Memphis Burger Places Guaranteed To Make Your Mouth Water
Memphis isn’t just famous for blues music and barbecue it’s also home to some seriously incredible burger joints that will leave you craving more. From deep-fried classics to gourmet creations, the city serves up patties that satisfy every taste and budget.
Whether you’re a local looking for your next burger fix or a visitor eager to explore Memphis’s food scene, I’ve rounded up the best spots that promise juicy, flavorful bites. Get ready to discover where the city’s burger magic happens!
1. Dyer’s Burgers
Walking down Beale Street, you’ll find a burger legend that’s been flipping patties since 1912. Dyer’s uses a cooking method unlike anywhere else they deep-fry their burgers in grease that’s over a century old, passed down and filtered through generations. This technique creates a crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful center that tastes like history on a bun.
If you’re someone who appreciates tradition mixed with bold flavors, this place delivers exactly that. The atmosphere feels like stepping back in time, with vintage charm surrounding every bite.
It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that connects you to Memphis’s rich culinary past in the most delicious way possible.
2. Sliders on Winchester
Are you ready for a burger adventure that goes way beyond ordinary? Sliders on Winchester offers creative mini burgers alongside their famous Big Deuce, a monster featuring two juicy beef patties stacked high with American cheese, crisp lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions. Their signature Comeback Sauce ties everything together with a tangy kick that makes each bite memorable.
Though the name suggests small bites, don’t underestimate their ability to satisfy big appetites. The variety here means you can sample different flavors or commit fully to their massive creations. When you’re craving something fun and filling, this spot hits all the right notes without breaking the bank or your taste buds’ expectations.
3. BABALU – Overton Square
It’s not every day you find a tapas restaurant that also serves one of the city’s best burgers, but BABALU makes it happen beautifully. Their burger features sweet caramelized onions, creamy white cheddar, and smoky chipotle aioli all nestled on a perfectly toasted sourdough bun. The combination of flavors feels elevated yet approachable, making it a crowd favorite.
Located in the vibrant Overton Square area, the atmosphere here buzzes with energy and style. If you appreciate quality ingredients prepared with care, this burger won’t disappoint your expectations.
Plus, the restaurant’s diverse menu means your friends can explore other options while you indulge in burger perfection without compromise or regret.
4. Huey’s
Did you know that Huey’s started the legendary toothpick-in-the-ceiling tradition that’s now famous across Memphis? Beyond this quirky custom, they’ve been serving consistently delicious burgers since 1970, making them a beloved local institution. Their burgers feature fresh beef cooked to perfection with your choice of toppings, creating a customizable experience every single visit.
When you walk in, the relaxed vibe immediately puts you at ease, perfect for families or casual hangouts. The prices remain reasonable despite their popularity, which keeps crowds coming back week after week. If you want a reliable, tasty burger in a fun environment where everyone feels welcome, Huey’s delivers without pretense or unnecessary complications.
5. Alex’s Tavern
How does a dive bar become famous for burgers? Alex’s Tavern proves that simple, honest cooking in a no-frills setting creates magic that fancy places can’t replicate. Their burgers are thick, juicy, and grilled with care, often topped with crispy bacon and melted cheese that drips down the sides. Regulars swear by the authentic tavern atmosphere where everyone feels like family.
If you’re looking for pretentious dining, keep searching but if you want a damn good burger at a fair price, this is your spot.
The jukebox plays classic tunes while you wait, adding to the genuine Memphis experience. It’s proof that sometimes the best food comes from places that focus on flavor over fancy presentations or Instagram-worthy plating.
6. Earnestine & Hazel’s
This historic building once served as a pharmacy and later a nightclub before becoming home to one of Memphis’s most talked-about burgers. Earnestine & Hazel’s Soul Burger has achieved almost mythical status among locals and visitors alike. The secret lies in their special seasoning and the love they put into every patty cooked on well-seasoned grills.
When you visit, expect an atmosphere full of character, with creaky floors and stories embedded in every corner. The late-night hours make it perfect for satisfying those after-midnight cravings when nothing else will do.
Though the building feels haunted by history, the only thing scary here is how quickly you’ll finish your burger and want another one immediately.
7. Railgarten
Where beer gardens meet burger excellence, Railgarten creates an outdoor dining experience that feels both trendy and welcoming. Their craft burgers feature high-quality beef paired with creative toppings that change seasonally, keeping the menu fresh and exciting. The open-air setting with picnic tables and string lights makes every meal feel like a celebration, regardless of the occasion.
If you enjoy pairing your burger with local craft beers, this spot offers an impressive selection that complements their food perfectly. Families appreciate the kid-friendly space where children can play while adults relax and enjoy quality time.
It’s the kind of place where good food, good drinks, and good vibes come together naturally without feeling forced or overly curated for show.
