The Most Delicious Burger Joints in Every State (How Many Have You Been To?)

Is there anything more classic than a burger? We don't think so. Because while we love food in all forms and flavors here at Only In Your State, there's something about a burger that makes our editors' stomachs rumble—even if we just had lunch.

Our readers agreed, answering our call for the best burgers in the U.S. with a bevy of burger submissions, from smash burgers and bison burgers to green chili cheeseburgers and everything in between. After careful deliberation (and more than a few burgers eaten), we're pleased to present to you Only In Your State's 50 Best burgers across the U.S.

Alabama: Butch Cassidy’s Cafe

Ask anyone in Mobile where to get the best burger, and they’ll point you to Butch Cassidy’s Cafe. This culinary staple has been a local favorite since 1993, and like a fine wine, it’s just gotten better (and more popular) every year. The cafe offers a number of different burgers to sink your teeth into, but the Butch Burger is by far the most popular. Cooked to order and loaded with bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, mustard, mayo, and four pickles, this is easily one of the best burgers in Alabama. 

Alaska: Club Paris

Club Paris is not only the oldest steakhouse in Anchorage, but it's also home to the best burgers in Alaska. This restaurant is best known for its famous Filet Mignon Burgers, where each tenderloin is broiled to perfection. You can also choose from options like the Teriyaki Burger or the Ranch Burger with Club Paris’ special barbecue sauce, and no matter what you choose, you can't go wrong.

Arizona: Original Hamburger Works

If you like smoky meats, you'll love the mesquite-grilled burgers at Original Hamburger Works on 15th Ave in downtown Phoenix. There's just something about being cooked over an open flame that gives a burger a distinct flavor you'll have to try for yourself. For those with bigger appetites, try the Big Daddy with over a pound of beef! Smaller sizes include the Great Big One with a half-pound patty and the Big One with a 1/3-pound beef patty. Then there's the"The Works Burgers" menu featuring upgraded creations like the Fiesta with guacamole, bacon, and jalapeño cheese, and the Hawaiian Burger with a teriyaki glaze, provolone cheese, and—as you may have already guessed—pineapple!

Arkansas: Hugo's

Since 1977, Hugo's has occupied the basement of 25 ½ N Block Ave in Fayetteville and has been an eclectic community pillar. While its menu of classic American fare features homemade fries, nachos, sandwiches, and salads, it's the burgers that make this place stand out. Hugo's makes its burgers with 100% black angus beef; each patty is ⅓ of a pound. While you can certainly order The Traditional Hamburger, other options include a Bleu Moon Burger topped with melted bleu cheese, a Smoky Cheddar Burger, or the Guacamole Burger, among others, and pair your burger with one of the craft beers on tap.

California: The Peg House

The Peg House is a hidden gem along Highway 101 in Northern California that is always worth a stop. Not only is this burger joint in an incredible location—surrounded by redwoods and in a historic redwood building held together with wooden pegs (hence the name of the restaurant)—but the burgers are really, really good. Choose from options like the Aloha Burger, Wildwest Burger, and Sunset Burger, along with vegetarian and vegan menu items, and make sure you stay a while. This is a delightful place for a meal.

Colorado: Bob's Atomic Burgers

Are you craving a burger but want to add a bit of your flair to create it? Go to Bob's Atomic Burgers, where you can build your own hearty meal. Starting with a hamburger patty (or a black bean or veggie burger if you don't eat meat), you'll choose a white, wheat, or gluten-free bun. Then comes the toppings, some of which are free while others have an additional charge. Free toppings include lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, jalepeños, and banana peppers, but you can also add premium toppings like a fried egg, roasted green chilis, onion strings, or cheese.

Bob's Atomic Burgers also offers daily specials that may be tempting to try. One special they've offered is the Granny Smith's Goated Burg, a patty topped with grilled apples, goat cheese, and walnuts. See for yourself why Bob's has some of the best burgers in Colorado.

