14 Michigan Burger Joints Tucked Away In Plain Sight Serving Serious Double Cheeseburgers
Michigan holds a special place in burger history.
Across the state, you’ll find unassuming spots that serve double cheeseburgers so good they’ve earned legendary status among locals.
I’m taking you on a tour of 14 hidden burger joints where the patties are juicy, the cheese is melted just right, and the flavors will make you wonder why you ever settled for fast food chains.
1. Bates Burgers – Livonia’s Historic Gem
Family recipes from 1955 still guide the kitchen at this beloved spot.
You’ll find it at 33406 Five Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48154.
The double cheeseburger here features two quarter-pound patties that arrive hot off the grill with a perfect char.
Fresh vegetables top each burger, adding crunch and color to every bite.
Cooked to order means you get exactly what you want.
The atmosphere feels like stepping back in time, with old-school diner charm everywhere you look.
Regulars swear by the consistency here.
Generations of families have made this their go-to burger spot.
The prices stay reasonable, making it easy to bring the whole crew for a meal everyone enjoys.
2. The Telway – Madison Heights Square Slider Heaven
Since 1944, square sliders have been the signature here.
Located at 27000 John R Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071, this place knows how to pack flavor into small packages.
The double cheeseburger option gives you two of their famous square patties stacked with gooey cheese.
Small size doesn’t mean small taste.
Each slider bursts with seasoning and that distinctive griddled crust.
The buns steam perfectly, creating a soft contrast to the crispy edges.
Late-night crowds often fill the seats here.
The prices make it easy to order several sliders without breaking the bank.
You’ll understand why this spot has survived nearly eight decades in the competitive burger business.
3. Motz’s Burgers – Southwest Detroit’s Thin Patty Paradise
Crispy edges define the burgers at this Southwest Detroit institution.
Find it at 7208 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48209, where thin patties have been the specialty since the 1940s.
The double cheeseburger showcases two lacy-edged patties that crunch with every bite.
Locals have kept this place packed for generations.
The cooking technique creates caramelization that adds incredible depth of flavor.
Cheese melts into the nooks and crannies of each patty.
Simple preparation lets the beef quality shine through.
No fancy toppings distract from the main event.
The loyal following here proves that sometimes the old ways are still the best ways for making unforgettable burgers.
4. Lov-a-Burger Fries & Shakes – Chesterfield’s Creative Corner
Handcrafted burgers with creative twists await you here.
You’ll find this Macomb County treasure at 49660 Gratiot Ave, Chesterfield, MI 48051.
The double cheeseburger comes in several variations, including the Mac Attack and Bourbon BBQ Burger options.
Fresh ingredients make every burger taste like it was crafted with care.
The patties are never frozen, ensuring maximum juiciness.
Creative toppings take the classic double cheeseburger to new heights without overwhelming the beef flavor.
The menu offers something for adventurous eaters and traditionalists alike.
Shakes and fries round out the meal perfectly.
This hidden gem has built a strong reputation among those who know where to look for quality burgers.
5. Red Coat Tavern – Royal Oak’s Upscale Burger Haven
Gastropub vibes meet serious burger craftsmanship at this Royal Oak favorite.
The address is 15016 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48126, where burgers get the respect they deserve.
Double cheeseburgers here feature premium beef blends that elevate the entire experience.
The kitchen takes pride in sourcing quality ingredients.
Cheese options go beyond standard American, offering aged cheddar and other artisan choices.
The buns are baked fresh and hold up perfectly to the juicy patties.
A full bar adds to the dining experience.
The atmosphere strikes a balance between casual and refined.
You’ll pay a bit more here, but the quality justifies every penny when you taste the difference in every component.
6. Hunter House Hamburgers – Birmingham’s Slider Specialist
Sliders done right have made this Birmingham spot famous since 1952.
Located at 35075 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009, the place specializes in small burgers with big personality.
The double cheeseburger gives you two perfectly seasoned patties on soft buns.
The grilling technique here creates a distinctive flavor profile.
Onions cook right alongside the patties, infusing them with sweetness.
The cheese melts into a creamy blanket over the meat.
Lines often stretch out the door during peak hours.
The wait is always worth it once you bite into those sliders.
Simple ingredients combined with decades of experience create magic that keeps people coming back year after year.
7. Redamak’s – New Buffalo’s Lakeside Legend
Beach town vibes and serious burgers combine at this New Buffalo institution.
You’ll find it at 616 E Buffalo St, New Buffalo, MI 49117, just minutes from Lake Michigan.
The double cheeseburger here is massive, with two thick patties stacked high with toppings.
Summer crowds pack this place, but locals visit year-round.
The burgers are messy in the best possible way.
Fresh toppings pile on generously, creating a burger that requires both hands and plenty of napkins.
The casual atmosphere welcomes families and burger enthusiasts alike.
Outdoor seating lets you enjoy Michigan summer weather with your meal.
