Forget Fast Food, Because the Smashburger at Dexter’s Grill Is King

Michigan’s food scene has a little bit of everything—fresh fish from the Great Lakes, hearty pasties, and, of course, the beloved Coney dog. But when it comes to satisfying that craving for a truly exceptional burger, you might need to look a little harder. While the state is full of great spots, one that stands out in Southgate is Dexter’s Grill—a place that might surprise you with its unassuming location right next to a gas station. Don’t let that fool you. Dexter’s is the kind of spot that surprises you with just how good a burger can be.

I had been hearing nothing but praise for Dexter’s from the Downriver Foodies group for months, with everyone raving about its smashburgers. When I finally made the trip to Southgate, my expectations were high, and that first bite of the Dex Smashburger absolutely lived up to the hype.

This burger is a thing of beauty: crispy edges on a thin patty, juicy in the middle, and loaded with all the essentials, like lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and cheese (if that’s your thing). And the price? A combo of a burger, fries, and a drink is under 10 bucks. That’s a hard deal to beat. It’s the perfect example of a burger that hits all the right notes without breaking the bank.

Now, if you’re like me and have some quirks when it comes to ordering food, Dexter’s is a place that’ll embrace you for it. I’m neurodivergent, so when I order a burger, it’s usually just pickles and mayo - no cheese, no veggies (I’ll take them off).

I’ve always felt a bit childish asking for it this way, but the staff at Dexter’s didn’t judge. In fact, when I explained that I take the pickles off immediately because I just want the essence of pickles, not the actual slices, the server smiled and suggested a side of pickle juice for dipping. I thought, "This is genius!" It was exactly what I wanted, and it made me feel like Dexter’s really understood me. That kind of customer service is rare, and it’s one of the reasons I’ll keep coming back.

For those looking to change it up, this Southgate burger joint has options beyond the classic smashburger. The Tara’s Turkey Burger offers a leaner option, swapping in a turkey patty without skimping on flavor. It’s got the same great toppings as the smashburger, so you’re not sacrificing any of the deliciousness.

If you’re the type who believes in going big or going home, the Crazy Randy is right up your alley. This burger has three patties stacked high and is loaded with all the classic toppings, plus American cheese. If you’re hungry enough to tackle it, you’ll be full for hours afterward.

But let’s not forget about the wings. Dexter’s doesn’t just excel at burgers, it boasts an incredible wing selection. Kelvin’s Jamaican Jerk Wings, Jamaal’s Hot Lemon Pepper Wings, and K'Mari Garlic Parmesan Wings are all packed with flavor and perfectly seasoned. Whether you like a little heat or prefer something savory, these wings won’t disappoint. They’re the perfect snack to share (or not - no judgment here).

As for sides, you’ve got the classics: chili, fries, and chili cheese fries. They might seem simple, but they’re anything but basic. The chili is rich and flavorful, and the fries are perfectly crispy, making them the ideal complement to your burger or wings.

Dexter’s Grill is proof that you don’t need a huge, overwhelming menu to be great. Instead, it's focused on a few dishes that it has perfected. It’s an approach that works—as it does for those other Michigan specialties like fresh Great Lakes fish, pasties, and Coney dogs. There’s no filler here: just delicious, high-quality food that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, Dexter’s delivers every time.

So, if you’re in Southgate, make sure to visit Dexter’s Grill. If you’re not, well, maybe it’s time to hop on a plane. Dexter’s is worth the trip, and you can find some great deals through Dollar Flight Club. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

When you're ready to set out on your next culinary adventure in Michigan, make your first stop Only In Your State’s itinerary planner, where you're sure to find some tasty inspiration.