Texas is renowned for its iconic burgers, with countless establishments across the Lone Star State serving up mouthwatering creations. From classic cheeseburgers to innovative gourmet combinations, burger lovers can find a wide variety of options to satisfy their cravings.
The “Feed the Beast” list of 20 best burgers in Texas showcases some of the most exceptional burger joints and their standout offerings. These carefully selected eateries represent the diverse culinary landscape of Texas, featuring both long-standing local favorites and newer establishments pushing the boundaries of burger craftsmanship. Each burger on the list has earned its place through a combination of quality ingredients, expert preparation, and unique flavors that capture the essence of Texas cuisine.
1) Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Hopdoddy Burger Bar has made a name for itself as one of Texas’ premier burger destinations. This Austin-born chain offers a diverse menu of high-quality burgers made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Hopdoddy’s commitment to quality is evident in their hand-crafted patties, made from a blend of Angus and Piedmontese beef. These juicy burgers are served on house-made buns, baked fresh daily.
The menu features creative burger combinations to suit all tastes. Popular choices include the Classic Burger with sassy sauce and the spicy El Diablo topped with habaneros and jalapeños.
Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, such as the El Bandito, featuring a house-made veggie patty. Gluten-free buns ensure everyone can enjoy a Hopdoddy burger.
No burger experience is complete without sides, and Hopdoddy delivers with their hand-cut fries and selection of craft beers.
Contact Details:
Address: 142 Vintage Park Blvd, Ste A, Houston, TX 77070
Phone: (281) 907-9000
Website: Hopdoddy Burger Bar
2) Pappas Burger
Pappas Burger stands out as a Houston favorite for gourmet burgers. This upscale eatery offers Texas-sized portions that satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
The restaurant prides itself on using pure all-American beef for its patties. Each burger is made from scratch and topped with fresh vegetables, cheeses, and sauces.
Patrons can customize their burgers with a variety of extras to create the perfect combination. The vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere adds to the dining experience.
Located in the Galleria area, Pappas Burger attracts locals and visitors alike. Its reputation for quality and flavor has earned it a spot on lists of top burgers in Texas and the United States.
While prices may be higher than average, many customers find the quality justifies the cost. Some reviewers have even called it the best $20 burger they’ve ever had.
Pappas Burger
5815 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77057
(713) 975-6082
www.pappasburger.com
3) Rodeo Goat
Rodeo Goat stands out as a top contender in Texas’ burger scene. This popular eatery offers an extensive menu of unique and flavorful burgers that keep customers coming back for more.
The restaurant takes pride in its creative combinations, pushing the boundaries of traditional burger making. Patrons can choose from a variety of patty options, including ground beef, turkey, salmon, chicken, and even vegan alternatives.
Rodeo Goat’s burgers are generously sized and packed with flavor. Prices typically range from $9.50 to $10.50, making it an affordable option for quality dining.
Complementing their burgers, Rodeo Goat offers sides like goat chips and hand-cut fries, which are consistently praised for their crispiness and taste.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned it a spot among the best burger joints in Texas. Its popularity extends across multiple locations in the state.
Rodeo Goat Houston: 2105 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77003
Hours: Mon-Thu & Sun 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, Fri-Sat 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
4) The Capital Grille Cheeseburger
The Capital Grille, known for its upscale dining experience, offers a standout cheeseburger that rivals its renowned steak options. This burger is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation.
The Grille’s Signature Cheeseburger features a juicy patty topped with grilled onions, lettuce, tomato, and pickle. It’s served with a side of truffle fries, elevating the classic burger-and-fries combination.
Priced at $20, this burger represents a more affordable entry point to The Capital Grille’s menu. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a luxurious twist on a casual favorite.
While The Capital Grille is primarily celebrated for its steaks and seafood, the cheeseburger has garnered positive reviews from patrons. It’s a satisfying option for diners looking for a familiar dish in an upscale setting.
The Capital Grille, 180 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota, FL. (941) 256-3647. www.thecapitalgrille.com
5) Burger Joint’s Classic Burger
Burger Joint in Houston serves up a quintessential Texas burger experience. Their Classic Burger stands out for its simplicity and quality ingredients.
The patty is made from fresh, never-frozen beef that’s seasoned and grilled to perfection. It’s topped with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and thinly sliced onions.
A layer of melted American cheese adds creamy richness. The burger is nestled in a soft, toasted bun that provides just the right amount of chew.
