The Best Burger Joint In Every State, Hands Down
In 2023, actress Tessa Thompson shocked social media (and us) with her red carpet admission that she'd never eaten a hamburger. The industry needn't worry – an estimated 50 billion of them are devoured annually in the United States alone. Even better, people who love a soft white bun, beef or plant-based patty, topped with whatever floats their boat, have more than 86,000 outlets to choose from.
Of course, the bigger burger chain names have become famous worldwide, but U.S. soil is also home to a dazzling variety of burger businesses, from those selling everything from high-end gastroburgers and gluten- or meat-free versions, to hole-in-the-wall places that have been slinging sliders for generations.
Some have gone from humble roots to become legendary fast food chains, while others have stuck to a single outlet, serving loyal customers day in 'n' out. But which burger joints across the country stand out from the (very large) crowd? Strap in for our run-down as we reveal the best in each state.
Vicki's Lunch Van in Montgomery, Alabama
Don't be fooled by the name of this popular burger joint, regarded as legendary by locals. The wheels may be long gone, but the small and darn-near flawless eatery is beloved for freshly made cheeseburgers that taste like they oughta. If you're going to order anything, join the line and get the Gunter Pile, a massive feast of burger patty, onions (both fried and crispy, of course,) gravy, and fries.
106 Coliseum Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36109
Tommy's Burger Stop in Anchorage, Alaska
Bringing heat to the cool climes of Anchorage across two locations, Tommy's Burger leans heavily on Cajun flavors to the delight of meat and veggie-loving locals. The Spenard outlet is more quaint than its Dimond cousin, so there's a vibe for everyone, but the food is good no matter where you go. The Gunslinger comes with an insane amount of toppings but more than lives up to the hype, and diners can't get enough of the Cajun-seasoned fries.
Haunted Hamburger in Jerome, Arizona
There are many reasons for swinging by this award-winning burger joint, part of the Haunted Group, including the glorious view and the alleged spooks that share the building. All of that pales in comparison to the amazing burgers on offer, which include a Wagyu version, a meat most fast food chains avoid. Expect to wait up to three hours to get in at busy periods, but hundreds of happy diners insist it's worth it.
(928) 634-0554
410 Clark Street, Jerome, AZ 86331
The Witching Hour in Bentonville, Arkansas
You don't have to be a horror fan to enjoy a tasty bite from this Bentonville spot, but those who are will love the themed menu that's packed with standouts. The King of the Monsters burger offers a balanced blend of flavors, while the Santanico Pandemonium and Bio-Eggsorcist also hit the spot. Couple all that with friendly, speedy service, and it's easy to see why this spot is a winner all around.
(479) 802-2874
704 SW A St. Bentonville, AR 72712
Cassell's Hamburgers in Los Angeles, California
Some so-called classic burger joints can feel slow, stale, and sad. These words could never be uttered about Cassell's. Its two L.A. locations offer everything you want from an eatery: quality food (it grinds all its own meat), great service, and a pleasant vibe. One reviewer enthused, "It's simple, classic, and done exceptionally well," and they're not alone in that opinion. Tourists go back again and again, happy to become regulars just like the locals.
Bob's Atomic Burgers in Golden, Colorado
There's a lot to like about this community-loving business, voted the state's best in 2025, but it's the burgers that stay with you, long after the last mouthful. Orders are placed using the labels and bags on tables and are filled in just a few minutes, even during busy times. Diners raved about the smash burgers and, if you like banana peppers and jalapeños among your toppings, Bob's has got you covered.
(303) 278-1601
1310 Ford Street, Golden, CO 80401
Louis' Lunch in New Haven, Connecticut
This family-owned business helped give the world the hamburger sandwich and is still serving them today, cooked in broilers dating back to 1898. It's more than just touristy hype, too. Feted by both the media and regulars, every day, new people discover Louis' delicious burgers. If you can, grab a seat and marvel at the many initials carved in the counter, but it will be just about the only distraction from your fabulous meal.
