MICHIGAN - Detroit is known for its history, culture, and food. And when it comes to food, one thing that Detroiters know how to do well is burgers. From classic American burgers to more unique and creative options, a burger in Detroit satisfies every taste bud.
In a city built on no-nonsense hard work, the humble burger is practically a sacred food group. Detroit and its surrounding suburbs are home to a fierce burger scene, ranging from century-old institutions that serve nothing else to modern, high-end bistros reimagining what a burger can be.
Whether you're looking for a simple, perfect cheeseburger on wax paper or a towering creation with gourmet toppings, here are 10 of the best burgers the Motor City area has to offer.
1. Miller's Bar (Dearborn)
- The Vibe: A legendary, no-frills institution. Don't expect a menu, a plate, or a bill—they serve burgers on wax paper and you pay on the honor system at the bar when you leave.
- The Burger: This is the quintessential "bar burger." A thick, juicy patty of ground-round, a slice of Velveeta cheese, a steamed bun, and a "communal" tray of pickles and onions. It's simple, perfect, and consistently ranked among the best in the country.
2. Redcoat Tavern (Royal Oak)
- The Vibe: A dark, old-school English-style pub that has been a local favorite since 1972. It's cozy, classic, and always packed.
- The Burger: The "Original Redcoat Special Burger" is the star. It's a half-pound of freshly ground beef, often served on a toasted sesame bun (though a pumpernickel-onion roll is a popular option) with shredded lettuce, tomato, and a special sauce. It's a thick, savory masterpiece.
3. Vinsetta Garage (Berkley)
- The Vibe: A beautifully preserved 1919 auto shop turned into a sprawling, stylish restaurant. The garage-themed decor is as much of a draw as the food.
- The Burger: While they have several great options, the "Vinsetta Burger" is a must-try. It features two patties, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, McClure's pickles (a Detroit icon), bacon, and a house-made burger sauce.
4. Grey Ghost (Detroit)
- The Vibe: A sleek, upscale, and trendy spot in Brush Park known for its craft cocktails and inventive, meat-focused menu.
- The Burger: This is the "gourmet" burger of the list. Found on the bar menu, their double cheeseburger is made with a high-end beef blend, topped with sharp American cheese, savory bacon-onion jam, and pickles, all on a perfectly toasted bun.
5. Mercury Burger & Bar (Detroit)
- The Vibe: A lively, modern diner in the heart of Corktown, located right across from the old Michigan Central Station.
- The Burger: The "Topor" burger is a local legend. Named for a local journalist, this burger comes loaded with Hungarian hot peppers, grilled onions, a fried egg, and cheddar cheese. It's a spicy, messy, and incredible experience.
6. Frita Batidos (Detroit)
- The Vibe: A bright, fun, and fast-casual spot from Top Chef alum Eve Aronoff. It's a vibrant place specializing in Cuban-inspired street food.
- The Burger: The "Frita." This isn't a traditional American burger. It's a spicy chorizo-beef patty (or all-beef) topped with a pile of crispy shoestring fries, all tucked into a soft egg bun. Add a fried egg ("a Frita con Huevo") to make it perfect.
7. Basement Burger Bar (Detroit)
- The Vibe: A casual, fun joint with a "build-your-own" ethos. With locations in Detroit, Farmington, and Canton, it's a go-to for creative combinations.
- The Burger: While you can build your own, their "Junk Burger" is a sight to behold. It's a beef patty topped with chipotle mayo, bacon, caramelized onions, mozzarella sticks, fried pickles, crispy onion straws, and cheddar cheese sauce.
8. Royale with Cheese (Detroit)
- The Vibe: A Pulp Fiction-themed joint in the Cass Corridor known for its wildly creative and delicious burgers.
- The Burger: You can't go wrong, but "The Kruncher" is a standout. It features a beef patty, American cheese, jalapeño kruncher chips, roasted pepper chili queso, roasted corn, and a Cajun aioli. It's a burger with an addictive crunch.
9. Hunter House Hamburgers (Birmingham)
- The Vibe: A tiny, white-tile slider shop that's been a Birmingham landmark since 1952. It's an actual old-school drive-in experience.
- The Burger: The slider. These are classic grilled-onion-smashed sliders served with mustard and pickles on a steamed bun. The smell of the onions from the parking lot is iconic. You'll want to order at least three.
10. Green Dot Stables (Detroit)
- The Vibe: A beloved Corktown spot with a horse-racing theme, known for its unbelievably affordable menu of gourmet sliders and creative cocktails.
- The Burger: The "Cheeseburger Slider." While the menu is full of adventurous options (like the Korean or Fried Chicken sliders), their classic cheeseburger slider is a perfectly crafted two-bite wonder. At its low price, it's impossible to have just one.
This is just a tiny sampling of the many great burgers in the Detroit area. So, check out one of these spots next time you're in the mood for a burger. You won't be disappointed!