14 Tennessee Burger Chains Ranked For Taste And Value

A juicy burger has a way of stopping time. The sizzle of beef on the grill, the scent of toasted buns, the drip of melted cheese – it’s comfort and indulgence in one bite.

Across Tennessee, that craving is answered in countless ways, from nostalgic chains with decades of history to newer spots putting their own spin on a classic.

Some focus on value and speed, while others pile their patties high and treat every order like a sit-down feast. Flavor takes the spotlight, price plays a close second, and together they tell the story of how this Southern state keeps its burger culture alive and thriving.

1. Culver’s

Fresh-never-frozen ButterBurgers steal the spotlight at this Midwest transplant. The signature butter-toasted buns cradle juicy beef patties that deliver consistent flavor with every bite.

Paired with their famous frozen custard, Culver’s offers a complete meal experience that justifies its slightly higher price point. The restaurant’s clean atmosphere and friendly service add extra value to your dining dollars.

2. Cook Out

Famous for combo meals that won’t empty your wallet, Cook Out delivers chargrilled flavor that tastes like backyard cookouts. Their trays include a main item, two sides, and a drink for under $8.

The burger variety impresses even picky eaters – from basic cheeseburgers to specialty options loaded with chili and slaw. Late-night hours make this spot perfect for satisfying midnight cravings without breaking the bank.

3. Five Guys

Handcrafted patties sizzle on the grill while you watch your burger come together at this beloved chain. The customization options seem endless with free toppings ranging from grilled mushrooms to jalapeños.

Generous portions justify the higher price tag – one regular burger could easily feed two moderate appetites. Those famous cajun fries, served in overflowing portions, add tremendous value to an already satisfying meal experience.

4. Backyard Burgers

Born in Mississippi, but beloved in Tennessee, this chain lives up to its name with authentic chargrilled flavor in every bite. The Black Angus beef patties taste remarkably close to homemade weekend cookouts.

Seasonal specialties like the Hawaiian Burger keep the menu fresh and exciting throughout the year. Though prices run slightly higher than fast-food competitors, the quality ingredients and flame-kissed taste make this hometown hero worth the extra dollars.

5. Red Robin

Gourmet burger creations with quirky names like “Banzai” and “Whiskey River BBQ” dominate this casual dining menu. The unlimited steak fries that come with every burger dramatically increase the value equation.

Family-friendly booths and birthday celebrations create a festive atmosphere worth the higher price point. While not the cheapest option, happy hour specials and rewards program discounts help offset costs for budget-conscious burger enthusiasts.

6. Whataburger

Orange-and-white striped buildings now dot Tennessee, bringing their famous 5-inch patties to eager locals. The signature Whataburger delivers consistent quality with its toasted bun, mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and diced onions.

Open 24 hours, this chain offers breakfast options alongside their famous burgers. The prices land squarely in the middle range, making these substantial portions a solid value for hungry diners any time of day.

7. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers

Smashed-thin patties with crispy edges define these distinctive steakburgers that arrive hot off the grill. The signature Freddy’s sauce adds a tangy complement to their savory beef patties.

Paired with shoestring fries and hand-spun custard, the complete meal delivers nostalgic flavors at reasonable prices. The 1950s-inspired atmosphere with gleaming surfaces and friendly counter service enhances the overall experience without inflating the bill.

8. Steak ‘n Shake

Steakburgers served on toasted buns have kept this chain popular since 1934. The thin, smashed patties deliver a satisfying ratio of crispy edges to juicy centers that fans adore.

Famous for their hand-dipped milkshakes in dozens of flavors, Steak ‘n Shake creates a complete meal experience. The $4 menu offers remarkable value with combinations of burgers, fries, and drinks that compete with fast-food prices while delivering higher quality.

9. Krystal

Square mini-burgers with steamed-in onions have defined this Southern chain since 1932. These small but mighty sliders arrive wrapped in paper, perfect for satisfying cravings without overspending.

The value meals feature multiple burgers paired with crispy fries and a drink. Late-night hours make Krystal a Tennessee tradition after concerts or sporting events when hungry crowds seek affordable satisfaction without sacrificing distinctive flavor.

10. Wendy’s

Square patties with corners peeking out from round buns visually set these burgers apart from competitors. The never-frozen beef delivers consistent flavor that justifies their “Quality is our Recipe” slogan.

Value menu options like the Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger provide tasty options for smaller appetites or tighter budgets. The Frosty – neither quite ice cream nor milkshake – adds a uniquely delicious finale that keeps customers coming back across Tennessee.

11. Sonic Drive-In

Retro drive-in service brings burgers, tots, and shakes directly to your car window. The griddled patties offer a step up from typical fast-food fare with options ranging from basic to loaded specialties.

Happy hour deals on drinks and shakes dramatically boost the value proposition. The unique dining experience – eating in your vehicle while listening to your own music – adds an intangible benefit that many Tennessee customers consider worth the slightly higher prices.

12. Hardee’s

Charbroiled Thickburgers feature Angus beef patties that dwarf many competitors in size and flavor. The Made From Scratch Biscuits add morning appeal to this chain with strong Tennessee presence.

Combination deals offer reasonable value despite higher individual item prices. The hearty portions satisfy serious hunger, making Hardee’s a favorite for Tennessee farmhands and construction workers looking for substantial fuel rather than just a quick bite.

13. McDonald’s

Golden arches welcome hungry travelers at virtually every Tennessee highway exit. The familiar taste of their burgers provides comfort through consistency, regardless of which location you visit.

Value meals and dollar menu options keep prices accessible for almost any budget. The recently improved Quarter Pounder with fresh beef has elevated their premium offerings while maintaining the quick service that busy Tennesseans count on during lunch breaks.

14. Burger King

The signature flame-grilled Whopper maintains its distinctive smoky flavor across Tennessee locations. Special promotions frequently offer these substantial burgers at competitive prices that boost the value rating.

Inconsistent service and varying restaurant cleanliness undermine the chain’s overall appeal despite decent food. While the menu innovations keep things interesting, Tennessee customers increasingly choose other options that deliver more reliable quality for similar prices.