Michigan’s best burgers are served at an eclectic mix of beloved local restaurants spanning from Metro Detroit to the Upper Peninsula. From iconic drive-in diners and small-town taverns to trendy gastropubs, each spot has earned a loyal following by crafting juicy, flavorful burgers often unique to Michigan’s food culture (yes, including our famous Olive Burger). Whether you’re craving a half-pound gourmet creation or an old-fashioned griddled slider, these 15 must-try burger joints across the Great Lakes State offer something special for every burger lover. (And if you’re looking to move closer to your favorite burger place, just ask, we know the neighborhoods.)
Bergstrom's Burgers, Facebook
Bergstrom’s Burgers
Open: Mon-Sat (11am-7pm)
905 US-31, Traverse City, MI 49685
Phone: (231) 252-4048
Website: Bergstrom’s Burgers
This family-run burger joint near Traverse City’s Grand Traverse Bay is known for fresh, from-scratch burgers and inventive flavor combos. Locals love the massive “Big Bergstrom” half-pound burger and the creative specialties like the Big Cherry Bomb (topped with local tart cherries, raclette cheese, and cherry-bacon-shallot jam). There’s even a Big Great Northern featuring a blend of beef and buffalo, finished with wild mushroom & leek duxelles for a gourmet twist. Despite the elevated ingredients, Bergstrom’s retains a casual 50’s diner atmosphere, complete with friendly service and vinyl records on the wall, making it a must-visit for burger aficionados venturing Up North.
Big Dip Burgers
Open: Mon-Sun (11am-8pm)
725 E Walled Lake Dr, Walled Lake, MI 48390
Phone: (248) 956-8683
Website: Big Dip Burgers
A newcomer on the Michigan burger scene (opened 2020), Big Dip Burgers in Walled Lake has quickly earned a reputation for over-the-top gourmet burgers and lakeside charm. The menu keeps things fun, you can always get the classic Big Dip Burger loaded with the works, or branch out with nearly a dozen specialty creations. One crowd favorite is Jake’s Hot Mess Burger, piled high with two cheeses, grilled mushrooms, caramelized onions, onion straws, and not one but two signature sauces. Other inventive options include a Philly Cheesesteak-inspired loose burger and the spicy Albuquerque Burger with pepper jack and green chiles. True to its name, Big Dip also serves hand-dipped ice cream and custard, so be sure to save room for a sweet treat after devouring your burger.
“For an even deeper dive into classic carhop spots across the state, check out our Great Lakes Best Drive-In Burgers: Michigan Burger Spots Worth the Drive
Brown Bear
Open: Wed-Sat (11am-11pm) | Sun (12-11pm)
135 N Michigan Ave, Shelby, MI 49455
Phone: (231) 861-5014
Open: Wed-Sat (11am-10pm) | Sun (12-10pm)
278 S Hancock St, Pentwater, MI 49449
Phone: (231) 869-5444
Website: Brown Bear
A cozy, wood-paneled tavern dating back decades, Brown Bear has achieved near-legendary status among Michigan burger fans. This small-town bar (with locations in the village of Shelby and on the main street of Pentwater) is famous for massive burgers and a friendly sports-bar vibe. The menu’s showstopper is the Notorious Bear, a one-pound burger loaded “with the works” that’s recommended only for truly big appetites (it’s a local rite of passage to finish one). There are plenty of other mouthwatering options as well, like the spicy Mushroom & Banana Pepper Burger and the Southern-style Dixie Burger topped with pulled pork, slaw, and golden BBQ sauce. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is down-to-earth, making Brown Bear a favorite pit stop for both locals and Lake Michigan vacationers in search of Michigan’s biggest, juiciest burgers
Casey’s Tavern
Open: Mon-Sat (11:30am-10pm)
304 Depot St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Phone: (734) 665-6775
Website: Casey’s Tavern
Tucked in a historic neighborhood by the Ann Arbor train station, Casey’s Tavern is an iconic local bar & grill that has repeatedly earned the title of “Best Burger in Town.” Since 1986, this unpretentious pub has been a go-to for University of Michigan families, students, and longtime residents alike. Casey’s signature burger menu includes specialties like the Over-the-Top Burger, a decadent stack featuring Tillamook cheddar, bacon, jalapeño chutney, a fried egg, and guacamole on a brioche bun. Prefer to customize? Casey’s lets you build your own burger (or veggie burger) with a selection of 18 toppings ranging from six types of cheese to grilled onions, mushrooms, and of course crispy bacon. Despite its gourmet accolades, the atmosphere here is relaxed and family-friendly, with a classic tavern feel that makes everyone feel like a regular. (Insider tip: if you’re visiting on a game day, come early, the small dining room fills up fast when the Wolverines are in town!)
