20 Burger Joints That Leave In-N-Out In The Dust
Look, In-N-Out has a loyal fanbase—and those paper-wrapped Double-Doubles definitely hit the spot. But if you’re craving a burger that goes big on flavor, toppings, or creativity, there’s a whole world beyond those palm tree-lined drive-thrus.
From griddle-seared classics to over-the-top masterpieces, these 20 burger joints serve up bites that could turn even the most die-hard In-N-Out lover into a convert.
Ready to upgrade your burger game?
1. Shake Shack
With its buttery potato bun, perfectly crisped griddled patty, and that famous ShackSauce, Shake Shack knows how to balance simplicity with flavor. The beef is juicy, the cheese melts just right, and the vibe screams big-city cool.
Every bite feels like a chef-made burger in fast-food clothing. It’s a crowd-pleaser for a reason.
2. BurgerFi
Known for its never-frozen Angus beef and fresh toppings, BurgerFi takes fast-casual to the next level. Think truffle aioli, double-stacked patties, and even wagyu blends.
Clean ingredients, bold flavor, and crispy fries on the side? Yes, please. It’s gourmet without the white tablecloth.
3. Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Hopdoddy doesn’t play it safe. With burgers topped in green chiles, fried eggs, or even ahi tuna, every order feels like an adventure.
The buns are house-baked, and the patties are insanely flavorful. You’ll want to eat your way through the entire menu.
4. Five Guys
Custom-built, cooked-to-order, and loaded with toppings—it’s hard to beat the chaos-in-a-good-way joy of Five Guys. The meat is thick, greasy (in the best way), and totally satisfying.
Order it “all the way” and dig into a brown paper bag full of fries. Messy? Absolutely. Worth it? Always.
5. The Habit Burger Grill
Charbroiled patties give The Habit’s burgers a smoky, backyard-barbecue taste that stands out from the crowd. Crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and tangy sauces take it over the top.
It’s like your favorite homemade burger, just better. Plus, that tempura green bean side? Legendary.
6. Kuma’s Corner
This Chicago-based spot doesn’t hold back. Burgers are huge, heavy-metal-themed, and piled high with fried onions, bacon, and spicy sauces.
It’s loud, wild, and totally unforgettable. Kuma’s burgers are an edible mic drop.
7. Super Duper Burgers
San Francisco’s answer to the perfect fast burger: thick patties, organic beef, and a special sauce that’s got just the right kick. They even make their pickles in-house.
It’s fast food, but elevated in every way. The name doesn’t lie—it really is super duper.
8. Fattburger
This West Coast legend leans into old-school vibes with thick burgers and creamy milkshakes. No frills—just juicy patties and bold flavor.
It’s comfort food with a retro kick. Classic never goes out of style.
9. Au Cheval
The burger that launched a thousand food blogs—Au Cheval’s double cheeseburger is rich, gooey, and stacked with thick bacon and dijonnaise. Served on a toasted bun with a side of crispy fries.
Decadent, indulgent, and 100% unforgettable. It’s not just dinner—it’s an experience.
10. Bareburger
Organic, customizable, and wildly inventive—Bareburger offers patties made from beef, bison, mushrooms, or impossible meat. Toppings range from blue cheese to banana peppers.
It’s the burger spot for foodies and picky eaters alike. Bold flavors, great vibes, and eco-conscious, too.
11. Burgerville
A Pacific Northwest favorite that keeps it local—Burgerville sources ingredients from nearby farms and rotates seasonal specialties like wild mushroom burgers and sweet onion rings.
The taste is fresh, clean, and just a little bit crunchy in the granola way. It’s fast food with a conscience.
12. FIVE Napkin Burger
This is not a quick bite—these burgers are rich, juicy, and loaded with upscale toppings like gruyère and caramelized onions. It’s messy in the best way.
Napkins aren’t optional—they’re essential. It’s a sit-down burger joint that makes fast food look lazy.
13. Bobby’s Burger Palace
Founded by Chef Bobby Flay, this spot leans into bold flavors and regional twists. Crunchify your burger for a layer of potato chips on top—trust us.
It’s chef-inspired without being fussy. Flay knows what burger lovers want, and he delivers.
14. Big Jud’s
This Idaho staple is known for burgers the size of your face. The one-pound challenge burger is legendary—but even their regular-size patties are massive and packed with flavor.
It’s a road-trip-worthy burger experience. Just bring your appetite (and maybe a nap afterward).
15. Burger Lounge
Grass-fed beef, house-made sauces, and just the right amount of char—Burger Lounge makes simplicity shine. Everything feels clean and flavorful without trying too hard.
It’s light on grease but heavy on taste. Southern California’s sleek alternative to In-N-Out.
16. HiHo Cheeseburger
Made with 100% wagyu beef and a short, smart menu, HiHo keeps things tight and tasty. Their double cheeseburger is all about balance: rich meat, tangy sauce, and pickled onions.
Simple, sharp, and full of flavor. A true hidden gem.
17. Farm Burger
With grass-fed beef, seasonal toppings, and even a house-made pimento cheese, Farm Burger combines Southern charm with serious burger skills. Every bite tastes farm-fresh and satisfying.
It’s the kind of place that makes you feel good while you’re eating bad. Trust the hype.
18. Slater’s 50/50
Bacon lovers, rejoice. Slater’s signature patty is 50% beef and 50% bacon, and it’s just as rich and smoky as it sounds.
The topping combinations are wild (peanut butter and jelly? yep), and the results are always memorable. Over-the-top in the best way.
19. The Vortex
Atlanta’s favorite rock ‘n roll burger bar serves monstrous burgers with names like “Triple Coronary Bypass.” We’re talking fried eggs, onion rings, and multiple patties stacked to the sky.
It’s unapologetically bold. Come hungry, leave speechless.
20. Little Big Burger
Tiny burgers, big flavor. These slider-style patties are seared to perfection, served on brioche buns, and paired with truffle fries that steal the show.
Quick, clean, and addictive. Sometimes small really is mighty.