Texas is renowned for its exceptional burgers, with countless eateries serving up mouthwatering patties across the Lone Star State. From bustling cities to hidden small-town gems, burger enthusiasts can embark on a flavorful journey to discover the best offerings in Texas.
The top 10 burger joints in Texas showcase a diverse range of styles, from classic beef patties to innovative gourmet creations. These establishments have earned their reputations through a combination of high-quality ingredients, expert preparation, and unique flavor profiles. Whether seeking a traditional diner experience or a more upscale burger adventure, Texas has something to satisfy every burger craving.
1) Hopdoddy Burger Bar, Austin
Hopdoddy Burger Bar has become an Austin institution since its inception in 2010. This popular burger joint is known for its handcrafted, gourmet burgers and extensive beer selection.
The menu features 13 different burger options, catering to various tastes and dietary needs. Vegetarian and gluten-free choices ensure there’s something for everyone.
Hopdoddy’s commitment to quality is evident in their use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their burgers are made with hormone-free beef, ground in-house daily.
The restaurant’s popularity has led to expansion, with seven locations now serving the Greater Austin area. Their South Congress venue remains a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Hopdoddy’s success extends beyond Austin, with locations now in six other states. This growth speaks to the universal appeal of their innovative burger creations.
Contact Details:
Address: 1400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Phone: (512) 243-7505
Website: www.hopdoddy.com
2) P. Terry’s Burger Stand, Various Locations
P. Terry’s Burger Stand has become a beloved burger chain across Texas since opening in 2005. The restaurant is known for its commitment to using all-natural, high-quality ingredients in its burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
P. Terry’s prides itself on serving fresh, never-frozen beef patties free from additives and hormones. Their menu features classic hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and chicken burgers, along with hand-cut fries made from Idaho potatoes.
The restaurant’s popularity has led to expansion, with multiple locations now operating throughout Texas. P. Terry’s maintains a focus on friendly service and affordable prices, making it a go-to spot for burger enthusiasts.
In addition to beef and chicken options, P. Terry’s offers a vegetarian burger made with brown rice and vegetables. Their milkshakes, available in chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors, are hand-spun for a creamy texture.
P. Terry’s Burger Stand has locations across Texas. For more information:
Website: pterrys.com
Phone: (512) 473-2217 (Corporate Office)
3) Rodeo Goat, Dallas
Rodeo Goat has become a beloved destination for burger enthusiasts in Dallas. With two locations in the city, this eatery offers a wide array of creative and flavorful burgers that keep patrons coming back for more.
The menu features unique combinations that push the boundaries of traditional burger toppings. From whiskey-spiked cheddar to candied bacon and blackberry compote, Rodeo Goat isn’t afraid to experiment with flavors.
Despite its inventive approach, Rodeo Goat keeps its prices reasonable. Burgers are affordably priced, with options like the popular Lil’ Kahuna Burger available for around $10, including fries.
The restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, making it a great spot for both food and drink enthusiasts. Its casual atmosphere and commitment to quality ingredients have helped solidify its place among Dallas’ top burger joints.
Rodeo Goat Dallas
Address: 1926 Market Center Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: (214) 741-4628
Website: www.rodeogoat.com
4) Twisted Root Burger Co., Dallas
Twisted Root Burger Co. has become a Dallas institution since opening its first location in Deep Ellum in 2006. The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its inventive burgers and unique toppings.
Twisted Root offers a wide variety of patty options, including wagyu beef, turkey, and vegetarian choices. Their creative toppings range from thyme caramelized onions to smashed fries.
The casual yet vibrant atmosphere adds to the appeal, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Twisted Root has expanded to multiple locations across Texas, cementing its place in the state’s burger scene.
Featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, & Dives, Twisted Root has earned a cult following. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Twisted Root Burger Co. also offers a selection of local beers on tap, complementing their burgers perfectly.
Address: 2615 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75226
Phone: (214) 741-7668
Website: twistedrootburgerco.com
5) Casino el Camino, Austin
Casino el Camino stands out as a top burger destination in Austin. This dive bar on 6th Street offers a gritty atmosphere and mouthwatering burgers that keep patrons coming back.
The Amarillo Burger is their most famous creation. It’s a hefty 3/4 pound patty topped with roasted serrano chiles, jalapeño jack cheese, and cilantro mayo. The combination of flavors and textures is unforgettable.
