Where to Get the Best Burgers in Every U.S. State (2026 Must-Visit Guide)
The Best List · United States
50 States, 50 Burgers
The best burger in every U.S. state — from roadside diners and classic cheeseburgers to crispy-edged smashburgers and chef-driven gourmet builds.
There may be no more American meal than a great burger — a well-seared patty, a soft bun, the right balance of cheese, toppings, and sauce, and that first juicy bite that makes the whole thing worth the trip. From iconic roadside diners to award-winning gourmet kitchens, every state has a spot that locals swear by and travelers seek out.
Whether you’re craving a classic diner cheeseburger, a crispy-edged smashburger, a grass-fed or Wagyu build, or a wildly over-the-top creation stacked with everything, our editors have named one standout burger in every U.S. state. These are 50 delicious reasons to pull off the highway, grab a table, and find the best burger near you — one state at a time.
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The Best Burgers in America, State by State
One standout burger in all fifty states, chosen by our editors for quality beef, balanced builds, and a burger worth the drive.
Alabama
The Craft Burger
American · Burgers
5184 Caldwell Mill Rd, Hoover, AL 35244
In Hoover, The Craft Burger delivers a focused, fast-casual take on classic American burgers, built around simplicity and bold, familiar flavors. The menu centers on made-to-order patties—like its signature double “Craft Burger” with American cheese, pickles, onions, and house “craft sauce”—alongside regional favorites such as pimento cheese-topped burgers, slaw burgers, and chili dogs, plus straightforward sides and shakes. What keeps it a local favorite is the consistency and clarity of execution: no unnecessary extras, just well-built burgers, balanced toppings, and craveable combinations that deliver every time.
Alaska
Arctic Roadrunner
American · Burgers
5300 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99518
In Anchorage, Arctic Roadrunner stands as one of the city’s most iconic burger institutions, serving old-fashioned, no-frills cheeseburgers since 1964. What began as a small trailer at the Alaska State Fair has grown into a beloved local staple, known for its straightforward menu of hearty burgers, hand-dipped milkshakes, and classic sides—all prepared with a focus on consistency and flavor. The experience is as much about place as it is about food, with a rustic, Alaska-inspired setting, creekside seating, and walls filled with decades of local history.
Arizona
5th Street Burger & Fries
American · Burgers
1158 W Washington St, Tempe, AZ 85281
In Tempe, 5th Street Burger & Fries delivers a fast-casual burger experience built around bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and creative combinations. The menu ranges from classic builds to more indulgent options like the Spicy Western and Tempe Burger, layered with toppings such as thick-cut bacon, onion rings, green chiles, and house-made aiolis that add a distinct, flavorful edge. What keeps it in high rotation is the consistency—juicy, made-to-order patties, crispy fries perfected for texture, and sauces that elevate every bite.
Arkansas
Burgers Pies & Fries
American · Burgers
2600 E Race Ave, Searcy, AR 72143
In the heart of Searcy, Burgers Pies & Fries is known for its commitment to high-quality, made-to-order comfort food with a focus on premium ingredients across all three of its Arkansas locations in Searcy, Conway and Jacksonville. The signature burgers are crafted from 100% premium beef brisket, which is hand-selected daily, freshly ground in-house, and formed into individually weighed, hand-pressed patties cooked to order for consistency and flavor. This attention to detail carries through the entire menu, where freshness and technique define the experience.
California
California Burger Company
American · Burgers
1001 Heavenly Village Way, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
In the heart of South Lake Tahoe, California Burger Company brings a high-energy, tavern-style take to the classic American burger. Located in Heavenly Village, the restaurant pairs gourmet burgers made from grass-fed, free-range beef with house-baked buns, fresh market ingredients, and a menu that extends into craft cocktails, milkshakes, and an extensive whiskey selection. What makes it a go-to in South Lake Tahoe is the full experience—live music, local art, outdoor seating with fire pits, and a menu built around bold, satisfying flavors.
