Best Burgers in Cincinnati (2025)

Since 1926, this Mt. Lookout landmark keeps it simple: fresh Avril-Bleh beef on a Klosterman bun, plus Cincinnati personality like the model train. Consistently praised by CityBeat and Food & Wine, it’s the city’s essential classic.

Hyde Park’s neighborhood standby is beloved for Burger Madness nights and straight-shooter patties on toasted buns. Frequently cited by local critics and readers’ polls, it’s where many Cincinnatians fell in love with a great no-gimmick burger.

Family-run since 1966, Quatman’s half‑pound cheeseburger with chips is Cincinnati nostalgia—and still a weeknight ritual for many. Praised by Cincinnati Magazine and CityBeat, the Norwood original remains the purest expression of the classic local tavern burger.

A neighborhood pub that cooks like a chef’s playground—think Boursin-topped Gordo’s Burger or a kimchi‑and‑egg mashup. Cincinnati Magazine highlighted its heft and creativity; locals come for huge patties and a deep beer list.

Pleasant Ridge’s unpretentious bar turns out towering, half‑pound burgers that Cincinnati Magazine singled out as a must. Order the Gas Light Burger, then browse records at Everybody’s next door—it’s a neighborhood evening in two moves.

A tiny Mt. Adams tavern with a sweeping river view and the Big Ted Deluxe, a griddle‑smashed local favorite. Cited by CityBeat for its view and by Cincinnati Magazine readers for the burger, it’s pure Cincinnati character.

Northside’s rock‑themed burger shop riffs on smashburgers with local sourcing and playful names. Repeatedly honored by CityBeat as a top neighborhood burger spot, it’s a fun, community‑minded counterpoint to the old guard.

The neon‑lit East End icon returned under new local ownership in January 2025 and still serves over‑the‑top, knife‑and‑napkin burgers, including a filet‑mignon grind. Featured on Diners, Drive‑Ins and Dives and covered by WCPO at reopening.

From food truck to cozy storefront, Bones champions grass‑fed Ohio beef and house‑made ketchup. Cincinnati Magazine spotlighted its precise cooking and crowd‑pleasing specials—the Heater, Alpine, or a custom build all show off top‑notch sourcing.

On the West Side, Chandler’s is the locals’ pick for thick, creative patties and friendly service. Recognized in CityBeat’s neighborhood awards, it’s the kind of independent spot that keeps Price Hill’s burger scene lively.