so friendly and welcoming inside. And no tips are requested—they pay their people [fairly]!"

The Outsider in Manistee, Michigan, is a vibrant eatery that combines delicious food with a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Renowned for its smash burgers, the Outsider Smash features a double patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and the house-made Outsider sauce. Other popular options include the Oh My! Smash, topped with two onion rings and BBQ sauce, and the Nordhouse Smash, which boasts Swiss cheese, Guinness-braised mushrooms, and spicy mustard.

Guests can enjoy meals in the open-air beer garden or inside while playing vintage arcade games. The Outsider also supports the community by donating 10% of Sunday sales to local nonprofits through its "Sunday Funday" initiative. Local Maggie F. says of The Outsider, "[it's] helping to revive the West End of Manistee. [There is a] large outdoor patio right by the city marina on the riverwalk. Great smash burgers."

Blue Door Pub, with locations in Minneapolis and formerly in St. Paul, is renowned for its inventive take on the classic Juicy Lucy, locally dubbed the Blucy. This signature burger features a beef patty stuffed with blue cheese and garlic, delivering a rich and flavorful experience. Other notable Blucy variations include the Bacon Blucy, which incorporates smoked bacon and cheddar cheese, and the Cajun Redux, offering a spicy kick with a five-pepper cheese mix and pepper jack cheese.

The Blue Door Pub has won top acclaim across the board, being featured on TV shows like Food Paradise, Man v. Food, and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, solidifying its status as a must-visit spot for burger enthusiasts. But even locals rave about them. Just ask Gerry, who nominated Blue Door Pub, saying, "get the Juicy Lucys (they call Bluesys because they have blue cheese in them). Lots of interesting sides as well. My favorite burger is the Cease and Desist."

Stamps Super Burgers in Jackson has been a beloved local institution since 1986. Renowned for its 11-ounce Super Burgers, each patty is hand-seasoned and made fresh daily. Signature offerings include the Super Cheeseburger and the Double Super Cheeseburger, both celebrated for their juicy, flavorful profiles.

Complementing the burgers are the famous lemon pepper fries, cut fresh and seasoned to perfection. The menu also caters to diverse preferences with options like turkey burgers, vegan-friendly choices, and classic sandwiches.

White Grill, located in Nevada, Missouri, has been serving up classic American fare since 1938. Imagine slinging delicious, quality burgers for over 80 years! Renowned for its hand-patted burgers made from fresh ground beef, the grill offers a nostalgic dining experience. A standout item is the Suzie Q: fresh-cut curly fries seasoned to perfection. Pair that with one of the famous fresh Whistleburgers, and you’ll be in for a real treat.

This is a no-frills spot doing big things. A long-time customer, Janice, recommends the "cheeseburger with grilled onions and the Suzie Q's, [paired with] a handmade chocolate shake."

Grass-fed smashburgers are the name of the game at Wally & Buck, a Missoula burger bar that prides itself on using the highest quality, locally sourced meat a la Oxbow Cattle Co. Beef. The eponymous Wally Burger is a no-brainer: Tillamook cheddar, bacon jam, accompany lettuce, onion, and tomato on a Brioche bun, and word on the street is, this burger wins over every bacon-cheeseburger lover it meets.

Family-owned since 1936, Stella's has honed the art of the burger over the years, earning Omaha’s Best Burger award 16 years in a row, as well as Nebraska’s Best Burger by the Nebraska Beef Council. Stella's burgers include 6.5 ounces of fresh, hand-pressed, never-frozen ground beef patties, a Rotella’s Hamburger Bun (delivered fresh every morning) with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, and real mayo. Nominator Bob O. suggests "The Stellanator, [which] makes Stella's unique all by itself. Voted best burger numerous times for many years...it won't disappoint."

It's difficult for a restaurant to stand out in Las Vegas, a place with a massive dining scene, and yet that's exactly what With Love, Always, manages to do. The eatery is known for its epic smashburgers in a nostalgic, vibey diner that appeals to both early birds and night owls. Pro tip: level up your burger with fresh jalapeños and grilled onions, and thank us later.

