Have you ever noticed the first whiff of smoky, sizzling goodness in the air when a burger is placed on the grill? The soft, buttery bun. That juicy, thick burger patty. that crispy, crunchy edge. It is the type of smell that has the ability to instantly make you hungry. If you’re in D.C., you’ve probably had that burger craving and didn’t know which place to pick because there are so many options.

Burgers are taken seriously in Washington, D.C. Good burgers can be found all over the city, from fast food restaurants on U Street that remain open late to more expensive restaurants close to Logan Circle. Burgers of all varieties are available here, starting with simple cheeseburgers with no extras to large double smashburgers topped with house-made pickles and spicy mayo. There are burgers served between two grilled cheese sandwiches (yes, really) and burgers served on soft brioche buns. There is a burger to suit every mood, whether you’re searching for something delicious to eat after a long day at work or prefer a full meal after a Nationals game.

It can be quite challenging to find the best burger in Washington, D.C. Too many lists, too many differing viewpoints, and too many places that people talk about but aren’t really that good. It’s easy to end up at a tourist attraction or to believe an outdated review that doesn’t reflect the present condition of the place. Some excellent burger restaurants are ignored. Some well-known restaurants change owners and lose their flavor. Do you? All you want is an excellent burger that is worth the price.

Here’s where I can help. I’ve tried burgers all over the city of Washington, D.C., where I work as a food blogger. I’ve had plant-based burgers, tall stacked burgers, smash burgers, and traditional burgers from antique restaurants. I have tried each one. These locations aren’t just picks made at random from a quick look at Yelp. I have been there a lot and really like them, so they are my favorites.

Be ready for some amazing burgers. The top burger joints in Washington, D.C., are covered in this list. You’ll find burgers that will stick in your memory, with flavorful sauces, crispy edges, and bold toppings. We’re covering spots in neighborhoods like Dog Haus Biergarten in Washington, DC, Shaw, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, and Adams Morgan. You can find a lot of luxurious burger joints as well as more affordable local restaurants where you can get delicious burgers for under $15.

You’ve come to the right place if you’re tired of eating boring, average burgers. No extra talk. No big-name fast food places. Just 10 burger spots that really make great burgers.

10 Best Burger Restaurants in the D.C. Area

To be honest, you didn’t get here by accident. You’re over eating average burgers. You’re tired of reading outdated suggestions, unclear of which reviews to believe, or tasting awful food. The real thing is what you’re searching for. The kind of burger that’s so good it makes you stop talking for a moment because you’re too busy enjoying it. You’re hungry, you expect better, and you don’t want to waste another meal. Good because what’s coming up next is exactly what you’ve been looking for.

1 – Dog Haus Biergarten in Washington, DC – Best Burger Place In Washington

One of the best burgers in Washington, DC, can be found at Dog Haus Biergarten in Dupont Circle. This restaurant offers traditional American comfort food in a tasty and entertaining way. The quality of their burgers is much better than that of many other burger joints in Washington, DC, because they are made by hand with hormone- and antibiotic-free meat.

From the rich and creamy Holy Aioli to the easy and delicious Cheeseburger, they have something for everyone. For vegetarians, the Impossible™ Cheeseburger is a fantastic plant-based alternative. Also available is the Hangover burger, which is more important or the Build Your Own Burger, which allows you to customize your burger to your preferences. Fans love the Ringer burger, another tasty option.

The restaurant is a fun place to hang out because of its cool, modern interior design, large tables that are best for gatherings, and TVs showing various sports. Dog Haus has great burgers that are worth trying, whether you’re going there for a full meal or just a late-night snack. Many people say it’s one of the top burger restaurants in DC, and it’s easy to see why.

Dog Haus Biergarten More Details:

Exact Address: 1837 M Street NW, Unit 1, Washington, DC 20036

Number of Burger Types: 6 main burger options, including Cheeseburger, Holy Aioli, Impossible™ Cheeseburger, The Hangover, Build Your Own Burger, and Ringer burger.

Number of Reviews: Approximately 65 reviews on Yelp.

GMB Profile Link: https://g.co/kgs/2neGKdQ

Menu Link: https://www.getsauce.com/order/dog-haus-biergarten-dupont/menu

Starting Price: Burgers start at approximately $9.99.

