Seattle’s burger scene ranges from classic diners to innovative culinary hotspots. Whether you crave a traditional patty or something with a unique twist, the Emerald City has it all. This guide features the highest-rated independent burger joints within 10 kilometers of Seattle, based on genuine Yelp reviews and excluding national chains.
1. Ounces Taproom & Beer Garden – Craft Beer’s Perfect Partner
Beer enthusiasts gather here for the winning combination of custom-built burgers and 30 rotating craft brews on tap.
The outdoor seating overlooking Delridge Avenue creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for savoring their perfectly grilled patties. Each burger can be customized to your liking, making every visit unique.
The west-side chill vibes complement the straightforward but expertly executed burgers, creating a neighborhood hangout where quality trumps pretension.
2. Jude’s Old Town – Cajun Spice Meets Burger Perfection
This Rainier Beach gem surprises burger hunters with its unexpected Cajun-Creole approach to the classic American sandwich.
The gumbo-spiced burger delivers a Southern punch with every bite, while the dirty rice-topped beef patty showcases the kitchen’s creative spirit. These distinctive flavor combinations have earned Jude’s a loyal following among Seattle’s burger connoisseurs.
The warm, neighborhood atmosphere completes the experience, making it worth the trip to this slightly off-the-beaten-path location.
3. Von’s 1000 Spirits – Pioneer Square’s Burger Institution
Downtown workers and tourists alike flock to this Pioneer Square staple for their signature brined pickles and expertly smashed beef patties.
The “Big Von” steals the spotlight with its perfect combination of bacon, cheese, and house-made fermented mayo. Each bite delivers that ideal balance of savory, tangy, and rich flavors that defines a great burger.
The bustling atmosphere and central location make it a popular meeting spot for friends looking to enjoy a classic Seattle burger experience.
4. Ox Burger – Lao Fusion Redefines the Smash
Born from the culinary creativity of Taurus Ox, this Capitol Hill offshoot brings Lao flavors to the burger scene with spectacular results.
The twin patties arrive glistening with jeaw sauce, topped with pork-jowl “bacon” that delivers unmatched umami depth. First-timers might be surprised by the bold flavor profile, but the unfamiliar quickly becomes addictive.
Located across from the original Lao restaurant, Ox Burger represents Seattle’s innovative food culture at its finest—traditional techniques meeting unexpected ingredients.
5. Sunny Hill – Where Pizza Pros Flip Perfect Patties
Famous for wood-fired pizzas, this unexpected burger destination proves that mastery of one craft often translates to another.
The Smash Burger arrives with perfectly caramelized edges, house spicy aioli, and pickles that cut through the richness. The team’s attention to detail—evident in their pizza-making—extends to their burger construction, resulting in ideal ratios and temperature control.
Regulars know to save room for both pizza and burger on repeat visits to this NW 85th Street neighborhood favorite.
6. Raney’s Bar & Grill – BBQ-Burger Fusion Heaven
SoDo’s hidden treasure combines two American classics—burgers and barbecue—into indulgent handheld masterpieces.
The Cascades and Olympics burgers layer premium beef patties with either pulled pork or brisket on artisan rolls. House slaw and signature sauce create that perfect Memphis-meets-Seattle hybrid flavor that keeps locals coming back.
The unpretentious atmosphere along Airport Way South makes this a genuine Seattle experience, where quality ingredients and generous portions take center stage rather than fancy decor.
7. S/T Hooligan’s – The Cajun Smash Champion
Northern Seattle’s smash burger paradise earns its crown with the legendary Bal-Mont and Hooligan burgers.
What makes them special? Roasted pork belly, garlic-chile aioli, and those addictive charred serrano pickles create perfect textural contrast. The juicy patty maintains its moisture while crispy toppings add satisfying crunch.
This casual, late-night spot has become a signature destination for burger enthusiasts seeking bold Cajun-Creole flavors with a New American twist.
8. Americano – Mediterranean Twist on an American Classic
Who says burgers can’t be sophisticated? This Greek-inspired creation combines lamb and beef in a perfectly seasoned patty that’s a far cry from fast-food fare.
Feta cheese, creamy tzatziki, tangy pickled onions, and peppery arugula create a Mediterranean symphony in every bite. The Stranger reportedly listed this among Seattle’s best burgers, and for good reason.
The upscale yet approachable atmosphere makes this spot perfect for date nights or casual lunches when you’re craving something familiar yet exotic.
9. Old Stove Brewing – Pike Place Market’s Burger Sanctuary
Tourists come for the seafood and brews, but locals know about the secret burger treasure at this Pike Place brewpub.