Connecticut: Zack’s Burgers and Shakes

It's easy to see why Zack's Burgers and Shakes is a local favorite. This family-owned restaurant is laser-focused on using the best ingredients possible. And you can taste the difference. Options include a Build-Your-Own Double Smash Burger, Black & Blue Burger, Mushroom Burger, and more. But the real show-stopper: the fries. Praised as some of the best around, these are a must-try. And if you have a sweet tooth, be sure to order a handspun shake.

Delaware: Farmer & The Cow

Farmer & The Cow offers classic pub fare with a modern twist, which is why so many locals rave about their menu. In addition to the house-blended patties for burgers that are always made to order, this restaurant is also known for its bourbon (over 1,200 whiskeys, in fact!), beer, and phenomenal milkshakes. Plus, the atmosphere and service are both reliably excellent.

Florida: Blue Dot Barbecue

It’s a no-frills, all-flavors type of experience when you visit Blue Dot Barbecue. This cash-only joint has been serving the Pensacola community with some of the best burgers and barbecue since 1946, and it’s worth a trip across state lines for. The secret to this amazing burger at Blue Dot Barbecue lies in its simplicity: quality ingredients and minimal toppings. The classic burger comes dressed with mustard, onions, and tomatoes, but you can certainly get saucy and top yours with their deliciously tangy barbecue sauce.

Georgia: Willie’s Famous Burgers & Fries

Willie’s Famous Burgers & Fries has been serving some of the best burgers in Georgia since 1991. The family-run restaurant has held the title of Best Burger in North Georgia for 15 years and shows no signs of relinquishing it anytime soon. Burger lovers will rejoice in any one of the 15 specialty burgers here, ranging from a surf and turf ( burger patty topped with a catfish fillet) to Texas Roadhouse (topped with bacon and BBQ sauce).

Hawaii: The Daley

There’s something about a smash burger that immediately puts you in a good mood, and the options at The Daley in Honolulu are filled with mouthwatering goodness. The menu is pretty simple and straightforward, with plant-based options and double-patty burgers for when you are extra hungry. Pair your burger with the crinkle fries, and you’ve got a meal you’ll find yourself craving long after your last bite.

Idaho: Main Street Burger

There are many burger joints worthy of this list in Treasure Valley, but Main Street Burger in Meridian is easily one of the best. The ingredients here are fresh and sourced from local farmers and vendors, ensuring high quality and lots of flavor. Plus, you’ll find all types of burger classics like the Bacon Cheeseburger or Guacamole Bacon Cheeseburger. And to create the ultimate meal, make sure to pair your burger of choice with fries and a milkshake.

Illinois: Kuma's Corner

Kuma’s Corner is a Chicago favorite known for raucous metal music and off-the-chain burgers that carry through with the heavy metal theme. With an additional location in Schaumburg, Kuma's serves up big burgers with creative, hearty toppings, all of which are named for legends of the metal genre.

Indiana: The Workingman's Friend

The Workingman's Friend has been an Indianapolis institution for more than a century and is renowned for its hearty American classics—like hamburgers. The double cheeseburger with onion rings is a Hoosier State favorite, making this joint's burgers some of the best in the Midwest. This being Indiana, you will, of course, find a pork tenderloin sandwich on the menu, as well, if you're not feeling the burger vibes. Be sure to hit the ATM before you stop in, because The Workingman's Friend only accepts cash.

Iowa: Big Head Burger

Another smash burger temple, Big Head Burger is a locally-owned joint in Waterloo that's become beloved among burger-loving locals. The menu of burgers offers nothing too fancy or over the top: just classic, perfectly seared burgers with combinations of the toppings you want. Always say yes to the fries and milkshakes here, as well.

Kansas: Do-B's Burgers, Phillys and PoBoys

You'll find Do-B's Burgers, Phillys, and PoBoys in charming Emporia, where they serve up hearty sandwiches, as well as your favorite burgers in the state of Kansas. To say Do-B's riffs on this Americana classic are creative would be an understatement. Take, for instance, the OMG burger, which is a burger layered with pastrami—yes, pastrami—grilled onions, and pepper jack cheese. One fan, Hannah G., suggests the Creole Gouda Burger, as well.

