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.
In Texas, the hamburger isn't just a sandwich; it's a cultural institution. It's a source of state pride, fierce local debate, and a canvas for culinary tradition. From no-frills, century-old diners to new-school gourmet burger bars, the Lone Star State takes its beef seriously.
Trying to name the "best" burger in Texas is a fool's errand—the state is too big, and its loyalties are too deep. But for a true taste of what makes Texas burgers legendary, here is a bucket list of 8 essential spots every beef-lover must try, highlighting unique establishments that define local flavor.
1. Kincaid's Hamburgers (Fort Worth)
Why it's a must-try: Starting life as a grocery store in 1946, Kincaid's still has that no-frills, nostalgic charm. Located in Fort Worth, the heart of Cowtown, this spot serves up a quintessential, old-school Texas burger. The beef is ground in-house, the patties are thick and juicy, and the toppings are classic. It's a taste of post-war simplicity done to perfection.
Signature Burger: The Cheeseburger, served in a paper sack. The patty is so fresh and flavorful that it needs little more than cheese, mustard, and its classic bun.
2. Chris Madrid's (San Antonio)
Why it's a must-try: This San Antonio legend, which has risen from the ashes after a devastating fire, is a genuine fiesta in burger form. The atmosphere is loud, vibrant, and always packed. Chris Madrid's is famous for its "Macho" sized burgers and its glorious, unapologetic use of melted cheddar cheese. The fries are crispy, the salsa is fresh, and the experience is pure San Antonio.
Signature Burger: The Macho Cheddar Cheezy. Be warned: even the "regular" size is enormous. The patty is smothered in a river of molten cheese, and it's a beautiful, delicious mess.
3. Lankford Grocery & Market (Houston)
Why it's a must-try: Housed in a funky, bright red building that looks like it's been cobbled together over decades, Lankford is a Houston institution. This cash-only (or in-house ATM) joint is the definition of "character." While they serve a great classic burger, Lankford is famous for its wild, over-the-top, and creative concoctions that perfectly capture Houston's diverse and adventurous food scene.
Signature Burger: The "Grim Burger" (mac & cheese, bacon, a sunny-side-up egg, and jalapeños) or the classic "Old Fashioned" cheeseburger for the purist.
4. Dirty Martin's Place (Austin)
Why it's a must-try: Open since 1926, Dirty Martin's (officially Martin's Kum-Bak) is an actual Austin dive and a University of Texas institution. The "dirty" name supposedly comes from its original dirt floors. The burgers are flat, greasy (in the best way), and served in plastic baskets. This is not a gourmet experience; this is a bite of history.
Signature Burger: The "O.T. Special" (a classic double-patty cheeseburger) with a side of onion rings and a frosty mug of beer (or a "shim," a mix of root beer and orange soda).
5. Keller's Drive-In (Dallas)
Why it's a must-try: Roll down your windows and flick on your headlights for service. Keller's is a time machine back to the 1950s, an actual car-hop drive-in that's still one of the best hangs in Dallas. You'll see classic cars parked next to modern ones, all there for the same simple, delicious, and incredibly cheap burger. The atmosphere on a warm night is unbeatable.
Signature Burger: The "No. 5 Special"—a double meat cheeseburger on a poppy seed bun. Paired with a cherry-lime Dr Pepper, it's pure Americana.
6. Hopdoddy Burger Bar (Austin & Statewide)
Why it's a must-try: Leading the "new school" of Texas burgers, Hopdoddy started in Austin and has (deservedly) spread. This is the craft burger experience: premium beef ground in-house, buns baked fresh all day, creative toppings, and a full bar with craft beer and spiked milkshakes. It's a gourmet take that still respects the burger's humble roots.
Signature Burger: The "Classic" (with Angus beef, red-leaf lettuce, onion, tomato, and "Sassy Sauce") or the "Primetime" (with Texas Akaushi beef, brie, truffle aioli, and caramelized onions).
7. Adair's Saloon (Dallas)
Why it's a must-try: Sometimes, you need a perfect dive bar burger. Adair's Saloon in Deep Ellum is the place. The walls are famously covered in decades of graffiti and signatures, the beer is cold, and live country music blares almost every night. The menu is tiny, but the burger is a legend: a simple, greasy, perfectly seasoned patty that soaks up all the right decisions.
Signature Burger: The Cheeseburger, served on a paper towel with a bag of Fritos or Lays: no frills, no fuss, just perfection.
8. Stanton's City Bites (Houston)
Why it's a must-try: A true hidden gem in Houston, Stanton's is a former grocery store turned burger joint that retains its historic charm. They specialize in big, juicy, half-pound patties made from fresh-ground chuck, served on soft, toasted buns. Their menu boasts a wide array of creative toppings and specialty burgers, but even a classic cheeseburger here is a flavor and texture masterpiece. It's a beloved local favorite for good reason.
Signature Burger: The "Miss Piggy" (topped with bacon, fried egg, and cheddar) or the robust "Steakhouse" burger for a truly indulgent experience.