Best Hole-In-The-Wall Burger Spots In Every US State
A great burger doesn't need a celebrity chef manning the grill, a blinged-out bun, or a slick advertisement presenting the patty like it's about to stun in an Oscar-worthy show. If you ask most folks, they'll likely tell you all it really takes is a flat-top grill, a good ol' basic bun, and a juicy patty never letting the word "dry" exist in its vicinity. And if those things are served in a setting easily missed if one blinks while passing by? All the better.
In fact, that's exactly what we are here to talk about, that wonderful, grease-kissed world of hole-in-the-wall burger joints. We've already tracked down the best hole-in-the-wall breakfast spots in every state, hunted for the top hole-in-the-wall sandwich shops every state teases, and even scoped out the greatest hole-in-the-wall diners each state dazzles us with. Now it's time to give the humble hamburger joint its time to shine.
These aren't necessarily the places with glossy websites, cool mood lighting, or a social media manager photographing every burger in just the right pose to garner click after click for a viral post. These are the the mom and pop, neighborhood spots where the griddle is always going, the regulars often know what they're ordering before they ever see the menu (if they even glance at it at all), and the burger speaks for itself — no fancy aesthetics or hullabaloo required. Come with us, as we uncover the best hole-in-the-wall burger joints each state has to offer.
Alabama: Vicki's Lunch Van, LLC
Burgers are kept simple at local favorite Vicki's Lunch Van. Customers can order a classic burger single, or as a combo with chips or fries. And then if you insist of stepping out of the norm, there's the unique Gunter Pile option, presenting a gravy, fries, and burger patty bonanza (a patty covered with cheese, onions, and gravy atop a feast of fries).
106 Coliseum Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36109
Alaska: D's Burger Shack
Family-owned and run, D's Burger Shack is a neighborhood spot that inspires effusive hometown enthusiasm. Customers boast its serving the best burgers around, and even reminisce about them after moving away. First-timers leave impressed, too, with foodies highlighting the simple satisfaction that a well-done, simply sublime burger like D's brings. When former residents still miss your burgers, you know you've made an impression.
facebook.com/people/Ds-Burger-Shack
(907) 483-3912
507 St Nicholas Dr, North Pole, AK 99705
Arizona: Smash Grill
We've shared secrets for making the best smash burger at home, but for moments you want to sit back and let someone else do the cooking (and still trust what arrives on your plate to be tasty) hedge your bets and head to customer favorite Smash Grill. Burgers come as sliders, classic, and even wildcards like peanut-butter-and-jelly with bacon, brisket in barbecue sauce, or meat-free vegetarian versions.
(480) 219-5665
6050 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Arkansas: Oark General Store
Awaiting to delight down an out-of-the-way Arkansas lane, Oark General Store slings hand-pressed cheeseburgers that come in several moods. Classic grabs present fresh toppings and house mayo, then there are bacon-loaded behemoths, Texas-style treats with grilled onion and pepper jack, or jalapeño-hot handhelds with chipotle mayo. Heralded by customers as the most heavenly, travelers make quite the detour for just a taste of these hamburgers.
(479) 292-3351
117 Co Rd 5241, Oark, AR 72852
California: Pearl's Deluxe Phatburgers
Pearl's Deluxe Phatburgers is a no-frills setting deliver big, "phat" burger energy. Its patties come as beef, turkey, chicken, veggie, or salmon, with mini versions and extras like cheese or bacon available. The specialty burgers are the showoffs, like the Phat Bob, favored by celeb chef Tyler Florence, featuring Jack cheese, bacon, onion rings, BBQ sauce, and mayo; and the Bula, showcasing spicy pineapple-laced pizazz.
(415) 466-5162
708 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Colorado: Bud's Cafe & Bar
Folks are willing to drive for miles for a cheeseburger from Bud's Cafe & Bar, a storied establishment where patties are cooked on a flat-top grill, then paired with gooey American cheese. Regulars praise its no-fuss atmosphere, and there's zero need to overthink the menu. Just order the double cheeseburger, and take one bite to learn why locals try to keep this place a secret.
(303) 688-9967
5453 Manhart Ave, Sedalia, CO 80135
Connecticut: GoldBurgers
GoldBurgers has a secret weapon tucked right inside its signature sandwich. We're talking about potato chips, which literally fills the popular GoldBurger, alongside a beef patty, lettuce, onion, pickles, American cheese, and GoldBurger Sauce. Other burger options include the classic (single or double), as well as chicken, sausage, and veggie burgers. Locals have voted it among Connecticut's best burgers, while devoted fans praise the nostalgic tastes of longtime favorites.