Kentucky: Mussel & Burger Bar

When you want one of the best burgers in Louisville, head over to Mussel & Burger Bar. This isn’t your typical burger joint; it puts a gourmet twist on a classic American dish. Some of the burgers you’ll find on the menu include the Spanish Blue (bleu cheese, mixed greens, fig marmalade with sweet potato fries and a smoked pineapple dipping sauce) and the C.E.O. (gruyere cheese, truffle aioli, caramelized onions, mixed greens, oven-roasted tomatoes, and steak truffle fries). Even the more traditional burgers have a unique spin, like the Good Ole Bacon Burger, which comes on a pretzel bun. 

Louisiana: Fatboy and Skinny's

Occupying the space of a vintage gas station, the location of Fatboy and Skinny's isn't the only thing that will take you back in time—the burgers, hand-cut fries, and milkshakes offer a dose of nostalgia as well. The Fatboy burger is a ⅔-pound, double-meat burger, while The Skinny is a ⅓-pound single patty, so you can choose your size based on your hunger level. Best of all, you can build your burger your way by choosing from a list of toppings that range from veggies like lettuce, tomato, grilled onions, banana peppers, and pickles to sauces like BBQ, sriracha, A1, and so much more!

Maine: Blazes Burgers

Burger enthusiasts everywhere owe it to themselves to try the Crack Cheeseburger from Blazes Burgers, complete with grilled onions, bacon, your choice of cheese and the secret weapon: Feisty Feta spread. Located on Westbrook's Main Street, this local eatery takes its food—and customer service—seriously. As one recent review shares, "The owner is someone that I would have so many restaurant/customer service workers go to and learn what true customer service should look like." Another reason to visit? The tater tots. Just trust us on this one.

Maryland: Leo’s Smash Burgers & Dogs

Tucked away in the back of an Italian Market, Leo's Smash Burgers & Dogs is the very definition of a hidden gem. But those in-the-know return frequently for Leo's famous smash burgers and chili dogs. Zack'sn create a custom order, try something from the menu, or even opt for the monthly special—there's no wrong way to enjoy a fantastic meal here.

Massachusetts: The Cormorant

Described as "your friendly neighborhood burger joint," the Cormorant is the vision of two owners who grew up in the region and are committed to providing that classic diner experience where you feel like family, even if it's your first time visiting. The burgers steal the show here, but you might venture out and try some unexpected picks, like an order of Naanchos—made with crispy naan chips and garlic yogurt sauce—or the fresh orange and beet salad.

Michigan: The Outsider

You'll find the most-recommended burger in Michigan at The Outsider in Manistee. Best known for its smash burgers, you'll find several variations on this classic, including the Oh My! Smash, topped with two onion rings and BBQ sauce, and the Nordhouse Smash, with Swiss cheese, mushrooms, and spicy mustard. Eat in the al fresco beer garden, then work off some energy on the eatery's vintage pinball machines and arcade games.

Minnesota: The Blue Door Pub

Folks love the burgers at The Blue Door Pub, which has two locations in Minneapolis, as well as an outpost for burger-loving travelers at MSP International. The most popular burger at Blue Door is the Blucy, which is the eatery's entry into the Ju(i)cy Lucy minefield of the Twin Cities burger scene. The Blucy, as the name implies, is stuffed with bleu cheese, which adds a tangy, salty counterpoint to the crispy, caramelized sear of the burger. As with any lucy, mind that first molten bite and have a cold beer at the ready.

Mississippi: Stamps Super Burgers

Sitting pretty in Jackson, Stamps Super Burgers is a no-brainer for travelers through Mississippi. This locally owned eatery has been serving some of the best burgers in the state since 1986, and we can’t get enough. While many burger joints across the country stick with a six or eight-ounce patty, Stamps delivers an 11-ounce patty of fresh ground beef. The signature Stamps Burger is a classic, but if you’re really hungry, you can double it up with two patties for 22 ounces of awesome. Don’t forget about their famous hand-cut lemon pepper fries—they’re the perfect pairing to these beastly burgers. 