Charlevoix Dairy Grille
Open: Mon-Sat (11am-11pm) | Sun (11am-9pm)
1111 Bridge St, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Phone: (231) 547-9771
Website: Charlevoix Dairy Grille
For over 50 years, the Charlevoix Dairy Grille has been a summertime tradition in this Lake Michigan shoreline town. Part old-fashioned burger stand, part ice cream parlor, the Dairy Grille is the kind of place where multi-generational families line up for classic 1/4-pound cheeseburgers, crinkle-cut fries, and soft-serve cones on warm evenings. The menu is simple but satisfying, hamburgers come in junior, quarter-pound, or hefty half-pound sizes (the 1/2-lb “Wahoo” Burger is a local legend for hungry appetites). Everything is cooked to order and best enjoyed at the picnic tables on-site. And because no trip to “Charlevoix the Beautiful” is complete without dessert, the Dairy Grille also offers flurries, sundaes, and flake-covered “Michigan bumpy cake” ice cream treats. Expect friendly service with a smile, this place is the epitome of small-town Up North charm, so much so that many vacationers insist on stopping here year after year.
Crunchy, Facebook
Crunchy’s
Open: Mon-Wed, Sun (11am-12am) | Thur-Sat (11am-1am)
254 W Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
Phone: (517) 351-2506
Website: Crunchy’s
A favorite hangout just off the Michigan State University campus, Crunchy’s has been serving up burgers and beer to Spartans since 1982. Don’t let the casual dive-bar ambience fool you, the burger selection here is extensive and imaginative, making Crunchy’s a legitimate contender for the best burger in Mid-Michigan. Regulars often go for the legendary Crunchy Burger, a 1/2-pound patty loaded with traditional fixings, or the popular Bacon & Avocado burger that marries smoky bacon with creamy avocado and melty mozzarella. Feeling adventurous? Crunchy’s also offers a Brat Burger (yes, a burger that tastes like a bratwurst) and even a breakfast-themed burger topped with a fried egg and maple-syrup aioli. With 27 rotating craft beer taps and nightly events like karaoke, Crunchy’s delivers a fun, college-town vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can indulge in a top-notch burger, wash it down with a Michigan IPA, and maybe even sing a little karaoke, all without breaking the bank.
Dagwood’s Tavern & Grill
Open: Mon-Sun (11am-11pm)
2803 E Kalamazoo St, Lansing, MI 48912
Phone: (517) 374-0390
Website: Dagwood’s Tavern & Grill
A true Lansing institution, Dagwood’s Tavern has been slinging burgers and beers since 1947, over 75 years of delicious history in the capital city. This unassuming neighborhood watering hole (with its old-school neon sign and knotty-pine interior) keeps its menu simple and affordable, focusing on what it does best: classic griddle-smashed burgers served with a side of nostalgia. Regulars highly recommend the Olive Burger, a Michigan classic featuring a burger generously topped with chopped green olives and mayo (Dagwood’s version is often hailed as one of the best in the state for olive burger lovers). You can also get your burger “deluxe” with lettuce, tomato, and mayo, and add bacon or extra patties for just a bit more, but don’t expect any fancy frills beyond that. The no-nonsense approach clearly works, because Dagwood’s has a devoted clientele that spans generations. It’s not unusual to see state legislators, college students, and lifelong Lansing residents all rubbing elbows in this cozy tavern, proving that a great burger can truly bring people together.