Online Order Link: https://order.thanx.com/hausrewards

Opening and Closing Hours:

• Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
• Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM
• Sunday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM

Website: https://doghausburger.com/dog-haus-biergarten-in-washington/

Phone Number: +1 202-836-6000

Offers: Happy Hour specials including discounts on sliders, draft beer, wine, loaded tots, cocktails, and beer & shot combos.

Instagram Address: https://www.instagram.com/doghaus_dupont/

2 – The Capital Burger – Best Burger In DC Area

In Washington, D.C., The Capital Burger’s luxurious menu recreates the burger experience. Made with a unique beef blend created in collaboration with Pat LaFrieda Meat Purveyors, each burger boasts unparalleled flavor and juiciness. Those looking for the best burger in D.C. will find it here, served on toasted brioche buns with perfectly crispy sea salt fries. Serve your meal with locally created beers, award-winning wines, or expertly crafted cocktails like the Smoked Bacon Old Fashioned. The Capital Burger is a must-visit location for delicious burgers in D.C., offering a memorable dining experience whether you’re a local or a visitor.

The Capital Burger More Details:

Exact Address: 1005 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

Number of Burger Types: The menu features six signature burgers, including options like the Capital Burger, Bacon Cheeseburger, and Blue Cheese and Black Truffle Burger.

Number of Reviews: The Capital Burger has garnered 292 reviews on TripAdvisor, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5

GMB Profile Link: https://g.co/kgs/uME2jeF

Starting Price: Burgers start at approximately $16.

Online Order Link

Opening and Closing Hours:

• Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Website: https://www.thecapitalburger.com/locations/dc/washington/washington-dc/3400

Offers: While specific offers may vary, The Capital Burger occasionally features seasonal specials and promotions. It’s recommended to check their official website or contact the restaurant directly for current deals.

3 Joia Burger – Best Burger in DC

Joia Burger offers a unique and delicious boost to Washington, D.C.’s burger scene. You can get one, two, or three beef patties in their mouthwatering American Wagyu smash burgers. Every burger has a unique sauce created by the restaurant and melted American cheese. A delicious vegetarian bean burger is a fantastic option if you don’t eat meat. Crispy Joia Fries are a great accompaniment to your meal. For dessert, don’t forget to sample their Ube Soft Serve, which is inspired by the Philippines and has a sweet, creamy taste. Joia Burger is a fantastic spot to have a delicious burger and an enjoyable dining experience, whether you live in D.C. or are just visiting.

Joia Burger More Details:

Exact Address: 3213 Mount Pleasant Street NW, Washington, DC 20010

Number of Burger Types: Four main options: Single, Double, Triple Patty Wagyu Burgers, and a Veggie Bean Burger.

Number of Reviews: Joia Burger has garnered 71 reviews on Yelp.

GMB Profile Link: https://g.co/kgs/T312hPj

Menu Link: https://www.joiaburgerdc.com/menu

Starting Price: Burgers start at approximately $9.00.

Online Order Link: https://order.toasttab.com/online/joia-burger

Opening and Closing Hours:

Mount Pleasant:

• Tuesday–Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

• Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Monday: Closed

Glover Park:

• Wednesday–Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Monday–Tuesday: Closed

Website: https://www.joiaburgerdc.com/

Phone Number: (202) 999-8195

Offers: Currently, no specific offers are listed. It’s recommended to check their official website or contact the restaurant directly for current deals.

4. 7th Street Burger Georgetown – Best Burger Restaurants In DC

7th Street Burger The Georgetown neighborhood in Washington, D.C., is home to the well-known New York-style smashburger. It is renowned for its tasty simple menu. A vegetarian Impossible burger option is also available, along with juicy single or double cheeseburgers. A special house sauce, pickles, and grilled onions are among the traditional toppings that are served with every burger on soft Martin’s potato buns. Loaded fries with chopped beef or Impossible meat on top are an option, or you can serve them with crispy fries on the side.

7th Street Burger Georgetown More Details:

Exact Address: 1424 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007

Number of Burger Types: Eight main options, including single and double cheeseburgers, spicy jalapeño variations, and vegetarian Impossible burgers.

Number of Reviews: Approximately 311 reviews with a 4.4-star rating on Restaurant.

Starting Price: Burgers start at approximately $6.50.

