14 Texas Burger Joints Locals Choose Over Whataburger Every Time
Whataburger might be a Texas icon, but locals know there are plenty of other burger spots across the state that deserve just as much attention. From family-owned diners serving burgers the same way for decades to creative new spots putting unique spins on classic patties, Texas has no shortage of incredible burger joints.
I’ve spent years exploring these places, and I can tell you that once you try these local favorites, you’ll understand why Texans keep coming back to them again and again.
1. Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Gourmet burgers made from hormone-free beef get grilled to perfection at this Austin-born chain that’s expanded across Texas. Every bun gets baked fresh daily in-house, and you can taste the difference in every bite.
The menu features creative combinations like the Terlingua with green chiles and queso, or you can build your own masterpiece from scratch. Located at 1400 S Lamar Blvd in Austin, this spot attracts crowds during lunch and dinner rushes.
What sets this place apart is the commitment to quality ingredients without pretension. The fries come with truffle aioli, and the shakes are made with local ice cream.
You’ll pay a bit more than fast food prices, but the flavor and freshness justify every dollar.
Locals appreciate that despite the upscale approach, the atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming for families.
2. Stanton’s City Bites
A family-run operation in Dallas serves up burgers that taste like they came straight from your grandmother’s kitchen. The patties are hand-formed daily, never frozen, and cooked on a flat-top griddle that’s been seasoned by thousands of burgers.
You’ll find this gem at 1835 Abrams Rd in Dallas, where the staff remembers regular customers by name. The menu keeps things simple with classic burgers, perfectly crispy fries, and old-fashioned milkshakes.
Nothing fancy happens here, and that’s exactly the point. The cheese melts perfectly over the beef, the vegetables stay crisp and fresh, and the buns hold everything together without falling apart.
Locals love that prices remain reasonable even as other restaurants in the area keep raising theirs. The portions are generous, and you’ll leave satisfied every single time.
3. Rodeo Goat
Wild flavor combinations make this Fort Worth favorite stand out from typical burger joints across Texas. The menu changes seasonally, featuring inventive creations like burgers topped with pimento cheese, fried pickles, or even peanut butter.
At 1926 Market Center Blvd in Dallas, the industrial-chic space fills up quickly with burger enthusiasts ready to try something different. The bar program is equally impressive, with craft beers and cocktails that pair perfectly with rich, juicy burgers.
Each burger gets built with Angus beef and creative toppings that somehow work together beautifully. The Sweet and Spicy Bacon Jam Burger has become legendary among regulars.
Vegetarians aren’t left out either, with plant-based options that actually taste good. The atmosphere buzzes with energy, making it perfect for casual dates or nights out with friends who appreciate adventurous eating.
4. Burger Bodega
Smash burgers done right have taken Houston by storm at this relatively new spot that’s already gained a cult following. The technique creates crispy, caramelized edges while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
Located at 5115 Kirby Dr in Houston, this place proves that simple execution beats complicated recipes every time. The burgers are small enough that most people order two, and the pricing makes that totally reasonable.
Fresh ingredients arrive daily, and you can watch your burger being smashed on the griddle right in front of you. The cheese gets applied at just the right moment so it melts into every crevice of the crispy beef.
Locals appreciate the no-frills approach and lightning-fast service that gets you fed without a long wait. The crinkle-cut fries are addictive, and the milkshakes are thick enough to require a spoon.
5. Kincaid’s Hamburgers
Since 1946, this Fort Worth institution has been serving burgers the same way, and locals wouldn’t have it any other way. The building itself looks like it hasn’t changed much either, with its old-school charm and no-nonsense approach to burgers.
You’ll find this legendary spot at 4901 Camp Bowie Blvd in Fort Worth, where generations of families have made it their regular burger destination. The meat gets ground fresh daily, and the thick patties are hand-formed with care.
Everything gets cooked to order on a well-worn grill that adds its own special flavor to every burger. The grocery store attached to the restaurant sells the same quality meat they use for their burgers.
Prices remain surprisingly affordable for the quality and portion sizes you receive. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, perfect for anyone craving an honest, delicious burger without any gimmicks.
6. JewBoy Burgers
Kosher-style burgers with bold flavors have made this Houston spot a must-visit for burger lovers across the city. The name pays homage to the owner’s heritage, and the menu features creative takes on classic Jewish deli flavors.
At 705 E 11th St in Houston, you’ll discover burgers topped with pastrami, pickles, and special sauces that create unforgettable flavor combinations. The brisket burger has become particularly famous among locals.
Fresh-baked challah buns replace standard burger buns, adding a subtle sweetness and soft texture that complements the savory meat perfectly. The attention to detail extends to every element, from the house-made pickles to the hand-cut fries.
Vegetarian options include falafel burgers that actually satisfy, not just serve as an afterthought. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone, and the staff is happy to explain the menu to first-timers unfamiliar with the unique offerings.
7. Sandy’s Old-Fashioned Hamburgers
Retro vibes and classic burgers transport you back to simpler times at this Austin favorite that’s been around since 1946. The original location still operates with the same recipes and cooking methods that made it famous decades ago.
At 603 Barton Springs Rd in Austin, you’ll experience burgers that taste like they came straight from the 1950s. The beef is never frozen, and the patties are formed by hand throughout the day.
Simple toppings like mustard, pickles, onions, lettuce, and tomatoes let the quality of the meat shine through. The shakes are made with Blue Bell ice cream, thick and creamy enough to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Locals love the unchanged atmosphere and consistent quality that some restaurants have maintained for generations. The prices remain shockingly reasonable, and the portions are generous enough to fill you up without breaking the bank.