The Gnarly Heifer
Open: Tue-Sat (11am-8pm)
306 E Colby St, Whitehall, MI 49461
Phone: (231) 292-1302
Website: The Gnarly Heifer
Don’t let the playful name fool you, The Gnarly Heifer takes its burgers seriously. This quirky spot in downtown Whitehall (near the Lake Michigan shore) has developed a cult following for its creative burger specials and hearty comfort-food menu. The regular lineup features favorites like the Shroomalicious (a mushroom and Swiss burger with plenty of sautéed mushrooms) and the locally beloved Olive Burger (topped with the famous Michigan olive-mayo blend). If you’re extra hungry, tackle the Rowdy Rancher, which piles a fried egg, a hash-brown potato patty, pepper jack cheese, and “gnarly sauce” onto two beef patties, it’s a breakfast and lunch mashup that works surprisingly well. The Gnarly Heifer often runs weekly burger features announced on their Facebook page, so there’s always something new to try (past specials have included a “Bigfoot Bait” burger on rustic grilled bread with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and gnarly sauce). With a full bar and a laid-back vibe, this spot is more than just a burger joint, it’s a community hangout where everyone is having a good time.
For more old school burger joints and coney counters around Metro Detroit, check out Must-Visit Classic Diners in Metro Detroit for a Nostalgic Meal
Halo Burger
Open: Mon-Sat (10:30am-9pm) | Sun (11am-9pm)
Multiple Locations in Metro Detroit | Main: 3388 S Linden Rd, Flint, MI 48507
Phone: 800-293-HALO (4256)
Website: Halo Burger
Founded in 1923 as a humble Flint storefront, Halo Burger is one of the country’s oldest hamburger chains and a true Michigan original. Generations of Michiganders have fond memories of stopping at Halo Burger for a quick, delicious bite, and now the franchise has expanded from its Flint hometown into Metro Detroit (with new locations in Walled Lake and Clinton Township). The menu stays true to its roots: you’ll find classic quarter-pound (QP) burgers dressed in lettuce, tomato, onion, and Halo’s special sauce, plus the option to double up for a seriously satisfying meal. Halo Burger’s claim to fame is the Michigan Olive Burger, a juicy burger slathered in a chopped olive and mayo mixture, which has been a favorite since the chain’s early days and remains a must-try for first-timers. Sides like crispy French fries and cheese curds complement the burgers, but don’t leave without trying a regional treat: Halo Burger serves an authentic Boston Cooler, a Michigan-style Vernors ginger ale milkshake that’s the perfect sweet finish. Whether you’re visiting the original downtown Flint location or the new Walled Lake spot, Halo Burger offers a nostalgic taste of Michigan history with every bite of its old-school burgers.
HopCat
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-11pm) | Fri (11am-12am) | Sat (10am-12am) | Sun (10am-10pm)
Multiple Location in Metro Detroit | Main: 25 Ionia Ave SW Suite 100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: (616) 451-4677
Website: HopCat
Famous for its craft beer selection and “cosmic” seasoned fries, HopCat has also built a reputation for serving some of Michigan’s most indulgent and eclectic burgers. Founded in Grand Rapids in 2008, HopCat now has locations across the state (including East Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Holland), each offering a slightly different local beer lineup but the same mouthwatering burger menu. You can always go simple with the OG Double (a classic double cheeseburger) or a plant-based Impossible burger, but HopCat really shines with its creative house specialties. Take the Stella Blue, for instance, two beef patties topped with applewood-smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, warm cheese sauce, bleu cheese crumbles, and crispy fried onion straws, all drizzled with a spicy haystack sauce. Another showstopper is the Hangover Helper, which piles a sunny-side-up egg, bacon, American cheese, a hash-brown patty, and garlic aioli on two patties (essentially breakfast on a bun). And if you like a BBQ twist, the Rodeo Clown layers on jalapeños, barbecued beef brisket, and more cheese sauce for a smoky, spicy kick. HopCat’s burgers tend to be messy, over-the-top, and utterly delicious, best enjoyed with a local IPA or stout and a side of those famous beer-battered fries. (Pro tip: ask for extra “Cosmic Fry” seasoning to sprinkle on everything, you won’t regret it.)