Colorado
5280 Burger Bar
American · Burgers
500 16th St, Denver, CO 80202
In the heart of downtown Denver, 5280 Burger Bar delivers a chef-driven take on the classic American burger, rooted in Colorado-sourced ingredients and bold, inventive combinations. Burgers are crafted with hormone-free, Colorado-raised beef and paired with creative toppings—from bacon onion jam and roasted garlic aioli to green chile queso and house-made sauces—alongside a menu that extends into scratch-made sides and house-made ice creams. What keeps it a standout in Denver is the balance between creativity and execution.
Connecticut
Towne Parlor
American · Burgers
112 Bedford St, Stamford, CT 06901
In downtown Stamford, Towne Parlor blends a modern gastropub atmosphere with a menu rooted in wood-fired cooking and shareable comfort food. Known for its craft beer program, the kitchen also delivers a solid burger offering built with a focus on balance—juicy patties and layered toppings that lean classic but flavorful rather than overcomplicated. What defines the burger experience here is how it fits into the broader concept: a social, bar-forward setting where quality ingredients and consistent execution matter just as much as the energy of the room. Guests return for a downtown vibe that makes it great to grab a satisfying burger.
Delaware
Burgers and Brews
American · Burgers
1454 Frederica Rd, Frederica, DE 19946
In Frederica, Burgers and Brews delivers a laid-back, family-owned dining experience centered on smash burgers, cold craft beers, and a strong sense of community. The menu focuses on juicy, well-executed burgers alongside crowd-pleasers like wings, loaded fries, and rotating specials, all designed to pair easily with a wide selection of local brews. Guests return for the combination of satisfying, no-nonsense comfort food and an easygoing vibe that makes it one of central Delaware’s most enjoyable hidden gems.
Florida
Casadonna
American · Burgers
1737 N Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33132
On Miami’s Biscayne Bay, Casadonna delivers a polished take on Italian dining, where Riviera-inspired cuisine meets a grand, design-forward setting. By day, its sought-after lunch experience introduces a more approachable indulgence, highlighted by a divine burger special—often paired with fries—that offers a rare entry point into an otherwise high-end menu. It’s this blend of upscale execution, scenic dining, and a midday offering that still feels indulgent rather than ordinary that continues to draw both locals and visitors looking for a quintessential Miami experience.
Georgia
Ocmulgee Brewpub
American · Burgers
484 2nd St, Macon, GA 31201
In Macon, Ocmulgee Brewpub offers a relaxed, full-service dining experience that pairs classic pub fare with house-brewed craft beer. The menu features a range of approachable favorites—from burgers and sandwiches to shareable plates—designed to complement a rotating selection of small-batch brews made on-site. The appeal lies in its balance of quality food and freshly brewed beer, all served in a laid-back, social setting. Guests return for the easygoing atmosphere and the ability to enjoy a locally crafted pint alongside a satisfying, well-prepared meal.
Hawaii
The Daley Burger
American · Burgers
1110 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817
In Honolulu, The Daley Burger has earned a reputation for doing one thing exceptionally well: the smash burger. Built around locally sourced Kauaʻi grass-fed beef, each patty is smashed on a hot griddle to create a deeply caramelized crust while staying juicy inside, then layered with melted American cheese, diced onions, and a signature house sauce on a soft potato bun. Guests return for the rich beef flavor and crisp-edged texture that define every burger—making it one of Honolulu’s most talked-about burger spots.
Idaho
9 Peaks Restaurant & Lounge
American · Burgers
503 W Custer Rd, Mackay, ID 83251
In the small mountain town of Mackay, 9 Peaks offers a relaxed dining experience that blends hearty American fare with local charm. The menu features a mix of comfort-driven dishes, from steaks and burgers to classic entrees, all served in a welcoming setting that reflects the surrounding rugged landscape. What draws guests back is the balance of satisfying, well-prepared food and a laid-back lounge atmosphere—making it a dependable spot in Mackay for both casual meals and unwinding after a day outdoors.