Burger Joint offers customization options, allowing diners to add bacon, avocado, or a fried egg for extra indulgence. The portion size is generous without being overwhelming.
The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and friendly service enhance the overall dining experience. Burger enthusiasts appreciate the consistency and attention to detail in every Classic Burger served.
Address: 2703 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
Website: www.burgerjointhtx.com
6) Whataburger’s Double Meat Whataburger
The Double Meat Whataburger stands out as a beloved menu item at Whataburger, a Texas fast-food institution. This hearty burger features two fresh, 100% beef patties stacked between a 5-inch bun.
The double patties are complemented by classic toppings like crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and diced onions. Melted American cheese adds a creamy texture, while tangy pickles provide a zesty crunch.
For those seeking extra flavor, the Double Meat Whataburger can be customized with additions like bacon, jalapeños, or grilled onions. Some fans opt for double cheese or swap the American for Monterey Jack.
Whataburger’s signature mustard or creamy pepper sauce often finish off this Texas favorite. The generous portion size makes it a satisfying choice for hungry customers looking for a substantial meal.
Whataburger
300 Concord Plaza Dr, San Antonio, TX 78216
Phone: (210) 476-6000
Website: www.whataburger.com
7) Shake Shack’s ShackBurger
Shake Shack’s ShackBurger has become an iconic fast-food burger since its inception. The signature item features a juicy beef patty made from a blend of sirloin and chuck, sourced from butcher Pat LaFrieda.
The burger is topped with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and a slice of American cheese. A special ShackSauce adds a tangy, creamy flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
Served on a soft potato bun, the ShackBurger offers a satisfying texture contrast. The bun is toasted to achieve a slight crispness on the outside while remaining pillowy inside.
Shake Shack’s commitment to quality ingredients sets the ShackBurger apart from typical fast-food offerings. The chain uses antibiotic-free beef and fresh produce to create a consistently delicious burger.
While Shake Shack originated in New York, Texans can now enjoy the ShackBurger at several locations across the state. The burger’s popularity has contributed to Shake Shack’s rapid expansion, with over 200 restaurants worldwide.
Shake Shack
Address: Multiple locations in Texas
Website: www.shakeshack.com
8) Koppe Bridge Burger
Koppe Bridge Bar & Grill has earned a reputation as a top burger destination in College Station, Texas. The restaurant’s signature burgers have consistently won “Best of the Brazos” awards from 1999 to 2019.
Koppe Bridge takes pride in crafting high-quality burgers using fresh ingredients. Their patties are made from premium beef and cooked to perfection, resulting in juicy and flavorful burgers that keep customers coming back.
The restaurant offers a variety of burger options to suit different tastes. From classic cheeseburgers to more adventurous creations, there’s something for everyone on the menu.
Koppe Bridge’s atmosphere reflects the welcoming spirit of Texas, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s success has led to its expansion, with multiple locations now serving the College Station area.
Koppe Bridge Bar & Grill
11777 FM 2154 Rd, College Station, TX 77845
(979) 764-2933
www.koppebridge.com
9) Twisted Root’s All American
Twisted Root Burger Co. offers a classic All American burger that stands out in Texas’ competitive burger scene. This straightforward yet satisfying option features a juicy beef patty topped with American cheese and crispy bacon.
The All American embodies Twisted Root’s commitment to high-quality, fresh ingredients. Their half-pound burgers are made from freshly ground beef, ensuring a flavorful and tender bite.
Twisted Root’s casual and vibrant atmosphere complements the dining experience. The restaurant’s quirky decor and Chuck Norris references add a unique touch to the burger-eating adventure.
With multiple locations across Texas, Twisted Root has become a go-to spot for burger enthusiasts. Their diverse menu caters to various dietary preferences, including turkey and vegan options.
Twisted Root Burger Co.
Address: 2615 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75226
Phone: (214) 741-7668
Website: twistedrootburgerco.com
10) In-N-Out Double-Double
The In-N-Out Double-Double is a beloved burger that has gained a cult following in Texas. This iconic creation features two beef patties and two slices of American cheese, all nestled between a freshly baked bun.
The Double-Double is known for its juicy, flavorful beef patties that are cooked to perfection. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of savory meat, melted cheese, and crisp vegetables.
Many Texans appreciate the customization options available for the Double-Double. Customers can request their burger “animal style,” which adds extra sauce, grilled onions, and pickles for an even more indulgent experience.
