15 Georgia Burger Joints Where The Best Burgers Are A Local Secret
Georgia has some of the most incredible burgers you’ve ever tasted, but many of them are hiding in places only locals know about.
From family-owned diners to creative burger bars, these spots serve up juicy patties that will make your taste buds dance.
I’m going to show you 15 amazing burger joints across Georgia where the best burgers are kept secret from the usual tourist crowds.
1. Grindhouse Killer Burgers
Forget everything you think you know about burgers because this place takes things to a whole new level.
You’ll find Grindhouse Killer Burgers at 1842 Piedmont Avenue NE in Atlanta, where they’ve been serving up creative combinations that sound wild but taste absolutely amazing.
Their menu features burgers with names inspired by horror movies, which makes ordering an adventure in itself.
The patties here are made fresh daily and cooked to perfection every single time.
You can choose from classics or try something bold like their spicy creations with unique toppings.
The atmosphere is casual and fun, with horror movie posters covering the walls.
What really sets this spot apart is their commitment to quality ingredients without charging crazy prices.
The fries are hand-cut and seasoned just right, making them the perfect sidekick to your burger.
You’ll want to come back again and again to try everything on their menu.
2. NFA Burger
Small spaces can create big flavors, and that’s exactly what happens at this Athens favorite.
Located at 1197 Prince Avenue in Athens, NFA Burger has built a reputation for serving some of the best burgers in the entire state.
The name stands for “No Fuss All Flavor,” which perfectly describes their approach to burger-making.
Every burger starts with high-quality beef that’s ground fresh and formed into thick, juicy patties.
They cook them on a flat-top grill that gives the outside a beautiful crust while keeping the inside tender.
The toppings are simple but thoughtfully chosen to complement the meat rather than overpower it.
College students and longtime Athens residents both line up for these burgers regularly.
The menu is straightforward, focusing on doing a few things exceptionally well rather than trying to be everything to everyone.
You can taste the difference that fresh ingredients and careful preparation make with every single bite.
3. The Vortex Bar & Grill
Walking through a giant skull entrance isn’t something you do every day, but that’s how you enter this legendary Atlanta spot.
The Vortex Bar & Grill has two locations, with the Midtown spot at 878 Peachtree Street NE being particularly popular.
This is definitely not a place for kids, as they have a strict 21-and-over policy.
The burgers here are absolutely massive, with some weighing in at over a pound of beef.
You’ll find creative combinations with names that will make you laugh out loud.
The portions are so generous that even the hungriest person might struggle to finish everything.
Beyond the burgers, the whole experience is memorable with funky decorations and a laid-back vibe.
The staff is friendly and helpful when you’re trying to decide between the many tempting options.
If you’re looking for a burger that’s both delicious and entertaining, this is your spot without question.
4. The Farmhouse
Supporting local farmers while eating an incredible burger sounds like a win-win situation to me.
Farm Burger has multiple Georgia locations, with the original at 1401 Dresden Drive NE in Atlanta.
They source their beef from nearby farms, which means you’re getting the freshest meat possible in your burger.
The grass-fed beef has a richer, more complex flavor than regular ground beef.
You can really taste the difference when ingredients are this fresh and high-quality.
They also offer options like lamb, turkey, and veggie burgers for people with different preferences.
The restaurant has a modern farmhouse feel with wooden tables and an open kitchen.
Everything from the produce to the cheese comes from local suppliers whenever possible.
The milkshakes are made with local ice cream and are thick enough to stand a spoon in, making them the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
5. Yeah! Burger
Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to give up delicious burgers, and this place proves it.
Yeah!
Burger started in Atlanta at 1168 Howell Mill Road NW and has grown because people love their approach to better-for-you fast food.
All their beef comes from grass-fed cattle raised without hormones or antibiotics.
The menu is straightforward with burgers, hot dogs, and sides that are all made with quality ingredients.
You can customize your burger with a variety of fresh toppings at no extra charge.
The sweet potato fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them incredibly addictive.
The atmosphere is bright and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner.
