10 Florida Burger Chains Worth The Drive According To Locals
When hunger strikes and you’re craving a juicy burger, Florida has some incredible local chains that blow the big national names out of the water. I’m talking about places where locals line up willingly because they know the quality is unmatched.
These burger spots have earned their reputation through consistently delicious food and that special something that keeps people coming back for more.
1. BurgerFi
With grass-fed beef that tastes like actual quality meat, this chain has changed my entire perspective on what fast-casual dining can be. You’ll notice the difference in every bite because they source ingredients thoughtfully.
The CEO Burger remains my personal favorite, stacked high with double patties and all the fixings. Their hand-cut fries cooked in olive oil make the perfect sidekick to any meal you order.
2. Shake Shack
Born in New York but adopted wholeheartedly by Floridians, this spot serves burgers that somehow taste both simple and extraordinary at once. I always appreciate how they never overcomplicate things while still delivering massive flavor.
Their ShackSauce adds a tangy kick that elevates every burger to craveable status. Don’t skip the frozen custard—it’s the creamy finish your meal deserves after all that savory goodness.
3. PDQ
Sure, chicken is their main game, but hear me out – their burgers deserve serious recognition too. People sleep on PDQ’s beef options, which is honestly their loss because the quality matches their famous tenders.
Everything gets made fresh to order, so you’re never biting into something that’s been sitting under a heat lamp. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for a quick lunch that doesn’t sacrifice taste for speed.
4. Steak ‘n Shake
Nothing beats the nostalgic charm of sliding into a booth here after a long day of exploring Florida’s attractions. The Steakburgers live up to their name with that satisfying beefy flavor you remember from childhood road trips.
I’m convinced their milkshakes were scientifically designed to be the perfect burger companion—thick, creamy, and available in countless flavors. Late-night cravings? Many locations stay open when everywhere else has closed up shop.
5. Five Guys
Walking into this place feels like entering burger paradise with those bags of potatoes stacked everywhere promising fresh-cut fries. You can customize your burger with as many free toppings as your heart desires, which I always take full advantage of.
The portions are ridiculously generous—one regular fry easily feeds two people, maybe even three. Their peanuts while you wait add a fun, casual vibe that makes the experience feel less like fast food.
6. Habit Burger Grill
Chargrilled to perfection describes every burger that comes off their grill, giving you those beautiful sear marks and smoky flavor. I find myself returning repeatedly for their Charburger, which strikes that ideal balance between juicy and flavorful.
The tempura green beans are an unexpected side that you absolutely need to try at least once. Fresh ingredients shine through in every component, from the crisp lettuce to the ripe tomatoes topping your burger.
7. Culver’s
Midwestern hospitality meets Florida sunshine at this beloved chain that treats every burger like it’s being served to family. The ButterBurger lives up to its name with a lightly toasted, buttered bun that adds richness to each bite.
Their frozen custard comes in rotating flavors that give you a reason to visit multiple times weekly. I appreciate how they cook everything fresh when you order, even during the busiest lunch rushes.
8. Smashburger
The smashing technique creates these incredibly crispy, caramelized edges that add textural magic to every burger they serve. I’m obsessed with how much flavor they pack into a relatively thin patty through their cooking method.
Their rosemary and olive oil fries offer a sophisticated twist on the traditional side. You can build your own burger masterpiece or trust their signature combinations, which never disappoint me.
9. Mooyah Burgers
Real ice cream shakes made with Hershey’s products pair beautifully with their customizable burgers that let your creativity run wild. I love how they offer turkey and veggie options alongside traditional beef for those wanting variety.
The hand-cut fries get seasoned just right, giving you that homemade taste in a fast-casual setting. Every location maintains a clean, modern atmosphere that makes dining in actually enjoyable rather than just convenient.
10. Farmer Boys
Farm-fresh ingredients aren’t just marketing talk here—you can genuinely taste the quality difference in their burgers and toppings. I’m particularly impressed by their commitment to serving breakfast all day alongside their burger menu.
The portions are massive, so come hungry or plan to take leftovers home for later. Their zucchini sticks offer a lighter alternative to fries without sacrificing that satisfying crunch we all crave.