(203) 562-5507
261 Crown Street, New Haven, CT 06511
Restaurant 55 in Dover, Delaware
Seasonal flavors and locally-sourced ingredients are what put this bustling Dover eatery head and shoulders above the competition. It may give gastropub vibes, but don't be fooled, Restaurant 55 knows exactly what it's doing. Delicious, juicy burgers come in gorgeous combinations — the Fig It Out is a must-try — and are loaded with generous toppings (we see you, Desiree burger), while diners consistently praise the top-notch service.
(302) 535-8102
2461 South State Street, Dover, DE 19901
M.E.A.T. Eatery and Taproom in Islamorada, Florida
Plenty of restaurants keep their processes in-house, but this off-the-beaten-track Islamorada joint takes it to another level. The owners take the time to smoke their own meats and even create their own sausages and condiments. The hard work has paid off, with customers raving about the burgers on offer here. The Juicy Lucy is nothing short of incredible — just make sure to add a side of onion rings with beer cheese for the full experience.
(305) 852-3833
88005 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036
The Vortex Bar & Grill in Atlanta, Georgia
This business has two sites in Atlanta, but arguably the best-known is the uniquely decorated Little Five Points location. Get past that "laughing" skull, and you'll find that an out-of-this-world burger experience lies in store. Vortex describes its bar food as "ridiculously indulgent," but there are also some rather more challenging items. If heat really is your thing, the Hell's Fury will be just up your alley, while the towering, bacon- and cheese-laden Quadruple Coronary Bypass burger isn't for the faint-hearted.
thevortexbar.com/little-five-points
438 Moreland Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Hilo Burger Joint in Hilo, Hawaii
If you want to eat well, go where the locals do; this popular bar and restaurant proves that rule. Underpinning the vast range of burgers on Hilo Burger Joint's menu are fresh, grass-fed beef patties, which, no matter your preference, will be served perfectly cooked. One regular dubbed everything from Hilo Burger Joint "amazing," while others said it was "ono" (which translates to delicious), a view shared by thousands of other delighted diners.
(808) 935-8880
776 Kilauea Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
Holy Cow Idaho! in Nampa, Idaho
Burgers are often tarred with the "unhealthy food" brush, but when all the stops are pulled out at Holy Cow Idaho! to make their burgers as tasty as possible, you can treat yourself. Locally-sourced ingredients bursting with flavor equal thousands of extremely happy customers. The elk sliders and Sam Elliott burger are among the many menu items that get a big collective thumbs-up, as do the delicious beers and friendly service. Holy Cow, indeed.
(208) 965.8015
1226 1st St. South Downtown Nampa, ID 83651
Paradise Pup in Des Plaines, Illinois
There are lots of iconic Chicago restaurants, but don't forget there are hidden gems across the state, too, and Paradise Pup is one of the brightest. Everything there is grilled by the sibling owners, and, according to their fans, they are masters of the burger art, even if they did annoy this TikTok reviewer for being too good. Check out the droolsome and wildly popular bacon Merkts cheddar burger.
(847) 699-8590
1724 S River Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Kuma's Corner in Indianapolis
Burgers named after rock bands? Local projects benefiting from monthly menu specials? Thousands praising the food? Welcome to Kuma's Corner. The OG location is in Chicago, but Indianapolis residents adore their outlet, praising its service and consistent quality, which you don't have to be a metal fan to appreciate. It is worth noting that size matters here — some of the burgers may land you in a food coma (though thankfully that's not a real medical thing). One online reviewer summed Kuma's Corner up perfectly: "Simple where it should be, bold where it counts."