Redcoat Tavern
Open: Mon-Sat (11am-11pm)
31542 Woodward Ave, Royal Oak, MI 48073
Phone: (248) 549-0300
6745 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, MI 48322
Phone: (248) 865-0500
Website: Redcoat Tavern
Metro Detroit’s burger aficionados consistently rank Redcoat Tavern at the top of the list, in fact, its Original Redcoat Special Hamburger has achieved almost legendary status locally. The Royal Oak location (the original, a cozy English pub-style tavern on Woodward Avenue) and its West Bloomfield spin-off are both known for serving half-pound Angus beef burgers that are perfectly cooked and customizable to the nth degree. Start with the classic Redcoat Special: a juicy half-pound patty on a toasted sesame seed bun, typically topped with tomato, crisp lettuce, and the tavern’s tangy special sauce. From there, you can go wild with toppings, Redcoat offers eight types of cheese, five bread options, six house-made sauces, and extras like grilled onions, fried egg, or avocado, allowing you to create your dream burger. Not sure where to begin? Try the award-winning Brasserie Burger, which comes fully loaded with caramelized onions, smoked bacon, tomato, watercress, Swiss cheese, and a Dijon mustard-mayo on a brioche bun, it was voted Metro Detroit’s top gourmet burger by the Detroit Free Press, and one bite will tell you why. With its dimly lit, pub-like atmosphere and a menu rounded out by British-style tavern fare (scotch eggs, anyone?), Redcoat Tavern offers a uniquely satisfying dining experience. It’s upscale enough for date night yet casual enough for a family lunch, and it’s been a rite of passage for Detroit-area burger lovers for generations.
Schuberg's Bar & Grill, Facebook
Schuberg’s Bar & Grill
Open: Mon-Sat (11am-11pm)
109 N Michigan Ave, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231) 796-5333
Website: Schuberg’s Bar & Grill
Since 1933, Schuberg’s Bar & Grill has been the go-to burger spot in Big Rapids, a small town best known as the home of Ferris State University. “Schu’s,” as locals call it, is a historic burger bar with tons of character, old wooden bar stools, neon signs, and decades of memorabilia on the walls. But the biggest attraction is on the menu: nearly two dozen burger varieties, each made with a fresh 1/3-pound patty (never frozen) cooked to order. First-timers often opt for the Original “Schu-Burger,” a straightforward classic that’s hard to beat, especially when ordered “with everything” (lettuce, pickles, mustard, and ketchup, unless you say otherwise). Feeling more adventurous? The options get delightfully quirky, like the Godfather Schu (topped with asiago cheese, pesto mayo, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette) or the Da’ Super Yooper Schu, which swaps in a locally made bratwurst patty and piles on bacon, caramelized onions, and brown mustard on a pretzel bun. One of the most popular monstrosities is humorously named the “Curd Burglar”, it’s exactly what it sounds like, a burger crowned with deep-fried cheese curds, plus bacon, lettuce, tomato, and a kick of Frank’s RedHot-infused ranch. It’s indulgent Midwestern comfort food at its finest. With cold beer on tap, friendly service, and a come-as-you-are atmosphere, Schuberg’s is the kind of place that turns visitors into regulars, and it proves you can find one of Michigan’s best burgers in even the most unassuming of small towns.
