best burger in atlanta ga

If you're a fan of burgers, Atlanta is the place to be. The city has a thriving burger scene, with countless options to choose from. Whether you're a meat lover, vegetarian, or vegan, there's a burger here for you. In this article, we'll take you on a meaty journey through the top-rated burger joints in Atlanta, as well as explore the history, ingredients, and unique toppings that make each burger stand out from the rest.

Top-rated burger joints in Atlanta

Atlanta is home to some of the best burger joints in the country. If you're looking for a classic burger experience, look no further than The Varsity, a local institution that's been serving up burgers since 1928. Another must-visit spot is Holeman and Finch, which is renowned for its double cheeseburger that's only available in limited quantities. For a more upscale experience, check out Bocado, where the all-natural, grass-fed beef burgers are cooked to perfection. And if you're looking for a delicious vegan option, make your way to Slutty Vegan, whose Impossible burgers have gained a cult following in the city.

But Atlanta's burger scene doesn't stop there. Another popular spot is Grindhouse Killer Burgers, which offers a variety of unique burger options, such as the "Apache" with green chilies and pepper jack cheese. For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to The General Muir, a Jewish deli that serves up a delicious burger made with brisket and chuck.

And if you're looking for a burger joint with a twist, try out Yeah! Burger, which allows you to customize your burger with a variety of toppings and sauces. They also offer gluten-free and vegan options, making it a great spot for those with dietary restrictions. With so many great options, it's no wonder that Atlanta has become a destination for burger lovers.

The history of burgers in Atlanta

Burgers have been a staple of Atlanta's food scene for decades. Many of the city's best-known burger joints have been around for generations, passing down their techniques and recipes from parent to child. The Varsity, for example, started as a humble hot dog stand in the 1920s and has since become an Atlanta institution, serving up burgers, fries, and slaw to hungry patrons. Meanwhile, The Vortex has been a fixture of the city's nightlife since the 1990s and is known for its indulgent, over-the-top burgers.

However, Atlanta's burger scene is not just limited to these iconic establishments. In recent years, a new wave of burger joints has emerged, offering unique twists on the classic burger. One such place is Grindhouse Killer Burgers, which serves up burgers made with locally sourced, grass-fed beef and creative toppings like pimento cheese and jalapeno relish. Another popular spot is Yeah! Burger, which offers a variety of customizable burgers, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Despite the growing competition, the classic Atlanta burger joints continue to thrive. Ann's Snack Bar, for example, has been serving up its famous "Ghetto Burger" since the 1970s, and has been featured on numerous food shows and in publications. And Holeman and Finch Public House, which started as a high-end restaurant, gained fame for its limited-quantity "H&F Burger" served only at 10 pm, but has since expanded to offer the burger all day due to popular demand.

How to make the perfect burger patty

The perfect burger patty is a thing of beauty. Whether you prefer your burger rare, medium, or well-done, there are a few key ingredients and techniques you need to know to achieve that perfect blend of flavor and texture. Start with high-quality beef that's been ground fresh. Add a touch of salt and pepper, and don't be afraid to mix in other seasonings as well, like paprika, onion powder, or garlic powder. Finally, don't overwork the meat when shaping your patties - the less you handle it, the better.

Another important factor in making the perfect burger patty is the thickness. Aim for a patty that's about ¾ inch thick, as this will ensure that it cooks evenly and doesn't dry out. Additionally, make sure to create a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking - this will prevent the burger from puffing up in the middle and becoming too thick. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to creating the ultimate burger patty.

Vegetarian and vegan burger options in Atlanta

Atlanta's burger scene isn't just for meat lovers - there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options as well. Slutty Vegan's Impossible burgers are a popular choice for those on a plant-based diet, while R. Thomas Deluxe Grill's veggie burgers are made with fresh, organic ingredients. For a truly unique experience, head to The Loving Hut, a vegan restaurant that serves up a variety of burgers made from ingredients like mushrooms, lentils, and tofu.

Another great option for vegetarian and vegan burgers in Atlanta is Grindhouse Killer Burgers. They offer a Beyond Burger patty that can be substituted in any of their burger options. The patty is made from plant-based ingredients and has a similar taste and texture to a traditional beef patty. Additionally, their menu includes a variety of toppings and sauces to customize your burger to your liking.

The most unique burger toppings in Atlanta

When it comes to burgers in Atlanta, the toppings can be just as important as the patty itself. Some of the most unique toppings you'll find in the city include pimento cheese, chili, fried eggs, and even mac and cheese. At Grindhouse Killer Burgers, you can add peanut butter to your burger for a sweet and savory experience, while at Yeah! Burger, you can choose from a variety of homemade sauces and condiments to personalize your meal.

But it's not just the toppings that make Atlanta's burgers stand out. Many restaurants in the city also offer unique burger buns, such as pretzel buns or brioche buns. And for those looking for a healthier option, some places even offer lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns. No matter what your preferences are, Atlanta has a burger for everyone.

Where to find the juiciest burgers in town

If you're a fan of a juicy burger, you're in luck - there are plenty of options in Atlanta. One of the juiciest burgers in town can be found at Grindhouse Killer Burgers, where the all-beef patties are seared on a flat-top grill. Another great option is The General Muir, which uses a mix of brisket and short rib in their burger patties for extra flavor and moisture. And for a truly decadent experience, check out Bantam + Biddy, where the burger is topped with foie gras and truffle mayo.

But if you're looking for something a little different, head over to The Vortex Bar & Grill. Their signature burger, the Coronary Bypass, is a massive stack of two beef patties, bacon, cheese, and all the fixings, sandwiched between two grilled cheese sandwiches. It's not for the faint of heart, but it's definitely worth trying if you're feeling adventurous.

