Best Burgers in Raleigh (2025)

Chef Luis Zouain turns NC-raised wagyu into a double-patty marvel on Union Special bread. LaGana’s counter energy and focus on technique earned nods from Eater Carolinas and Raleigh Magazine for redefining Raleigh’s modern burger moment.

A Wolfpack-era institution grinding beef on-site, PR nails both build-your-own and signature classics like the Wolfpack Burger. Praised by Raleigh Magazine and beloved by locals, it’s a living slice of Raleigh culture with burgers to match.

This family-friendly beer garden plates a drippy, double-patty smash with griddled onions and Russian dressing that editors at Eater Carolinas and Axios keep recommending. Picnic tables, tots, and neighborhood vibes seal the deal.

Coleen Speaks’ New Orleans–leaning spot turns out a cult-favorite burger by day and a brunch stunner with pimento cheese and a fried green tomato. Featured by Eater Carolinas and Southern Living for flavor and personality.

A Five Points brewery where the brasserie’s beefy half-pounder—stacked with beer cheese, garlic aioli, crispy onions, and house pickles—won News & Observer’s Raleigh Burger Bracket and landed on Eater’s best-burger list.

That skyline patio pairs perfectly with a decadent wagyu burger layered with house American and jalapeño bacon jam. Raleigh Magazine’s 2025 burger feature spotlights it; locals love it for celebrations and sunset dinners.

Since 2002, this Glenwood South original has served griddled, saucy classics, late-night energy, and a backyard-style deck. Frequently recommended by Raleigh Magazine and Axios readers as a true local standby.

Downtown since 1930, Mecca’s glorified jumbo burger channels Raleigh nostalgia with straightforward toppings and diner charm. Covered by the News & Observer and celebrated by the Downtown Raleigh Alliance for enduring community roots.

In the former newspaper building, this local bar grinds chuck in-house for its namesake burger. A downtown staple with a rooftop, it’s praised by locals and appears on multiple best-of rundowns for approachable, satisfying fare.

A neighborhood hang with real heart, Gussie’s turns out a juicy double smash and animal-style fries. Raleigh Magazine highlights it for delivering classic flavors with community-first spirit and late-night reliability.