Illinois
Rodeo Burgers and Chicken
American · Burgers
11111 S Harlem Ave, Worth, IL 60482
In Worth, Illinois, Rodeo Burgers and Chicken delivers a bold, flavor-packed take on fast-casual comfort food, centered around smash-style burgers and over-the-top creations. The menu leans heavily into indulgent builds like the Flamin’ Rodeo Burger—stacked with 100% Angus beef, multiple cheeses, grilled onions, and even crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos on a coated bun—alongside classic smashburgers, loaded fries, and chicken options, all made fresh to order. From crispy-edged smash patties to house-made sauces and creative toppings, everything is built to hit hard.
Indiana
Flamme Burger
American · Burgers
8487 Union Chapel Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46240
In Indianapolis, Flamme Burger has built a reputation for chef-driven burgers crafted from a custom-blended mix of brisket, chuck, and short rib, designed for deep flavor and a juicy, satisfying bite. Each patty is carefully developed for balance and richness, reflecting a gourmet approach to a classic American staple. The experience is defined by bold, carefully layered burgers like the Indy Burger and Sunny Side, paired with house-made sauces and indulgent sides that emphasize texture and flavor.
Iowa
The Flying Elbow
American · Burgers
229 N 13th St, Marshalltown, IA 50158
In Marshalltown, The Flying Elbow is a wrestling-themed burger and hot dog spot known for its over-the-top creativity and serious attention to flavor. The menu features house-ground, juicy burgers with inventive builds, smoked elements, and bold sauces, including fan favorites like the “Jerry the King” burger and rotating specialty creations that have earned statewide recognition. What keeps it in the conversation is the combination of playful concept and consistent grill work that has even earned it recognition as one of Iowa’s best burger spots.
Kansas
Mason Jar Brews and Burgers
American · Burgers
941 N 74 Dr, Kansas City, KS 66112
In Kansas City, Mason Jar Brews and Burgers delivers a full-service gastropub experience centered around handcrafted comfort food and a broad selection of craft beer and cocktails. The kitchen focuses on bold, approachable flavors and generous portions, with signature burgers like the “Sob” and “BBQ Patty Melt” showcasing layered toppings, creative sauces, and fresh-ground beef prepared in-house. Guests return for the mix of consistent execution, wide menu variety, and an easygoing atmosphere that makes it a dependable stop.
Kentucky
Mussel & Burger Bar
American · Burgers
9200 Taylorsville Rd, Louisville, KY 40299
In Louisville, Mussel & Burger Bar offers a distinctive bistro experience where gourmet burgers share the spotlight with an unexpectedly strong seafood program. The menu pairs inventive burger builds—like Mediterranean, Argentinian, and other globally inspired combinations—with signature dishes such as curry cream mussels and Korean BBQ wings. Set in a casual yet polished downtown setting, it’s a dependable destination for those looking for elevated comfort food that goes beyond the standard burger-and-fries formula.
Louisiana
Parish Grill
American · Burgers
4650 W Esplanade Ave, Metairie, LA 70006
In Metairie, Parish Grill delivers a modern Southern comfort food experience that blends creative American classics with bold Louisiana-inspired flavor. The menu spans gourmet burgers and rotating chef-driven specials, all built around fresh ingredients and a scratch-kitchen approach that keeps dishes consistently flavorful and approachable. What makes Parish Grill especially appealing is its balance of variety and execution—each burger is thoughtfully prepared, from kimchi-topped creations to house specialties with rich, layered sauces.
Maine
Butcher Burger
American · Burgers
7 Union St, Portland, ME 04101
In the heart of Old Port, Butcher Burger delivers a focused, chef-driven approach to burgers that emphasizes quality beef, bold flavor, and simple execution. Known for its signature house patties—blends of beef and bacon—along with Maine-inspired touches like lobster rolls and triple-cooked fries, the menu is built around rich, satisfying comfort food done with care. The experience leans into a small, casual setting where the food takes center stage, from juicy burgers to house sauces that add depth without overcomplicating the plate.
