Nothing satisfies quite like a cheeseburger done right. Across the country, locals have their favorites—places where the grill sizzles just right and the cheese melts perfectly. These spots earn loyalty with every bite. If you’re chasing the best, these are the burgers that rise to the top.
Alabama: Chez Fonfon, Birmingham
Word gets around when a cheeseburger earns loyal fans across generations. At Chez Fonfon, the charm is simple—crispy patty edges and a warm bun meet a layer of gooey cheese that’s just right. There are no gimmicks, just a timeless favorite in a cozy bistro setting with a bit of a French touch.
Alaska: Alaskan Burger & Brew, Anchorage
City folks keep returning for the kind of burger that feels like home. Alaskan Burger & Brew goes big on comfort, with thick patties seared just right and plenty of cheese layered on top. The setting stays low-key, but the generous portions and standout taste reflect a clear focus on quality.
Arizona: Rehab Burger Therapy, Scottsdale
Sweet meets savory in a combination that surprises first-timers. Rehab Burger Therapy is bold and ridiculously good, and it doesn’t hold back with its PBJ & Bacon Burger. Regulars love the chill beach-town vibe just as much as the inventive menu, which keeps pushing flavor boundaries in Scottsdale’s competitive burger scene.
Arkansas: Bailey’s Family Restaurant, Cave City
No one leaves hungry after taking on the Caveman Burger at Bailey’s. This two-pound beast doesn’t just look impressive—it’s grilled with care and served with the kind of hospitality that makes folks linger. Cheeseburger fans call it Arkansas’s boldest morsel and a must for serious meat lovers.
California: Garaje, San Francisco
Garaje delivers burgers that pack a serious punch, all in a space defined by industrial decor and no-frills service. Their signature “Drive-In” cheeseburger uses a smashed patty with crispy edges, melted American cheese, pickles, and house sauce on a toasted bun. Everything’s scratch-made, and the seasoning hits hard. It’s Mission District street food done with great skill.
Colorado: Park Burger, Highland, Denver
Neighborhood vibes meet gourmet flavor at Park Burger in Highland. The fan-favorite Bleu Royale has a beef patty, caramelized onions, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and creamy Bleu cheese. Buns hold up perfectly, and the toppings balance beautifully. It’s a go-to venue for laid-back burger cravings.
Connecticut: Ted’s Restaurant, Meriden
Steamed, not grilled—that’s the secret behind Ted’s cheeseburgers. Since 1959, this Meriden landmark has melted thick cheddar over juicy patties using steam cabinets. The result? A soft, decadent morsel with no char. Plated on fluffy buns, it’s a Connecticut classic that hasn’t changed—and doesn’t need to.
Delaware: Farmer & The Cow, Wilmington
Inventive toppings and bold profile combinations set Farmer & The Cow apart. This Wilmington venue builds burgers with flair, layering thick cheese slices over aged beef and finishing with local add-ons. Menu favorites rotate, but the attention to detail stays locked in. Good music and stacked burgers seal the deal.
Florida: El Cap Restaurant, St. Petersburg
Fans of simple, satisfying burgers flock to El Cap. Known for its classic cheeseburgers, this local favorite serves thick patties with American cheese on a warm bun. The vibe stays low-key, but the burgers speak loud and clear. There are no tricks—just a solid bite that Floridians have loved for decades.
Georgia: NFA Burger, Dunwoody
Big flavor hides inside a gas station at NFA Burger. The double cheeseburger layers two smashed patties, gooey cheese, pickles, and “Sassy Sauce” on a soft potato bun. What started as a pop-up became one of Georgia’s most hyped burger joints.
Hawaii: Shige’s Saimin Stand, Wahiawa
There’s no fluff or fanfare—only a beefy, cheesy bite that delivers. Shige’s Saimin Stand may be known for noodles, but locals swear by the cheeseburger. Juicy patty meets classic American cheese, all inside a perfectly toasted bun. This simple perfection has earned national buzz, becoming a low-key legend on Oahu’s food map.
Idaho: Hudson’s Hamburgers, Coeur d’Alene
Within steps of the lake, a century-old counter serves one of Idaho’s most consistent cheeseburgers. Hudson’s skips the frills and fries. It’s all about beef, cheese, pickles, and homemade hot sauce. The family has kept it old-school since 1907, and regulars wouldn’t have it any other way.