Sierra R. notes what makes With Love Always so special is that "it has a simple menu." "But what makes this place amazing is the high-quality ingredients and 'love sauce' that takes it up a notch. The smash burger patties have that crispy lace, and it's so good."

We received tons of nominations for Tuckaway Tavern and Butchery, and our readers aren't alone in their praises of this New Hampshire restaurant. Guy Fieri called the restaurant "a carnivore emporium" and named it one of his top five restaurants. What's more, over 6,300 Google reviews praise Tuckaway Tavern for its burgers, with the Real Burger King giving a certain crown-topped royal a run for his money.

Marty's is a New Jersey staple known for its neighborhood vibes and darn delicious burgers. Always fresh, never frozen, Only In Your State readers love Marty's Classic with fries and a shake, with folks calling out the house sauce as a thing of beauty.

Buckhorn Tavern boasts a seriously stacked resume: the Buckhorn Burger is iconic, landing on Bobby Flay Throwdown on Food Network, and more. So what's in the Buckhorn Burger? It's a green chile cheeseburger with mustard, tomato, lettuce, chopped onion, and pickle, and Only In Your State readers claim it absolutely belongs on any burger lover's bucket list.

A staple of Woodside since 1967, Donovan's is your classic, neighborhood pub in Queens with a solid menu that's stood the test of time. Burger aficionados absolutely need to try Donovan's classic hamburger, a perfectly executed burger that you'll be thinking about long after the last bite. Hot take: swap the fries for onion rings.

Hailed as the best burger in America, Al's is all about the process: 100% Angus ground chuck, always fresh, hand-pattied, individually seasoned, and cooked to order. The toppings are fresh and made "in shack," and the shakes are made with frozen custard from local creameries.

The attention to these details pays off, with Al's burgers earning rave reviews—ask co-owner Charlie Farris, who recommends his favorite burger, "the Mookie, topped with Wisconsin Blue Marble cheese (a bleu and Colby Jack blend), bacon-onion jam, and roasted garlic aioli."

Old 281 Tavern is a classic North Dakota restaurant with a log cabin exterior and no-frills aesthetic, complete with paper napkin dispensers and a hand-written menu. Winners of the best burger in North Dakota, diners especially love Old 281 Tavern's Au Jus Burger: "it's everyone's favorite!" say the owners.

Senior Editor Sarah McCosham was more than excited to have Zip's Cafe represent Ohio for Only In Your State's 50 Best Burgers. Sarah's dad introduced her to the Zip Burger 35 years ago, but Zip's has been around much longer, celebrating 100 years of operation in 2025. During this time, Zip's eponymous burger has become a cult classic—Sarah's dad still gets a Zip Burger every year around his birthday.

Oftentimes, when a restaurant touts two specials, one (or both) ends up being a bit of a weak link. Not at Johnnie's Hamburgers & Coneys, where each of these All-American classics has garnered a cult following. The onion burgers from this Oklahoma spot, however, are legendary, with diners noting that Johnnie's nails the allium-to-meat ratios, resulting in the perfect bite each time.

Portland's food scene is unrivaled, though the town is most known for its food trucks and global flair. Portland Burger is neither of these things; this no-frills eatery specializes in the classic, all-American burger, and what it does, it does it well (done).

You can't go wrong with anything on the menu; however, we're partial to Portland Burger's more creative culinary combos (Angry Jalapeno and Fat Boy Slim, we see you) and special shout-out to the Amanda, a perfectly charred Impossible Burger that vegans and non-vegans absolutely adore. Never change, Portland Burger.

While Philly's dining scene is touted as one of the best in the U.S., Pittsburgh is a dark horse that will take your stomach—and taste buds—by surprise. Nowhere is this more true than Tessaro's, where Chef Kelly Harrington's back-to-basics burger has garnered a cult following in (ahem) The 'Burgh.

A Rhode Island favorite for nearly a century, Polish immigrant Stanley F. Kryla opened Stanley's in 1932 in the midst of the Great Depression with one goal: to give people an affordable American hamburger using the freshest ingredients and top-quality beef. Against all odds, "Stanleyburgers" became known region-wide and today, Stanley's Famous Hamburgers continues the vision of its founder, dishing up darn delicious burgers at unheard of prices—a classic Stanley Burger costs just $3.49.

