Best Burgers in San Antonio (2025)
Chris Madrid's
Hamburger restaurant · Monte Vista Historical District
Since 1977, this Beacon Hill landmark has defined the city’s burger style with its molten Cheddar Cheezy and Tex-Mex tostada burger. Featured in Food & Wine and praised by local critics, it remains a lively community gathering place.
Mr Juicy
Hamburger restaurant · Monte Vista Historical District
Chef Andrew Weissman’s stripped-down, chef-crafted burger stand turns out hand-formed patties, glossy toasted buns, and exceptional fries. Regularly cited by the San Antonio Express-News and lauded by local media for its standout cheeseburgers.
Mark's Outing
Hamburger restaurant · University District
East Side favorite known for sweet-and-sourdough buns and dialed-in classics, crowned No. 1 by the San Antonio Express-News. The old-school vibe, chili burgers, and late carhop service underscore its neighborhood roots.
The Cove
Organic restaurant · Alta Vista
Part car wash, part laundromat, wholly San Antonio. The Cove serves grass-fed Texas beef burgers, blue bison favorites, and a house veggie patty, with national love from Food Network and consistent nods from the San Antonio Express-News.
Smash'd
Bar & grill · North River District
A lively Government Hill hangout where Texas wagyu smashburgers meet late-night patio vibes. Covered by the San Antonio Express-News and local outlets, it’s a fun, independent spot for crispy-edged patties and a solid bar program.
Pumpers
Hamburger restaurant · North River District
Chef Stefan Bowers’ playful “adult burger store” swaps smash patties for flame-broiled quarter-pounders with clever toppings. Reported by local media and buzzing since its grand opening, it’s a downtown original with late hours.
Chunky's Burgers
Hamburger restaurant · Leon Valley
A West Side classic famous for the fiery Four Horsemen challenge seen on TV, but regulars know the half-pound burgers and fresh buns are the everyday draw. Covered by local news and long embedded in the community.
Sam's Burger Joint
Hamburger restaurant · Midtown
Part music venue, part burger shrine, Sam’s sears half‑pound Angus patties on branded buns. Recognized by the San Antonio Express-News and beloved by concertgoers, it’s a classic night out done right.
Best Burgers
Hamburger restaurant · Terrell Wells
A South Side time capsule serving flat‑top burgers and Mexican burgers with jalapeño, ham, and avocado. Ranked among the city’s best by the San Antonio Express-News, it’s pure, old-school satisfaction.
Bunz Handcrafted Burgers
Hamburger restaurant · Houston Street District
Downtown, chefs Thierry Burkle and Edwin Salazar stack house‑ground patties on fresh brioche with creative, chefly toppings. Local outlets report the original location remains active and focused on quality.
Cullum’s Attaboy
Brunch restaurant · Tobin Hills
A Michelin Bib Gourmand brunch star where the Attaboy burger channels vintage diner craft with serious technique. The San Antonio Express-News notes dinner service now features that signature burger alongside French-leaning plates.