TEXAS - Whether you want a quick lunch or date night, several must-try burgers in Texas will satisfy any hunger. We have compiled a list of our favorite places to eat in the state to help you decide where to visit when you are in the area.
Texas: Where Burgers Aren't Just Food, They're a Cultural Experience
The humble burger holds a special place in the vast landscape of Texas cuisine. It symbolizes tradition and innovation, a canvas for culinary creativity that spans from the Gulf Coast to the bustling metropolitan areas. While Texas barbecue might steal the spotlight, the state's burger scene is a force to be reckoned with. Let's delve deeper into eight establishments that are turning beef patties into culinary masterpieces:
1. Tookie's Burgers (Kemah)
More than just a burger joint, Tookie's is a landmark on the Kemah Boardwalk. Their signature patties, crafted with fresh, locally sourced beef, have garnered national attention on shows like the Travel Channel. The ambiance is pure Americana, with vintage décor and a friendly staff serving up generous portions of nostalgia.
2. The Hay Merchant (Houston)
Tucked away in the heart of Houston's Montrose neighborhood, this craft beer mecca boasts a menu that surprises and delights. Their ever-evolving burger creations, inspired by seasonal ingredients and local flavors, are paired perfectly with an extensive selection of craft brews, making it a haven for foodies and beer connoisseurs.
3. Dugg Burger (Dallas)
At Dugg Burger, you're not just ordering a meal; you're embarking on a culinary adventure. Their "Dugg Dozen" toppings bar is a playground for the adventurous, allowing you to build a burger as unique as your taste buds. But even with all the options, their expertly crafted burgers, made with organic beef and inventive sauces, shine on their own.
4. Chris Madrid's (San Antonio)
This San Antonio institution is a shrine to the cheeseburger. Their massive "Cheddar Cheezy" burgers are a cheesy delight, while their innovative tostada burger, featuring homemade refried beans and tortilla chips, is a testament to their Tex-Mex roots.
5. Tejas Burger Joint (Tomball)
Born from the award-winning Tejas BBQ & Chocolate, this newcomer is making a big splash in the Texas burger scene. Their half-pound Angus beef patties, cooked to smoky perfection, are the foundation for creative combinations like the Smokehouse Burger, loaded with bacon, pepper jack cheese, and green onion aioli.
6. Wallbanger's (Corpus Christi)
Nostalgia meets modern flavor at this Corpus Christi favorite. Wallbanger's delivers a taste of the past with its retro décor and classic burgers, but its commitment to fresh ingredients and creative toppings keeps its menu fresh and exciting. Don't miss their famous fried chicken and hand-spun milkshakes.
7. Kincaid's Hamburgers (Fort Worth)
Kincaid's has been a Texas institution for decades, and for good reason. Their commitment to quality ingredients and simple yet delicious recipes shines through every bite. Each burger is cooked to order on a small grill, ensuring a juicy, flavorful experience.
8. Toro Burger Bar (El Paso)
Elevating the burger game in El Paso, Toro Burger Bar offers a culinary fusion of Texan and Southwestern flavors. Each dish celebrates bold, vibrant tastes, from their signature "Mi Papa" burger with grilled onions and green chiles to their chile con queso-smothered tots.
Whether you're a lifelong Texan or just passing through, these eight burger destinations offer diverse flavors and experiences. So, embark on a culinary road trip, embrace the spirit of Texas, and discover the burger that will forever hold a place in your heart.