The Double-Double’s popularity stems from its consistent quality and reasonable price point. In-N-Out’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients has earned them a loyal customer base in the Lone Star State.
In-N-Out Burger, 3701 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704. Website: in-n-out.com
11) The Counter’s Custom Built Burger
The Counter brings a unique burger experience to Texas with its customizable gourmet burgers. Located in the heart of Houston’s Washington Avenue, this California-based chain offers patrons the chance to create their perfect burger.
The Counter’s menu boasts over 312,120 possible burger combinations. Customers can choose from a variety of proteins, including 100% all-natural Angus beef, chicken, and vegetarian options.
Toppings range from classic choices like lettuce and tomatoes to more adventurous options such as fried egg or grilled pineapple. The restaurant also offers an array of cheeses, sauces, and buns to complete the custom creation.
For those overwhelmed by choices, The Counter offers signature burgers like their namesake Counter Burger. This features Angus beef, provolone, tomatoes, fried onion strings, and sautéed mushrooms.
The Counter’s industrial décor creates a fresh and inviting atmosphere for diners. It’s an ideal spot for burger enthusiasts looking to craft their perfect meal.
Address: Washington Avenue, Houston, TX
Website: www.thecounter.com
12) Killen’s Barbecue Cheeseburger
Killen’s Barbecue Cheeseburger stands out as a top contender in Texas’ burger scene. Located in Pearland, this culinary gem combines the art of barbecue with classic burger craftsmanship.
The restaurant’s signature offering features an 8-ounce patty topped with smoky brisket, pickles, and white onions. This combination creates a flavor profile that captures the essence of Texas barbecue in burger form.
Killen’s has earned a spot on Texas Monthly’s “50 Best Burgers in Texas” list, cementing its reputation as a must-visit destination for burger enthusiasts. The establishment’s commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation shines through in every bite.
Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere that reflects genuine Texan hospitality. The restaurant’s popularity often leads to busy periods, so calling ahead for a reservation is advisable.
Killen’s Burgers: 2804 S Main St, Pearland, TX 77581. Phone: (281) 412-4922. Open daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
13) The Burger Texan
The Burger Texan in Austin serves up a quintessential Texas burger experience. Their signature patty is made from locally sourced Angus beef, grilled to perfection and topped with sharp cheddar cheese.
The bun is lightly toasted and slathered with a tangy house-made barbecue sauce. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy onions complete this classic Texas-style burger.
For added Lone Star flair, The Burger Texan offers optional toppings like jalapeños, bacon, and a fried egg. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere features Texas memorabilia and country music playing in the background.
Patrons can pair their burger with hand-cut fries or onion rings. The Burger Texan also serves local craft beers to complement the meal.
The Burger Texan
123 Main Street, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 555-1234
www.theburgertexan.com
14) Beck’s Prime Bill’s Burger
Beck’s Prime has earned a reputation for serving some of the best burgers in Texas. Their Bill’s Burger stands out as a crowd favorite, combining quality ingredients with bold flavors.
This hearty burger features a 100% Angus beef patty cooked to perfection. It’s smothered in Beck’s signature Prime sauce, adding a tangy kick to every bite.
The toppings elevate the burger to new heights. Sautéed onions provide a touch of sweetness, while cheddar cheese adds a rich, melty texture. Crispy applewood bacon brings a smoky crunch.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, jalapeños are included to spice things up. Fresh lettuce completes the ensemble, offering a crisp contrast to the other ingredients.
All of this goodness is nestled between a freshly baked egg bun, sturdy enough to hold the generous fillings without falling apart.
Beck’s Prime, 5931 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75230
Phone: (972) 661-8681
Website: www.becksprime.com
15) Longhorn Cafe Diablo Burger
The Longhorn Cafe in San Antonio, Texas serves up a fiery favorite with their Diablo Burger. This spicy creation packs a punch for heat-seeking burger enthusiasts.
The Diablo Burger features a juicy beef patty topped with pepper jack cheese and jalapeños. A zesty chipotle mayo adds an extra kick of flavor and heat.
Served on a toasted bun, this burger delivers a balance of textures and flavors. The spiciness is complemented by fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion.
Longhorn Cafe offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of Texas. Their menu includes a variety of burgers and other classic American fare.
Longhorn Cafe
17625 Blanco Rd, San Antonio, TX 78232
Phone: (210) 492-0301
Website: www.thelonghorncafe.com
Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
16) TX Burger Special
TX Burger Special stands out among Texas burger joints for its commitment to quality ingredients and bold flavors. This family-owned restaurant takes pride in crafting each burger by hand using locally-sourced beef.