Illinois: Au Cheval, Chicago
Melted cheese slides between two griddled patties, layered with dijonnaise and pickles on a pillowy bun. That’s the portion that made Au Cheval a Chicago heavyweight. It’s greasy in the best way and endlessly craveable. No surprise it’s still sparking burger debates years after topping national best-of lists.
Indiana: 317 Burger, Indianapolis
Cheddar with peanut butter and jalapeno jelly? Somehow, it works. The Strawberry Hill at 317 Burger flips expectations and keeps crowds talking. It’s sweet, salty, spicy, and all wrapped around a seared patty. This quirky creation became a local hit, showcasing Indiana’s bold flavor hiding in plain sight.
Iowa: JJ’s Tavern + Grill, Ankeny
The bun-to-patty ratio is perfectly balanced—that cheese pull doesn’t lie. JJ’s Tavern didn’t simply win Iowa’s 2024 Best Burger title. It earned it with buttery buns and bold beef, topped fresh without going overboard. Regulars now swear it’s the best mouthful in Ankeny.
Kansas: The Snack Shack on Johnson Drive, Mission
Griddled to perfection and wrapped in wax paper, the cheeseburgers at The Snack Shack are stacked with flavor. Thin patties get crispy edges, gooey cheese melts just right, and the toasted bun holds everything together. It’s a small space with considerable fan loyalty; no one leaves hungry.
Kentucky: Dovie’s, Tompkinsville
Oil-slicked and deep-fried, the cheeseburger at Dovie’s breaks every rule—and wins. Cooked in a cast-iron skillet seasoned by decades of use, the burger is crisp on the outside and juicy inside. This Tompkinsville legend brings crunchy satisfaction with cheese and simple fixings you won’t find at your average joint.
Louisiana: Judice Inn, Lafayette
No fries, no gimmicks—just a burger that’s stayed the same since 1947. Judice Inn serves its cheeseburgers on soft buns, pairing signature sauce with mustard and a touch of onion. The patty’s rich flavor speaks for itself. Lafayette residents keep returning because it tastes like memory—and it’s never let them down.
Maine: Harmon’s Lunch, Falmouth
Only a few items grace the menu, but Harmon’s is known for its cheeseburger. This roadside shack near Portland has drawn crowds for decades. Beef gets smashed on the griddle, cheese melts, and a squiggle of secret sauce seals the deal. Newcomers get hooked fast, while regulars know the drill.
Maryland: Boxcar Burgers, Brunswick
Cradled near a train line, Boxcar Burgers is one of Maryland’s tastiest cheeseburgers. Local beef and melted American cheese sit on a toasted potato bun, while pickles bring a sharp contrast. The burger is compact and tender, with richness packed into every bite. Despite its casual setting, the attention to detail in every bite is undeniable.
Massachusetts: Boston Burger Company, Somerville
Towering burgers packed with personality are the norm at Boston Burger Company. Their Mac Attack cheeseburger, piled high with mac and cheese and bacon, delivers richness without losing balance. Every bite hits hard with zest and creativity. It’s a loud, fun experience locals crave and visitors snap photos of.
Michigan: Miller’s Bar, Dearborn
At Miller’s, simplicity is key. With no printed menus to be found, the staff delivers cheeseburgers with ease, each one wrapped in wax paper. The burger, juicy and thick, is cooked on a flat top, topped with cheese that drapes perfectly over the patty. It’s cash-only and has earned a loyal following of regulars who appreciate the old-school vibe.
Minnesota: Parlour Bar, Minneapolis
Parlour’s cheeseburger isn’t flashy, just flawless. A custom blend of ribeye and brisket meets chuck to create a rich, buttery patty. Topped with American cheese and cradled in a brioche bun, it’s a burger that stays on your mind long after the last mouthful. Minneapolis residents say it sets the bar high.
Mississippi: Neon Pig, Tupelo
The Smash Burger at Neon Pig blends five cuts of meat into one seared patty with a deep taste and crispy edges. While the cheese melts into every nook, the sweet bacon bits finish it off. Locals call it addictive, and it’s been named the best burger in America for good reason.
Missouri: Town Topic, Kansas City
Since 1937, Town Topic has been serving burgers 24/7 from its tiny diner counter. Thin patties sizzle on the flattop, melting cheese into grilled onions before being sandwiched into soft buns. It’s fast and greasy with a flavor that delivers real soul. Kansas City’s late-night favorite keeps history alive, one bite at a time.
