Until recently, finding a truly standout burger in Durham meant settling for fast-food chains or pub grub. But more and more dedicated, chef-driven burger joints are opening up around town, and they’re serving a lot more than just basic beef patties (though you can certainly get those, too). Whether you’re looking for a classic smash burger, a gourmet creation, a plant-based option, or a lively spot with all the fixings, here are our favorite places to grab a burger.
The Tavern
$ | (919) 286-7665 | WEBSITE
Yes, another burger joint, and one to hang out and have fun. The Tavern’s welcoming, relaxed spot with pool tables and games draws in the friendly crowd who are here for the sports on the many TVs and karaoke that create a social, hang-out-and-have-fun vibe on most nights.
While there’s no full-on dance floor, once the tables fill up around 8pm and it becomes standing room only, the center of the bar gets overtaken by patrons cheering to whatever game is playing that night (oftentimes basketball mixed with football highlights)—especially after several rounds of local craft beers or the house special, a smoky take on an old fashioned. Cheering your heart out might make you hungry, so grab a seat at the bar for $14 tavern burgers with Cajun fries.
Kickback Jack’s Durham
$ | (919) 286-9199 | WEBSITE
Laid-back and welcoming is the best way to describe Kickback Jack’s, which feels like a neighborhood staple even though it’s part of a chain. Burgers are the move here (our favorite is the bacon jam burger with its sweet-savory kick), but they also have some great lemon pepper wings and those must-try fish and chips. This Durham spot has plenty of TVs and spacious booths, making it better for catching NBA games with friends than intimate dates.
They’re open for lunch and dinner daily, so come for a post-work gathering with people you want to share some bacon cheese fries with.
Devine’s Restaurant & Sports Bar
$ | (919) 682-0228 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for classic sports bar wings, or crave that tangy sauce that’s been consistent for years, Devine’s is your spot. All of the wings come with that signature sauce, and they have a great, albeit straightforward, food menu, too. We like the jumbo wings and their take on nachos, which are actually loaded with quality toppings. It’s (mostly) booth seating with just a few bar stools, which is a great excuse to settle in and catch the game with some friends.
Five Guys
$ | (984) 569-2002 | WEBSITE
Five Guys feels like a step-up from your standard fast-food joint—it’s bright, with a clean and efficient vibe, but the floors aren’t greasy and there aren’t any wobbly tables on their last legs. You’ll find a small burger and hot dog menu, but you’re really here for the fries: they make great regular fries and an even better spicy Cajun version.
It’s open until 10pm, so order one of each, wave to the person enjoying their shake enthusiastically at the other end of the counter, and see where the meal takes you.
Jimmy’s Famous Hot Dogs
$ | (919) 471-0005 | WEBSITE
Identify as a burger purist? Jimmy’s is your spot. It’s a joint packed with locals, families, and a high ratio of people to grease-stained paper bags. The casual, old-school setup is perfect for grabbing a quick bite and soaking up some nostalgia before heading back to work. The simple charm makes this place comfortable, and the no-frills atmosphere is just begging you to dig into the artery-clogging goodness you’re showing out-of-town friends.
Like any spot that takes cues from classic American diners, there are mostly affordable burgers like their famous patties and sides for sharing like their standout catfish sandwich—it’s crispy, flaky, and served with a ton of flavor and homemade coleslaw.
Banu Vegan
$ | (984) 219-6505 | WEBSITE
Three words that sum up this Durham spot: cozy, vibrant, plant-based. The inside of this vegan eatery is compact and welcoming, but the star of this place is the takeout scene—customers grab orders from the counter, which includes a colorful mural hand-painted by a local artist, chat briefly with the friendly staff, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere before heading home or to work nearby.
Adding to the reason why regulars keep coming back: a selection of hearty vegan options like the Powerhouse Salad with jerk chikin and black bean burger, plus refreshing drinks like the Sea Moss smoothie, $4 ginger tea, and $9 bowls. You won’t find a sprawling dining area here, but they do have a few tables for those who want to eat in, and the attentive service quickly adjusts things like temperature when needed.
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews
$ | (919) 419-4980 | WEBSITE
In another town, the concept behind Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews might seem overly corporate. But in Durham, it’s spot on. Their hardworking staff is consistently praised as helpful, burgers are celebrated as some of the best in the area, and their dedication to value goes beyond just a single side with bottomless garlic fries and ranch dip.
The space feels a bit like a polished family restaurant—it’s spacious and clean, and can get a bit bustling, but that just means you can enjoy your queso burger and chocolate shake without anyone minding the noise.
Only Burger
$ | (919) 937-9377 | WEBSITE
If burgers are your thing, a visit to Only Burger is basically a requirement when you’re in Durham. But even if you’re not, this is a spot you should try at least once. Sure, it’s a bit straightforward—every burger comes with the classics, and maybe a pickle chip that’s memorably juicy—but the burger menu is by far one of the most satisfying in the city. The space is casual and the seating is a bit cozy, so skip coming here with a huge crowd. Just make sure to arrive hungry.