(317) 929-1287
1127 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN 46203
Tornado's Pub & Grub in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
We love a good themed restaurant, and Tornado's Pub & Grub is one of our faves. As well as telling customers everything they ever wanted to know about twisters but were afraid to ask, it also serves up a mean burger. Many of these are named after the tornado-rating Fujita scale, and all of them are a hit with diners, both local and from out of town.
facebook.com/people/Tornados-Grub-Pub/100063576639929/
(319) 364-9378
1600 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Ana's Burger Shack in Manhattan, Kansas
This hidden gem has racked up a near-perfect score across online reviews, making it impossible to overlook for our round-up. That means it's unlikely to stay in the shadows for much longer, so beat a path to Ana's door ASAP. Everything's made from scratch, and is all good, going by happy customer reports. Grab a Big D smashburger (a snip at less than $8!), or a mushroom Swiss that will hit the spot, too.
(785) 410-4991
2024 Tuttle Creek Blvd, Manhattan, KS 66502
Mussel & Burger Bar in Louisville, Kentucky
Restaurant staff who ask customers how they want their burgers cooked get a big thumbs-up in our book, and that's exactly what happens at this eatery's two Louisville locations. Although it's a casual dining, rather than fast food place, attention to detail is still important at the Mussel & Burger Bar. Even the simplest burger is transformed into a feast here, leaving the majority of diners thoroughly impressed by both the food and service. No wonder it was voted Louisville's best in 2025.
Judice Inn in Lafayette, Louisiana
In a zillion other burger joints, "no fries" would lead to all manner of meltdown social media posts. But Lafayette staple Judice Inn has been serving up just mouthwatering burgers since 1947, and it ain't broken, so they ain't changin'. Online reviewers have plenty of good things to say about what's been dubbed the town's best burgers, while the old-timey atmosphere and outstanding service get more than honorable mentions.
(337) 984-5614
3134 Johnston Street, Lafayette, LA 70503
Blazes Burgers in Westbrook, Maine
We pledge our undying loyalty to whoever first covered a burger with mac 'n' cheese, and at Blazes Burgers, the MacBeth is just one item on a menu packed with gourmet treats. One diner called this place "the Holy Grail" of burger joints, and it's so good, people go out of their way to underscore that their reviews are genuine. If you're looking for creative use of flavor backed by service with a smile? You've found it.
(207) 591-0331
861 Main Street, Westbrook, Maine 04092
Abbey Burger in Baltimore, Maryland
For every carnivore who yearns for burgers made from more than beef or chicken, make a beeline for Baltimore's two Abbey Burger locations. Yes, they do have dry-aged black Angus, but there's also duck, camel, and kangaroo meat, veggie and vegan customers are catered for too, and you can build your own burger creation. It's one of those places where you fall in love the instant you clap eyes on your food and definitely after the first bite.
Boston Burger Company in Massachusetts
Brits know the BBC as a broadcasting company, but to Massachusetts residents, those three letters also stand for the Boston Burger Company. The owners love to get creative with the menu and all burgers can be served traditionally or smashed. Regulars say they have never been let down by their BBC experience, getting everything they want in a burger, along with awesome fries and towering frappes that have to be seen to be believed.
Oakwood Proper Burgers in Traverse City, Michigan
Small, pink, and perfectly formed, this unpretentious little eatery has a top-notch menu from A to Z, per its fans. One video reviewer said they were "obsessed" with the Chili Queen burger and scored it 10/10. The owners rely on locally-sourced ingredients for their food, making everything a little pricier than your average burger joint, while the slightly retro, chill vibe and great service were also appreciated.
facebook.com/oakwoodproperburgers
(231) 253-1513
1108 E. 8th Street, Traverse City, MI 49686
Francis Burger Joint in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Named after a pig that escaped slaughter and became a local icon, it's easy to understand why there isn't an animal-based ingredient to be eaten at both Francis Burger Joints. There's also barely a negative word on the internet about the 100% plant-based menu — quite the feat for a burger place. It has been a huge hit with vegan, veggie and meat-eating customers, including this happy reviewer, while the Juicy Lucy and Garlic Girl burgers are among the most popular.