Missouri: White Grill

Another decades-old institution, Nevada, Missouri's White Grill, has been satisfying customers since 1938. They start with fresh-ground beef, pat the burgers by hand, and serve them up with their signature Suzie Qs: crispy curly fries, fresh-cut and made to order. A long-time customer, Janice, recommends the "cheeseburger with grilled onions and the Suzie Q's, [paired with] a handmade chocolate shake."

Montana: Wally & Buck

If you have tried the smash burgers at Wally & Buck, you know why they are considered some of the best in Montana. All of the smash burgers are made using locally-sourced, grass-fed and grass-finished ground beef and local, organic veggies. If you need a recommendation, try the O.G. or the Wally with Oregon cheddar cheese, bacon jam, griddled onion, lettuce, tomato, and a special Wally Sauce on a brioche bun.

Nebraska: Stella's Hamburgers

A Nebraska favorite since 1936, Stella's has long reigned as the top burger in the Omaha area. The burgers start with massive, 6.5-ounce patties of fresh, never-frozen ground beef stacked high with the freshest toppings and lovingly cradled in a Rotella's hamburger bun, which are delivered to the eatery every morning. Aficionado Bob O. recommends "The Stellanator, [which] makes Stella's unique all by itself. Voted best burger numerous times for many years...it won't disappoint."

Nevada: With Love, Always

Smash burgers are certainly all the rage in the burger world these days, and one Las Vegas eatery is a true standout with this version of a classic. With Love, Always opened its doors in 2021 and quickly secured its spot on the restaurant scene with its simple menu, retro vibe, and mouthwatering burgers that turn patrons into repeat customers. Also, it's owned and run by Las Vegas locals, and this burger joint is their love letter to the city. All burgers are served on a toasted Martin's potato roll, and you can up the ante by adding bacon, fresh jalapeños, or grilled onions.

Customer Sierra R.'s take on 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."

New Hampshire: Tuckaway Tavern and Butchery

Hailed as a top-five favorite and a "carnivore emporium" by Guy Fieri, Tuckaway Tavern & Butchery knows what it's doing. The Tuckaway is both a butchery and a restaurant, your one-stop shop for high-quality meat and local fare. There are about a dozen fantastic burgers to choose from, but the original Classic Tavern burger has gotten the most accolades.

New Jersey: Marty's

The philosophy is simple at Marty's: "made by locals for locals." These hand-crafted burgers are never frozen, ensuring each bite is as flavorful and fresh as possible. And while the whole menu is worth exploring, folks rave about the black bean burger. Oh, and don't forget the hand-cut fries and a side of banana pudding!

New Mexico: Buckhorn Tavern

The Buckhorn Tavern opened in its current location in 1943, but the business started well before that, in 1918. It has been a mainstay in the San Antonio community, and when new owners took over in 2019, it remained an ever-popular spot for some of New Mexico's best burgers. So, what makes the Buckhorn so special? Well, the namesake Buckhorn Burger is a top choice for burger lovers. This cheeseburger is topped with mustard, lettuce, tomato, chopped onion, pickle, and green chile. The restaurant has also won numerous awards and accolades, and has been featured on the Food Network series, Throwdown with Bobby Flay.

New York: Donovan’s Pub

It all started in 1966, when New York City Firefighter Joe Donovan purchased the Clover Bar on the corner of 58th Street and Roosevelt Avenue. Immediately, it became a favorite among the local community, reminding regulars of pubs back in Ireland. The menu at Donovan's has expanded and evolved over the years, but one thing has remained constant: folks love the burgers here. Try the bacon cheeseburger with a side of onion rings and you'll be planning your return visit in no time.

North Carolina: Al's Burger Shack

Not only is Al’s Burger Shack regarded as one of the best burgers in North Carolina, but it might just be the best burger in America. These 100% Angus ground chuck burgers are hand-pattied, individually seasoned to perfection, and cooked to order every time. Top yours with the popular bacon-onion jam or roasted garlic aioli, and be sure to pair it with one of the famous frozen custard shakes made with frozen custard from local creameries. Burgers and milkshakes are better together.

