The ultimate ranking of America's most delicious burgers

Bucket-list burgers

There's nothing quite so all-American as a juicy burger, ideally accompanied by fries and a soda. But with so many brilliant bites to choose from across the country, it can be hard to narrow down the ones that are worthy of your bucket list. To help you out, we've ranked the most incredible burgers in America right now, counting down to the tastiest of all.

Click or scroll on to discover America's greatest burgers – did your favorite make the list?

We've based our ranking on the enduring popularity of each burger in its place of origin and beyond, and on the opinions of our well-traveled (and well-fed) team. The list is unavoidably subjective.

43. Legendary, Nowon, New York City, New York and Boston, Massachusetts

At Nowon, a bustling Korean American ‘pocha’ from chef Jae Lee, the Legendary cheeseburger is the undeniable star. It’s a delightfully messy double smash patty made with a freshly ground chuck/sirloin blend, smashed on a hot griddle for that crave-worthy crust. The patties are layered on a pillowy sesame bun with American cheese, house‑made pickles, roasted kimchi, and a tangy‐spicy kimchi and Kewpie mayo sauce. You can try the burger at one of Nowon's two New York City locations, or the recently opened Boston outpost.

42. Thurman Burger, The Thurman Café, Columbus, Ohio

Tucked away in Columbus’s historic German Village, The Thurman Café has been slinging outrageous burgers since 1942. A beloved local haunt with a dive bar feel, it’s best known for the Thurmanator – a towering food challenge made famous by Man v. Food. But it’s the original Thurman Burger that keeps regulars coming back. This flavor-packed giant features a 12oz beef patty topped with ham, bacon, sautéed mushrooms and onions, mozzarella, American and Cheddar cheeses, mayo, and plenty of salad. Served with a heap of potato chips and a pickle spear, it’s comfort food on a colossal scale.

41. Vegan burger, Superiority Burger, New York City, New York

Superiority Burger has been making vegetarian (and sometimes vegan) burgers since before it was cool. Don't expect any engineered imitation meats between the buns here – the patties are all handmade from plant-based ingredients. The vegan burger is the superstar, but you truly can't go wrong with any of the burgers on the menu. In short, if you're looking for a plant-based burger that will knock your socks off, this is the place.

40. Baltimore burger, Abbey Burger Bistro, Baltimore, Maryland

39. House burger, Chomp Kitchen and Drinks, Providence and Warren, Rhode Island

38. Big Wac, Green New American Vegetarian, Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona

37. Burgerlords cheeseburger, Burgerlords, Los Angeles, California

36. The Fireside, Honest Abe’s Burgers & Freedom, Lincoln, Nebraska

35. R.L.E Hello burger, Tommy’s Burger Stop, Anchorage, Alaska

34. Colorado lamb burger, Rioja, Denver, Colorado

A good lamb burger can be hard to find, but Rioja in Denver pulls off its Colorado lamb burger so effortlessly it's easy to forget they aren't a dedicated burger joint. Served at lunch, this burger comes with house-made mozzarella, spicy aioli, oven-roasted tomatoes, and a side of sweet potato fries.

33. The Big Boom, Boomer's Drive-In, Bellingham, Washington

What people love about the Big Boom – an 8oz patty with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles in a sesame seed bun – is its size. That, plus the amazing 'special sauce' and charred flavor. You'll find it at Boomer's Drive-In in Bellingham, a fun, old-fashioned drive-in which feels a little like stepping back into old Americana. Expect classic décor, speedy, friendly service, and delicious, bulky burgers.

32. Bac’n Cheezeburger, Arlo’s, Austin, Texas

Texas may be known for its meat, but Arlo's food trucks are experts when it comes to vegan burgers. The proof is in the Bac'n Cheezeburger, made from a gluten-free and soy-free plant-based patty, and sporting thick slices of umami seitan bacon, piled with traditional burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and even gooey slices of vegan cheese. Meatless Monday just got a whole lot more fun.

31. Proof bison burger, Proof on Main, Louisville, Kentucky

Proof on Main's signature bison burger is so legendary and so loved that it had to make the list. The menu at this hip restaurant changes seasonally, but its bison burger is so good it's been a year-round staple since 2006. It's topped with melty Cheddar, smoked bacon, and sticky onion jelly.