(860) 665-0478
1096 Main St, Newington, CT 06111
Delaware: Burgers by Wildwich
Burgers by Wildwich treats the smash burger like a choose-your-own-adventure meal, with house-made sauces ready to make every bite the perfect plot twist. The Pop Burger keeps things classic with vegetables, pickles, and Fetch sauce, while the Zydeco brings Cajun butter and sweet pickled peppers to the plate. Customers praise the from-scratch approach, especially those sauces, and local smash burger fans place these among Delaware's top contenders.
(302) 898-5335
2616 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703
Florida: Jaws Jumbo Burgers
At Jaws Jumbo Burgers, subtlety has apparently been eaten by a shark. This family-owned, movie-themed spot lets diners choose single, double, or triple patties, then customize toppings and American, Swiss, or cheddar cheese, and add bacon in for good measure. There are also specialty burgers on offer. Foodies emphasize the enormous portions, while local guides praise the pairing of delicious burgers with the wall-to-wall "Jaws" knick-knackery.
(352) 304-5080
3131 SW College Rd, Ocala, FL 34474
Georgia: Willie's Famous Burgers & Fries
Boasting years of burger awards and loyal regulars, Willie's Famous Burgers & Fries started as a tiny barbecue and hot dog operation before finding its true calling between burger buns. Its patties are made-to-order using certified Angus beef, and the menu showcases playful picks like Cajun Firecracker, Green Chile, and Flamingo burgers. Fans also champion the Big Fat Elvis, featuring bacon, peanut butter, and strawberry jelly.
(706) 226-1953
301 W Emery St, Dalton, GA 30720
Hawaii: Island Ono Loa Grill
Among the best celebrity chef tips for unbelievable cheeseburgers is having quality meat. The practically revered burgers at Island Ono Loa Grill are hand-formed from beef patties with zero filler, and can even be prepared with beef from a local ranch. The patties are chargrilled over lava rocks for a smoky flavor, and come in unique options like Macnut Pesto Goat Cheese and Paniolo BBQ Cheeseburgers.
(808) 339-3037
75-5799 Ali'i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Idaho: Thunder Mountain Burgers
Placing an order at Thunder Mountain Burgers is as easy as choosing a mini, classic, or triple based on number of patties desired, then enjoying cheese, bacon, fry sauce, and ketchup as the starting lineup. After that, add preferred toppings. There's also veggie burger and gluten-free bun availability. Customers appreciate that bacon comes standard, and one even loved their first burger enough to order another immediately.
(208) 382-5052
806 S Main St, Cascade, ID 83611
Illinois: Moonshine Store
Moonshine Store has drawn burger seekers to the country roads of Clark County for decades now, with a grill tucked inside a circa 1912 general store. The menu lets you choose hamburger, cheeseburger, or pork burger, then decide whether a double or triple stack is a thrilling challenge you are up for committing to. Customers joke about the towering patties, while visitors travel long distances for these burgers.
facebook.com/themoonshinestore
(618) 569-9200
6017 E 300th Rd, Martinsville, IL 62442
Indiana: Hinkle's Hamburgers
There's nothing hinky going on at Hinkle's Hamburgers, where the only thing suspicious is that the burgers seem to be casting spells over customers. Diners choose hamburger or cheeseburger, go single, double, or triple, then add lettuce or tomato as preferred. Grilled onions come with the deal, and the beef is reportedly ground on-site. Food writers love the old-school atmosphere, while local guides point visitors here.
(812) 339-3335
206 S Adams St, Bloomington, IN 47404
Iowa: Cracken's Grill
Cracken's Grill gives burger traditionalists a classic cheeseburger, while adventurous appetites can go bold with the Black N Blue, boasting blackened seasoning, blue cheese, veggies, pickles, and blue cheese dressing. The Western Burger takes a different route with cheddar, bacon, BBQ sauce, and fixings, and there's even a Patty Melt. Food influencers mention the cheeseburger and Patty Melt, and fans insist you order the fries, too.