Maryland
Char’d
American · Burgers
11881 Grand Park Ave, North Bethesda, MD 20852
In North Bethesda, Char’d focuses on a streamlined, chef-inspired approach to classic burgers, built around precision, quality, and bold flavor combinations. The menu centers on freshly ground beef patties cooked to order, paired with thoughtfully layered toppings, house-made sauces, and carefully chosen buns that hold everything together without overpowering the bite. Char’d stands out in North Bethesda for its emphasis on consistency and craft—each burger is engineered for texture, balance, and depth of flavor.
Massachusetts
Boston Burger Company
American · Burgers
1105 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
In the college-town setting of Cambridge, Boston Burger Company has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of what a burger joint can be, focusing on oversized, flavor-heavy creations and playful, indulgent menu design. The kitchen is known for house-ground burgers stacked with inventive toppings, loaded fries, and over-the-top milkshakes that have become part of its signature identity. What defines the experience is its unapologetically creative approach—each dish is designed to be rich, visually striking, and packed with bold combinations.
Michigan
Oakwood Proper Burgers
American · Burgers
1108 E Eighth St, Traverse City, MI 49686
In Traverse City, Oakwood Proper Burgers has earned a loyal following for its carefully crafted smashburgers built around Michigan Craft Beef™ and a focus on ingredient-driven simplicity. Each burger is made to order on a flat-top griddle, designed for a rich sear and balanced layering, often paired with house “Proper Sauce,” grilled onions, fresh toppings, and Old Mission Bakery buns. Guests return for the flavor-first approach that turns a straightforward burger into one of Traverse City’s most talked-about comfort food stops.
Minnesota
Le Burger 4304
American · Burgers
4304 Upton Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55410
In the Linden Hills neighborhood of Minneapolis, Le Burger 4304 reimagines the classic burger through a French-inspired, chef-driven lens. The menu highlights carefully sourced beef, griddled onions, and thoughtfully layered builds like “Le Boeuf” and “L’Oignon,” paired with hand-cut fries and house-made soft serve that reflect a refined yet playful approach to comfort food. What defines the experience is its attention to detail at every level—from the wagyu-style blends and balanced sauces to the minimalist, modern setting that elevates a neighborhood burger stop into something more curated.
Mississippi
Foundation Burger
American · Burgers
5419 MS-25, Flowood, MS 39232
In Flowood, Foundation Burger has built a reputation for scratch-made burgers that prioritize purity, technique, and freshness above all else. Every burger starts with premium beef brisket that’s hand-selected daily, ground in-house, and formed into individually weighed, hand-pressed patties cooked to order—never frozen, never pre-made. The experience is defined by a simple but uncompromising philosophy: real ingredients, precise preparation, and a focus on flavor at its most direct.
Missouri
KC Burger Joint
American · Burgers
2424 NW Vivion Rd, Northmoor, MO 64150
In Northmoor, KC Burger Joint serves up classic American comfort food with a straightforward, made-to-order approach. The kitchen focuses on freshly prepared burgers, crispy fries, and familiar sides like onion rings and fried mushrooms, all served in a casual, family-friendly setting that emphasizes consistency and value. KC Burger Joint has become a dependable stop in the Northland area by doing exactly what it promises: satisfying, freshly made burgers done right every time.
Montana
Backcountry Burger Bar
American · Burgers
125 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
In the heart of Bozeman, Backcountry Burger Bar serves up a Montana-rooted burger experience built around locally sourced ingredients and scratch-made execution. The kitchen highlights Montana-raised beef and bison, house-baked buns made with Montana flour, and hand-cut potatoes, creating a menu that feels grounded in place and process. The focus is on thoughtful, elevated comfort food with sides like curry fries and Brussels sprouts that bring added depth.