30. Flyin’ Hawaiian, Proper Burger Co., Salt Lake City, Utah

29. Led Zeppelin, Kuma’s Corner, Chicago, Illinois

Kuma's Corner is a gourmet burger bar with a handful of Midwest locations where all menu items are named after rock and metal bands. We mean it when we say these burgers rock! Go for the Led Zeppelin – a beef patty topped with applewood-smoked bacon, barbecue pulled pork, Cheddar and pickles. Not feeling like beef? Dial it up to 11 by subbing in a grilled chicken breast, chicken tenders, black bean veggie patty, or the plant-based Impossible Burger.

28. LL Cool J burger, Bless Your Heart Burgers, Portland, Oregon

Portland is famous for many things, but we're partial to its smashed burgers. Over at Bless Your Heart Burgers, you have to try the LL Cool J burger with guacamole, ranch, bacon, and all the classic fillings. The team use house-made zucchini pickle, too, which fans say is utterly delicious.

27. Juicy Lucy, 11:11 Burgers & Beignets, Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin

26. Shroom Burger, Shake Shack, various locations

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a Shake Shack in town, but those who do take advantage of it. In the world of fast food, finding a satisfying vegetarian option can be difficult. Luckily, the Shroom Burger is so good it has made super fans of both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. Who wouldn't love a crispy, deep-fried portobello mushroom cap filled with melted cheese, dressed with fresh salad, and served on a toasted bun.

25. Sliders, Motz’s Burgers, Detroit, Michigan

Folks flock to Motz's Burgers, a family-owned business has been flipping burgers since 1929, for old-fashioned sliders on soft, locally made buns. Sizzled on the griddle with caramelized onions, then popped on the bun and topped with ketchup, mustard, pickles, and an optional slice of gooey cheese, this is a traditional American slider done right.

24. Tavern burger, The Tavern, Tulsa, Oklahoma

A cheeseburger with a refined twist, the Tavern burger features a plump beef patty topped with Stilton cheese and mushroom Cognac cream, all on a challah bun (challah is soft, fluffy bread that has been enriched with egg, making it extra soft and a little sweet). Served at The Tavern, a fancy pub in Tulsa, this eponymous eat comes with skinny fries and gets glowing reviews.

23. Double-Double with cheese, In-N-Out, various locations

There are burger joints with fans and then there are burger joints with cult followings. In-N-Out is one of the latter. Although only located in eight states (mostly in central and western regions), this fast food spot is so sought after, it makes the must-visit lists of visitors and locals alike. The posted menu is small, but those in the know order off the not-so-secret menu, where they turn Double-Doubles (double meat, double cheese) into customized works of art. Hint: order it Animal Style for a mustard-cooked beef patty with lettuce, tomato, pickle, extra spread, and grilled onions.

22. The Mother Tucker, Tucker's Onion Burgers, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

The onion burger is an Oklahoma obsession, originated during the Depression era when chefs would add inexpensive ingredients to make the meat go further. Tucker’s Onion Burgers has five Oklahoma locations and specializes in its namesake burger. Locals can't get enough and say the onions are caramelized to perfection, the patties are fresh, and the portions are generous. The hefty The Mother Tucker is the go-to here – featuring three juicy beef patties and a mountain of sizzled onions and cheese, plus optional grilled jalapeños and your choice of condiment.

21. Sebastian's steakhouse burger, The Brindle Room, New York City, New York

Customers rave about the Sebastian's steakhouse burger on the brunch menu at The Brindle Room, with some making a special journey just to sample what some say is the best burger in the country. With a juicy patty 'cooked to perfection,' the steakhouse burger is topped with American cheese, caramelized onions, and pickles. Fans also rate the service at this cozy hole-in-the-wall spot.

20. The Party Melt, Better Luck Tomorrow, Houston, Texas

James Beard Award–winning chef Justin Yu's version of a burger, The Party Melt, served at trendy bar and eatery Better Luck Tomorrow, really is something special. Consisting of a seared wagyu beef patty with both caramelized and thinly sliced red onions, crispy broiled Cheddar cheese, and metchup (a combo of mayo and ketchup), the burger is served between thick slices of house-made bread topped with a Parmesan crust. Customers and food critics alike rate the decadent burger, which pops up as a regular special.