8. Dan’s Hamburgers
Fresh-ground beef and a loyal following have kept this Houston chain thriving since 1973. Multiple locations across the city serve the same quality burgers that made the original spot a neighborhood favorite.
The location at 6930 Spencer Hwy in Pasadena represents the classic Dan’s experience, with drive-through service and dine-in options. Every burger starts with beef ground fresh that morning, never pre-formed or frozen.
The cooking method creates a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior that drips with flavor. Cheese melts perfectly over the hot patty, and the vegetables stay crisp and fresh.
Locals appreciate the consistency across all locations and the quick service that gets you back on the road fast. The breakfast burgers have developed their own cult following among early risers.
Prices stay competitive with fast food chains while delivering significantly better quality and taste.
9. P. Terry’s Burger Stand
Fast food done right with natural ingredients has made this Austin-based chain a local favorite since 2005. Every ingredient meets strict quality standards, from the all-natural beef to the fresh-cut fries cooked in non-hydrogenated oil.
At 2900 S Lamar Blvd in Austin, you’ll find one of many locations serving burgers that taste homemade despite the quick-service format. The menu stays simple with burgers, fries, shakes, and that’s about it.
What you won’t find here are artificial ingredients, freezers, or microwaves. Everything gets made to order, and the beef is never frozen before arriving at the restaurant.
Locals love that they can grab a quick burger without sacrificing quality or supporting questionable food practices. The prices compete directly with major fast-food chains while offering superior taste and ingredients.
The commitment to sustainability and local sourcing resonates with Austin’s environmentally conscious community.
10. Mum Foods Smokehouse And Delicatessen
Barbecue expertise meets burger craftsmanship at this unique Dallas spot that combines two Texas food traditions perfectly. The smokehouse background means they know how to handle meat, and that knowledge shows in every burger.
Located at 1210 Majesty Dr in Dallas, this place offers burgers with optional smoked brisket toppings that elevate the entire experience. The beef patties themselves are seasoned and cooked with the same attention to detail as their famous barbecue.
Fresh deli ingredients and house-made sauces add layers of flavor you won’t find at typical burger joints. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with the smell of smoke drifting from the kitchen.
Locals appreciate the generous portions and the option to add barbecue sides to their burger meals. The combination of burger and barbecue makes this spot perfect for indecisive eaters who want the best of both worlds.
11. JABS Burgers And Fries
Premium ingredients and creative combinations define this Fort Worth spot that treats burgers like culinary art. The menu features both classic options and inventive creations that push burger boundaries.
At 6101 Oakmont Trail in Fort Worth, you’ll discover burgers made with high-quality beef and topped with ingredients like avocado, fried eggs, or specialty cheeses. The buns are brioche-style, soft and slightly sweet.
Hand-cut fries are made fresh throughout the day, and you can choose from various seasonings and dipping sauces. The attention to detail extends to every element, from the perfectly melted cheese to the crisp lettuce.
Locals love the upscale approach that doesn’t feel pretentious or overpriced. The atmosphere is modern and clean, perfect for casual lunches or relaxed dinners.
The burger sizes are substantial without being ridiculously oversized, allowing you to actually finish your meal comfortably.
12. Reese Bros BBQ
Barbecue mastery translates into incredible burgers at this Texas spot where smoke and flame create magic. The pitmasters who smoke brisket for hours bring that same dedication to their burger program.
The beef gets sourced from quality suppliers, and the cooking technique incorporates elements of barbecue tradition. You can order burgers topped with smoked meats, creating a Texas fusion that satisfies multiple cravings at once.
The house-made barbecue sauce adds a tangy, smoky element that complements the beef perfectly. Fresh vegetables and quality cheese round out the toppings without overwhelming the meat.
Locals appreciate that they can get both barbecue and burgers in one stop, especially when feeding groups with different preferences. The portions are generous, and the prices reflect the quality of ingredients and preparation.
The casual atmosphere welcomes families, and the staff is knowledgeable about both the barbecue and burger offerings.
13. Burger-Chan
Japanese-inspired burgers bring an unexpected twist to the Texas burger scene at this creative fusion spot. The menu combines traditional burger elements with Asian flavors, creating combinations that shouldn’t work but absolutely do.
Teriyaki glazes, wasabi mayo, and pickled vegetables add layers of flavor that differentiate these burgers from anything else in Texas. The beef quality remains high, with hand-formed patties cooked to perfect doneness.
Rice buns offer an alternative to traditional bread, and the texture complements the fillings surprisingly well. The fusion approach extends to the sides, with options like edamame and Asian-style slaws.
Locals love the adventurous menu that respects both burger traditions and Japanese culinary techniques. The atmosphere is modern and clean, with Japanese design elements creating a unique dining environment.
Prices are reasonable considering the quality ingredients and creative preparation that goes into every burger.
14. Twisted Root Burger Co.
Wild burger names and even wilder flavor combinations have made this Dallas-area chain a favorite among adventurous eaters. The menu features options like the Western Bacon Thang and the Spicy Habanero Ranch burger.
At 2615 Commerce St in Dallas, you’ll find burgers made with fresh beef and creative toppings that somehow work together perfectly. The buns are locally sourced, and the vegetables arrive fresh daily.
Exotic meat options include buffalo, elk, and wild boar for those wanting to try something beyond traditional beef. The craft beer selection is extensive, with local and regional breweries well represented.
Locals appreciate the playful atmosphere and the willingness to experiment with flavors while maintaining quality standards. The portions are substantial, and the hand-cut fries are seasoned perfectly.
The restaurant participates in local events and supports community initiatives, making it more than just another burger joint.