(319) 259-7411
2221 Rochester Ave, Iowa City, IA 52245
Kansas: Buster's Burger Joint
Burgers get top billing at locally owned Buster's Burger Joint, but the supporting cast of sides are no slouches (we're talking fries, onion rings, and especially adored cheese tots). Locals voted Buster's Wichita's most-beloved burgers, and fans rave about the moist patties, crisped-to-perfection bacon, melty cheese, and toasted buns. One customer said their double bacon cheeseburger and tots order apparently left nothing behind, which sounds like a strong endorsement.
facebook.com/p/Busters-Burger-Joint
(316) 524-7800
1202 E MacArthur Rd, Wichita, KS 67216
Kentucky: Laha's Red Castle
Laha's Red Castle has been slinging burgers for nearly a century, the open lunch counter inviting all eyes to land on the griddle. Here, magic happens, with ground beef dotted with chopped onions, then smashed until the patties become the perfect state of crispy. Limited seating can mean a wait, but folks say this iconic burger spot is worth it.
(270) 358-9201
21 Lincoln Square, Hodgenville, KY 42748
Louisiana: Judice Inn
Judice Inn has earned itself a rep. But it's not what you think. This Acadiana sweetheart's getting a name because its burgers and Original Judice Sauce are so beguiling. Customers order hamburgers or cheeseburgers as singles or doubles (lettuce, a mustard-mayo mix, and onion included), then can customize it with grilled onions or an egg. Even national publications consider it among America's most iconic burger spots.
(337) 984-5614
3134 Johnston St, Lafayette, LA 70503
Maine: Blazes Burgers
Not only is Blazes Burgers our top hole-in-the-wall burger eatery, but it boasts what many consider the best burger in the state. Its Black and Blue Burger brings grilled onions, bacon, sweet bourbon sauce, and blue cheese together on a grilled brioche bun (gluten-free bun available). Other highly praised choices include the Crack Cheeseburger with spicy feta spread and a breakfast burger crowned with egg, bacon, and cheese.
(207) 591-0331
861 Main St, Westbrook, ME 04092
Maryland: Leo's Smash Burgers and Dogs
Leo's Smash Burgers and Dogs serves classic smash burgers customers crave, but also encourages both customized and curated experimentation. The PB&J Burger presents bacon, peanut butter, grape jam, and pickled jalapeño, while a Burger of the Month brings seasonal sensations. Food writers laud its merits, and regulars often return for another smashing round of burger bliss.
(443) 466-1932
2 S Main St, North East, MD 21901
Massachusetts: Casey's Diner
Casey's Diner operates out of a landmark building with just a handful of counter stools. The menu is not fussy, as customers simply choose a hamburger, cheeseburger, pepperburger, or a double if one patty won't cut it. Its old-school charm has earned attention from food publications and a devoted following that includes Smithereens drummer Dennis Diken, whose band notably planned tour visits around the diner's proximity.
(508) 650-6272
36 South Ave, Natick, MA 01760
Michigan: Moofinfries
The burger mantra at Moofinfries is defined by locally sourced, grass-fed beef, cooked to order, giving customers a choice of single, double, triple, or the Holy Cow. Add familiar toppings (ketchup, mustard, pickles, onion), then devour with great delight the juicy middle and crisped exterior tucked into a golden, toasted bun. This hole-in-the-wall burger stop has travelers driving hours for a taste, and locals call it their top pick.
(906) 477-9000
W11623 US Hwy 2, Naubinway, MI, 49762
Minnesota: Val's Rapid Serv
Named among Minnesota's best burgers, Val's Rapid Serv began as a converted gas station in the 1950s and remains a St. Cloud sweetheart. Order a hamburger or cheeseburger as a single, double, or triple, then consider adding bacon or extra cheese. Also on offer are fries, milkshakes, and more. Foodies and tourism guides recommend the spot, where nostalgia and budget-approved burgers abound.
(320) 251-5775
628 E St Germain St, St Cloud, MN 56304
Mississippi: Ms. Dee's Country Store
A trio of tasty burger options await folks heading to Ms. Dee's Country Store (hamburger, cheeseburger, or double cheeseburger). The burgers are praised for their juicy, fresh-cooked flavor, and folks drive hours to try the enormous double versions. Customers also appreciate staff's community-minded hospitality. Whether sticking to one patty or taking two, bring an appetite ... and perhaps a spare shirt.
msdeescountrystore.restaurants-us.com
(662) 934-7858
1700A Terza Rd, Batesville, MS 38606
Missouri: Whisler's Drive-Up
Whisler's Drive-Up has quelled burger cravings since the 1950s, with nostalgic appeal keeping fans returning with warm memories. Start with a hamburger or cheeseburger, then explore the burger specialties. The Pig 'n Bull adds ham, Sow 'n Cow brings bacon, and The Farm brings both. Locals snag burgers en route, while devotees, encouraged by national publications, travel remarkable distances for their fix.
