Best Burgers in Madison (2025)

A campus-area institution doing hand-formed patties with Wisconsin cheese galore. Praised by Isthmus and spotlighted by Travel Wisconsin, it’s the nostalgic bar burger many locals grew up on—chili and curds seal the deal.

Capitol Square’s ode to Wisconsin taverns serves a wood-grilled burger on a buttered hard roll with Bavaria bacon and cheddar. Frequently recommended by Madison Magazine and Travel Wisconsin; the cheese curds are essential.

Chef Tory Miller’s farm-to-table spot turns the burger into a showpiece—short rib, brisket, bacon, caramelized onion jus, and Hook’s cheese. Lauded by the Wisconsin State Journal and featured on Food Network.

Since the 1960s, the Plazaburger—on wheat with the famous white sauce—has defined Madison bar-burger culture. Celebrated by Madison Magazine and included by hamburger historian George Motz in Hamburger America.

This tiny west-side tavern grills burgers behind the bar and tops them with brick cheese. Featured by George Motz on TV and singled out by Isthmus; a quintessential no-frills Madison experience.

East Johnson’s cash-only ’Bou Burger is a neighborhood legend—fresh beef from Jenifer Street Market and a seasoned griddle. Profiled by PUNCH and beloved by local regulars for decades.

South-side favorite where grass-fed Riemer Family Farms beef meets careful char and house beer cheese. A low-key local standby, praised by neighborhood crowds and local media.

Old-school tavern serving hefty half‑pound patties; the Blue Moon Burger with garlic bleu cheese is a sleeper hit. Noted by Madison Magazine and cherished by UW alumni on game days.

Neighborhood pub known for craft taps and burgers ground from local Knoche’s beef. Endorsed by Travel Wisconsin and Isthmus; a relaxed east-side pick where the specials board matters.

Classic tavern burger ground daily from Knoche’s steak trimmings, a detail locals love. Cited by UpNorthNews readers and covered by SinglePlatform and Isthmus for its straight-ahead charm.

Downtown “Smash Burger Headquarters” turns out the Good Idea Double using Wisconsin beef. Frequently praised by local food writers and Destination Madison; late‑night smash specials keep it lively.

Music-themed bar serving burgers made with Knoche’s beef; the Garlic Guitar Lick Burger and curds draw praise. Covered by the Cap Times and noted by locals for game-day hangs.