19. Mission burger, Mission Bowling Club, San Francisco, California

This local six-lane bowling alley is just as popular for its burgers and drinks as it is for its bowling. The organic beef Mission burger is loaded with caramelized onions, Monterey Jack cheese, and caper aioli and is served in an acme bun. You can also add avocado and bacon or make it Impossible.

18. I’m Your Huckleberry, The Burger Dive, Billings, Montana

It's hard to decide which burger to choose at The Burger Dive in Billings, Montana. But there's one that customers say is the best they've ever had – I'm Your Huckleberry. This World Food Championships 'Burger Champion' burger is covered with head chef Brad’s Huckleberry Hatch chili barbecue sauce, bacon, goats' cheese, arugula, and roasted red pepper mayo.

17. Bulgogi Burger, Five Stars Family Burger, Cornelius, Oregon

Styled as an old-fashioned burger restaurant with a Korean twist, Five Stars Family Burger is an award-winning spot that regularly comes top in lists of the region’s best fast food. What sets the burgers apart from the rest is the use of charcoal, which adds a wonderfully smoky flavor to the beef. There’s a lot to choose from, but nothing embodies the fusion of flavors more clearly than the Bulgogi Burger, featuring thin slithers of marinated bulgogi meat on a fresh, locally sourced beef patty. Load it up with fried mushrooms, crispy bacon, and Cheddar and make sure you grab plenty of napkins.

16. The original burger, Louis’ Lunch, New Haven, Connecticut

Recognized by the Library of Congress as the birthplace of the hamburger, Louis’ Lunch in New Haven is the most historically significant spot in America when it comes to burgers. Family-owned and operated since 1895, this no-frills joint is spot on when it comes to traditional burgers. The patties are freshly ground and hand-rolled each day, and served between toasted white bread, with garnishes including cheese, onion, and tomato.

15. Big Ben, Pie 'n Burger, Pasadena, California

California is packed with legendary burger spots, but Pie ‘n Burger is a particular favorite. The old-school joint has been a fixture in Pasadena since 1963 and its specialty is no-frills, classic California-style burgers. Fans say the key to Pie 'n Burger’s success is the restaurant’s homemade Thousand Island dressing, which (they say) simply cannot be bettered. The classic cheeseburger served with lettuce, tomato, and onion is the most popular item, but try the double-stacked Big Ben if you’re really hungry – it's best served medium-rare.

14. Dyer's Double Double, Dyer's Burgers, Memphis, Tennessee

This Memphis institution has been serving its classic cheeseburgers since 1912, and famously boasts a 'secret' cooking process that hinges on it never changing the grease used to fry the burgers. That grease is occasionally topped up to keep the supply going, but at least a few drops in the mix have been in there for over a century. Fans say the burgers at Dyer's are incredibly juicy and absolutely packed with flavor. The concise menu offers a simple cheeseburger with your choice of single, double, or triple patties, though you can customize with house-made chili or bacon if you like.

13. Proper burger, Duke's Grocery, Washington DC

Voted the 'best burger in DC' by Washington City Newspaper seven years in a row, the Proper burger at gastropub Duke's Grocery is a must-try. It consists of two Angus beef patties, melted gouda cheese, pickles, charred red onion, sweet chili sauce, arugula, and aioli all served in a brioche bun.

12. Sugar burger, Rodeo Goat, various locations, Texas

Rodeo Goat has nine locations across Texas, each with a menu to satisfy even the biggest of burger cravings. Got a sweet tooth? Go for the unique Sugar burger, a thick beef patty complemented by grilled peaches, candied bacon, caramelized onions, and jalapeño jelly. If you don't fancy beef, you can swap for a chicken, turkey, black bean, or plant-based patty instead.

11. Philly burger, m2o Burgers & Salads, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia's m2o is a neighborhood hangout with tons of great burger options. However, the Philly burger – a spicy, saucy burger with Cheez Whiz, fried onions, and sliced jalapeños – is a nacho-lover's dream come true. Don't worry if you aren't close to Philly, there are two other Pennsylvania locations (one in Wynnewood and one in East Norriton), as well as outposts in Delaware and New Jersey.

10. Emmy burger, Emily, New York City, New York

This restaurant may be focused on pizza, but it's the burger that steals the show. Ever since it appeared on the menu, demand has far outweighed supply – if you come, anticipate long lines and a burger that is more than worth the wait. Expect a dry-aged beef patty, perfect pretzel bun, and toppings like caramelized onion, EMMY sauce, and Grafton Cheddar – no substitutions allowed.