Nebraska
Charred Burger + Bar
American · Burgers
1150 Sterling Ridge Dr, Omaha, NE 68144
In Omaha, Charred Burger + Bar builds its reputation on a simple idea executed at a high level: better beef makes a better burger. Their patties are made with premium Wagyu beef, known for its rich marbling and naturally juicy texture, and are cooked to highlight a deep, flavorful char while keeping a tender, satisfying bite. Guests return for the consistent quality, elevated ingredients, and a polished yet relaxed setting that turns a straightforward burger meal into something distinctly memorable.
Nevada
Smash N Grab
American · Burgers
211 5th St, Ely, NV 89301
In the small-town setting of Ely, Smash N Grab delivers a bold, no-frills burger experience built around handcrafted smash-style technique and serious attention to flavor. Known for fresh, never-frozen hand-formed patties, house-sliced toppings, and rich, house-made sauces, each burger is pressed on a hot griddle to create a crisp sear while locking in juiciness. What makes it memorable in Ely is the elevated take on a simple concept—everything is made to order with a focus on texture, balance, and intensity of flavor rather than excess.
New Hampshire
Hop + Grind
American · Burgers
17 Madbury Rd, Durham, NH 03824
In Durham, Hop + Grind has built a reputation as a highly inventive, chef-driven burger spot where everything is made from scratch and layered with bold, unexpected flavors. The menu is centered around creative builds like the Morning Glory—stacked with bacon, hashbrowns, fried egg, and truffled maple syrup—or the Beast Mode double bacon burger for a richer, more indulgent bite. What defines the experience is its over-the-top creativity balanced with real culinary technique: house-made sauces, beef-tallow fries, and globally inspired burger combinations.
New Jersey
Burger & Butcher
American · Burgers
37 Woodport Rd, Sparta, NJ 07871
In Sparta, Burger & Butcher delivers an ingredient-first approach to the classic American burger, built around quality from the ground up. Every burger starts with carefully sourced, grass-fed beef that’s freshly ground in-house and formed into hand-pressed patties cooked to order, paired with clean-label ingredients and house-made sauces. What defines the experience is its focus on craft—tallow-fried fries, premium brioche buns, and sauces made without seed oils, all coming together in a menu that prioritizes flavor, texture, and ingredient integrity over shortcuts.
New Mexico
Burger Boy
American · Burgers
12023 NM-14, Cedar Crest, NM 87008
Burger Boy is a long-standing roadside burger spot in the East Mountains of New Mexico, known for its straightforward, made-to-order approach to classic American comfort food. The focus is on fresh, hand-prepared burgers—especially green chile cheeseburgers that highlight the region’s signature flavor—along with simple sides and breakfast-to-dinner service that keeps things consistent and familiar. Guests return for the local character, and the kind of honest burger stop that feels deeply tied to its setting.
New York
Illusive Restaurant & Bar
American · Burgers
3 Ferry St, Rensselaer, NY 12144
In Rensselaer, Illusive offers a modern dining experience that blends elevated comfort food with a polished, contemporary atmosphere. The menu features thoughtfully composed dishes, including gourmet burgers, small plates, and seasonal offerings, all prepared with an emphasis on flavor, presentation, and quality ingredients. The appeal lies in its balance of refined execution and approachable dining, where each plate feels carefully considered without losing its comfort-driven roots. Guests return for the quality, creative menu, and stylish setting that make every visit feel like something just a bit more special.
North Carolina
Bull City Burger and Brewery
American · Burgers
107 E. Parrish St, Durham, NC 27701
In the heart of Durham, Bull City Burger and Brewery is known for its farm-to-table approach to classic American comfort food, with a focus on transparency and quality. Burgers are made from pasture-raised beef that’s ground in-house, paired with scratch-made toppings and buns, while the on-site brewery produces small-batch beers designed to complement the menu. Everything is prepared with a hands-on philosophy—from butchering and grinding to brewing and baking—creating a dining experience rooted in craftsmanship and local sourcing. Guests return for the honest, ingredient-driven approach, where every burger and beer reflects a commitment to freshness, flavor, and doing things the right way.
