The fast food burger is an iconic staple of American dining. But with so many chains offering their take on the classic, the question remains: which fast food chain truly has the best burger? Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular contenders and what sets their burgers apart.
Five Guys: The Customizable Classic
Five Guys is often hailed as one of the best burger chains, known for its fresh, customizable offerings. The beef is hand-formed and cooked on a flat grill, ensuring a juicy, flavorful patty every time. What really sets Five Guys apart is the sheer number of toppings available—over 15, including grilled onions, mushrooms, jalapeños, and more. The buns are soft and toasted, creating a perfect balance with the beef. Plus, there’s no extra charge for toppings, making it a great option for those who like their burgers exactly their way. Pros: Fresh ingredients, extensive customization options, generous portions.
Cons: Higher price point, longer wait times.
nyallergy.com/five-guys
In-N-Out Burger: West Coast Favorite
In-N-Out Burger has a cult-like following, especially on the West Coast. Their menu is simple—offering just a few burger options—but what they lack in variety, they make up for in quality. The patties are made from fresh, never frozen beef, and the burgers are assembled with care. The “Animal Style” option, with grilled onions, extra spread, and mustard-grilled patties, is a fan favorite. The buns are soft, and the vegetables are always crisp and fresh. Pros: Fresh ingredients, consistent quality, great value.
Cons: Limited to West Coast locations, small menu.
Solares
Shake Shack: Gourmet Approach
Shake Shack brings a gourmet twist to fast food burgers. Their ShackBurger is made with 100% all-natural Angus beef, cooked medium unless specified otherwise, and topped with lettuce, tomato, and their signature ShackSauce. The buns are potato rolls, which add a slightly sweet, soft texture that pairs perfectly with the savory beef. Shake Shack also offers unique burger variations, like the ‘Shroom Burger, a vegetarian option featuring a fried portobello mushroom.
Shake Shack
Wendy’s: Fresh, Never Frozen
Wendy’s is known for its square, fresh, never frozen beef patties, which are designed to hang over the edge of the bun, giving you more meat in every bite. Their burgers are juicy and flavorful, and they offer a range of options from the classic Dave’s Single to the massive Baconator, which features two beef patties and six strips of bacon. Wendy’s also prides itself on using fresh toppings and premium ingredients like applewood-smoked bacon.
Nankarei/Instagram
Whataburger: Southern Staple
Whataburger is a beloved Southern chain known for its large, customizable burgers. The beef is seasoned well, and the patties are sizable, making it a great option for those with a big appetite. Whataburger offers a wide range of toppings and sauces, allowing you to tailor your burger to your exact preferences. The bun is slightly toasted, adding a nice crunch to the overall experience.
Erin McDowell/Insider
McDonald’s: The Ubiquitous Choice
No fast food burger list would be complete without McDonald’s. The Big Mac is iconic, with its two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions on a sesame seed bun. While McDonald’s burgers may not be considered gourmet, they offer consistent quality, quick service, and unbeatable convenience. Their Quarter Pounder, made with fresh beef and cooked to order, is a solid choice for those looking for a heartier option.
Shutterstock
Burger King: The Flame-Grilled Option
Burger King is famous for its flame-grilled burgers, which give the beef a smoky, charbroiled flavor that’s hard to find at other fast food chains. The Whopper is their flagship burger, featuring a quarter-pound beef patty, fresh vegetables, and mayo on a sesame seed bun. The flame-grilled taste is a major selling point, and Burger King often runs promotions and deals that make their burgers an affordable option.
Drew Angerer/Getty Images
The Classic – J.G. Melon (New York, NY)
J.G. Melon is a New York institution, and their Classic Burger is legendary. The burger is straightforward—juicy beef patty, American cheese, pickles, and lettuce on a toasted bun. What sets it apart is the perfectly seasoned patty and the old-school, no-frills vibe that makes it feel like stepping back in time.
Nick Solares/Eater
The Cheeseburger – Au Cheval (Chicago, IL)
Au Cheval’s Cheeseburger is often hailed as one of the best in the country. It’s a decadent creation featuring two griddled patties (or three if you go for the double), layers of American cheese, thick-cut bacon, a fried egg, and dijonnaise. The richness and balance of flavors make it a burger experience like no other.
Scott Lynch / Gothamist
The Original Burger – Louis’ Lunch (New Haven, CT)
Louis’ Lunch claims to be the birthplace of the hamburger, and their Original Burger is a nod to history. Served on white toast with cheese, onion, and tomato, this burger is cooked in the same vertical broilers used since the 1890s. No ketchup here—just a pure, beefy experience that’s stood the test of time.
Scott B. Rosen/Eat Your World
