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Abbas Dhanani holds up two smash burgers at Burger Bodega.
Houston’s smash burger scene got a little juicier with the recent opening of Burger Bodega.
Michael Ma

22 Essential Houston Burger Destinations

Bite into the city’s juiciest burgers

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Houston’s smash burger scene got a little juicier with the recent opening of Burger Bodega.
| Michael Ma

The concept of a cheeseburger seems quite simple — meat, cheese, on a bun — but in Space City, it’s a holy union that takes on many, equally divine forms. There are Mexican-style burgers topped with plenty of protein, prized old-school institutions that serve up classic smash burgers, and newly opened favorites with creative takes that remind Houston that what is deemed a fast-food staple is truly a work of edible art.

Though there are hundreds of quality burger joints to choose from, use this map as a guide to the city’s top spots, ranging from old-school favorites to hip new haunts that should definitely be on your radar.

The now-closed Rosland’s Bar & Grill has been removed, making way for Burger Bodega, Hubcap Grill, Brasil, and Cantina Barba.

Is your favorite burger joint missing from this map? Make your case in the comments.

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Hippo Burgers

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This Humble-based burger joint now has four locations and counting in the Houston area, and for good reason. As the name implies, the cooked-to-order grilled beef and chicken burgers are massive with big flavor and ample topping choices. Take the brainwork out of your order and opt for their combinations, like the Hippo special burger, topped with bacon, jalapenos, American cheese, lettuce, or the cheesy Eggvolution that’s topped with a fried egg. Don’t forget the fries — you can cover them in garlic, cheese, buffalo sauce, cajun seasoning, and more.

Hubcap Grill

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The self-proclaimed Houston Godfather of Burgers has got burgers down pat, so much so that it’s unafraid to experiment and go beyond its specialty options. While October brought a savory and sweet Pumpkin Pie Burger, diners can indulge in its Thanksgiving Feast beef burger, that’s layered with Swiss cheese, grilled turkey breast, a hearty mound of sage dressing, and cranberry compote, with turkey gravy on the side. Other favorites include its Greek burger, which is topped with feta cheese, Kalamata olives, onions, green bell peppers, lettuce, tomato, and a special mayo sauce, or the multi-layered Hubcap Decker.

Cantina Barba

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Open late at night, Cantina Barba serves up a dependable and delicious $6 burger that is straightforward and dare we say iconic? This 1⁄4 pound smash patty is topped with American cheese, housemade pickles, and burger sauce, and it’s so good, you might as well make it a double for $3 more.

Stanton's City Bites

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Old school since 1961, Stanton’s serves up an impressive array of thirteen burgers, all made with a half-pound of fatty, smoky deliciousness and topped with house-made condiments. The Cowboy Brunch — topped with a fried egg, grilled onions, bacon, house-fried pickles, Swiss and American cheese, on Texas toast — is a great option. But if you really love bacon, go for the Miss Piggie, which comes with candied bacon.

Bacon cheese burger with lettuce and tomato, between a seeded bun, sitting atop white and red checkered paper.
Bacon lovers will rejoice in the candied bacon on the “Miss Piggie” burger or the deep-fried bacon on the “Luke Skywalker.”
Stanton’s City Bites

Burger Bodega

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This newly opened burger joint is already making waves on the burger scene, not only for its unique decor that’s modeled after a New York-style bodega, but for its delicious burger offerings. Go for its classic smash burger with grilled onions and its creamy Bodega sauce, or the show-stopping chopped cheese, made up of diced beef patties, cheese, peppers, and onions on a hoagie roll. But just know other options, like fries piled high with a variation of beef and cheese sauce, are also available. Don’t forget the milkshake, which comes in vanilla, chocolate, mango lassi, and Vietnamese coffee.

Burger Bodega Abbas Dhanani holding a smash burger and chopped cheese sandwich in front of a graffiti-ed wall.
Burger Bodega’s chopped cheese is another contender for best burger.
Michael Ma

Christian's Tailgate Bar & Grill

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A top choice for burgers among many Houstonians, Christian’s Tailgate cooks up meaty patties and offers a hearty list of fix-ins, like oozing fried eggs, American cheese, mushrooms, chili, avocado, thin crispy bacon, jalapeños, and more. Switch it up and try their burger of the month, and add a side of classic crispy fries or onion rings for a meal that lives up to your imagination.

