10 Tulsa Fried-Onion Burger Stops With Serious Sizzle

Tulsa’s fried-onion burger scene sizzles with mouthwatering options that’ll make your taste buds dance. These burgers feature thinly sliced onions smashed directly into the patty while cooking, creating a caramelized flavor explosion that’s pure Oklahoma magic.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these spots serve up the juiciest, most flavorful onion-laden burgers in T-Town.

1. Hank’s Hamburgers – A Nostalgic Griddle Experience

Family-owned since 1949, Hank’s masters the art of onion-smashing with decades of griddle wisdom. Their secret? Ultra-thin beef patties pressed with sweet onions until the edges crisp perfectly.

The no-frills interior hasn’t changed much since the ’50s, making your burger experience authentically retro. Regulars swear by the double cheese with extra onions.

2. Ray’s Drive Inn – Curbside Classics Since 1962

Pull up and flash your headlights at Ray’s for the authentic drive-in experience that takes you straight back to simpler times. The onion burgers arrive wrapped in paper that captures all those savory juices.

Summer evenings bring classic car enthusiasts who gather while enjoying these hand-pressed beauties. Their special seasoning blend remains a closely guarded family secret.

3. Knotty Pig BBQ, Burger & Chili House – Smoky Fusion Perfection

BBQ expertise meets burger craftsmanship at this hidden gem where smoke-kissed onion burgers reign supreme. The patties get a hint of their BBQ rub before hitting the griddle alongside paper-thin onions.

Owners Mike and Jenny infuse their Southern roots into every bite. Try the Piggy Burger with fried onions and pulled pork for an outrageous flavor combination that’s worth every napkin.

4. Howdy Burger – Cowboy-Sized Satisfaction

Rancher-approved portions make Howdy Burger a standout in Tulsa’s burger landscape. Their signature move? Freshly ground chuck mixed with diced jalapeños before the onions get smashed in.

The Western-themed joint features saddle barstools and cattle brands on the walls. Their homemade pickle chips provide the perfect tangy counterpoint to the rich, onion-infused beef.

5. Shaky Jakes – Butter-Basted Brilliance

Butter makes everything better at Shaky Jakes, where they finish their onion burgers with a generous brush of melted goodness. The result? Crispy, lacy edges that crackle with each bite.

Founded by former oil worker Jake Peterson in 2003, this spot embraces simplicity. The hand-cut fries fried in beef tallow are the perfect companion to their gloriously messy, butter-enhanced onion masterpieces.

6. Flo’s Burger Diner – Queen Of The Double Stack

Flo’s legendary double onion burger has earned a cult following for good reason. The magic happens when two thin patties sandwich a layer of onions, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s utterly addictive.

The vintage diner atmosphere completes the experience with checkerboard floors and chrome accents. Don’t miss their hand-spun milkshakes that provide the perfect cool contrast to their hot, juicy creations.

7. Ron’s Hamburgers & Chili – Spice-Forward Sensation

Heat seekers flock to Ron’s for their signature Spanish onion burger that incorporates their famous chili spices right into the meat. The onions caramelize with these spices, creating flavor dimensions you won’t find elsewhere.

A Tulsa institution since 1975, Ron’s walls are covered with local sports memorabilia. Their house-made hot sauce bottles line the tables for those who want to crank the heat up even further.

8. Freddie’s Hamburgers – Old-School Patty Perfection

Freddie’s hasn’t changed their onion burger recipe since opening in 1954, and loyal customers wouldn’t have it any other way. Their well-seasoned griddle imparts decades of flavor into each hand-pressed patty.

The no-nonsense approach extends to their classic paper-lined plastic baskets. Freddie himself still makes appearances at 87 years old, checking that every burger meets his exacting standards before reaching your table.

9. Bill’s Jumbo Burgers – Crispy-Edge Champions

Burger aficionados recognize Bill’s by the distinctive lacy edges that extend well beyond the bun. These crispy peripheries result from their signature pressing technique that spreads the onion-beef mixture thin across the griddle.

The small, unassuming building often has lines out the door during lunch rush. Regulars know to order the “Full Package” – a double onion burger with cheese, grilled jalapeños, and their secret sauce.

10. Weber’s Superior Root Beer – Burger-And-Float Heaven

While famous for their root beer, Weber’s onion burgers deserve equal acclaim. The beef-to-onion ratio leans heavily toward the onions, creating an almost vegetable fritter-like quality that pairs perfectly with their famous frosted mugs.

Operating since 1933, this Tulsa landmark pioneered the car-hop service that became an American institution. Their special griddle technique involves pressing the patties with a heavy iron weight to maximize onion caramelization.