They also offer gluten-free buns and veggie patties so everyone in your group can find something they’ll enjoy.
Kids meals come with healthier sides like apple slices, which parents really appreciate when dining out with little ones.
6. Burger Win
Sometimes the best burgers come from the most unexpected places, and this food truck turned restaurant is proof.
Burger Win now has a permanent location at 1000 Marietta Street NW in Atlanta after building a loyal following on wheels.
Their specialty is smash burgers, where the patty gets pressed onto a super-hot griddle for maximum crispiness.
The edges of these burgers get wonderfully crispy while the center stays juicy and flavorful.
They use American cheese that melts perfectly over the hot beef, creating that classic burger taste everyone loves.
The buns are soft and slightly sweet, providing the perfect vehicle for all those delicious flavors.
You can order singles, doubles, or even triples if you’re really hungry.
The simple menu focuses on doing one thing incredibly well rather than offering dozens of complicated options.
Lines can get long during peak hours, but the wait is absolutely worth it for these crave-worthy burgers.
7. Stockyard Burgers & Bones
When you can’t decide between burgers and barbecue, this place lets you have both.
Stockyard Burgers & Bones is located at 3130 East Ponce De Leon Avenue in Scottdale, where they combine two of Georgia’s favorite foods.
The building has a rustic, warehouse-style interior with exposed brick and metal accents.
Their burgers are thick and juicy, cooked to your preferred temperature and topped with creative combinations.
You can add barbecue brisket or pulled pork to your burger for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
The meat is smoked on-site, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas that hit you as soon as you walk in.
The sides here are just as impressive as the main courses, with mac and cheese and collard greens being particular favorites.
They have a full bar with craft beers on tap that pair perfectly with the rich, savory food.
The portions are generous, so come hungry or plan to take home leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.
8. George’s Bar
Dive bars aren’t usually known for amazing food, but this Athens landmark breaks all the rules.
George’s Bar sits at 456 East Broad Street in Athens, where it’s been a favorite hangout for decades.
The atmosphere is exactly what you’d expect from a neighborhood bar, with dim lighting and a well-worn charm.
What surprises people is that the burgers here are absolutely fantastic, made with care despite the casual setting.
The patties are thick and cooked just right, with a nice char on the outside.
You can order them with classic toppings or keep it simple with just cheese and condiments.
The prices are incredibly reasonable, especially compared to fancier burger spots around town.
Locals know this is the place to go when you want a great burger without any pretense or high prices.
The jukebox plays everything from classic rock to country, creating the perfect soundtrack for your meal and cold beverage.
9. Little’s Food Store
Don’t judge this book by its cover because what looks like a simple convenience store serves extraordinary burgers.
Little’s Food Store is located at 1 Irvin Street NW in Atlanta, tucked into a neighborhood where you might drive right past it.
The exterior doesn’t give away the delicious secrets being cooked inside.
The burger menu is surprisingly extensive for such a small operation, with creative options that change regularly.
Everything is made to order, so you’ll wait a bit, but the results are absolutely worth your patience.
The beef is high-quality and seasoned perfectly, with a nice crust from the hot griddle.
Regulars know to call ahead with their order to skip the wait during busy lunch hours.
The staff remembers frequent customers and their usual orders, creating a friendly neighborhood vibe.
You can grab a cold drink from the cooler while you wait, just like at a regular convenience store.
10. The Earl
Music venues don’t always take their food seriously, but this East Atlanta spot does both exceptionally well.
The Earl is located at 488 Flat Shoals Avenue SE in Atlanta, where they host live bands several nights a week.
During the day and early evening, the focus shifts to their impressive menu of comfort food.
The burgers here are hefty and packed with flavor, using quality beef and fresh toppings.
You can enjoy your meal on the patio when the weather is nice or inside where band posters cover every available wall.
The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers and food enthusiasts.
Their version of poutine makes an excellent appetizer or side dish to share with friends.
The drink menu features local beers and creative cocktails that complement the food perfectly.
Checking their calendar for upcoming shows means you can plan dinner and entertainment all in one convenient location.