Lankford's Grocery & Market

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When a burger sticks around for more than 70 years, it's definitely a winner. Order up a classic Old Fashion burger at this Montrose favorite, or try Lankford's most outlandish offering, the Grim burger. Topped with mac & cheese, bacon, jalapenos, and a fried egg, you're definitely going to need a nap after this one.

Rodeo Goat

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Though a Dallas-Fort Worth export, Rodeo Goat localizes itself with Houston-inspired burgers, like the Marvin Zindler burger, named after the late Houston reporter, which is topped with a pickle chutney and barbecue sauce, and the Mike Jones-themed “(281) 330-8004” burger, which is topped with garlic-roasted cremini mushrooms, pickled onions, swiss cheese, and a soy caramel glaze. Help the Texas burger chain pick its best burger in its Battle of the Burgers competition each month. Every order counts.

Champ Burger

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Home to the original “Texas Size Steak Sandwich”, this old-fashioned walk-up burger institution has been serving Houstonians for over 50 years with 1⁄3 pound patties made from prime ground chuck. Order your burger how you like it, and that’s just what they’ll serve.

Flip 'n Patties

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This former food truck slings some of Houston’s most creative burgers, influenced by classic Filipino flavors. Order the Jeepney burger, which pairs akaushi beef patties with a link of longanisa sausage, fried egg, banana ketchup aioli, and steamed burger buns for a seriously decadent burger experience outside the norm.

Kenny & Ziggy's New York Delicatessen

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The Jewish delicatessen’s “In Queso Emergency” burgers have scored big points with Houstonians. Swimming in a sea of fries and a side of cold coleslaw, find a monstrous burger worth every cent of the $21 it costs. It starts with light, glossy challah buns spread with chipotle mayonnaise, then topped with a lethal combination of meat, bacon, pepper jack cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and fried onion strings. Mike’s Meshugganah, a whopper topped with bacon, blue cheese, mushrooms, and crispy onion rings, blue cheese dressing, on a molasses wheat bun, is another belt-buster.

J-Bar-M Barbecue

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Though previously only served as a special on Wednesdays, J-Bar-M’s old-fashioned smoked burger is now available every night during dinner. Served with a side of fries, the burger’s hefty, seasoned patty is stored in beef tallow and finished on Post Oak wood before it's placed on a bun, and topped with tobacco onions, Mop sauce, and thick slices of melted cheese.

The Burger Joint

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Burgers in Houston can’t go without mention of this Montrose mainstay, which now has locations in the Heights and Baybrook. Top these locally-raised Texas beef patties with everything from kimchi and pulled pork to classic chili cheese, then pair with crispy fries and a thick, boozy shake infused with 8th Wonder Brewery's Rocket Fuel.

Houstatlantavegan

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This food truck is living proof that vegan burgers can just be as exciting as the beefy ones. Served on brioche buns, Houstonatlantavegan offers its signature Rodeo burger topped with crispy fried onions and the cleverly-tiled WAP-er, a double-patty double cheese, vegan bacon, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and its “H.A.V.” sauce.

This Montrose cafe’s double-pattied-up Cheesburger in Paradise has earned a cult following, and for good reason. Topped with pickles, bacon, and cheddar cheese, this luscious burger is also topped with a green, homemade jalapeno sauce that some claim is magic. Though served with your choice of salad, or regular or sweet potato fries, treat yourself and spring for the garlic herb fries for just $2 more.

Doris Metropolitan

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Doris’ flashy $16 burger isn’t one you’ll see every day, which is just one reason it makes the list. Made with an eye-catching, buttery Brioche black bun, Doris tops its juicy beef patty with smoked gouda, lettuce, tomato, and aioli, and serves it with a side of crispy truffle fries for a flavor bomb of a meal. There is a catch, though. The Doris Burger is only available during happy hour, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, or for take-out during dinner, so plan accordingly.