8. Bardog Tavern
Are you downtown and suddenly hit with a burger craving? Bardog Tavern sits perfectly positioned to save your appetite with their exceptional tavern burgers. They use locally sourced beef whenever possible, supporting Memphis farmers while delivering superior taste and texture. The menu rotates with creative specials that showcase the chef’s willingness to experiment beyond standard offerings.
Though primarily known as a bar, their food program rivals many dedicated restaurants in quality and presentation. The brick-walled interior creates a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere where business lunches and casual dinners both feel appropriate.
When you’re seeking a burger that balances comfort food nostalgia with modern culinary techniques, this downtown gem hits every mark without trying too hard or losing its authentic character.
9. Celtic Crossing
It’s rare to find an Irish pub that takes its burgers as seriously as its pints, but Celtic Crossing breaks that mold deliciously. Their burgers incorporate Irish-inspired touches while respecting American burger traditions, creating a fusion that works surprisingly well. The beef is always fresh, cooked to your preferred temperature, and served with hand-cut fries that could be a meal themselves.
If you’re someone who appreciates authentic pub atmosphere, the dark wood interior and friendly staff make you feel transported across the Atlantic. Live music on weekends adds entertainment value to your dining experience without overwhelming conversation.
When you want a burger that comes with cultural flair and genuine hospitality, this Irish gem in Memphis delivers satisfaction beyond your expectations every single time.
10. Best Wings of Memphis
Don’t let the name fool you while their wings are legendary, their burgers deserve equal recognition and praise. Best Wings of Memphis serves classic hamburgers and cheeseburgers that focus on doing the basics exceptionally well rather than reinventing the wheel. The patties are seasoned perfectly, cooked fresh to order, and served with their famous fries that customers rave about constantly.
When you’re feeding a group with different preferences, this spot works perfectly since everyone can find something they love.
The casual, no-pressure environment makes it ideal for quick lunches or relaxed dinners without sacrificing quality or flavor. If you believe that simple done right beats complicated done poorly, their straightforward approach to burgers will win your heart and stomach immediately.
11. The Cove
Hidden in a Memphis neighborhood, The Cove serves burgers that make locals fiercely protective of their favorite secret spot. Their approach emphasizes fresh ingredients and creative combinations that surprise without alienating traditional burger lovers. Each burger comes with thoughtful touches that show the kitchen cares about your experience from first bite to last crumb.
If you prefer supporting small, locally-owned businesses over chains, this restaurant embodies everything great about community dining. The staff remembers regulars by name and treats newcomers like old friends returning home after too long away.
When you’re tired of corporate restaurants with identical menus everywhere, The Cove offers authenticity and flavor that can’t be replicated or franchised across the country successfully.
12. Lunchbox Eats
Started as a food truck, Lunchbox Eats now operates from a brick-and-mortar location while maintaining their creative, adventurous approach to burgers. Their menu changes regularly based on what inspires the chef and what ingredients are freshest at local markets. This means you might discover a burger topped with fried green tomatoes one visit and something completely different the next time.
When you appreciate culinary creativity and aren’t afraid to try new flavor combinations, this place rewards your adventurous spirit.
The portions are generous, ensuring you leave satisfied regardless of which burger you choose from their rotating selection. If predictable menus bore you and you crave excitement with every meal, Lunchbox Eats transforms ordinary lunch into an adventure worth taking repeatedly without hesitation.
13. Belly Acres
Farm-to-table isn’t just a buzzword at Belly Acres it’s their entire philosophy applied to every burger they serve. They source ingredients from local farms, ensuring freshness while supporting the regional agricultural community. The beef tastes noticeably different when it comes from animals raised responsibly just miles away rather than shipped across the country frozen.
If sustainability matters to you as much as flavor, this restaurant aligns your values with your appetite perfectly. The rustic decor reinforces the farm-fresh concept without feeling gimmicky or over-themed like some restaurants attempt unsuccessfully.
When you want to know exactly where your food comes from and taste the difference quality sourcing makes, Belly Acres proves that ethical eating and delicious burgers aren’t mutually exclusive concepts anymore.
14. Zinnie’s East
Southern hospitality meets burger perfection at Zinnie’s East, where traditional flavors get the respect they deserve. Their burgers often feature regional favorites like pimento cheese and fried green tomatoes, creating combinations that feel both familiar and special. The kitchen understands that Southern cooking isn’t about fancy techniques it’s about quality ingredients prepared with love and attention to detail.
When you walk in, the bright, cheerful atmosphere immediately lifts your mood before you even order. The staff treats everyone like family, making recommendations based on what you’re craving rather than pushing expensive items.
If you want a burger that tastes like home or introduces you to authentic Southern flavors done right, this spot delivers comfort and satisfaction in equal measure every visit.