There's smashburgers and there's Smashley's, and once you've had the latter, life will never be the same. Diners flock to this North Charleston hotspot for the signature OG Smashley's. Even owners Ashley and Victor said the perfect place to start for first-timers is with "the O.G. Smashley’s with caramelized onions, house-made burger sauce, and cheddar cheese. [It's] what started all of this!" Veg-curious customers should definitely try the Southern Buddha, a plant-based patty topped with fresh pickles, sweet chili sauce, and spicy mayo.

Nick's Hamburger Shop is your classic, all-American diner with a menu of tried-and-true standbys that have earned the restaurant repeat customers over its nearly 100 years in operation. Order a bag of Nick's world-famous hamburgers and see why folks have been coming back since 1929!

The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden in East Nashville is a bit of a hidden gem, but once you've discovered it, there's no going back. The Pharmacy serves up impossibly juicy burgers made with fresh, locally sourced beef (the signature, bespoke buns c/o Frothy Monkey Baker, no less) for an unrivaled umami bomb of pure pleasure. Paired with a classic, hand-made soda, a meal at The Pharmacy is just what the doctor ordered, in our humble opinion.

Family-owned and operated Bubba's Texas Burger Shack has been slinging up buffalo burgers in "the place under the freeway" since 1985. It was the first restaurant in Houston to sell American Bison burgers back in the '80s, and you'd be hard-pressed to find a better buffalo burger in Texas.

Located in a quirky purple building with (you guessed it) a giant burger-slinging turtle as its mascot, the Purple Turtle Diner has been dishing up a heaping helping of all-American cuisine since 1968—in the same location, no less.

Come for a burger, fries, and a shake, stay for vibes (and the signature fry sauce, a savory-sweet liquid (rose) gold that's sold by the pint). Nominator Jacqueline W. suggests "the brownie shake" as the perfect addition to "the best burgers in the state."

Broken Hearts Burger had us at the tagline: "American Food Made The Way It Always Never Was," and Only In Your State readers praised this Vermont spot's commitment to the all-American burger: unapologetically messy, extra, and crave-worthy. Broken Hearts doesn't have a phone number but welcomes online reservations, and if you're feeling spontaneous, this restaurant welcomes walk-ins.

Bring a hearty appetite to Viking Burger, where the burger-to-bun ratio skews heavily toward the meat. Since opening in 2014, Viking Burger has become a fan favorite in Newport News, with the restaurant offering welcome counter-programming to the town's fish-forward dining scene. The menu items feature Viking-inspired names (Thor, Odin... you get the point), but the eponymous Viking Burger is the way to go: a juicy cheeseburger slathered in Viking sauce (a.k.a. liquid gold).

In Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, Ox Burger satisfies appetites for the classic and the creative. The restaurant's bacon cheeseburger (the Deluxe if you're looking at the menu) is perfection, as is the Lao Burger, an umami-packed punch of beef, pork belly, provolone, and jaew bong mayo. With a side of hand-cut fries and slaw, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more satisfying meal in Seattle.

With an on-site butcher shop, West Virginia's Farmer's Daughter does things the old-fashioned way, and delightfully so. Lunch is served 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and the House Burger—dry-aged beef, American cheese, pickled red onion, lettuce, and Duke's mayo—is worth a trip for anyone who appreciates a perfectly crafted burger.

Known for its crave-worthy specials (PB&J burger? Yes, please!), Valley Burger Co. proves that sometimes more is more—and food should be fun. And don't discount this Wisconsin burger bar's regionally inspired burgers, either; diners rave about the Philly, a handheld flavor bomb that's a respectful homage to its namesake.

Pour Decisions Bar & Grill is anything but ordinary or expected; its signature PD Tropical Burger marries meat, pineapple, bacon, onions, cheese, and hot cherry peppers with a sticky-sweet mango habanero sauce that doesn't mess around! Bring plenty of wet wipes and don't hold back—the burgers at this Wyoming spot are worth every drip of sauce and future stained shirts.