Their burgers are cooked to perfection, remaining juicy and flavorful. The quality of the meat shines through in every bite. Portions are generous, often requiring a knife and fork to tackle.
While burgers are the star, Casino el Camino also serves excellent fries and cold drinks. The bar’s unique ambiance adds to the overall experience, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
For those seeking one of Austin’s best burgers in an unconventional setting, Casino el Camino delivers.
Casino el Camino
517 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 469-9330
www.casinoelcamino.net
6) The Hay Merchant, Houston
The Hay Merchant stands out as a top burger destination in Houston. This Montrose establishment is known for its exceptional craft beer selection and high-quality burgers.
The Hay Merchant grinds their beef fresh daily, ensuring each patty is flavorful and juicy. Their commitment to quality ingredients extends to all components of their burgers.
Patrons can enjoy classic burgers with traditional toppings or opt for more adventurous flavor combinations. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive selection of craft brews on tap, perfectly complementing the robust flavors of the burgers. The Hay Merchant’s dedication to both great food and drinks has earned it a loyal following.
The Hay Merchant
1100 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
Phone: (713) 528-9805
Website: www.haymerchant.com
7) Lankford Grocery, Houston
Lankford Grocery stands as a Houston institution, serving mouthwatering burgers since 1937. This family-owned establishment began as a fruit stand before evolving into a beloved burger joint.
Known for their classic smash burgers, Lankford Grocery offers a no-frills approach to delicious comfort food. Their Old Fashion Hamburger comes fully loaded with mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion.
For those with hearty appetites, the triple threat burger provides a satisfying challenge at an affordable price. Lankford’s commitment to quality and tradition has earned them recognition as one of Houston’s best burger spots.
The restaurant’s unpretentious atmosphere adds to its charm, drawing both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Houston burger experience. Lankford Grocery’s enduring popularity is a testament to their consistent quality over the decades.
Address: 88 Dennis St., Houston, TX 77006
Phone: (713) 522-9555
Website: lankfordgrocery.com
8) Knife Burger, Dallas
Knife Burger stands out as a top destination for burger enthusiasts in Dallas. This establishment takes pride in using premium Texan quality meats sourced from 44 Farms.
The restaurant offers a range of mouthwatering burgers crafted with precision and care. Diners can expect juicy patties cooked to perfection and served on fresh buns.
Knife Burger’s menu extends beyond burgers, featuring steaks and an impressive selection of wines. The relaxed retro ambiance adds to the dining experience, creating a welcoming atmosphere for patrons.
Guests consistently praise the attentive and knowledgeable staff, who enhance the overall dining experience with their friendly service and helpful recommendations.
Knife Burger
Address: 5300 E Mockingbird Ln Suite 111, Dallas, TX 75206
Phone: (214) 443-9339
Website: www.knifedallas.com
9) Burger Joint, Houston
Burger Joint has made a name for itself as one of Houston’s top burger destinations. This casual eatery serves up classic American fare with a modern twist.
Their menu features an array of mouthwatering burgers made with high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. From traditional cheeseburgers to more adventurous options, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
The restaurant’s signature creation is the Classic Burger, boasting a juicy beef patty topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, and their secret sauce. For those seeking bolder flavors, the Kimchi Burger offers a unique fusion of Korean and American tastes.
Burger Joint’s commitment to quality extends beyond their burgers. They offer hand-cut fries, crispy onion rings, and creamy milkshakes to complement the main attraction.
The restaurant’s lively atmosphere and friendly staff contribute to its popularity among locals and visitors alike. With its dedication to great food and service, Burger Joint continues to be a standout in Houston’s competitive burger scene.
Contact: (713) 571-4499
Address: 2703 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
Website: www.burgerjointhtx.com
10) Wholey Cow Burgers, Austin
Wholey Cow Burgers stands out as a top burger destination in Austin, Texas. This local favorite has been serving great-tasting burgers since 2010, earning a reputation for quality and flavor.
The restaurant specializes in grass-fed beef burgers, using locally sourced, organic ingredients. Their commitment to high-quality meat is evident in every bite, making their burgers some of the best in Austin.
Wholey Cow offers a range of options beyond traditional burgers. Customers can enjoy cheesesteaks, Reubens, and breakfast items. The menu also caters to various dietary needs with gluten-free, paleo, and keto-friendly choices.
One standout item is the Pure Single with Cheese, priced under $10. This no-frills burger showcases the exceptional flavor of their grass-fed beef. Patrons also praise the hand-cut sweet potato fries as a delicious side.