(417) 358-4951
300 N Garrison Ave, Carthage, MO 64836
Montana: Old Salt Outpost
Tucked inside Helena's The Gold Bar, Old Salt Outpost and its popular burgers let Montana beef do the talking. The patties come from local ranches and are beloved for the delicious crust action they create, with fans appreciating knowing quality ingredients are going into every bite. Critics and locals praise the unfussy, beef-first philosophy, and advise not skipping the house-made sauces, especially the buttermilk ranch.
(406) 272-2156
406 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT 59601
Nebraska: Quack Burger
From a wee spot inside Joe's Duck Inn, Quack Burger serves dive bar burgers that are unapologetic about cheese (specifically, the sheer amounts of it packing every bite). The signature Quack Daddy pairs two beef patties with American, cheddar, and queso, plus bacon, pickles, and secret sauce. Other choices include a Cowboy burger, a PB&J burger, and a grilled-cheese-and-burger mash-up. Reviewers praise the portions, juicy meat, and zingy sauce.
facebook.com/people/Quack-Burger
(402) 424-6017
13336 Millard Ave, Omaha, NE 68137
Nevada: Stay Tuned Burgers
Beginning as a backyard pop-up, Stay Tuned Burgers is aptly named, as it more than keeps local guides' and customers' attentions, thanks to its delicious burgers. A miniscule mensch hiding inside Vegas's Hard Hat Lounge, hand-ground patties are seasoned boldly, pressed until they form a crave-worthy crust, then tucked within potato buns with a heavenly, hush-hush, secret sauce, plus pickles and onion.
(702) 384 -8987
1675 S Industrial Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89102
New Hampshire: Papa Joe's Humble Kitchen
Don't let Papa Joe's Humble Kitchen's name fool you. It's a locally famous star, serving burgers giving it plenty of reasons to brag. The Humble Ken features freshly ground, seasoned beef and customer's choice of toppings, while the V's Taco Burger brings cheddar, sour cream, salsa, and lettuce to taco-seasoned beef. Local publications and fans have lauded the spot, calling its burgers the state's best.
(603) 672-9130
237 South St, Milford, NH 03055
New Jersey: Steve's Burgers
When it comes to bragging rights, Steve's Burgers has earned plenty, twice winning a readers' choice award for its burgers. The menu covers hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and bacon cheeseburgers, plus specialty stacks for those desiring a bit more drama between their buns. The Willy Burger pairs Swiss cheese with mushrooms; the Jersey Burger adds cheese, fried onion, lettuce, and tomato; and the American Burger showcases cheese, fried egg, and bacon.
(973) 772-1770
506 US-46, Garfield, NJ 07026
New Mexico: Badlands Burgers & Brews
Family-run Badlands Burgers & Brews has turned Aztec into a destination for burger fans. The Badlands Burger combines cheddar and bacon with green chile, while the Spicy Bacon Burger presents pickled jalapeños, pepper jack, and blackberry-jalapeño jam. The hole-in-the-wall's signature green chile cheeseburger even won the People's Choice award at the state fair. Customers praise the fresh-ground patties, and appreciate the fair prices.
(505) 333-2001
122 N Main Ave, Aztec, NM 87410
New York: K.O. Burger
K.O. Burger puts its knockout punch straight inside the sauce. The signature Knockout burger showcases a smashed patty, cheese, onions, pickles, pickled jalapeños, ketchup, mustard, and K.O. Sauce on a potato roll. Prefer onion power? Lights Out goes with griddled onions and mustard, while Meaty Boy adds applewood-smoked bacon and chipotle mayo. Both fans and critics rank these among smash burger primo prizefighters.
1-3 Eldridge St, Store B, New York, NY 10002
North Carolina: Winnie's Tavern
Celebrated by local and national publications, Winnie's Tavern and its Trailer Park Burger is creating plenty of buzz (even earning food show fame). With fried green tomatoes, jalapeño pimento cheese, bacon, bread-and-butter pickles, and chipotle mayo, this burger brings Southern comfort to every bite. The Stationwagon adds mushrooms, grilled onions, Swiss, and garlic aioli, and there's plenty more burger fun on the menu.
