PORTLAND, OR - Portland's culinary scene boasts a vibrant burger landscape catering to diverse preferences. While options like chicken, lentil, and black bean burgers tantalize taste buds, this article delves into classic beef burgers, unveiling some of the city's most delectable offerings.
Grease & Glory: 9 of Portland's Best Classic Burgers
In a city celebrated for its high-concept culinary scene, there's a deep, abiding love for the simple, timeless perfection of a classic burger. Before the rise of truffle aioli and brioche buns, these places set the standard with nothing more than good beef, melted cheese, a soft bun, and a flat-top grill.
From legendary taverns that haven't changed in 70 years to modern joints perfecting the art of the smash patty, here are 9 essential classic burgers in the Portland area.
1. Stanich's
- The Vibe: A time-capsule sports bar in Northeast Portland that feels like it hasn't changed a thing since it opened in 1949. It's a true neighborhood landmark.
- The Burger: This is the "Nick's Cheeseburger," which was once crowned the "Best Burger in America." It's a flawless old-school tavern burger, built with a fresh, thickish patty, American cheese, and a signature pile of sweet, griddled onions. It's served with a classic tomato, lettuce, and mayo setup.
2. Helvetia Tavern
- The Vibe: A massive, rustic, red-barn tavern out in the farmlands of Hillsboro. It's a destination that's perpetually packed with families, bikers, and everyone in between.
- The Burger: The "Jumbo Burger." This is a classic, no-nonsense cheeseburger that's bigger than your average diner patty. It's served on a paper plate, often with a side of their famous jumbo onion rings. The magic is in its simplicity and the old-school, off-the-beaten-path experience.
3. Skyline Restaurant
- The Vibe: A beloved, family-friendly diner that's been perched in the West Hills on scenic Skyline Boulevard since 1935. It's a go-to for locals after a hike in Forest Park.
- The Burger: This is the quintessential drive-in burger. The "Skyline Burger" is a well-seasoned, griddled patty with American cheese, shredded lettuce, and their signature "goop" sauce. It's the perfect partner to one of their thick, old-fashioned milkshakes.
4. Bless Your Heart Burgers
- The Vibe: A bright, cheerful, and modern counter-service spot that specializes in one thing: the Carolina-style smash burger.
- The Burger: The "Classic" is a masterpiece of the form. A thin, crispy-edged patty (or two) is smashed on the flat-top with American cheese, "Get-in-yo-Mouth" sauce, shredded lettuce, and pickles. It's a modern classic that pays perfect homage to the original.
5. Mike's Drive-In
- The Vibe: An authentic, walk-up drive-in that's been a staple in Milwaukie (and more recently, Sellwood and Oregon City) since 1971. Expect classic cars in the parking lot and a mile-long menu.
- The Burger: The burgers here are pure nostalgia. They're classic, thin-patty diner-style burgers served in a foil bag. Go for a quarter-pound "Deluxe" with cheese, which comes with their special sauce, lettuce, and pickles. Don't forget a soft-serve cone.
6. Tulip Shop Tavern
- The Vibe: A beautifully restored, dark, and cozy neighborhood tavern in North Portland with a great patio and a top-tier craft cocktail menu.
- The Burger: Their "Tavern Burger" is a smash burger for grown-ups. It features two crispy-edged, locally sourced beef patties, American cheese, pickles, and a tangy sauce on a soft bun. It's quickly become a city-wide favorite.
7. Fuller's Burger Shack
- The Vibe: A tiny, no-frills, walk-up burger shack that's been serving Portland since 1947. It's an actual piece of living history.
- The Burger: This is old-school fast food, perfected. The classic cheeseburger is a simple, griddled patty with melted cheese, onions, pickles, and sauce. It's greasy, delicious, and best eaten immediately at one of the few outdoor tables.
8. Wolf's Head
- The Vibe: A Midwest-inspired burger joint (formerly a pop-up, now with multiple locations) that is 100% focused on the classic smash burger.
- The Burger: Their "Single" is a model of perfection: a 4oz patty smashed with melted onions, American cheese, burger sauce, and dill pickles on a soft Franz bun. It's a beautiful, greasy, and incredibly satisfying take on the style.
9. The Observatory
- The Vibe: A beloved, dimly-lit neighborhood bar and restaurant in Montavilla known for its stellar cocktails and elevated comfort food.
- The Burger: The "Observatory Burger." While the rest of the menu is inventive, the burger is a study in classic execution. It's a thick, juicy, perfectly cooked patty with high-quality cheddar, lettuce, onion, and a house-made aioli on a substantial bun. It's a classic bar burger, done right.
The Final Bite: Portland's burger scene is dynamic, offering something for everyone. This list provides a starting point for your exploration, and with a little research, you're sure to discover your perfect bite. Consistency can be critical, so don't hesitate to delve deeper and find your personal burger haven.