Montana: The Burger Dive, Billings
Award-winning creations come stacked at The Burger Dive, but the “I’m Your Huckleberry” cheeseburger commands the spotlight. Angus beef, huckleberry hatch chile barbecue sauce, bacon, and goat cheese create a bold, sweet-and-savory flavor blast. It’s won national contests and made this Billings spot a serious burger destination.
Nebraska: Dinker’s Bar & Grill, Omaha
Known around town as “Omaha’s Best Burger,” Dinker’s more than lives up to the title. Their cheeseburger lands hefty and covered in gooey American cheese. Onion rings on the side seal the deal. It’s a relaxed neighborhood joint where nothing’s rushed, and the grill has been seasoned by decades of praise.
Nevada: Slater’s 50/50, Las Vegas
In a city known for going all-in, Slater’s 50/50 builds cheeseburgers with unapologetic ambition. The half-bacon, half-beef patty brings rich, smoky flavor and turns extra indulgent with cheddar and guac, topped off by a fried egg. Big flavors meet bold toppings.
New Hampshire: Lexie’s Joint, Portsmouth
Lexie’s keeps things casual but never dull. Creative combinations like the “Kendall” with cheddar and pickles, finished with a special sauce, feel playful and satisfying. Every burger starts with fresh ground beef and ends with a toasted bun. Overall, the breezy vibe and affordable menu make this spot a favorite on the Seacoast.
New Jersey: White Manna, Hackensack
White Manna in Hackensack, open since 1946, serves iconic sliders cooked on a chrome griddle. Onions add sweetness beneath the sizzling beef, while American cheese melts over the top. Packed into a soft potato roll, this cheeseburger legend has stood the test of time, still drawing hungry lines.
New Mexico: Sparky’s, Hatch
Green chile belongs on everything in Hatch, especially cheeseburgers. Sparky’s builds its burger around fire-roasted chiles and melted cheese, giving each serving a smoky edge. It’s casual and messy, but worth the trip. Early crowds gather fast, knowing one won’t be enough when the burger is delivered.
New York: 7th Street Burger, Manhattan
Late-night crowds swarm 7th Street Burger for their no-frills Smashburger. Double patties, American cheese, grilled onions, and a swipe of sauce on a soft potato bun make for a simple yet wildly satisfying meal. There’s nothing fancy about it, but in a city full of options, this one keeps earning its spot.
North Carolina: Brooks’ Sandwich House, Charlotte
Built with one hand and eaten with two, the cheeseburgers at Brooks’ Sandwich House hit hard. The patties, cooked on a flat top since 1973, come smothered in chili, mustard, and onions. With its family-run vibe and cash-only charm, this place has built a loyal following and become a Charlotte staple with deep roots.
North Dakota: Sickies Garage, Fargo
Fifty burgers are on the menu, but it’s the Sickies Original that locals return to. Two patties, cheeses, and a heap of toppings deliver a satisfying mess on a brioche bun. The garage-themed decor and playful energy match the over-the-top menu. It’s Fargo’s funkiest burger fix—and it delivers.
Ohio: Swenson’s Drive-In, Akron
At Swenson’s Drive-In in Akron, carhops serve up the famous Galley Boy cheeseburger with two patties, two secret sauces, gooey cheese, and a buttery bun. Loved for generations, this burger inspires devotion. Pull into the lot, flash your lights, and experience one of Ohio’s most nostalgic bites.
Oklahoma: Nic’s Grill, Oklahoma City
Burgers at Nic’s arrive hot off a tiny flat top with seared edges and intense, tender centers. The cheeseburger stacks high with grilled onions, shredded lettuce, mayo, and melted American cheese. There’s barely space to sit, but no one minds. The line moves fast, and regulars swear it’s always worth it.
Oregon: Bless Your Heart Burgers, Portland
Southern comfort takes a Portland spin at Bless Your Heart Burgers. Their Classic Single features a succulent 4-ounce patty, American cheese, Duke’s mayo, shredded lettuce, sweet onions, ketchup, mustard, and zucchini pickles on a potato roll. It’s simple and consistently ranks among the city’s best burger experiences.
