10 Best Burger Joints in America
Hey there, burger lovers! Are you ready to take a journey across America and discover the best burger joints this country has to offer? As a self-proclaimed burger connoisseur, I have traveled far and wide to bring you this list of the top 10 burger joints in America. From classic cheeseburgers to gourmet creations, these places are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab a napkin and get ready to drool!
Curiosities and Facts
- The average American eats three burgers a week.
- The hamburger was originally called the Hamburg steak and was invented in Germany in the 19th century.
- The first fast food chain to sell burgers was White Castle, which opened in 1921.
- The largest burger ever made weighed over 2,000 pounds and was cooked in Minnesota.
The List
Without further ado, here are the 10 best burger joints in America:
1. Shake Shack (New York City)
Shake Shack started as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park, but it’s their burgers that have made them famous. The ShackBurger is a classic, but don’t miss out on their seasonal offerings like the ShackMeister burger with crispy shallots.
2. In-N-Out Burger (California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Utah)
This West Coast chain has a cult following for a reason. Their simple menu features fresh, never-frozen beef and their famous Animal Style burger with grilled onions and special sauce.
3. Au Cheval (Chicago)
Au Cheval’s cheeseburger has been called the best in America by many food critics. It’s a double patty burger with American cheese, dijonaise, and house-made pickles. Trust us, it’s worth the wait.
4. J.G. Melon (New York City)
This Upper East Side institution has been serving up burgers since 1972. Their no-frills cheeseburger is a classic and pairs perfectly with a side of cottage fries.
5. Hopdoddy Burger Bar (Texas, Arizona, California, Colorado)
With a focus on high-quality ingredients and creative toppings, Hopdoddy has become a favorite in the burger world. Try their Magic Shroom burger with goat cheese and field mushrooms.
6. The Varsity (Georgia)
The Varsity has been an Atlanta tradition since 1928. Their chili cheeseburger is a must-try, and don’t forget to order a side of onion rings and a frosted orange.
7. Kuma’s Corner (Chicago)
Heavy metal music and burgers may seem like an unlikely pairing, but Kuma’s Corner pulls it off with style. Try their Slayer burger with cherry peppers, and thank us later.
8. The Apple Pan (Los Angeles)
This classic diner has been around since 1947 and has barely changed since then. Their hickory burger with Tillamook cheddar is a favorite among locals.
9. Five Guys (Nationwide)
Five Guys may be a chain, but they still use fresh, never-frozen beef and offer a wide variety of toppings. Plus, their fries are some of the best around.
10. Burger Joint (New York City)
Tucked away behind a curtain in the lobby of Le Parker Meridien hotel, Burger Joint is a hidden gem. Their no-frills cheeseburger and crispy fries are the perfect meal after a day of sightseeing.
Expert Opinions
We didn’t just rely on our own taste buds to create this list. We also consulted with some burger experts:
- Shake Shack has the perfect ratio of meat to bun to toppings, and the meat is always cooked perfectly. – Bobby Flay
- The burger at Au Cheval is the best I have ever had. It’s the perfect combination of juicy, crispy, and cheesy. – Andrew Zimmern
- In-N-Out is the best fast food burger chain in America. Their burgers are always fresh, and the Animal Style is a game-changer. – Guy Fieri
FAQs
What makes a great burger?
A great burger starts with high-quality, fresh beef. The bun should be soft and sturdy enough to hold everything together. Toppings should complement the burger without overpowering it.
What is the most popular burger topping in America?
Cheese is the most popular burger topping in America, with cheddar being the most popular variety.
What is the best way to cook a burger?
The best way to cook a burger is on a hot grill or in a cast-iron skillet. Don’t press down on the burger while it’s cooking, as this will release the juices and make it dry.
How can I make my burger healthier?
Choose leaner cuts of beef or use turkey or veggie patties. Load up on veggies like lettuce, tomato, and onion, and skip the cheese and bacon.
Thanks for joining us on this burger journey! We hope you’ve found some new places to try and some inspiration for your own burger creations. Happy eating!