9. Cheeseburger, Holeman & Finch Public House, Atlanta, Georgia

The legendary double-stack cheeseburger served at this Atlanta gastropub was once a limited-supply item you could only order after 10pm – and it pretty much always sold out – but happily it's now a permanent fixture on the dinner menu. This simple but perfectly executed burger is elegantly served in a glossy house-made bun and topped with shaved red onion and bread and butter pickles. Fans rave about the quality of the beef, as well as the excellent fries.

8. O.K.C Oklahoma, Smacking Burger, New York City, New York

This wildly popular joint, located in a New York gas station, only opened in April 2024 but has already garnered a reputation for making one of the city’s finest burgers. Here the thin and crispy patties are smashed to perfection, and diners regularly swamp the tiny eatery, which is hidden inside a Mobil Mart. But the wait is totally worth it to try signature creations like the O.K.C Oklahoma, featuring a double patty, smashed onion, American cheese, and the spot’s signature Horsey sauce, all inside a potato bun.

7. Steakburger, The Apple Pan, Los Angeles, California

An LA institution, this small but friendly diner has been dishing up its signature steakburger since 1927. Simply served with The Apple Pan's house-made sauce, mayonnaise, pickles, and lettuce, customers can also add melted Tillamook Cheddar. There are other popular burgers on the menu, but sometimes there's no need to mess with an original.

6. Cheeseburger, Au Cheval, Chicago, Illinois

For a refined take on a cheeseburger, head immediately to Au Cheval. This upscale burger is full of flavor, from the beef patty to the melted cheese to the toasted bun. Take it up a notch by adding thick-cut bacon and a runny egg – you won't regret it.

5. George Motz's Fried Onion Burger, Hamburger America, New York City, New York

Self-described ‘burger scholar’ George Motz opened his first ever restaurant, Hamburger America, to rave reviews in late 2023. The diner-style joint is the result of years of research into America's original fast food specialties and its UPS is historically accurate burgers, including his signature fried onion burger. This delightfully messy creation is made to a 100-year-old recipe and consists of a single or double beef patty, which is smashed on the grill with sliced onions until perfectly caramelized, then served on a bun with American cheese. The spot also has a monthly burger special, so look out for old-school classics like butter and olive burgers.

4. Jucy Lucy, Matt’s Bar, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Cheese-lovers of the world unite! Matt's Bar is home of the famous cheese-stuffed burger patty, also known as the Jucy Lucy (yes, that's the correct spelling!). Customers say it's the best burger they've ever had and recommend adding pickles for even more added flavor.

3. Luger burger, Peter Luger Steakhouse, New York City, New York

Available only during the lunch service, the Luger burger from Brooklyn's famed Peter Luger Steakhouse draws hungry fans from all over the country. This burger is huge, simple, and hits the spot. The no-frills presentation is over a half pound of ground steak, a sesame seed bun, and, if you wish, cheese. Come hungry, go home stuffed.

2. Amboy, Amboy Quality Meats and Delicious Burgers, Los Angeles, California

Even if you’re not craving a burger, one look at the Amboy will change your mind. Served on a toasted sesame bun with gooey American cheese, tangy pickles, burger sauce, and caramelized onions, it’s a masterclass in flavor. But the real magic is the meat – a rich, savory blend of rib-eye trim, short rib, and brisket that makes every bite unforgettable. No surprise Amboy Quality Meats is known for serving one of the best smashed patties around.

1. The Spicy, burger-chan, Houston, Texas

This gourmet mom-and-pop spot in the Houston Galleria was the top-ranking burger joint in Yelp’s Top 100 US Restaurants List 2024, so you know it’s something special. Here, smashed beef patties, fried fish, and falafel burgers are given an Asian twist with the likes of kimchi relish and sambal mayo. But the real draw of burger-chan is that the burgers are totally customizable, so diners can choose from four types of bun, three cheeses, and an endless list of toppings and sauces. If you find all that choice a bit overwhelming, it’s hard to beat The Spicy – a smashed beef patty piled with pepper Jack cheese, pickled and charred jalapeños, and soy serrano peppers.

Liked this? Click the Like button above. And click the Follow button above for more great stories from loveFOOD

Now discover America's most historic burger joints

Last updated by Natasha Lovell-Smith.