North Dakota
Pounds
American · Burgers
6 Broadway N, Fargo, ND 58102
In downtown Fargo, Pounds is a chef-driven American comfort food spot known for its creative, flavor-forward approach to burgers and bar-style dishes. The kitchen leans into scratch-made execution, featuring fresh ground beef patties and a menu that goes beyond burgers. What defines the experience is its inventive dishes that push classic comfort food into more expressive territory—like the BBQ Porker mac topped with pulled pork and house barbecue sauce or wings coated in signature “torch” heat.
Ohio
Stacked Burger Co
American · Burgers
1089 Worthington Woods Blvd, Columbus, OH 43085
In the Worthington Woods area of Columbus, Stacked Burger Co. delivers a modern, scratch-made burger experience built around bold flavors and carefully layered combinations. The menu centers on signature builds like the Stack Burger, Beer Gut Burger, and BBQ Bacon Burger that balance savory richness, texture, and house-made sauces. The kitchen leans into a chef-driven approach where each burger is assembled to order, paired with house fries and inventive sides like beer chili fries, fried Brussels sprouts, and onion rings.
Oklahoma
Spark
American · Burgers
300 Oklahoma City Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73109
In Oklahoma City, Spark offers a chef-driven burger concept located near Scissortail Park, built around approachable comfort food with a modern twist. The menu features freshly prepared burgers, creative builds like pimento cheese and jalapeño variations, hand-cut fries, and house custards and shakes, all designed for quick service without sacrificing quality. Guests return for the consistent execution, relaxed park-side setting, and a menu that keeps familiar favorites feeling just a bit more inventive than expected.
Oregon
Americana Burger
American · Burgers
536 NW Arizona Ave, Bend, OR 97703
In Bend, Americana delivers a classic, no-nonsense take on the American burger across both of its locations. The menu focuses on straightforward execution—juicy, made-to-order patties, soft toasted buns, and well-balanced toppings—bringing a nostalgic, roadside-style experience to the modern dining scene. Across its Bend locations, consistency is key, with each burger built to highlight simplicity, flavor, and quality ingredients. Guests return for the familiar, craveable approach—where every bite reflects a back-to-basics philosophy done right.
Pennsylvania
Village Whiskey
American · Burgers
118 S 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
In the heart of Philadelphia, Village Whiskey is a chef-driven gastropub known for its elevated take on classic American comfort food, anchored by one of the city’s most widely recognized burgers. The signature Village Burger features a house-ground beef patty on a sesame roll with lettuce, tomato, and a house-made Thousand Island dressing, while more indulgent options like the Whiskey King layer foie gras, bacon, bleu cheese, and bourbon-glazed onions for a richer, more decadent build. Beyond the burgers, the experience is shaped by an extensive whiskey program.
Rhode Island
Tree House Tavern
American · Burgers
1094 Centerville Rd, Warwick, RI 02886
In Warwick, Tree House Tavern is known for its imaginative, scratch-made comfort food—and its burger is one of the most talked-about items on the menu. The standout is the French Onion Smashed Burger, built with a blend of short rib and sirloin beef, smashed for a crisp sear, then layered with Gruyère and Swiss cheese, bourbon-caramelized onions, fried onions, bacon, and a garlic-chipotle mayo on a brioche bun. It’s a rich, over-the-top burger that leans into deep savory sweetness from the onions and a mix of textures from the crispy edges and soft bun.
South Carolina
Burger Tavern 77
American · Burgers
2631 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205
In Columbia, Burger Tavern 77 serves up a straightforward, chef-driven take on American comfort food with a strong focus on burgers done right. The menu centers on freshly prepared patties cooked to order, paired with classic toppings, house sauces, and a selection of sides that keep the experience familiar. Burger Tavern 77 is known locally for its consistent grill work and emphasis on flavor over complexity—juicy burgers, balanced seasoning, and a casual neighborhood setting that makes it an easy go-to for a dependable, satisfying meal.