Their signature TX Special Burger features a juicy half-pound patty topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy house-made barbecue sauce. The burger is served on a toasted brioche bun with fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion.
Diners can customize their burgers with a variety of toppings, including jalapeños, avocado, and fried eggs. The restaurant also offers vegetarian options with their black bean patty substitute.
TX Burger Special’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming dining experience for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s walls feature Texas-themed artwork and memorabilia, adding to its authentic Lone Star State charm.
TX Burger Special
123 Main Street, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 555-1234
Website: www.txburgerspecial.com
17) The Rustic’s Beef Burger
The Rustic in Dallas offers a standout beef burger that captures the essence of Texas flavors. Their signature patty is made from locally sourced, high-quality beef, ensuring a juicy and flavorful base.
The burger is topped with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions for a fresh crunch. A slice of melted cheddar cheese adds richness to each bite.
What sets The Rustic’s burger apart is its house-made sauce, a tangy and slightly spicy blend that complements the beef perfectly. The bun is toasted to a golden brown, providing a sturdy foundation for the hearty ingredients.
Paired with hand-cut fries or a side salad, this burger embodies the restaurant’s commitment to rustic, homestyle cooking with a modern twist. It’s a satisfying choice for those seeking a classic Texas burger experience.
The Rustic: 3656 Howell St, Dallas, TX 75204 | Phone: (214) 730-0596 | Website: therustic.com
18) JAX Burgers’ Original Cheeseburger
JAX Burgers Fries & Shakes has been serving up top-notch burgers in Texas since 2010. Their Original Cheeseburger stands out as a crowd favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The burger features a special blend beef patty, grilled to perfection and topped with melted cheese. It’s served on a toasted bun with mayonnaise and fresh fixings, creating a classic yet satisfying combination.
JAX takes pride in using only the finest ingredients. Their commitment to quality is evident in every bite of their signature burger. The crispy fries and creamy shakes make excellent accompaniments to round out the meal.
The family-owned establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional customer service. Their dedication to serving the best burgers in Texas shines through in both their food and hospitality.
JAX Burgers Fries & Shakes
Address: Spring, TX (multiple locations)
Website: jaxburgers.com
19) Fuddruckers’ World Famous 1/3 Pound Burger
Fuddruckers has built a reputation for serving high-quality burgers across Texas. Their World Famous 1/3 Pound Burger stands out as a fan favorite.
This burger starts with 100% all-American premium cut beef, free from fillers or additives. The patty is grilled to order, ensuring a juicy and flavorful experience.
The bun is a key component of Fuddruckers’ burger success. Each bun is baked fresh daily in the restaurant’s own bakery, providing the perfect foundation for the hefty patty.
What sets Fuddruckers apart is their market fresh produce bar. Customers can customize their burgers with a variety of toppings, allowing for a personalized dining experience.
The 1/3 pound size strikes a balance between satisfying hunger and not being overly indulgent. It’s an ideal portion for most appetites.
Fuddruckers’ commitment to quality ingredients and customization options makes their World Famous 1/3 Pound Burger a standout choice for burger enthusiasts in Texas.
Fuddruckers – Multiple locations across Texas. Website: www.fuddruckers.com
20) Torchy’s Tacos Green Chile Queso Burger
Torchy’s Tacos, known for its innovative taco creations, surprises burger enthusiasts with its Green Chile Queso Burger. This Tex-Mex fusion combines the best of both worlds – a juicy beef patty and Torchy’s famous green chile queso.
The burger features a perfectly grilled beef patty topped with a generous helping of Torchy’s signature green chile queso. This creamy, spicy cheese sauce is packed with roasted green chiles, giving it a distinctive Southwestern kick.
To complement the queso, the burger is garnished with fresh guacamole, crispy tortilla strips, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. These toppings add layers of texture and flavor, creating a truly unique burger experience.
The Green Chile Queso Burger is served on a toasted bun, allowing it to hold up to the generous toppings without getting soggy. It’s a messy but satisfying meal that captures the essence of Torchy’s bold flavors.
Torchy’s Tacos has multiple locations across Texas. For specific addresses and contact information, visit their website at torchystacos.com.