Pennsylvania: Tessaro’s, Pittsburgh
A hardwood-fired grill pumps out thick, house-ground beef patties that don’t need much help. At Tessaro’s, the cheeseburger centers on perfectly seared meat that stays smoky with every bite and incredibly moist throughout. Topped simply with cheddar and a soft bun, it’s the kind of burger that doesn’t need extras to be unforgettable.
Rhode Island: Harry’s Bar & Burger, Providence
At Harry’s, tiny patties deliver a big taste. These cheeseburgers are presented as sliders, double-stacked with grilled onions and cheese melting down the sides. Toasted potato rolls keep everything together. Wash it down with a spiked shake and settle into the funky atmosphere.
South Carolina: Grill Marks, Greenville
Creative add-ons and hearty patties give Grill Marks serious burger cred. Their “Hangover Brunch Burger” features fried egg, bacon, cheddar, and a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce. Served on a branded bun with crisp fries, it’s a crowd-pleaser that keeps Greenville returning for more.
South Dakota: Black Hills Burger & Pizza Co., Custer
Fresh-ground beef, pillowy buns, and a focus on simplicity made this spot a local favorite. Known for its burgers topped with housemade sauces that never overpower, Black Hills Burger & Pizza Co. has earned a reputation for consistently serving some of the best burgers in Custer.
Tennessee: Burger Republic, Nashville
The Tennessee Burger at Burger Republic is a bold blend of sweet, smoky flavors stacked high with personality. Jack Daniel’s glaze, maple bacon, crispy onions, smoked ketchup, and melty cheese all land on a seasoned patty. Served in a sleek Nashville setting, it’s bold comfort food that locals swear by and visitors instantly remember.
Texas: Keller’s Drive-In, Dallas
Few places capture old-school drive-in charm quite like Keller’s. Here, cheeseburgers arrive in foil, layered with double patties, gooey cheese, and a splash of special sauce. You’ll eat them parked in your car, windows down, fries in hand. It’s a Dallas institution where nothing’s changed—and no one wants it to.
Utah: Proper Burger Co., Salt Lake City
Proper Burger’s menu is customized, but the “Proper Style” cheeseburger stands out. It features a smashed beef patty, American cheese, grilled onions, pickles, and Utah’s signature fry sauce on a toasted potato bun. Regulars appreciate the freshness, and the creamy milkshakes round out the meal satisfactorily.
Vermont: Worthy Burger, South Royalton
Grass-fed beef from nearby farms gets a smoky char over a wood-fired grill at Worthy Burger. Their cheeseburger, served with melted cheddar and tangy pickles, delivers a Vermont-style comfort food experience. The restaurant is set in a restored freight house, offering a rustic, cozy setting surrounded by the smell of sizzling meat.
Virginia: Citizen Burger Bar, Charlottesville
Citizen Burger Bar leans classic with high-quality ingredients and full-on appeal. Their signature cheeseburger features grass-fed beef, cheddar, tomato, lettuce, and Citizen sauce on a housemade brioche bun. With hand-cut fries on the side and a strong farm-to-table focus, it’s a staple in Charlottesville’s burger scene.
Washington: Lil Woody’s, Seattle
Lil Woody’s cheeseburgers are big on taste. The “Smoked Out” burger combines bacon, onion rings, smoked cheddar, and barbecue sauce for a full-on punchy combo. Served with hand-cut fries and a shake if you’re smart, it’s the kind of Seattle mouthful that demands a second round.
West Virginia: Fat Patty’s, Huntington
Portion size impresses, but it’s the seasoning that hooks you. Fat Patty’s cheeseburgers are piled high with toppings, from provolone to fried eggs and crispy onion straws. They’re fast and casual—just right after a long day. Regulars bring an appetite and save room for one more bite.
Wisconsin: Kopp’s Frozen Custard, Milwaukee
Custard might be the draw, but the cheeseburgers at Kopp’s are worthy of their fame. Griddled to a crispy edge, these burgers are layered with Wisconsin cheddar and served on a fresh, buttered bun. Big, rich, and built to satisfy, they’re a Milwaukee favorite that always leaves a lasting impression.
Wyoming: Liberty Burger, Jackson
Liberty Burger makes comfort food with a gourmet edge. The “Cheesy Jane” stacks melty Swiss and cheddar on a hand-formed patty with tomatoes and pickles. With sweet potato fries and views of the Tetons, it’s the kind of place diners remember and return to.
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