South Dakota
Salt Block Burgers & Brews
American · Burgers
7201 Mt Rushmore Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702
In Rapid City, Salt Block Burgers & Brews is a locally owned burger and craft beer spot known for combining Certified Angus Beef burgers with a full sports bar atmosphere and a strong lineup of rotating beers on tap. The menu leans into indulgent, flavor-heavy builds—like the Saltblock Burger with bacon jam, jalapeños, and cream cheese, or the mushroom and truffle aioli-topped “Shroomin”—paired with loaded fries and shareable appetizers. The experience is centered around satisfying portions and a social setting where food, beer, and game-day energy come together.
Tennessee
Loosewheels
American · Burgers
511 N Main St, Columbia, TN 38401
Loosewheels is redefining what a roadside burger can be, turning a humble food truck into one of Tennessee’s most talked-about stops for indulgent, flavor-packed comfort food. Known for crave-worthy creations like the “Truck Stop” burger, cheesy squashed onion burgers, and raclette-loaded fries, every item is cooked fresh on the griddle with bold, unapologetic richness that keeps locals and travelers coming back. What elevates this truck above the rest is its fearless approach to excess and execution—stacked patties, inventive toppings, and generous portions that deliver a full-on, can’t-miss burger experience.
Texas
Burger Bodega
American · Burgers
4520 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007
Located in Houston’s Washington Avenue corridor, Burger Bodega takes a smash-burger concept and filters it through a New York-style bodega lens, blending street-food energy with carefully built, chef-driven execution. The menu centers on thin-edged smash patties cooked on a hot griddle for maximum sear, most notably in items like the double smash burger with American cheese, grilled onions, pickles, and a signature house “Bodega Sauce,” alongside chopped cheese sandwiches that nod to classic NYC deli culture.
Utah
Carson Kitchen
American · Burgers
241 W 200 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
In the heart of Salt Lake City, Carson Kitchen delivers a bold, chef-driven take on American comfort food with a creative, modern edge. Known for its 100% grass-fed beef burgers, inventive small plates, rich flavors, and stylish presentation, this popular spot offers a dining experience that goes far beyond the expected. Carson Kitchen has built a strong following in Salt Lake City thanks to its imaginative menu, expertly executed dishes, and vibrant, social atmosphere—making every visit feel like a unique and memorable culinary experience.
Vermont
Backyard
American · Burgers
395 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
In the mountain town of Stowe, Backyard is a casual après-style American pub known for its hearty, comfort-driven menu and relaxed ski-town energy. The kitchen focuses on elevated bar food built around smash burgers, loaded tots, tacos, wings, and shareable plates, with items like the “Plain Jane” double smash burger and Buffalo chicken tots showcasing its straightforward, flavor-first approach. The experience is rooted in generous portions for post-outdoor appetite—think crispy textures, indulgent toppings, and classic combinations done with consistency rather than complexity.
Virginia
Burger Billy’s Joint
American · Burgers
3800 Langston Blvd, Arlington, VA 22207
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. 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.
Washington
The Box & Burgers Eatery
American · Burgers
12305 120th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034
In the waterfront city of Kirkland, The Box & Burgers Eatery serves up a crave-worthy take on creative twists of familiar favorites. Known for its juicy, flavor-packed burgers, house-made sauces, and perfectly crisp fries, this local hotspot delivers a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable. With friendly service, a relaxed atmosphere, and an eye for bold, balanced flavors, it’s the sort of neighborhood gem that keeps locals—and visitors—coming back for more.
West Virginia
Sweet Escape
American · Burgers
860 Broad St, Summersville, WV 26651
In the heart of Summersville, Sweet Escape is a casual burger-and-dessert spot built around straightforward comfort food and a family-friendly atmosphere. The menu focuses on juicy, made-to-order burgers with options ranging from classic cheeseburgers to specialty builds like bacon or jalapeño-topped variations, alongside hot dogs, fries, and shareable sides prepared fresh to order. What defines Sweet Escape is its dual identity as both a burger stop and an ice cream shop, where hand-spun milkshakes, sundaes, and cones are just as much a draw as the savory menu.