North Dakota: Old 281 Tavern

A North Dakota stalwart in a log cabin setting, Old 281 Tavern serves up burgers in Minnewaukan that locals can't get enough of. The menu is handwritten, and the vibe is no-nonsense, so you know this eatery is focused on what it does best: making food that people love, like the Au Jus Burger, which the owners assure us is "everyone's favorite!"

Ohio: Zip's Cafe

Senior Only In Your State Editor and lifelong Ohioan Sarah McCosham fully supports our readers' choice for Ohio's best burger, Zip's Cafe. Sarah was first introduced to their cult classic Zip Burger by her father more than three decades ago, but folks from all across the Buckeye State have been making the trip to this Cincinnati institution for a century.

Oklahoma: Johnnie's Hamburgers & Coneys

For classic diner digs, there's no burger joint as nostalgic as Johnnie's Hamburgers & Coneys in El Reno. This iconic establishment is best known for its onion burger, a must-order menu item that has earned a cult following over the years. Depending on how hungry you are, you can get your onion burger with a single, double, or triple patty and make it a cheeseburger if you prefer!

Oregon: Portland Burger

With handcrafted burgers and housemade sauces, you can’t go wrong with anything you order at Portland Burger, one of the best burger joints in Oregon. The menu is filled with impressive options like the Classic Rock or the Magic Man, which is topped with portabello mushrooms marinated in a ginger-soy sauce. As someone who loves spice, the Angry Jalapeno is what you’ll see in front of me with fresh and crispy jalapenos, a housemade angry sauce, lettuce, onion, and American cheese.

Pennsylvania: Tessaro's

For a fantastic Pittsburgh burger you'll never forget, head to Tessaro's American Bar & Hardwood Grill, where chef Kelly Harrington's legacy lives on through a hamburger best described as "genuine, authentic, and honest." Beyond its sheer size, what sets this burger apart begins with the in-house butcher preparing all-beef ground chuck burgers on a custom-built iron grill. The result? Burgers so flavorful that you can smell them all the way down Liberty Avenue.

Rhode Island: Stanley’s Famous Hamburgers

Stanley's was opened by a Polish immigrant named Stanley F. Kryla in 1932. His dream was simple yet profound: to create a delicious burger that everyone could afford. This dream became especially poignant in light of the Great Depression, and folks came to rely on these burgers as true comfort food. "Stanleyburgers" were known throughout the region, famous for their characteristic grilled onions and pickles. Today, these burgers are still legendary, and a visit to Stanley's isn't just a great meal out; it's a journey through American history.

South Carolina: Smashley’s Burger Bar

Everyone loves a good smash burger, but Smashley’s Burger Bar takes smashburgers to entirely new heights. The OG Smashley Burger features aged cheddar, caramelized onions (carmies), house-made pickles, and their famous burger sauce. It’s easily one of the best smash burgers in South Carolina, but it’s certainly not the only smash burger on the menu. From bleu cheese and bacon to vegan-friendly options, there’s truly a burger for all taste buds here. 

South Dakota: Nick's Hamburger Shop

Folks in South Dakota love the burgers at Nick's Hamburger Shop in Brookings. This beloved, all-American diner has kept folks coming back for more than a century with hearty, comfort fare and classic food like, of course, its burgers, which Nick's encourages you to buy "by the bag."

Tennessee: The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden

This hidden gem in East Nashville has a passion for making everything from scratch, and you can taste the difference. The burgers at The Pharmacy are made from fresh, locally sourced beef, and those signature buns? Well, those are made just for The Pharmacy by Frothy Monkey Bakery. Pair your burger with any one of the 10+ housemade sauces, and then wash it down with one of their handmade sodas. That’s right, folks. A handmade soda, using 100% pure cane sugar. No caffeine, no preservatives, no artificial colors, and no corn syrup. Just quality ingredients.

Texas: Bubba's Texas Burger Shack

Family-owned and operated since 1985, Bubba's has been feeding hungry Houston residents and tourists for 40 years. It's a classic, no-frills sort of place where you're likely to run into someone you know. Bubba's is also the first burger joint in the Houston area to serve American bison burgers. While in Houston, you may as well order the Houston Burger with generous toppings of bacon, grilled onions, jalepeños, BBQ sauce, and cheddar cheese. Of course, beef and black bean burgers are also available if you don't want to try bison.