After decades in business, this spot still draws people from across the state for their legendary burgers.
8. Vinsetta Garage – Berkley’s Automotive-Themed Eatery
An old gas station transformed into a burger paradise awaits you here. Located at 28045 Woodward Ave, Berkley, MI 48072, the vintage automotive theme creates a unique dining environment.
The double cheeseburger features hand-formed patties made from premium beef blends.
The garage doors open in warm weather, blending indoor and outdoor dining.
Burgers arrive with creative topping combinations that complement rather than mask the beef flavor.
The kitchen takes classic concepts and adds modern touches.
The bar program is equally impressive as the food menu.
Craft cocktails pair surprisingly well with burgers.
The renovated space maintains its historic character while offering contemporary comfort, making every visit feel special beyond just the food.
9. Buddy’s Pizza – Detroit’s Unexpected Burger Star
Known for square pizza, this Detroit icon also makes incredible burgers.
Find locations throughout Metro Detroit, with the original at 17125 Conant St, Detroit, MI 48212.
The double cheeseburger surprises first-timers who come expecting only pizza.
The same attention to quality that makes their pizza famous extends to burgers.
Fresh ground beef gets seasoned perfectly and cooked to your preferred temperature.
The cheese melts beautifully, creating that stringy pull everyone loves.
The family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for groups with different tastes.
You can order pizza and burgers at the same table.
The consistency across all locations means you’ll get the same great burger experience no matter which Buddy’s you visit.
10. Moo Moo’s Burger Bar – Grand Rapids’ Gourmet Destination
Creative burger combinations reach new heights at this Grand Rapids spot.
Located at 3825 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512, the menu offers dozens of burger options.
The double cheeseburger can be customized with an impressive array of toppings and cheese choices.
Build-your-own options let you create your perfect burger.
Premium add-ons include bacon, fried eggs, and specialty sauces.
The patties are hand-formed daily from fresh beef.
The casual dining room fills quickly during dinner hours.
Portions are generous, so come hungry.
The staff knows their menu inside and out, offering helpful suggestions if you’re overwhelmed by choices.
Quality ingredients shine through in every bite.
11. Cottage Inn Grill – Ann Arbor’s College Town Classic
College students and locals alike flock to this Ann Arbor favorite.
You’ll find it at 512 E William St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, right in the heart of downtown.
The double cheeseburger offers great value without sacrificing quality or taste.
Late-night hours make it perfect for post-game celebrations or study breaks.
The burgers are substantial, with two patties that satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Toppings are fresh and generous.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming to all ages.
Prices stay student-friendly while maintaining food quality.
The location makes it easy to walk to from campus or downtown attractions.
Consistent quality has earned this spot a loyal following over many years.
12. The Mitten Bar – Ludington’s Lakeside Treasure
Craft beer and burgers pair perfectly at this Ludington establishment.
Located at 109 W Ludington Ave, Ludington, MI 49431, the spot combines Michigan pride with serious food.
The double cheeseburger features locally sourced beef when possible, supporting Michigan farmers.
The beer selection showcases Michigan breweries, creating ideal burger pairings.
Patties are thick and juicy, cooked to your specifications.
The cheese options include local artisan varieties.
The decor celebrates Michigan culture and history.
Windows overlook downtown Ludington, creating a pleasant dining atmosphere.
Summer tourists and year-round residents both appreciate the quality and local focus.
The commitment to Michigan products makes every burger taste like home.
13. Slows Bar BQ – Detroit’s BBQ Burger Fusion
Barbecue expertise translates beautifully to burgers at this Detroit hotspot. Find it at 2138 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216, in the Corktown neighborhood.
The double cheeseburger incorporates BBQ elements, creating a smoky, flavorful experience unlike typical burger joints.
The patties get seasoned with barbecue spices before hitting the grill.
Smoked cheese adds another layer of complexity.
House-made sauces complement rather than overpower the beef.
The industrial-chic space fills with locals and visitors exploring Detroit’s food scene.
Sides like mac and cheese elevate the meal beyond just burgers.
The reputation for quality barbecue extends to every menu item, including their creative take on the classic double cheeseburger.
14. Schnitz Deli & Daiquiri – Flint’s Hidden Surprise
An unexpected combination of deli and daiquiri bar serves excellent burgers.
Located at 5301 Fenton Rd, Flint, MI 48507, this place defies easy categorization.
The double cheeseburger competes with any dedicated burger joint in the state.
Fresh ingredients and careful preparation create burgers that surprise first-time visitors.
The patties are seasoned simply, letting beef quality speak for itself.
Cheese melts perfectly over the hot patties.
The eclectic menu means everyone in your group can find something they love.
The daiquiri selection adds a fun twist to burger night.
Locals know this spot as a reliable choice for quality food at reasonable prices.
The unassuming exterior hides a kitchen that takes burgers seriously.