If you're in the mood for a classic diner-style burger, look no further than The Varsity. This Atlanta institution has been serving up burgers since 1928, and their simple yet delicious burgers are still a favorite among locals. And don't forget to order a side of their famous onion rings to go with it!

Best burger deals and happy hours in Atlanta

Looking for a deal on your burger fix? Many of Atlanta's best burger joints offer happy hour specials and deals throughout the week. Grindhouse Killer Burgers, for example, offers $5 burgers on Mondays and Wednesdays. At The Varsity, you can get a cheeseburger, fries, and a drink for under $5. And at Yeah! Burger, happy hour lasts from 3-6pm on weekdays and includes specials on beer and wine as well as half-priced burgers.

But it's not just the big-name burger joints that offer great deals. Some lesser-known spots also have amazing specials. The Local Pizzaiolo, for instance, has a $10 burger and beer deal on Tuesdays. And if you're in the mood for a burger and a show, head to The Earl on Monday nights for their "Burgers and Blues" event, where you can enjoy a burger and live music for just $10.

A guide to the best burger chains in Atlanta

If you're looking for a reliable, consistent burger experience, there are plenty of chain options in Atlanta as well. Five Guys is a popular choice for their customizable burgers and endless toppings, while Shake Shack is known for their fresh, never-frozen patties. Another great option is Smashburger, which offers a variety of specialty burgers as well as build-your-own options.

However, if you're looking for a unique and local burger experience, Atlanta has plenty of options for that too. Grindhouse Killer Burgers is a popular choice for their creative burger combinations and retro atmosphere. The Vortex Bar & Grill is another local favorite, known for their massive burgers and quirky decor. And for those looking for a plant-based option, Slutty Vegan offers delicious vegan burgers that even meat-lovers can enjoy.

The secret sauce behind Atlanta's best burgers

Every great burger needs a great sauce to go with it. In Atlanta, burger joints use a variety of sauces and condiments to complement their patties. The Varsity's famous chili slaw makes the perfect topping for their cheeseburgers, while Holeman and Finch's secret sauce is a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and spices. And at Bocado, the burger is served with a house-made aioli that's the perfect complement to the all-natural beef.

But it's not just about the sauce. The quality of the beef also plays a crucial role in making a great burger. Many of Atlanta's top burger joints source their beef from local farms, ensuring that it's fresh and of the highest quality. At Grindhouse Killer Burgers, for example, they use grass-fed beef from Brasstown Beef, a farm located in North Georgia. This not only ensures that the beef is free from hormones and antibiotics, but it also supports local farmers.

Another factor that sets Atlanta's best burgers apart is the attention to detail that goes into every aspect of the burger. From the type of bun used to the way the patty is cooked, every element is carefully considered to create the perfect burger. At Yeah! Burger, for example, they use a brioche bun that's toasted to perfection, and they cook their burgers to order to ensure that they're juicy and flavorful. It's this level of care and attention that makes Atlanta's burgers some of the best in the country.

From classic to gourmet: a rundown of the different types of burgers in Atlanta

Atlanta's burger scene offers something for everyone, from classic cheeseburgers to gourmet creations. At The General Muir, you'll find a classic double cheeseburger with all the fixins, while at Bocado, the smoked cheddar and bacon burger is a must-try. For a unique twist on the classic burger, try the lamb burger at Holeman and Finch, or the Korean BBQ burger at Hodge's.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, Grindhouse Killer Burgers offers a delicious veggie burger made with black beans, corn, and roasted red peppers. Another great option for vegetarians is the falafel burger at Yeah! Burger, which is made with a chickpea patty and topped with tzatziki sauce.

For those who want to indulge in a truly decadent burger experience, head to The Vortex Bar and Grill. Their Triple Coronary Bypass burger is not for the faint of heart, with three beef patties, three slices of American cheese, and bacon sandwiched between two grilled cheese sandwiches. It's a meal that will definitely leave you feeling satisfied.

The best burger and beer pairings in Atlanta breweries

Atlanta's craft beer scene is booming, and many breweries offer delicious burger options to go with their brews. At Monday Night Brewing, the Grindhouse burger is a favorite pairing for their award-winning beers. Meanwhile, at SweetWater Brewing Company, the pimento cheeseburger is a popular choice. And at Orpheus Brewing, the brisket burger is the perfect complement to their sour beers.

What makes a great burger bun? Expert tips from Atlanta chefs

Finally, let's not forget about the burger bun. A great bun can make or break a burger, and Atlanta chefs take their buns seriously. According to Chef Todd Ginsberg of The General Muir, the perfect burger bun should be soft, but sturdy enough to hold up to the patty and toppings. At The Varsity, the buns are steamed for a few seconds before serving to ensure they're warm and fluffy. And at Yeah! Burger, the brioche buns are locally sourced and baked fresh every day.

An insider's look at the kitchen of a top-rated burger joint

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at your favorite burger joint? At Bocado, the chefs take their burger game seriously, using only the highest-quality beef and cooking every patty to order. The burgers are cooked on a special wood-fired grill that imparts a smoky flavor to the meat, and the buns are toasted to perfection. Even the condiments are made in-house, ensuring the perfect flavor balance with every bite.

How to grill the perfect burger at home, inspired by Atlanta's best

If you're looking to recreate the Atlanta burger experience at home, it's easier than you might think. Start with high-quality beef and shape your patties into rounds that are slightly larger than your buns. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each patty - this will keep them from puffing up during cooking. Grill your burgers until they're cooked to your desired level of doneness, then add your favorite toppings and enjoy.

So there you have it - the ultimate guide to the best burgers in Atlanta. Whether you're a meat lover, vegetarian, or somewhere in between, there's a burger in this city that's sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic to gourmet, from meaty to veggie, Atlanta's burger scene has it all. Happy eating!

Check also