Shamrock Pub
Open: Mon-Tue (11am-9pm) | Wed-Sat (11am-10pm) | Sun (11:30am-9pm)
7715 Auburn Rd, Utica, MI 48317
Phone: (586) 731-6886
Website: Shamrock Pub
A beloved neighborhood watering hole in downtown Utica (northern Metro Detroit), the Shamrock Pub is proof that sometimes the best burgers come from the most unpretentious places. This little brick pub has ice-cold Michigan craft beers on tap, friendly staff who know everyone by name, and a short menu of bar-food classics done right. The burger to get here is simply called the Shamrock Burger: a 7-ounce char-grilled patty served on a soft bun and topped the old-fashioned way with lettuce, tomato, and mayo (you can add American or Swiss cheese if you like). It sounds basic, but there’s magic in its simplicity, many patrons swear the Shamrock Burger’s flavor is second to none, thanks to quality beef and that char-grill technique. You’ll also find other comforting bites on the menu (the patty melt and the fried bologna sandwich have their fans), but the burgers steal the show. The atmosphere at Shamrock Pub is as classic as it gets: a well-worn bar, neon beer signs, local sports on TV, and plenty of laughs among friends. On weekends the place can get busy with families and softball teams fueling up after games, it’s that kind of friendly local joint. If you’re exploring Macomb County and crave a no-frills, perfectly cooked burger and a beer, the Shamrock will treat you right (and might just ruin you for other burgers, as one cheeky local put it).
Honorable Mention Burger Spots
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Chick-Inn Drive-In (Ypsilanti)
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Daly Drive-In (Livonia)
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Farmer’s Home Tavern (Hemlock)
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Hamburger Mikey (Muskegon)
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Lov-a-Burger Fries & Shakes (Chesterfield Township)
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Motz’s Burgers (Detroit/Redford)
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Port Hope Hotel (Port Hope)
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Talley’s Log Cabin Bar (Lewiston)
From old-fashioned drive-ins serving sliders by the dozen, to gourmet pubs crafting half-pound masterpieces, Michigan’s burger scene is as diverse as the state itself. Whether you’re biting into a legendary Olive Burger in Flint or a colossal “Bear Burger” along Lake Michigan, each of these restaurants offers a unique taste of local culture and pride. Part of the fun is the journey, a road trip to track down the best burgers might take you from the busy boulevards of Metro Detroit to the quiet back roads of the Upper Peninsula, with plenty of delicious stops in between. And as any Michigander will tell you, the only thing better than discovering a new favorite burger joint is bringing your friends and family along for the experience. So grab some napkins, hit the road, and enjoy the hunt for the best burger in Michigan, it’s a mouthwatering adventure you won’t soon forget!
Midwestern comfort food is one of many reasons people fall in love with our region. If you’re looking for a home near your favorite burger spot (or anywhere in Metro Detroit), our team is here to help! Browse the latest homes for sale and neighborhoods, get an instant custom home valuation for your current house, or reach out anytime for personalized recommendations. We’re lifelong locals who love this community, and we have great taste in more than just burgers. Bon appétit and happy house hunting!
Key Takeaways
- Michigan offers an incredible variety of burger experiences, from iconic drive-in diners and small-town taverns to modern gourmet burger bars, there’s something for every taste statewide.
- Unique Michigan traditions like the Olive Burger (a beef patty topped with chopped olives and mayo) can be found at several spots, reflecting local food culture and history in each delicious bite.
- Metro Detroit is home to some of the state’s top-rated burger joints, including long-running taverns (Redcoat Tavern, Casey’s Tavern) and new hotspots, while upstate destinations like Traverse City, Big Rapids, and the U.P. harbor their own must-visit burger places.
- Many of these burger restaurants are family-owned with decades of history, providing not just great food but a sense of community and local pride, some have been run by the same family for generations.
- Plan a road trip to try Michigan’s best burgers: you can make a fun journey out of visiting these 15+ locations. And if you’re relocating or house-hunting in Michigan, considering the local dining scene (hello, burger night!) is a delicious way to get to know a new area.