Utah: Purple Turtle

It's hard to miss the Purple Turtle when driving through Pleasant Grove, given the towering sign with a turtle wearing a chef's hat, holding a burger, and the restaurant's purple roof. It's the type of diner that beckons travelers to pull over, if only to satisfy their curiosity. But what you'll find on the menu will make you really glad you stopped. Open since 1968, the Purple Turtle has been slinging good ol' fashioned burgers that are juicy, delicious, and memorable. Pair one with fries, onion rings, and/or a shake (Jacqueline W., who nominated the Purple Turtle, recommends the brownie shake) for an incredibly indulgent meal before heading back out on the road.

Vermont: Broken Hearts Burger

Don't let the unassuming exterior fool you; here lies what might just be the best burger in Vermont. Broken Hearts Burger is consistently rated as "cool," and "unexpected," by unsuspecting visitors. Locals, however, know quite well that this is the spot for a flawless burger experience. The smash burgers are made with ultra-thin patties, melted cheese, and a toasted bun, and by all accounts, they are completely crave-worthy.

Virginia: Viking Burger

When a place calls itself Viking Burger, you know you’re going to get a massive burger. Located in Newport News, this local burger joint leans into the Viking theme with plenty of Viking-themed menu items. The Viking Burger is your traditional burger with their special Viking sauce. Still, you may be inspired to delve into an Odin burger (double patties), a Thor burger (cheeseburger with grilled onions), or the Ragnar (stacked with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles). Save room for dessert because they have fried Oreos on the menu!

Washington: Ox Burger

The Ox Burger is a hidden gem that you won’t be able to keep quiet. Not only is the atmosphere friendly and cozy, but there are burger options for every craving, and you’ll need to open your mouth wide for a single bite—these burgers are big! The Lao Burger is a favorite with two patties, pork belly, provolone cheese, and jaew bong mayo.

West Virginia: Farmer's Daughter

Located in Capon Bridge, West Virginia, Farmer’s Daughter does things the old-fashioned way. Lunch is served Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., and of course, the house burger is the star of the show. The burger is simple, and its simplicity is what keeps customers coming back every week: dry-aged beef, American cheese, pickled red onions, lettuce, and Duke’s mayonnaise. The Farmer’s Daughter also offers an assortment of sausages, and there’s a butcher on-site as well as a small selection of local grocery items. Pick up some steaks cut to order, some local preserves, and a pack of beers to take home after you’ve enjoyed the burger!

Wisconsin: Valley Burger Co.

Eau Claire's Valley Burger Co. is home to your favorite burgers in the Badger State. Known for its playful twists on the classic—like the Wisco Whiz, with cheddar, whiz, bacon, and dijonnaise—as well as some head-turning specials, like the PB&J burger, this eatery is a destination-worthy dining experience. And yes, cheese curds and old fashioneds are on the menu.

Wyoming: Pour Decisions Bar and Grill

Pour Decisions Bar and Grill is one burger joint where you’ll feel right at home and will always leave feeling extremely full. The burgers on the menu vary from a traditional burger to their signature burger with pineapple, sauteed onions, bacon, melted Swiss cheese, hot cherry peppers, and a sweet mango habanero sauce. And to cool it off, every specialty burger on the menu comes with one side and a scoop of ice cream.

How We Selected Winners

When naming the best restaurants, we considered more than just buzz. Popularity, reviews, awards, and of course, reader nominations showed us what diners and experts value, while quality ingredients, flavor, and freshness set the bar high. We also factored in accessibility, inclusivity, affordability, hours, and overall value. Finally, we highlighted innovation and creativity, rewarding spots that deliver something distinctive while honoring their culinary roots.

If your favorite burger didn't make the list, nominate it! Let this list inspire you to try new restaurants. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite burger joint—it might even inspire you to plan a burger-themed road trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.