Winnie's

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Who doesn’t love a good deal on a burger? At Winnie’s, you get all that, and then some. The Winn-A-Burger comes with an Oklahoma-style smash 44 Farms beef patty that’s layered with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions, with serrano mustard and mayo au poivre. Get it any time in single ($12) or double ($15) form, or head there on a Monday after 8 p.m. for its $5 late-night burgers and cocktail specials.

burger-chan

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This home-grown burger joint serves up smashed patties and falafel burgers with an Asian flair — all assembled your way. Grab its checklist-style menu and choose between sweet sourdough, brioche, rye, or lettuce buns; pack on toppings like seared spam, kimchi relish, pickled or charred jalapenos; and opt for sauces like scallion aioli or sambal mayo for the dipping or slathering. Then, open wide.

Bubba's Texas Burger Shack

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This divey gem lives up to its iconic reputation as having some of the best buffalo burgers in the Lone Star state. Crowds have been known to flock to the little shack under the Southwest Freeway to polish off the “Vegas Burger” topped with BJ’s signature habanero hot sauce, bacon, avocado, Monterey Jack cheese, and a fried egg served over a juicy patty, made with your choice of beef or bison.

A bacon cheese burger with lettuce and tomato wrapped in paper and stuck with an American flag toothpick.
Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack is best known for its buffalo burger.
Bubba’s

Hopdoddy Burger Bar

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This Austin-owned burger bar is considered a favorite for a reason. It consistently serves up undeniable, beefy burger combinations like the charitable Goodnight, Good Cause, which is slathered in barbecue sauce, Doddy mayo, jalapenos, caramelized onions, and Tillamook cheese, and El Bandito’s corn and black bean burger. In the mood to share? Try the hot honey and sage sweet potato fries for an enticing combo of sweet and spicy.

Annies Hamburgers

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This neighborhood spot has been serving up classic all-beef smash burgers for more than 30 years, and needless to say, they’re pros. Spring for the double meat for $6.20 — only a dollar difference from the single, load up on your choice of sauces and fix-ins like crispy bacon, drink down a hand-blended shake or the homemade lemonade, and don’t forget a side of onion rings.

Killen's Burgers

Copy Link

Just like its smoky predecessor, Killen's Burgers is already inspiring the kind of lines that only Ronnie Killen can seem to cultivate. An expertly-blended duo of brisket and chuck produce a patty that can only be described as ridiculously delicious, and the addition of housemade toppings and a buttery bun only adds to the magic. Pair with crinkle fries or onion rings and enjoy burger nirvana.

Hippo Burgers

This Humble-based burger joint now has four locations and counting in the Houston area, and for good reason. As the name implies, the cooked-to-order grilled beef and chicken burgers are massive with big flavor and ample topping choices. Take the brainwork out of your order and opt for their combinations, like the Hippo special burger, topped with bacon, jalapenos, American cheese, lettuce, or the cheesy Eggvolution that’s topped with a fried egg. Don’t forget the fries — you can cover them in garlic, cheese, buffalo sauce, cajun seasoning, and more.

Hubcap Grill

The self-proclaimed Houston Godfather of Burgers has got burgers down pat, so much so that it’s unafraid to experiment and go beyond its specialty options. While October brought a savory and sweet Pumpkin Pie Burger, diners can indulge in its Thanksgiving Feast beef burger, that’s layered with Swiss cheese, grilled turkey breast, a hearty mound of sage dressing, and cranberry compote, with turkey gravy on the side. Other favorites include its Greek burger, which is topped with feta cheese, Kalamata olives, onions, green bell peppers, lettuce, tomato, and a special mayo sauce, or the multi-layered Hubcap Decker.

Cantina Barba

Open late at night, Cantina Barba serves up a dependable and delicious $6 burger that is straightforward and dare we say iconic? This 1⁄4 pound smash patty is topped with American cheese, housemade pickles, and burger sauce, and it’s so good, you might as well make it a double for $3 more.