11. Pinewood Kitchen & Mercantile
Combining a restaurant with a country store creates a unique dining experience you won’t find everywhere.
Pinewood Kitchen & Mercantile is located at 4860 Lower Roswell Road in Marietta, offering both delicious food and fun shopping.
The rustic-chic decor makes you feel like you’ve escaped the city even though you’re still close to Atlanta.
Their burgers feature locally-sourced beef and creative topping combinations that change with the seasons.
The buns are baked fresh daily, providing the perfect soft foundation for all those delicious ingredients.
You can add a fried egg or bacon jam to take your burger to the next level.
The attached mercantile sells local products, vintage finds, and unique gifts perfect for browsing after your meal.
Families love this spot because kids can look around the store while waiting for food to arrive.
The outdoor seating area is surrounded by trees, making it feel peaceful and relaxing no matter how busy the restaurant gets inside.
12. Bullpen Rib House
Baseball-themed restaurants bring extra fun to your dining experience, especially when the food is this good.
Bullpen Rib House is located at 4651 Woodstock Road in Roswell, where sports memorabilia covers the walls.
While ribs are obviously a specialty, their burgers deserve just as much attention and praise.
The patties are thick and juicy, grilled over an open flame that adds a subtle smoky flavor.
You can build your own burger with a long list of toppings or choose from their signature creations.
The barbecue bacon burger combines two Southern favorites into one amazing meal.
Multiple TV screens show sports games throughout the day, making this a popular spot for watching your favorite teams.
The staff is energetic and attentive, keeping drinks filled and checking that everything meets your expectations.
Kids eat free on certain nights, which makes this an affordable option for families looking for a casual dinner out together.
13. Hudson Grille
Sports bars have evolved beyond basic bar food, and this Georgia chain leads the way.
Hudson Grille has several locations across the state, including one at 6317 Roswell Road NE in Sandy Springs.
The modern interior features floor-to-ceiling windows, exposed ductwork, and massive screens for watching games.
Their burger selection is extensive, with options ranging from classic cheeseburgers to creative combinations with unique toppings.
The beef is fresh, never frozen, which makes a noticeable difference in both taste and texture.
You can substitute a turkey or veggie patty on any burger without sacrificing flavor.
The atmosphere gets lively during big games, but it’s also comfortable for a casual weeknight dinner.
Their happy hour deals make trying different burgers affordable when you want to explore the menu.
The outdoor patios at most locations are dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the meal.
14. Village Burger
Neighborhood burger joints create a sense of community that chain restaurants can never match.
Village Burger is located at 3035 Peachtree Road NE in Atlanta, right in the heart of Buckhead.
The cozy space fills up quickly with regulars who come back week after week for their burger fix.
Every burger starts with premium beef that’s ground fresh daily and formed into generous patties.
The cooking technique creates a perfect crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Toppings range from traditional lettuce and tomato to more adventurous options like fried pickles or pimento cheese.
The hand-cut fries are seasoned with a special blend of spices that keeps people guessing about the secret recipe.
Milkshakes made with premium ice cream come in classic and creative flavors that change regularly.
The friendly staff knows many customers by name, creating a warm welcome that makes you feel like part of the family.
15. Cherry Street Brewpub
Craft beer and great burgers go together like peanut butter and jelly, making this Cumming spot a local favorite.
Cherry Street Brewpub is located at 1460 Market Place Boulevard in Cumming, where they brew their own beer on-site.
The copper brewing equipment is visible from the dining area, creating an interesting backdrop for your meal.
Their burgers are designed to pair perfectly with their house-made beers, with bold flavors that stand up to hoppy IPAs.
The beef is locally sourced and ground fresh, then formed into thick patties that are cooked to order.
You can add specialty toppings like beer-braised onions or bacon that’s been candied with their own stout.
The pretzel bites with beer cheese make an excellent starter to share while you decide on your burger.
The servers are knowledgeable about both the food and beer menus, offering pairing suggestions based on your preferences.
Live music on weekends adds to the fun atmosphere without being so loud you can’t have a conversation.