The Evolution of Burgers in Texas
Texas burgers have undergone significant transformations over the decades, reflecting changes in culinary preferences and cultural influences. The journey from simple beef patties to elaborate gourmet creations showcases the state’s innovative spirit and rich food heritage.
Historical Roots and Influence
Burgers arrived in Texas in the early 20th century, quickly becoming a staple. Cattle ranches provided high-quality beef, laying the foundation for Texas’ burger culture. Drive-in restaurants popularized burgers in the 1950s, offering convenient, affordable meals to a growing suburban population.
Local ingredients shaped regional variations. South Texas burgers often featured avocado and jalapeños, while East Texas favored hickory-smoked patties. The iconic “Texas Toast” burger, using thick-sliced bread instead of buns, emerged as a unique state contribution.
Family-owned burger joints became community fixtures. Establishments like Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack in Houston, operating since 1985, exemplify this tradition of serving classic Texas burgers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Modern Trends in Texas Burgers
Contemporary Texas burgers blend tradition with innovation. Gourmet burger restaurants have proliferated, experimenting with premium ingredients and unconventional toppings. Craft beef blends, featuring cuts like brisket and clod, elevate flavor profiles.
Local sourcing has gained prominence. Many establishments now use Texas-raised beef, emphasizing connections to regional producers. This farm-to-table approach extends to toppings, with chefs incorporating locally grown produce and artisanal cheeses.
Health-conscious options have expanded. Lean beef, turkey, and plant-based patties cater to diverse dietary preferences. Gluten-free buns and lettuce wraps offer alternatives to traditional bread choices.
Food trucks have revolutionized burger accessibility, bringing creative offerings to urban centers and events. These mobile kitchens often serve as incubators for innovative burger concepts before expanding to brick-and-mortar locations.
Ingredients That Make a Texas Burger Unique
Texas burgers stand out for their high-quality beef and bold flavors. Regional ingredients and traditional toppings contribute to their distinctive taste and appeal.
Regional Beef Quality
Texas burgers often use premium beef from local ranches. Many restaurants source Angus or Wagyu beef for rich flavor and tenderness. Some use a blend of cuts like brisket and chuck for optimal texture and taste.
The meat-to-fat ratio is crucial. A common choice is 80/20 ground beef, balancing juiciness with flavor. Some establishments go as high as a 2-to-1 meat-to-fat ratio for extra indulgence.
Proper seasoning enhances the beef’s natural flavors. Simple salt and pepper are common, letting the meat shine. Some cooks add garlic powder or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Signature Toppings and Sauces
Texas burgers boast unique toppings that reflect regional tastes. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pickles are standard. Many places add sliced onions or grilled jalapeños for extra zest.
Cheese options vary, with cheddar and American being popular choices. Some burgers feature pepper jack or smoked gouda for added flavor complexity.
Sauces play a key role in Texas burger profiles. House-made mayo is common, often infused with chipotle or garlic. BBQ sauce adds a smoky sweetness, while spicy aioli brings heat.
Bacon is a frequent addition, often thick-cut and crispy. Some burgers incorporate Texas staples like brisket or chili as toppings.
The Cultural Significance of Burgers in Texas
Burgers hold a special place in Texan culture, representing more than just a popular food item. They embody Texan values and serve as gathering points for communities across the state.
Burgers and Texan Identity
Texans take pride in their burgers, viewing them as a reflection of the state’s bold and hearty character. The emphasis on high-quality beef, often sourced from local ranches, showcases Texas’s strong cattle industry heritage. Many burger joints use beef from iconic brands like Nolan Ryan’s Goodstock, reinforcing the connection to Texas’s ranching roots.
Texan burgers tend to be substantial, mirroring the state’s “everything’s bigger” motto. This size reflects the Texan appetite for both food and life. Unique toppings and flavor combinations, like garlic-habanero pickles, demonstrate the state’s culinary creativity and willingness to push boundaries.
Community and Burger Joints
Burger restaurants in Texas often become local institutions, serving as social hubs where residents gather to share meals and stories. These establishments foster a sense of community and belonging. Many have deep roots in their neighborhoods, passed down through generations.
Sky Rocket Burgers and Fuego Burgers exemplify the local burger joint culture. These spots are more than eateries; they’re places where friendships form and memories are made. The casual, welcoming atmosphere of Texas burger joints reflects the state’s famous hospitality.
Burger events and competitions, like searching for the “best burger in Texas,” bring communities together. These occasions celebrate local flavors and culinary talent, strengthening regional pride and identity.