If you want to explore Detroit’s food scene beyond burgers, take a look at Detroit’s Most Iconic Foods: The Ultimate Motor City Bucket List
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #1 best burger in Michigan?
Tastes vary, but several Michigan burger spots frequently top “best of” lists. The Redcoat Tavern in Metro Detroit is often cited as having Michigan’s #1 burger (the famous half-pound Redcoat Special). Other contenders include Casey’s Tavern in Ann Arbor (perennial “best burger” winner) and the iconic Halo Burger in Flint (known for the Olive Burger). Ultimately, the “#1 burger” comes down to personal preference, which is why trying the 15 must-try places listed here is a great way to find your favorite.
What is a Michigan Olive Burger?
An Olive Burger is a Michigan specialty consisting of a beef patty topped with a mixture of chopped green olives and mayonnaise (sometimes with a bit of the olive brine mixed in). It sounds simple, but the tangy, salty olive spread makes for an addictively tasty burger. The Olive Burger is believed to have originated in mid-Michigan (popularized by places like Kewpee’s and Halo Burger in the Flint area). Today you can find Olive Burgers all over the state, from dive bars like Dagwood’s in Lansing to drive-ins and even fancier taverns, and many Michiganders insist it’s a must-try topping if you’ve never had one!
Where can I get the best burger in Detroit?
In Detroit proper and the immediate metro area, some of the best-known burger joints include Motz’s Burgers (a 1929-founded slider spot in Detroit’s Corktown, now also in Redford), Mercury Burger & Bar in Corktown (creative burgers with a classic diner vibe), Hunter House Hamburgers in Birmingham (another historic slider joint), and Redcoat Tavern in Royal Oak (gourmet pub burgers with endless topping options). Detroit also has newer entries like Grey Ghost (known for a fantastic burger) and many brewpubs and diners serving top-notch burgers. For a deeper dive into local favorites, see our blog on Detroit’s Most Iconic Foods which highlights several famous burger spots.
Are any Michigan burger joints featured on TV or famous nationwide?
Yes! Miller’s Bar in Dearborn (famous for its honor-system payment and excellent burgers) has been featured in national lists and on the Travel Channel. Tony’s I-75 Restaurant (Birch Run) got attention for its giant burgers, and Clyde’s Drive-In in the U.P. was highlighted on the Food Network for its old-school charm. Halo Burger’s history (dating back to 1923) often lands it in the spotlight as well. Additionally, Hot ‘n Now, a Michigan-born burger chain, made national news with a recent revival attempt. While not all of these are on our list, they contribute to Michigan’s rich burger lore.
What makes a Michigan burger unique?
Michigan burgers are unique less for a single style and more for the sheer variety and local traditions. We have: the slider culture in Detroit (tiny square burgers with steamed onions, à la Telway and Motz’s); the Olive Burger tradition in mid-Michigan; massive one-pound bar burgers “up north” (like Talley’s or Brown Bear); and even regional chains like Halo Burger with their own spin. Many Michigan burger joints also serve Coney Island chili dogs and Boston Coolers, reflecting our local food obsessions. And of course, the experience of enjoying a burger at a drive-in on a summer night by the lake, that’s Pure Michigan. In short, what makes Michigan’s burgers special is the local pride and history each establishment brings, from secret sauce recipes to decades-old grills seasoned from cooking thousands of patties.
Where can I find the biggest burger in Michigan?
There are a few candidates for Michigan’s largest burger. The “Notorious Bear” at Brown Bear (Shelby) is a notorious full pound of beef, a belly-busting challenge for sure. Then there’s the Bear Burger at Talley’s Log Cabin in Lewiston, which is also around a pound and beloved by hunters and loggers. Some places offer multi-pound eating challenge burgers (for example, Mallie’s Sports Grill in Southgate once held a world record for a huge 300-pound burger, but that’s more of a publicity stunt). If you mean on the regular menu, you’ll find several one-pounders (or larger if you add extra patties) on our list. However, bigger isn’t always better, Michigan also excels at small sliders that pack a ton of flavor in a tiny package!