Otherwise, prepare for an agonizing wait watching others enjoy those golden-brown fries.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
$ | (919) 479-4017 | WEBSITE
Sometimes, a chocolate chocolate chip milkshake just tastes better at a burger joint, and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers proves that hypothesis. Even though it’s one of the best burger spots in town, it’s not uptight—the staff is kind and diligent whether or not you’re a regular, and no one will make a fuss if you show up with kids. This is still $10-burger territory, but it’s less pricey than what you’ll find at most sit-down restaurants.
Cook Out
$ | (866) 547-0011 | WEBSITE
Most fast-food joints close up early, but Cook Out flips the script by staying open late and turning the drive-thru into a full-blown burger destination—and it’s brilliant. Being here feels like you’re at a backyard cookout, making you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret from the moment you pull up for a quick bite. But you’ll be satisfied once you dig into the menu of shockingly affordable burgers with that grilled flavor and hard-to-beat shakes like the peanut butter Oreo.
Space is limited, though. There’s only a clean dining area inside and a long line outside at the drive-thru, so if you want to avoid the wait come early.
Hardee’s
$ | (919) 489-6958 | WEBSITE
Hardee’s has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, emerging as a reliable and satisfying fast-food option in Durham. When you pull into the spacious and convenient parking area and step inside the bright, clean dining room with its comfortable booths and efficient counter service, you’ll find the manager and staff are now consistently friendly and attentive.
The energy makes this place perfect for a quick lunch or dinner when you’re craving hot, fresh food—customers who order ahead often are rarely disappointed, and the staff gets orders right every time. While some condiments may be applied liberally, overall, Hardee’s delivers exactly what you want from a burger spot: consistent quality, friendly service, and food that hits the spot without any fuss.
19FiftyOne
$ | (919) 294-6297 | WEBSITE
19FiftyOne fits right into the burger scene that’s taken over Durham, and we’re all about it. It’s not a hidden gem, but still worth seeking out—head past the usual fast-food joints until you spot the locals and people who look like they work at tech startups out front. A burger party awaits. They’ve got the essentials: bulgogi chicken sandwiches that are juicy and perfectly saiced, fries seasoned to perfection, and a solid lineup of other options.
The chicken panini with those flavorful fries is a steal at $12 and perfect for sharing with someone you like. They also serve wings and other items, but the bulgogi chicken sandwich with its juicy meat and spot-on sauce is next level.
QueenBurger
$ | WEBSITE
QueenBurger is a straightforward spot where burger purists wouldn’t be out of place, meaning it’s perfect when you’re in a no-fuss, hungry mood. It’s technically a burger joint, but don’t expect quiet, intimate vibes. Around lunch or dinner, when the online orders stack up and the fryers are humming, the pace and energy pick up. Since this place is convenient, especially before DPAC shows, you’ll want to order ahead to secure your double burger or any of their popular spicy options.
Like any solid spot that might inspire cravings, there are simple and tasty twists on the classics, like the smashed veggie burger with local ingredients. And if you get extra hungry, add on $4 shoe string fries, the ideal crispy side before heading out.
Town Hall Burger & Beer Durham
$ | (919) 973-0506 | WEBSITE
During the day, Town Hall Burger & Beer is a lively spot to grab a burger and a cold beer with feel-good rock playing at a comfortable volume. But at night, it turns into a bustling destination where the energy amps up and the crowds pour in. It gets packed between 7 and 9pm, so arrive early for your best chance at snagging a table. If you and your friends are planning to come later in the evening, make sure you have a reservation or are extra nice to the host.
The staff, like Jordan, works hard to keep things moving, and the fried foods stay extra fresh and tasty even when it’s busy. Overall, the atmosphere stays fun and the quality keeps visitors coming back for more.
Queeny’s
$ | (919) 641-2784 | WEBSITE
Queeny’s is one of the most popular late-night spots in Durham, but not in the it’s-actually-a-club kind of way. Instead of loud music, the primary draw is a lineup of impressive craft cocktails and standout dishes like the moist, crisp chicken tenders. They have some excellent fresh, flavorful options on the menu, but our favorite bite is actually the Thanksgiving sandwich with its savory fixings.
The kitchen prepares a range of tasty food and drinks in a lively atmosphere you can enjoy from the bar. The ambience is amazing, though the ordering line can get long, especially on weekends. We paid around $15 for sandwiches and $12 for cocktails, which felt reasonable for the quality. The space has an industrial-chic vibe with exposed brick and warm lighting that makes it feel both energetic and cozy.
Despite some past issues with chaotic lines, the service during our visit was excellent and attentive. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to return for the spiked hot cider and unique chicken crispers, even if you occasionally encounter a disorganized moment.