(910) 762-1799
1895 Burnett Blvd, Wilmington, NC 28401
North Dakota: Finish Line Burgers & Brew
When ordering, Finish Line Burgers & Brew lets diners take the wheel. Choose your patty, bun, cheese, and toppings, then build your burger as you want. Options include (but aren't limited to) venison, prime rib, and chicken-fried steak, with bread choices ranging from pretzel to brioche, plus plenty of cheeses and add-ons. Food guides praise the creativity, while the North Dakota Beef Commission named it Best Burger.
facebook.com/Finishlineburgersandbrewllc
(701) 338-2808
2 US-52, Velva, ND 58790
Ohio: Crabill's Hamburger Shoppe
Crabill's Hamburger Shoppe presents patrons with hamburgers, cheeseburgers, or doubles. Thin patties sizzle on a flat-top grill, developing crisped-to-perfection edges that help these small burgers leave a big impression. Order them with brown mustard, sweet relish, and onion, known as "The Original," or add ketchup. Food writers have spotlighted this local favorite, fans wish it were in their own towns, and regulars happily return like clockwork.
(937) 653-5133
727 Miami St, Urbana, OH 43078
Oklahoma: P5 Burger Barn
From early food truck days, P5 Burger Barn has since moved into a brick-and-mortar home. The Moo is its classic cheeseburger, the Bacon Moo adds bacon, and The Monster pairs beef with pulled pork and barbecue drizzle. For extra fire, the Flame Thrower combines a cheeseburger with hot links and jalapeños. Fans praise the generously-sized burgers, and some admit to eating here weekly.
(580) 665-9809
603 N Broadway Ave, Ada, OK 74820
Oregon: Helvetia Tavern
Giving burger fans good reason to head into Oregon farm country, Helvetia Tavern serves a popular double cheeseburger showcasing lettuce, tomato, onion, house "goop" sauce, and pickles atop a sesame seed bun. Hungrier folks can choose a jumbo burger, or go for the meat-free vegan or garden burgers. Locals get vocal when best burger lists leave Helvetia out, and local news celebrates its secret sauce and generous portions.
(503) 647-5286
10275 NW Helvetia Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97124
Pennsylvania: Route 66 Restaurant
Customers at Route 66 Restaurant choose a single, double, triple, or quad cheeseburger, or switch lanes to a Cheeseburger Sub, showcasing two smashed Black Angus patties on an Italian roll. The Chopped Cheese brings chopped beef patties to the same sandwich format, while Impossible and falafel burgers offer even more alternatives. Foodies and locals call this spot a fave, with even the plant-based options winning praise.
(717) 394-0010
45 W Liberty St, Suite 1, Lancaster, PA 17603
Rhode Island: There, There.
With two tiny Providence locations, There, There. is a burger hideaway worth tracking down. The Dream burger pairs grass-fed beef with cheese, patty sauce, onion jam, and lettuce on a griddled sesame bun, while The Oklahoma showcases sweet mustard, pickles, and griddled onions. Then there is the Bacon Royale, which adds bacon and tomato jam. Local food writers champion the Dream's double smashed patties, and foodies deem this spot a burger utopia.
Multiple locations
South Carolina: Windy City Burgers
With Windy City Burgers grinding its own chuck in-house and baking brioche buns daily, it's no surprise the burgers are considered the best. The Hudson Burger is the primo pick, presenting applewood-smoked bacon, cheddar, onion straws, and barbecue sauce. You can swap in chicken or an Impossible patty, too. Foodies rave about freshness and burger size, while visitors admit already planning return trips.
(864) 349-1390
12 E Coffee St, Greenville, SC 29601
South Dakota: Murph's Burgers & Fries
At Murph's Burgers & Fries, bacon jam's a big deal. The Famous Murph Burger combines it with a third-pound patty, American and Swiss cheeses, house sauce, and lettuce and onion on brioche. The Irish Hangover adds a fried egg, and the Jalapeño Popper brings in smoked-jalapeño cream cheese and bacon spread. Local contests recognize the Famous Murph, and regulars keep returning.
murphsburgersfries.restaurants-us.com
(605) 274-6050
5312 E Arrowhead Pkwy, Sioux Falls, SD 57110
Tennessee: Meek's Kitchen
Tucked inside a service station, Meek's Kitchen serves smash burgers that make a detour feel mandatory. The Big Boy Bacon showcases cheese, bacon, maple-bacon aioli, spring mix, and tomato, while the Black N Blue presents Cajun spice, blue cheese, onions, and chipotle aioli. The shop won Tennessee's Best Burger competition, and foodies rave about the caramelized edges. Fans even attest they never visit the Smokies without stopping.
facebook.com/farmraisedburgers
(865) 286-5257
1415 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862
Texas: Boots Burger
Founded by Clarence "Boots" Mooney in the 1960s, Boots Burger serves grateful guests from a tiny kitchen with barely enough elbow room for cooking. This family-run hole-in-the-wall keeps things simple, offering patrons hamburgers, cheeseburgers, doubles, and option of added hot relish for a spicy kick. Customers travel across Texas and beyond for a taste, with one fan declaring the burgers worth any price. The famous line outside speaks volumes.