Stanton's City Bites

Old school since 1961, Stanton’s serves up an impressive array of thirteen burgers, all made with a half-pound of fatty, smoky deliciousness and topped with house-made condiments. The Cowboy Brunch — topped with a fried egg, grilled onions, bacon, house-fried pickles, Swiss and American cheese, on Texas toast — is a great option. But if you really love bacon, go for the Miss Piggie, which comes with candied bacon.

Bacon cheese burger with lettuce and tomato, between a seeded bun, sitting atop white and red checkered paper.
Bacon lovers will rejoice in the candied bacon on the “Miss Piggie” burger or the deep-fried bacon on the “Luke Skywalker.”
Stanton’s City Bites

Burger Bodega

This newly opened burger joint is already making waves on the burger scene, not only for its unique decor that’s modeled after a New York-style bodega, but for its delicious burger offerings. Go for its classic smash burger with grilled onions and its creamy Bodega sauce, or the show-stopping chopped cheese, made up of diced beef patties, cheese, peppers, and onions on a hoagie roll. But just know other options, like fries piled high with a variation of beef and cheese sauce, are also available. Don’t forget the milkshake, which comes in vanilla, chocolate, mango lassi, and Vietnamese coffee.

Burger Bodega Abbas Dhanani holding a smash burger and chopped cheese sandwich in front of a graffiti-ed wall.
Burger Bodega’s chopped cheese is another contender for best burger.
Michael Ma

Christian's Tailgate Bar & Grill

A top choice for burgers among many Houstonians, Christian’s Tailgate cooks up meaty patties and offers a hearty list of fix-ins, like oozing fried eggs, American cheese, mushrooms, chili, avocado, thin crispy bacon, jalapeños, and more. Switch it up and try their burger of the month, and add a side of classic crispy fries or onion rings for a meal that lives up to your imagination.

Lankford's Grocery & Market

When a burger sticks around for more than 70 years, it's definitely a winner. Order up a classic Old Fashion burger at this Montrose favorite, or try Lankford's most outlandish offering, the Grim burger. Topped with mac & cheese, bacon, jalapenos, and a fried egg, you're definitely going to need a nap after this one.

Rodeo Goat

Though a Dallas-Fort Worth export, Rodeo Goat localizes itself with Houston-inspired burgers, like the Marvin Zindler burger, named after the late Houston reporter, which is topped with a pickle chutney and barbecue sauce, and the Mike Jones-themed “(281) 330-8004” burger, which is topped with garlic-roasted cremini mushrooms, pickled onions, swiss cheese, and a soy caramel glaze. Help the Texas burger chain pick its best burger in its Battle of the Burgers competition each month. Every order counts.

Champ Burger

Home to the original “Texas Size Steak Sandwich”, this old-fashioned walk-up burger institution has been serving Houstonians for over 50 years with 1⁄3 pound patties made from prime ground chuck. Order your burger how you like it, and that’s just what they’ll serve.

Flip 'n Patties

This former food truck slings some of Houston’s most creative burgers, influenced by classic Filipino flavors. Order the Jeepney burger, which pairs akaushi beef patties with a link of longanisa sausage, fried egg, banana ketchup aioli, and steamed burger buns for a seriously decadent burger experience outside the norm.

Kenny & Ziggy's New York Delicatessen

The Jewish delicatessen’s “In Queso Emergency” burgers have scored big points with Houstonians. Swimming in a sea of fries and a side of cold coleslaw, find a monstrous burger worth every cent of the $21 it costs. It starts with light, glossy challah buns spread with chipotle mayonnaise, then topped with a lethal combination of meat, bacon, pepper jack cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and fried onion strings. Mike’s Meshugganah, a whopper topped with bacon, blue cheese, mushrooms, and crispy onion rings, blue cheese dressing, on a molasses wheat bun, is another belt-buster.

J-Bar-M Barbecue

Though previously only served as a special on Wednesdays, J-Bar-M’s old-fashioned smoked burger is now available every night during dinner. Served with a side of fries, the burger’s hefty, seasoned patty is stored in beef tallow and finished on Post Oak wood before it's placed on a bun, and topped with tobacco onions, Mop sauce, and thick slices of melted cheese.