The “Bour B-Q” burger arrives with smoked cheddar melting over the patty and bourbon sauce adding sweet-smoky complexity. The cozy market ambiance, with glimpses of Elliott Bay from some tables, elevates the entire experience.
After browsing the market stalls, nothing satisfies quite like settling in with this signature burger and a flight of house-brewed beers while watching ferries cross the sound.
10. Heyday Bar & Restaurant – Brunch-Worthy Burger Bliss
Morning, noon, or night—this versatile spot excels at smash-style burgers alongside their popular brunch offerings.
The thin, crispy-edged patties receive the same careful attention as their celebrated egg dishes. Pair your burger with their famous sweet potato fries and a blood-orange spritz for the full Heyday experience.
Weekend warriors know to arrive early to secure a table at this neighborhood favorite where cocktails and comfort food create the perfect casual dining atmosphere.
11. Off the Rez – Native American Culinary Heritage in Burger Form
From food truck sensation to brick-and-mortar success story, Off the Rez brings indigenous flavors to Seattle’s burger landscape.
Their bison-beef burger combines hand-ground meats with unique regional sauces that honor Native American culinary traditions. The optional side of fry bread transforms an already special meal into something truly memorable.
Every bite represents cultural pride and culinary craftsmanship, explaining why Yelp reviewers consistently praise this establishment for both its food quality and its important representation of Native American cuisine.
12. Perihelion Brewery – Beery Cheese Burger Brilliance
This Beacon Hill brewpub knows that great beer deserves equally great food companions.
Their house burger stands out for its beer-cheese sauce, made with their own craft brews. The rotating tap list ensures there’s always a perfect pairing for your patty, whether you prefer hoppy IPAs or malty porters.
The laid-back atmosphere encourages lingering over your meal, making this 16th Avenue South spot a favorite for casual get-togethers where conversations flow as freely as the house-brewed beers.
13. Next Level Burger – Plant-Based Patty Perfection
Vegans and curious carnivores alike flock to this counter-service spot for smash patties that happen to be completely plant-based.
The secret lies in their tempeh, quinoa, and mushroom blend that achieves the impossible—meaty texture without the meat. Topped with vegan bacon and garlic-thyme mayo, these burgers satisfy even dedicated beef lovers.
The fast-casual setting makes it perfect for quick lunches, while the surprisingly filling portions ensure nobody leaves hungry after experiencing these revolutionary plant-based creations.
14. Mean Sandwich – Falafel Fusion That Defies Categories
This Fremont sandwich shop earns its spot on burger lists by creatively blurring culinary boundaries.
Their falafel-spiced patty delivers Middle Eastern flavors in burger form, complemented by tangy pickled slaw and rich tahini sauce. While purists might debate its burger credentials, one bite convinces most skeptics that deliciousness transcends rigid food categories.
The cozy, no-frills space allows the bold flavors to take center stage, making this spot a favorite among adventurous eaters seeking something beyond traditional burger experiences.
15. Duke’s Seafood – Surprising Burger Contender from the Sea
While primarily known for oceanic offerings, this South Lake Union establishment earns unexpected burger accolades.
The salmon burger showcases Seattle’s seafood expertise in handheld form, while the “burger steak” entree satisfies traditional beef cravings. Both options benefit from the kitchen’s attention to quality ingredients and proper cooking techniques.
Waterfront views and upscale-casual ambiance make this a versatile choice for business lunches or special occasions when your group includes both burger enthusiasts and seafood lovers.
16. Katsu Burger & Sushi – Japanese-Korean Burger Fusion
Culinary boundaries disappear at this Fremont favorite where East Asian techniques transform the American burger.
Choose between the tonkatsu-style fried pork patty or shoyu-marinated wagyu smash, both served on kimchi brioche buns. The matcha-dusted fries on the side complete this cross-cultural masterpiece.
The restaurant’s sushi expertise ensures precise execution and flavor balance, explaining why Yelp reviewers consistently award gold stars to this unique establishment where Japanese panko breading and Korean marinades create an entirely new burger category.
17. Rain City Burgers – Nostalgic Seattle Corner Classic
This Roosevelt Street institution captures Seattle’s retro burger magic in every satisfying bite.
Two all-beef patties arrive with melted American cheese and their signature onion sauce, all smash-pressed into a perfectly griddled bun. The simplicity allows quality ingredients to shine without unnecessary frills.
Pair your burger with a local beer while soaking in the nostalgic vibes of this neighborhood cornerstone. Generations of Seattleites have made memories here, explaining the loyal following that keeps this unpretentious spot thriving year after year.
