The two most ideal places to eat a burger are in your backyard with charcoal smoke in your hair or at a roadside stand where the grillmaster’s ancient spatula tells stories. But when you crave more than nostalgia or suspect that perfect patty might be hiding in plain sight, sink your teeth into one of these juicy, inventive, or downright legendary burger joints instead.
Chicken 2 Go
$ | (252) 237-0167 | WEBSITE
Chicken 2 Go is a no-fuss backdrop for folks craving something hot, crispy, and indulgent, or maybe for friends who want to split a basket of wings while catching up on the week’s gossip. The menu at this Wilson spot is straightforward enough to come with zero pretension, so unless you’re in dire need of culinary complexity, stick to the classics like the Philly Cheesesteak with its tender bread and well-cooked veggies.
There’s also a casual vibe where you can bring your appetite and your crew for some satisfying comfort food at a good value.
Ruckus & Redemption
$ | (252) 674-1567 | WEBSITE
If you want to eat a killer burger and drink unique cocktails with a view of Whirlygig Park, hit up Ruckus & Redemption. Not only does it have outdoor seating, but you get front-row seats to the park’s lively atmosphere and casual vibe. Sink your teeth into the Sunday Brunch burger, sip an Old Fashioned that’s on point, and enjoy the relaxed outdoor setting all while watching the park’s activity unfold.
Culver’s
$ | (252) 640-2411 | WEBSITE
Nearly everyone in the bright, spacious dining room at Culver’s is here for a classic American meal. Because, in addition to having reliably delicious burgers and more customization options than other spots, Culver’s has a cheerful, welcoming energy. The place looks like it opened yesterday and stays meticulously clean.
The floors are spotless, the tables are wiped down constantly, and the bacon cheeseburger and thick milkshake go extremely well together—especially if you just drove in from Rocky Mount, two and a half hours away.
Burger King
$ | (252) 265-4080 | WEBSITE
Burger King occupies a convenient spot in Wilson and holds the title of one of the best burger joints in town. You can order through the drive-thru, but to get the best experience, step inside for the full dining room service. For burger lovers, there’s the popular Whopper Jr w/Cheese that pairs perfectly with their crispy onion rings. The restaurant is very clean and roomy with easy wheelchair accessibility, so it’s a great option for families or those with mobility needs.
While service may be slow at times, the overall experience is positive, and many find it a better choice compared to other nearby fast-food places with long lines.
Wayback Burgers
$ | (252) 281-2080 | WEBSITE
Wayback Burgers may not be as fancy as other spots on this list (it’s in a small strip near a shopping area), but the burgers are great and the friendly service might be even better. Instead of the expected fast-food assembly line, Wayback breaks down the burger-making process starting with fresh patties cooked right in front of you and moving into custom options like grilled buns and perfectly seasoned bacon.
Choosing something like the Double Bacon Burger might make you feel satisfied, like saying ‘perfectly cooked’ instead of ‘just okay.’ But all the choices are equally delicious. And classics like smash burgers with crisp vegetables and cheese dripping down the patties go well with the clean, family-like atmosphere in the seating area.
Burger Boy
$ | (252) 237-8365 | WEBSITE
Ask for a menu at Burger Boy, and the staff will give you a warm smile. As Wilson’s classic burger joint, of course, there’s no fancy printed list. And while many regulars scattered around the food trailer might debate the merits of different toppings, it’s more than okay if you don’t. Just shout over whatever classic rock is playing through the speakers and let the friendly team know what you’re craving.
They’ll recommend different, perfectly cooked burgers to choose from before you grab your order at the drive-thru window or settle in for a quick bite.
America’s best wings
$ | (252) 281-4341 | WEBSITE
America’s Best Wings is all about flavor in the front and comfort in the back. The popular spot transforms from a straightforward eatery into a cozy dining space with a focus on satisfying meals. Along with serving wings by the bucket or plate, America’s Best Wings offers food like chicken tenders, fries, mixed vegetables, and those hot BBQ wings. Most days, the place fills with hungry regulars, family groups, and anyone who needs somewhere to unwind after work.
The huge menu full of options means there’s something for every craving, from buffalo wild wings to nuclear boneless wings. While the customer service can be brisk, the staff remains friendly when you need them, and the clean, comfortable atmosphere keeps people returning for those perfect 10/10 wings—amazing even when cold.
Best-N-Burgers
$ | (252) 237-2555 | WEBSITE
Keep Best-N-Burgers in mind the next time you’re passing through Wilson and want to enjoy a perfectly simple burger with friendly service in a spacious diner setting. This burger joint has a classic American feel and plenty of room for your entire family to enjoy a meal with fresh-made burgers and fries at the tables. For a more satisfying experience, order a double or two since the patties are thin but bursting with flavor, and don’t forget to try the fries with malt vinegar from the tables.
Aggie’s Hot Subs
$ | (252) 206-5757 | WEBSITE
If you want to eat a cheesesteak somewhere everybody knows your name, go to Aggie’s Hot Subs. As a casual eatery in Wilson, it’s rumored to have the friendliest service. (For the record, the only owner we’ve seen here is warm and welcoming, taking time to chat with customers.) The menu may be simple and straightforward. But what Aggie’s lacks in variety, it makes up for in heart. The Philly cheesesteak may or may not be perfect.
There are plenty of loyal customers who frequent the place, but some may be put off by inconsistent quality, including the presence of gristles and hard pieces in the sandwiches. Bring a friend before wandering around Wilson.
Hardee’s
$ | (252) 293-7809 | WEBSITE
At Hardee’s, you get a burger with a side of efficiency. The place looks like a well-maintained roadside stop built for quick service rather than lingering, and the menu clocks in at a manageable single page. Fortunately, the staff knows every item on it, including the standout Frisco burger. And while the drink selection is nice with refills for dine-in guests and the facility stays clean, getting your food fairly quickly with friendly service is what Hardee’s is all about.