The Burger Joint

Burgers in Houston can’t go without mention of this Montrose mainstay, which now has locations in the Heights and Baybrook. Top these locally-raised Texas beef patties with everything from kimchi and pulled pork to classic chili cheese, then pair with crispy fries and a thick, boozy shake infused with 8th Wonder Brewery's Rocket Fuel.

Houstatlantavegan

This food truck is living proof that vegan burgers can just be as exciting as the beefy ones. Served on brioche buns, Houstonatlantavegan offers its signature Rodeo burger topped with crispy fried onions and the cleverly-tiled WAP-er, a double-patty double cheese, vegan bacon, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and its “H.A.V.” sauce.

Brasil

This Montrose cafe’s double-pattied-up Cheesburger in Paradise has earned a cult following, and for good reason. Topped with pickles, bacon, and cheddar cheese, this luscious burger is also topped with a green, homemade jalapeno sauce that some claim is magic. Though served with your choice of salad, or regular or sweet potato fries, treat yourself and spring for the garlic herb fries for just $2 more.

Related Maps

Doris Metropolitan

Doris’ flashy $16 burger isn’t one you’ll see every day, which is just one reason it makes the list. Made with an eye-catching, buttery Brioche black bun, Doris tops its juicy beef patty with smoked gouda, lettuce, tomato, and aioli, and serves it with a side of crispy truffle fries for a flavor bomb of a meal. There is a catch, though. The Doris Burger is only available during happy hour, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, or for take-out during dinner, so plan accordingly.

Winnie's

Who doesn’t love a good deal on a burger? At Winnie’s, you get all that, and then some. The Winn-A-Burger comes with an Oklahoma-style smash 44 Farms beef patty that’s layered with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions, with serrano mustard and mayo au poivre. Get it any time in single ($12) or double ($15) form, or head there on a Monday after 8 p.m. for its $5 late-night burgers and cocktail specials.

burger-chan

This home-grown burger joint serves up smashed patties and falafel burgers with an Asian flair — all assembled your way. Grab its checklist-style menu and choose between sweet sourdough, brioche, rye, or lettuce buns; pack on toppings like seared spam, kimchi relish, pickled or charred jalapenos; and opt for sauces like scallion aioli or sambal mayo for the dipping or slathering. Then, open wide.

Bubba's Texas Burger Shack

This divey gem lives up to its iconic reputation as having some of the best buffalo burgers in the Lone Star state. Crowds have been known to flock to the little shack under the Southwest Freeway to polish off the “Vegas Burger” topped with BJ’s signature habanero hot sauce, bacon, avocado, Monterey Jack cheese, and a fried egg served over a juicy patty, made with your choice of beef or bison.

A bacon cheese burger with lettuce and tomato wrapped in paper and stuck with an American flag toothpick.
Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack is best known for its buffalo burger.
Bubba’s

Hopdoddy Burger Bar

This Austin-owned burger bar is considered a favorite for a reason. It consistently serves up undeniable, beefy burger combinations like the charitable Goodnight, Good Cause, which is slathered in barbecue sauce, Doddy mayo, jalapenos, caramelized onions, and Tillamook cheese, and El Bandito’s corn and black bean burger. In the mood to share? Try the hot honey and sage sweet potato fries for an enticing combo of sweet and spicy.

Annies Hamburgers

This neighborhood spot has been serving up classic all-beef smash burgers for more than 30 years, and needless to say, they’re pros. Spring for the double meat for $6.20 — only a dollar difference from the single, load up on your choice of sauces and fix-ins like crispy bacon, drink down a hand-blended shake or the homemade lemonade, and don’t forget a side of onion rings.

Killen's Burgers

Just like its smoky predecessor, Killen's Burgers is already inspiring the kind of lines that only Ronnie Killen can seem to cultivate. An expertly-blended duo of brisket and chuck produce a patty that can only be described as ridiculously delicious, and the addition of housemade toppings and a buttery bun only adds to the magic. Pair with crinkle fries or onion rings and enjoy burger nirvana.

Related Maps