Wisconsin
Valley Burger Company
American · Burgers
1004 Menomonie St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
In Eau Claire, Valley Burger Company has become one of the city’s most talked-about burger spots, built around a chef-driven approach that blends scratch-made execution with creative, locally inspired flavors. The menu features dry-aged, locally sourced beef patties cooked to order and stacked into signature builds like The Classic, The O.B., and the Wisco Whiz, which layers cheese sauce, cheddar, bacon, and caramelized onions for a rich, indulgent profile. The balance of classic and inventive burger builds, and a relaxed craft-bar setting make it a go-to stop in Eau Claire.
Wyoming
Born in a Barn
American · Burgers
100 E Ivinson Ave, Laramie, WY 82070
In the heart of downtown Laramie, Born in a Barn delivers a bold, Wyoming-rooted take on classic American comfort food, where burgers and wings are anything but ordinary. Known for its creative, over-the-top builds—like jalapeño-stacked burgers and fully loaded “Barnchos”—the kitchen leans into big flavors, house-made touches, and locally sourced ingredients that elevate every bite. What makes it a standout is the unapologetically indulgent approach: hand-pressed patties, smoked wings in a wide range of flavors, and a menu that balances playful creativity with serious execution.
Your Next Great Burger Awaits
From small-town grills to big-city burger hotspots, these standout destinations define the flavor of each state with unforgettable bites — grass-fed and Wagyu patties, crispy smash edges, house-ground blends, and buns baked to hold it all together.
Pick your state, hit the road, and discover one more reason to explore America — one burger at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
About America’s best burgers.
What is the best burger in America?
There is no single burger that is objectively the best in the country. The right pick depends on where you are and what you're after, whether that's a classic diner cheeseburger, a crispy-edged smashburger, a chef-driven gourmet build, or a grass-fed or Wagyu patty. This guide highlights one standout burger spot in each of the 50 states to make finding a great one near you easier.
How do you choose the best burger in each state?
Our editors weigh the quality and sourcing of the beef, how the patty is ground and cooked, the balance of toppings and buns, consistency of execution, and each spot's local reputation. The goal is to name one dependable, memorable burger destination per state, from roadside institutions to modern gastropubs.
What is the difference between a smashburger and a classic burger?
A smashburger is made by pressing a loose ball of beef onto a hot griddle so it develops a thin, deeply caramelized, crispy-edged crust. A classic or pub-style burger uses a thicker, hand-formed patty that stays juicier in the center with less surface char. Many spots in this guide specialize in one style, and some offer both.
What toppings make the best burger?
It comes down to balance rather than quantity. Classic builds pair beef with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and a house sauce, while more indulgent creations layer on bacon, caramelized or fried onions, aiolis, jams, and specialty cheeses. The best burgers keep the toppings in proportion so the beef still leads.
Are there good burgers for people who don't eat beef?
Many of the restaurants in this guide serve more than beef, with menus that often include chicken sandwiches, turkey or bison patties, and vegetarian or plant-based options. Bison in particular shows up at spots in states like Montana. It's always worth checking the current menu, since offerings change.
What should I look for in a great burger restaurant?
Signs of a strong burger spot include fresh, in-house-ground beef, patties cooked to order, quality buns that hold up without overwhelming the bite, house-made sauces, and consistency from one visit to the next. A busy local following is usually a good indicator that a place delivers.
Do I need a reservation to eat at these burger spots?
Most of the burger joints in this guide are casual and welcome walk-ins, though gastropubs and more popular destinations can get busy on weekends and around game days. For larger groups or peak times, it's worth checking the restaurant's hours and calling ahead.
What is the best way to find a great burger near me?
Start with this state-by-state guide to find a highly regarded burger spot near you, then check current hours, the menu, and recent reviews before you go. Whether you're at home or on a road trip, the list is built to help you find a memorable burger in any state.