Stamps Super Burgers in Jackson, Mississippi
Many businesses claim their product is the best in town, but Jackson-based Stamps Super Burgers really does deliver. This family-owned place has been serving locals full-time since 1986, and in 2022 even received a preservation grant. Customers rave about the fresh-cut fries, and this online reviewer was blown away by the turkey burger. Watch out if you decide to visit Stamps in the afternoon, as it can get very busy indeed.
stampssuperburgers.company.site/
(601) 352-4555
1801 Dalton Street, Jackson, MI 39204
Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes in Springfield, Missouri
"I guess the hype is real," was the TL;DR version of one blown-away diner's Black Sheep experience, but they're hardly alone. People who have visited one of this spot's four Springfield locations have taken to the 'net in droves to big up the burger joint for years. There's a lot to love, too, from the locally sourced Wagyu burgers (they're big and messy, so grab plenty of napkins) and the range of fries, to the dreamy milkshakes.
Roadhouse Diner in Great Falls, Montana
This multi-award-winning restaurant offers a "big mouthful of Montana" with every bite, thanks to beef and buns sourced practically on the doorstep, plus exclusive fries, and diners are more than happy to swallow them all down. The fast, efficient, and polite service and generous portions also get a thumbs-up, though be aware that, if you like a beer with your burger, there's no alcohol on the menu.
406-788-8839
613 15th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401
Angus Burgers & Shakes in Kearney, Nebraska
There's something for everyone at this classy, family-run restaurant. All the buns are gluten-free, while every burger on the rich and varied menu can be made with either an Angus beef, Impossible, or Wagyu patty. If you like your burger with a side order of heat, try the Hell Fire, but watch out, as it lives up to its name.
(308) 455-6218
421 W. Talmadge St. Kearney, NE 68845
Slater's 50/50 in Las Vegas, Nevada
Nothing screams "Las Vegas" like a gold-bedecked burger, but don't worry, there's plenty of substance beneath the bougie style. Slater's claim to fame is the 50/50 burger — half ground beef, half ground bacon — and diners leurve them. "Impressive" and "remarkable" are just two adjectives that crop up a lot in online reviews (the sweet potato fries are also a must), but there's also plenty of praise for the attentive service at the eatery's two locations.
Black Mtn. Burger Co. in Lincoln, New Hampshire
Don't be fooled by the rural location of this family-friendly burger joint. It gets so busy that the owners advise people to call and add their names to the waiting list to avoid going hungry. Those who do eat here are rarely disappointed. There's a wide range of burgers to choose from, and whatever you get, it's served hot, perfectly cooked, and ridiculously flavorful.
(603) 745-3444
264 Main Street, Lincoln, NH 03251
Sad Boyz in New Gretna, New Jersey
"Me and my friends drive 2 hours from NYC to get these burgers," wrote one online reviewer, who is among a growing chorus of people who have loved every scrap of their Sad Boyz smashburger. The patties are so thin they're like lace, but the burgers still manage to be enormous. People love the inventive specials, and the rest of the menu has gone down a storm too.
(609) 857-5799
5670 US Route 9, New Gretna, NJ 08087
Hall of Flame in Ruidoso, New Mexico
We've said it a million times: If you want to eat well, eat like a local. According to the good folk of Ruidoso, Hall of Flame serves the best burgers in town, with the people of Ruidoso officially bestowing that very title on the restaurant in 2025. There's plenty of parking and the place can get busy, but if you're happy to wait in line for a little bit, some amazing burgers will be your just reward.
(575) 257-9987
2500 Sudderth Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345
Black Iron Burger in New York
Bigger doesn't always mean better (ahem, Jersey Mike's). If you are someone who prefers their burgers on the smaller side, Black Iron, with its two outlets in NYC, has got you covered. There's no skimping on the creativity or flavor, which has made this business such a hit with diners, though if the menu doesn't have exactly what you're craving, you can also build your own burger. Throw in a cool vibe and great service, and everyone's a winner.
