A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Fast Food Burgers in North Carolina
North Carolina is a place with a diverse range of fast food burger options, from well-established chains to small, local favorites. This guide will help you explore and find the best burgers in the state, considering various factors such as taste, quality, and even unique features. Whether you're in Asheville, Durham, Winston-Salem, or elsewhere, there's a burger that suits your taste.
1. Farm Burger – Grassfed Burger Restaurant
Description: Based in Atlanta with only two locations in North Carolina, Farm Burger is a standout in the fast food burger scene. The chain is known for its grass-fed burgers, which not only taste great but are also beneficial to your health. The restaurant is small and cozy, providing a unique dining experience.
Why nominate them? The Farm Burger stands out with its commitment to grass-fed meat, offering a healthier alternative. The burgers here are juicy and flavorful, and the chain even has a mobile menu that can be ordered through their website or app.
2. Smashburger
Description: Smashburger is a well-known chain that specializes in premium burgers. It has a location in Durham, NC, where you can experience their signature "smashed" burgers. These burgers are made fresh daily and are always of the highest quality.
Why choose Smashburger? Smashburger is a local favorite due to its hearty and perfectly cooked burgers. The sheer quality of the burgers makes it a top pick for those who demand the best in fast food burgers. Its unique preparation method and consistent quality make it a standout choice.
3. Showmars!
Description: Showmars! is a restaurant that combines the fast food experience with casual dining. Located in Winston-Salem, this place is nothing short of a burger haven. Known for their "Old Fashion Cheesburger," the menu is diverse, with options like pattie onions, slaw, and perfect chili.
Why Showmars!? This restaurant is a must-try for its unique burger offerings, including the Old Fashion Cheesburger. The menu extends beyond burgers, offering a variety of dishes that are consistently good. Showmars! is perfect for those who want a mix of fast food and casual dining without compromising on quality.
4. Big Al’s
Description: Found in Chapel Hill, Big Al's is home to the University of North Carolina and has been recognized as the "Best Hamburger in the USA." The restaurant's reputation speaks for itself, and it's a popular spot for both locals and university students.
Why Big Al’s? Big Al’s is celebrated for its hamburgers, which are known for their incredible taste and quality. The restaurant has won numerous awards and has a loyal following. It's a great place to visit, especially if you're a foodie or a UNC student wishing to explore some delicious local cuisine.
5. The Village Diner
Description: This small diner in Hillsborough is a hidden gem. The Village Diner has been awarded restaurant of the year, and it's easy to see why. The burgers are exceptional, and they also have a fantastic breakfast menu. The location is close to Occencechee Mountain, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Why The Village Diner? The Village Diner is a wonderful choice due to its unique setting and excellent food. It's a casual dining spot that offers more than just burgers, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. It's a great place to grab a bite while enjoying the beauty of Hillsborough.
6. The Wooden Nickel
Description: Located in downtown Hillsborough, The Wooden Nickel is known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food. The restaurant is family-friendly during the day but can get noisy at night, making it a better choice for daytime visits. While known for its burgers and wings, they also offer a great family meal.
Why The Wooden Nickel? The Wooden Nickel is a must-visit for its perfect combination of burgers, wings, and a casual dining experience. The restaurant is known for its delicious wings and burgers, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It's a great spot to enjoy a night out or a day with the family.
7. Red Robin
Description: Red Robin, known for its aurora burgers and overall family-friendly atmosphere, has various locations across North Carolina. While not a local chain, they offer a wide variety of burgers, and their Royal Burger, with an egg, jalepenos, and red onions, is a personal favorite.
Why Red Robin? Red Robin is a great choice for those who enjoy chains with a wide variety of burger options. The Royal Burger, in particular, is a standout, offering an egg, jalepenos, and red onions. The menu is extensive, and they offer bottomless fries, making it perfect for a casual dining experience.
Conclusion
From Farm Burger to The Wooden Nickel, North Carolina offers a wide range of fast food burgers that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's a burger spot that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy your burger exploration in North Carolina and find your new favorite burger joint!