Wholey Cow Burgers: 3010 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78704. Website: www.whollycowburgers.com
The Culinary Scene in Texas
Texas boasts a vibrant burger culture shaped by local tastes and traditions. The state’s culinary landscape features unique flavor combinations and regional specialties that set Texan burgers apart.
Influence of Texan Culture on Burgers
Texas culture heavily impacts burger creation across the state. Beef plays a central role, with many restaurants sourcing high-quality local cattle. The state’s barbecue traditions often inspire burger toppings, such as smoked brisket or pulled pork.
Tex-Mex flavors frequently appear in burger variations, incorporating ingredients like jalapeños, guacamole, and pico de gallo. Some establishments offer buffalo or venison patties, reflecting Texas’s hunting heritage.
Size matters in Texas, and many eateries serve oversized burgers to satisfy hearty appetites. Family-owned burger joints, like Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack in Houston, embody the welcoming spirit of Texan hospitality.
Popular Burger Toppings in Texas
Texan burger toppings showcase the state’s diverse culinary influences. Common additions include:
- Crispy bacon
- Fried eggs
- Grilled onions
- Chili con carne
- Pepper jack cheese
- Barbecue sauce
Spicy toppings are prevalent, catering to Texans’ love for bold flavors. Jalapeños, both fresh and pickled, frequently appear on burger menus. Some restaurants offer unique regional touches, such as fried okra or Gulf shrimp as toppings.
Artisanal ingredients have gained popularity, with establishments using locally-sourced produce and craft cheeses. Twisted Root Burger Co., with locations across Texas, exemplifies this trend by offering creative topping combinations.
Unique Burger Styles
Texas burgers go beyond the basic patty and bun. The Lone Star State offers diverse and creative burger styles that showcase regional flavors and innovative culinary techniques.
Craft Burgers
Craft burgers in Texas elevate the classic sandwich with premium ingredients and gourmet touches. Many establishments use locally-sourced, high-quality beef for their patties. Some popular craft burger toppings include:
- Artisanal cheeses like smoked gouda or aged cheddar
- House-made bacon jam or onion marmalade
- Fried eggs from local farms
- Specialty sauces infused with Texas flavors like chipotle or jalapeño
Craft burger buns often feature brioche, pretzel, or even Texas toast. Some restaurants offer unique protein options like bison, lamb, or wild boar for adventurous diners.
Regional Variations
Texas burger styles vary across the state, reflecting local tastes and ingredients. In Austin, food trucks serve creative veggie burgers with black bean or quinoa patties. San Antonio burgers often feature Tex-Mex influences like:
- Guacamole and pico de gallo toppings
- Jalapeño poppers stuffed inside the patty
- Queso blanco as a cheese option
East Texas favors hearty, no-frills burgers with thick patties and classic toppings. Gulf Coast areas incorporate seafood, offering shrimp or crab-topped burgers. West Texas specializes in large, meaty burgers that satisfy hungry cowboys and ranchers.
Pairing Burgers with Drinks
The right beverage can elevate a burger from good to great. Texas offers many excellent drink options to complement its famous burgers, from local craft beers to surprisingly suitable wines.
Texas Beers and Burgers
Texas boasts a thriving craft beer scene that pairs wonderfully with burgers. A crisp lager like Shiner Bock cuts through the richness of a juicy patty. For bolder flavors, try an IPA from Austin’s Jester King Brewery or Houston’s Saint Arnold Brewing Company.
Dark beers work well with barbecue-style burgers. Pair a smoky beef patty with a porter from Deep Ellum Brewing in Dallas. Wheat beers offer a lighter option for chicken or turkey burgers.
Many Texas burger joints feature local taps. This allows diners to explore regional flavors while enjoying their meal. Some restaurants even use beer in their burger recipes, creating a perfect pairing.
Wine Pairings for Burgers
Wine might not be the first drink that comes to mind for burgers, but certain varieties complement them beautifully. A bold Zinfandel stands up to a hearty beef burger, while Pinot Noir matches well with leaner patties or veggie options.
For cheeseburgers, try a Cabernet Sauvignon. Its tannins cut through the fat and enhance the savory flavors. White wine lovers can opt for a Chardonnay with chicken burgers or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for fish patties.
Some Texas wineries produce excellent burger-friendly wines. Look for bottles from the Hill Country or High Plains regions. These local wines often feature on restaurant menus alongside burgers, offering a uniquely Texan dining experience.