Which Michigan burger joints have vegetarian or vegan options?
Many modern burger restaurants in Michigan offer vegetarian or vegan patties these days. For instance, HopCat has a popular “Impossible Burger” (plant-based) on the menu. Casey’s Tavern in Ann Arbor offers a plant-based burger with your choice of toppings. Crunchy’s in East Lansing and Redcoat Tavern in Royal Oak both have black bean burger options for non-meat eaters. Additionally, some newer Metro Detroit spots (not on our main list) like Green Dot Stables (Detroit) or Burgerology (Royal Oak) serve creative veggie burgers or even jackfruit “pulled pork” burgers. If you’re road-tripping, check menus online or call ahead, even up north, you might be surprised: a place like The Gnarly Heifer could whip up a fried cauliflower patty if asked. Michigan’s food scene is becoming very vegetarian-friendly, burgers included.
What sides should I order with a Michigan burger?
The classic combo is fries and a shake (or a local craft beer, depending on the venue!). Many Michigan burger joints have their signature sides: at HopCat, definitely get the Cosmic Fries (seasoned beer-battered fries). Crunchy’s is known for buckets of tater tots or fries (perfect for sharing). If you’re at Halo Burger, try a Boston Cooler (ginger ale shake) or the fried pickles. Schuberg’s in Big Rapids has popular onion rings and fried zucchini planks. Motz’s or any slider spot, you’ll want crinkle-cut fries with extra salt and maybe a slice of pie if they have it. And if you’re at a drive-in like West Pier or Chick-Inn, a creamy root beer float or a malt is a must. Essentially, you can’t go wrong with fries, but pay attention to house specialties. Michiganders also love dipping sauces, don’t be shy about asking for ranch, chipotle mayo, or the restaurant’s special sauce on the side for your fries!
What are some famous burger chains started in Michigan?
Michigan has been the birthplace of a few burger chains. Halo Burger (started in Flint in 1923) is one of the oldest. The Hot ’n Now chain was founded in Kalamazoo in 1984 and expanded rapidly with its drive-thru sliders (most locations closed by the early 2000s, but one remains in Sturgis and there’s talk of a comeback). Another example is Wahlburgers, the celebrity Wahlberg brothers opened their first Michigan location in Detroit, although the chain itself isn’t Michigan-founded. While not exactly a burger chain, Big Boy started as Bob’s Big Boy in California but our Frisch’s Big Boy (and Elias Brothers Big Boy in Michigan) popularized the Big Boy double-decker burger nationwide from their base in Detroit. And let’s not forget beloved regional chains like Culver’s, okay, that’s originally Wisconsin, but we’ve embraced their ButterBurgers here in Michigan too. The bottom line: Michigan’s contribution to burger chain history may not be as extensive as, say, California’s, but the state sure knows how to foster great local chains and one-of-a-kind burger joints that stand the test of time.
I’m planning a Michigan road trip, any tips for finding great burger stops?
Absolutely! First, use this list as a guide, it’s literally a built-in burger road trip. If you’re driving north from Detroit, you could stop at Schuberg’s in Big Rapids, then swing through Traverse City for Bergstrom’s, head over the Mackinac Bridge and hit Clyde’s Drive-In in St. Ignace (an honorable mention classic), then West Pier in Sault Ste. Marie, etc. For the west side of the state, HopCat in Grand Rapids or Hamburger Mikey in Muskegon are excellent. In the Thumb or northern LP, aim for Talley’s in Lewiston or Brown Bear in Pentwater. Michigan highways are dotted with great mom-and-pop diners and taverns. Look for places with lots of local cars in the lot, or ask a friendly local (“Who has the best burger in town?” is a guaranteed conversation starter). Also, check out summer festivals; some towns have burger cook-off events. And finally, don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path. Michigan’s back roads often lead to the best surprises, like a log cabin bar serving amazing burgers for 80+ years. Safe travels and happy eating!
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