Juicy Lucy's Burger Bar and Grill in Asheville, North Carolina
There are a lot of burgers to choose from at this well-loved Asheville spot, but we'd be remiss if we didn't flag the massive amounts of love for the spot's Juicy Lucy burger. Hundreds of diners mention it in their reviews, but it's worth trying its award-winning Cowboy bacon, or bacon, Brie, and fig burgers too. Just don't forget the yummy fried green tomatoes.
juicylucysburgerbarandgrill.com
(828)-277-0355
620 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, NC 28803
JL Beers in North Dakota
This award-winning restaurant has seven outlets in North Dakota, so there's no excuse for not trying the delicious burgers on offer. At the Bismarck location, everything's cooked in the open so you can see your food coming to life. Opinions on the dishes range from everything was great, to the best burgers in North Dakota. Swing by and make your own mind up.
Smash Buddies in Columbus, Ohio
What was once an award-laden food truck is now a burger hot spot for Columbus locals, so sorry (not sorry) for shedding light on their hidden gem. This place ticks all the boxes: It's family-friendly while also being cool, the service is warm, and the burgers? They're absolutely unmissable, especially the weekly special. Order one with the potato skins, which this online reviewer gave 10/10, or the delicious tots, which everyone adores.
(614) 456-7069
460 S Front St Columbus, OH 43215
Patty Wagon in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
You know you've ordered a good burger when the only thing you wish is that you ordered a double. Customers eating at locally owned Patty Wagon know it does everything absolutely right, from perfectly seasoned patties and mounds of toppings, to delicious home-made buns. It might be slightly more expensive than other burger joints but if you want excellence, many argue that it's worth a few extra dollars.
(405) 917-1711
3600 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Portland Burger in Portland, Oregon
The owners of this stellar restaurant say on their website: "There's no such thing as the best burger." Respectfully, hundreds of their delighted customers disagree, writing that the food at Portland Burger is everything from "phenomenal" to "bomb." A great vibe and efficient service are also big pluses, and the eatery is packed with amazing artwork, so if your senses are easily overwhelmed, be aware.
(971) 242-8725
304 SW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97204
The Jackson House in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Sandwiches are a gateway food for the burgers at this much-loved local spot, but make sure you've got a big appetite because, weighing in at ½ pound, they are huge. Many of the regulars are locals who have come to appreciate the consistent quality of the burgers and fresh-cut fries here, as well as the prices and friendly, efficient service.
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063592029254
(717) 238-2730
1004 N 6th St, Harrisburg, PA 17102
There, There in Providence, Rhode Island
This tiny, unpretentious burger joint's web design might mess with your head, but the food won't. Locals regard both There, There outlets as the city's absolute best, while out-of-towners love the "unique" atmosphere – and that's before they get to the burgers. Those are as tasty as they are epic, and while we could say more, we'll leave it to one enthusiastic reviewer, who wrote: "If you don't go, you will never understand!!"
Windy City Burgers in Greenville, South Carolina
Good luck finding a bad word said about this Greenville burger joint. Diners have fallen over themselves to praise Windy City's craft burgers, from 10/10 recommendations, and declarations they are the best ever, to video reviews full of "mmmms" of delight. The buns are made fresh, the meat is ground in-house, and the menu is nothing short of spectacular.
(864)-349-1390
12 East Coffee Street, Greenville, SC 29601
Nick's Hamburger Shop in Brookings, South Dakota
There's a place in many people's hearts for this Brookings institution, which can trace its roots back to 1929. It's not just a sense of nostalgia that keeps customers coming back, though, or the ridiculously-priced $2 burgers; it's the fact that these things are the real deal. No mountains of toppings, no gimmicks, just solid, flavorful food made with care, the way it's been done for decades.
(605) 692-4324
427 Main Ave, Brookings, SD 57006 – 1935
Gabby's Burgers & Fries in Nashville, Tennessee
There is a four-hour sliver of time in which you can buy a burger at Gabby's, so make like a local and get there early. The reward is worth it: From the authentically warm welcome to the food, which customers insist is consistently top-notch. One reviewer said, "Not only do I recommend but I also can't see how it could be much better."
