Burger Billy’s Joint in Arlington, Virginia: Meet the Owner
Meet the Owner: Burger Billy’s Joint
We sat down with Payman Ahrarian of Burger Billy’s Joint in Arlington, Virginia. In Arlington, Burger Billy’s Joint delivers a focused, no-frills approach to classic American burgers, emphasizing quality ingredients and straightforward execution. The menu centers on juicy, made-to-order patties paired with fresh toppings and house-prepared elements, creating a lineup of burgers that are both familiar and satisfying.
Burger Billy’s Joint in Arlington, Virginia: Meet the Chef
The experience is built around consistency and flavor, with each burger crafted to deliver a balanced, well-executed bite. Guests return for the reliable quality, generous portions, and casual, easygoing atmosphere that makes it a go-to neighborhood spot.
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
I get to the restaurant at about 8am. The first thing I do is “turn on” the restaurant. Meaning I turn on the lights, TVs, music, window signs, etc. Then I take out the outdoor tables and chairs for our outdoor seating. Then I get into the kitchen and look around to see what we have left in prep from the day before. I type out a shift meeting worksheet, so we have direction for the day and assign each person their station for the day. At about 9:30am our prep team arrives and they begin slicing tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and ensuring we have enough of our fresh ingredients prepped for the day. Then the opening cook arrives and they start making fresh bacon, grilled onions, and grilled mushrooms. We open for business at 11am and the fun begins. I love ending my day with high fives or daps from my team.
Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
I do not have a favorite chef. I simply enjoy good food made with love. It doesn’t matter who the chef is. My advice to aspiring restaurant owners would be to ensure they have a strong concept before you start. Don’t think that good food is all you need. Customers want an experience when they dine out, not just good food.
Burger Billy’s Joint in Arlington, Virginia: Meet the Chef
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
We were named as one of the best burgers in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine’s “Best Burgers” edition in April 2025, and we have been named as one of the best burgers in Virginia by Virginia Living Magazine’s annual “Best of Virginia” issue coming out in May.
Burger Billy’s Joint in Arlington, Virginia: Meet the Chef
What do you typically cook at home?
My kids love my chicken nuggets so I enjoy cooking them. But I would say that my favorite thing to cook at home is steak. Cooking a steak properly is truly an art form.
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
Right now it seems that food quality and fresh ingredients are in high demand. Which lines up perfectly for Burger Billy’s Joint. Our ground beef is fresh and never frozen. Our lettuce, tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, etc. are received twice weekly and hand cut daily for freshness. No short cuts by ordering shredded lettuce or sliced tomatoes.
Burger Billy’s Joint in Arlington, Virginia: Meet the Chef
What drink do you enjoy most?
I love a well-made Old Fashioned.
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
I have cooked for the Washington Commanders. They hired us for one of their events because one of their players ate in our restaurant and loved it so much, he went back and convinced the event coordinators to reach out to us. That was a lot of fun! No story but we severed 120 burgers and 120 wings, and we were a hit.
Burger Billy’s Joint in Arlington, Virginia: Meet the Chef
What’s Your Instagram So Readers Can Follow You?
Follow us at @burger_billys_joint.
What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?
I have eaten cow tongue served with Persian style rice. It was fantastic! The tongue tastes great and is very tender but it has a very different texture.
Why should readers visit burger Billy’s Joint?
At Burger Billy’s Joint we are not just about the food. Although that is the main draw. People love our fresh ingredients and that we season our patties prior to cooking them and allow the seasoning mix to sit with the beef long enough to enhance the flavor. But we also pride ourselves on our atmosphere and customer service. Even though we are a fast casual restaurant we still do our best to ensure every customer has a great experience.