(972) 722-5802
701 Austin St, Rockwall, TX 75087
Utah: Milt's Stop n' Eat
Moab's Milt's Stop n' Eat is a walk-up where grass-fed, hormone-free beef is celebrated. Customers can order classic hamburgers or cheeseburgers, or choose the Santa Fe with grilled green chile, cheddar, and chipotle sauce. The Cowboy-Jalapeño adds jalapeños, an onion ring, and fry sauce, while bison and veggie burgers add further options. Foodies particularly praise the local sourcing and pricing.
(435) 259-7424
356 Mill Creek Dr, Moab, UT 84532
Vermont: Tin Shed Grill
Just a whisper away from the Canadian border, Tin Shed Grill is a remote hole-in-the-wall burger hunter's dream of discovering ... and driving miles to try. It's known for precisely smashed patties with crisped-to-perfection edges. There's no paid social media ad campaigns here, as these folks trust the burgers alone will bring business. Food explorers deem it a hidden treasure, while locals admit it's a weekly routine.
(802) 356-6276
3221 US-5, Derby, VT 05829
Virginia: The Spot
The Spot (once called The White Spot) has been feeding University of Virginia students and visitors since the 1950s, with many still returning for the signature Gus Burger. This cheeseburger arrives adorned with a fried egg, while the Motor Burger adds a serving of ham, for breakfast-for-dinner delight. Diners warmly recall late-night Gus Burgers long after leaving town, and today's guests keep coming.
(434) 295-9899
1407 University Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Washington: Broiler Bay Hamburgers
Broiler Bay Burgers proudly keeps Bellevue unfussy, serving its charbroiled classics with zero pomp and circumstance (but all taste and substance). Pick a cheeseburger, bacon cheeseburger, avocado Swiss, mushroom Swiss, or pastrami Swiss (there are plenty more), then brace yourself for juicy patties to bring joy. Critics have listed it among Seattle's top burger joints, and locals love the pricing and fry sauce, especially.
(425) 646-3474
10636 Main St, Bellevue, WA 98004
West Virginia: Burger Carte Foods
Although founded way back in the 1960s, Burger Carte Foods is still swinging. Customers can choose a classic hamburger or cheeseburger, or order an Al Burger, where deli meats like ham, pepperoni, and salami join the fun. Steakhouse burger options include the Chipotle Jalapeño, A-1, and Cowboy. Regulars note the juicy patties and house-made dressing as especially delicious (and worth a trek).
(304) 442-2071
175 Virginia Ave, Smithers, WV 25186
Wisconsin: Mihm's Charcoal Grill
Mihm's Charcoal Grill serves up burgers that are satisfyingly old-school. We're talking simple hamburgers or cheeseburgers, chock-full of juicy beef that morphs into crisp-edged patties, paired with gooey cheese atop a pillowy, cloud-like bun. Fans around town deem Mihm's the go-to when craving classic burger stand bites, and the shop was even a top contender in the Wisconsin Beef Council's best burger contest.
facebook.com/people/Mihms-Charcoal-Grill-Menasha
(920) 722-0306
342 Chute St, Menasha, WI 54952
Wyoming: Spotted Horse Bar and Grill
Making the trek to Spotted Horse Bar and Grill means heading well beyond the beaten path, but burger fans deem the journey worth it for rewards of burgers like these. The Barn Burger presents cheese, pickles, sweet onion, lettuce, and house-made Russian dressing atop brioche. For a more indulgent bite, the Black Truffle Burger showcases caramelized onions, truffle butter, an egg, and cheddar beer sauce.
facebook.com/people/Spotted-Horse-Bar-and-Grill
(307) 736-2252
7021 US-14 #16, Arvada, WY 82831
Methodology
On our search to discover the top hole-in-the-wall burger spots, we drew upon best-of lists compiled by expert food critics and national publications, alongside local news coverage, regional burger competitions, foodie forums, and more. But the most important voices are often the people who actually eat at these mom and pop shops, the longtime regulars, nearby residents, road-trippers, and customers eager to tell others what burgers are really worth ordering. Their must-have raves helped point us toward places across America with genuine local devotion. So, consider this guide shaped by critics, communities, and burger lovers just like you.