(615) 733-3119
493 Humphreys St, Nashville, TN 37203
Stanton's City Bites in Houston, Texas
What happens when you pivot from an Asian-American-owned, family-run grocery store to a burger joint? Word spreads like wildfire, and it becomes a must-visit eatery for foodies. The burgers at Stanton's City Bites are big, juicy and awesome. (The Truck Stopper. That's all we're sayin'.) Meanwhile, the service is friendly and fast, the retro diner vibe is adorable, the prices are good, and there's free street parking. What's not to love?
(713) 227-4893
1420 Edwards Street, Houston, TX 77007
Lucky 13 Bar & Grill in Salt Lake City, Utah
Once visited, never forgotten is the general consensus about this Salt Lake City spot. Make sure to go with an appetite because the burgers are huge and there is plenty to choose from on the menu, including the foot-tall Big Benny. Flavor lovers should try the Breath Enhancer or the monster Pastrami and Swiss, but no matter what you order, reports indicate that it will all be good.
(801) 487-4418
135 W 1300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Worthy Burger in South Royalton, Vermont
It's a rare thing for a burger joint to have a fish option, but it's clear that nothing is done by halves at local award-winner Worthy Burger. If you don't fancy the bulgogi-glazed, Faroe Island salmon Fish'wich, the rest of the menu is just as dazzling — the fries are twice-cooked in Wagyu beef tallow! Many people have said it was the best burger they'd ever eaten.
worthyvermont.com/worthy-burger
(802) 763-2575
56 Rainbow St, South Royalton, VT 05068
Spelunker's in Front Royal, Virginia
Is there a more heavenly foodie combination than a hand-made burger followed by freshly-made custard (which is distinct from ice cream)? Absolutely nothing, said the thousands of people who have eaten at the much talked-about eatery Spelunker's. The burgers are off the hook – think Five Guys but twice the size — more than living up to the online hype, while the custard is every bit as creamy as it looks.
(540) 631-0300
116 South St, Front Royal, VA 22630
Eastside Big Tom in Olympia, Washington State
This local icon has been slinging burgers since 1948 and claims to have been the state's first drive-thru and the birthplace of "goop" sauce, a mix of mayo or Miracle Whip, sour cream, relish, and mustard. The owners are still doing everything right as people from all over beat a path to Big Tom's door, with one satisfied reviewer dubbing it: "Simple. Quirky. Tasty." Just watch out for the dinosaurs...
(360) 357-4852
2023 4th Ave E, Olympia, WA 98501
Oscar's Breakfast, Burgers & Brews in Barboursville, West Virginia
You can feel the love people have for this 100% family-owned, indie burger joint, which opened its doors in 2017 and hasn't looked back since. The endless positive reviews about the burgers are liberally sprinkled with exclamation points and words like "awesome" and "great" in block capitals. In short, Oscar's is a bustling but friendly place for the whole tribe.
(304) 948-6916
6007 US Route 60 East, Suite 220, Barboursville, WV 25504
Pete's Garage Bar in Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Wisconsinites adore the Culver's Butterburger, but in 2025, this Oshkosh eatery stole the fast food chain's thunder by being named the Best Dive Bar in the United States. If you're into amazing burgers that come with a side-order of dry humor, Pete's Garage is the place for you. The rough-and-ready vibe is reflected in the witty menu names, but don't be fooled — the burgers are top-drawer.
(920) 235-9897
1514 Oregon Street, Oshkosh, WI. 54902
Broadway Burger Station in Rock Springs, Wyoming
Voted one of the state's best burger joints in 2025 and serving a gorgeous, Fifties diner vibe, Broadway Burger Station delivers on every level. Old-school service means your burger comes out briskly, while the portion sizes, even for the milkshakes, are enormous. Great value for money, plenty of parking and kid-friendly to boot? You betcha.
(307) 362-5858
628 Broadway St, Rock Springs, WY 82901
Methodology
We read and compared hundreds of customer reviews, tracked down details about local awards, read and and watched local news items to create our list of the best burger joints in every state.