Opening and Closing Hours:

• Monday–Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM

• Thursday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM

• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM

Website: https://7thstreetburger.com/

Phone Number: (646) 224-6919

Offers: Currently, no specific offers are listed. It’s recommended to check their official website or contact the restaurant directly for current deals.

5. Old Ebbitt Grill

One of Washington, D.C.’s most well-known and popular restaurants is Old Ebbitt Grill. It is well-known for its delicious food and classic style. The oyster bar is one of its most well-liked attractions, but it also serves some of the best burgers in the city. These burgers are prepared with premium ingredients and cooked to perfection. Dark wood and active stained glass give the restaurant a lovely, vintage appearance that makes it feel cozy and unique. Eating there is like traveling back in time while enjoying delicious food. Whether you are a visitor or a resident of D.C., Old Ebbitt Grill is a place you should definitely check out if you’re craving a delicious burger, whether you live in D.C. or are just visiting. It includes delicious food with tradition in a way that makes it very unique.

Old Ebbitt Grill More Details:

Exact Address: 675 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005

Number of Burger Types: Five main options, including classic cheeseburgers, bacon cheeseburgers, jalapeño burgers, and a blackened salmon burger.

Number of Reviews: Approximately 13,384 reviews on TripAdvisor.

Opening and Closing Hours:

• Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM

• Saturday–Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 AM

Website: https://www.ebbitt.com/

Phone Number: (202) 347-4800

Offers: Daily oyster happy hour from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM to 1:00 AM (2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays).

6. PLNT Burger

In D.C., PLNT Burger is changing the way people view fast food. Delicious plant-based versions of traditional American dishes are available. The PLNT Cheeseburger and the Mushroom BBQ Bacon Burger are two of their unique burgers that are delicious and environmentally friendly. Because they are concerned about the environment, PLNT Burger uses only the freshest, most responsibly sourced ingredients in all of their dishes. Accordingly, every bite you take benefits both the environment and you. Whether you’re a full-time vegan or just trying to eat healthier, PLNT Burger is a great place to enjoy one of the best burgers in D.C.

PLNT Burger More Details:

Exact Address: 101 H St SE, Washington, DC 20003

Number of Burger Types: PLNT Burger offers a variety of plant-based burgers, including the PLNT Cheeseburger, DBL PLNT Cheeseburger, Mushroom BBQ Bacon Burger, and the B.I.G. Burger, among others.

Number of Reviews: Approximately 141 reviews on Yelp for the 101 H St SE location.

Opening and Closing Hours:

• Monday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Website: https://www.plntburger.com/

Phone Number: (877) 725-4794

Offers: Currently, PLNT Burger offers free fries with the purchase of select burgers, such as the BIG Green and BIG BBQ, during promotional periods.

7. Thunder Burger & Bar

A fun place with a rock ‘n roll theme, Thunder Burger & Bar in Georgetown adds a unique twist to the traditional American burger joint. The improve burgers, such as the Kobe beef “Love Me Tender” and the bison “Buffalo Stomp,” have been served at this lively restaurant since 2010. The plant-based Impossible Burger is one of their delicious options for both meat eaters and vegetarians. The atmosphere of Thunder Burger is lively and colorful due to its bright and bold decorations. In D.C., it’s a well-liked destination for those looking for a delicious burger. Whether you just want a tasty burger in D.C. or the best one in Washington, Thunder Burger gives you a meal you won’t forget.

Thunder Burger & Bar More Details:

Exact Address: 3056 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Number of Burger Types: 1/2 lb Thunder Burger, Impossible Burger, Love Me Tender (Kobe beef), Buffalo Stomp (bison), Showdown at the Border, Ventura Highway, Pig in a Cow Suit, Freebird (grilled chicken)

Number of Reviews: Approximately 1,000 reviews on Yelp

Opening and Closing Hours:

• Monday–Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM

• Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM

• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Website: https://thunderburger.com/

Phone Number: (202) 333-2888

Offers: Happy Hour specials Sunday through Friday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, featuring $6 draft beers, $6 house wines, $7 cocktails like the Pink Mule and Strawberry Margarita, and $7 appetizers including artichoke & spinach dip, grilled buffalo wings, and chicken bites.

8. Lucky Buns

Lucky Buns in Adams Morgan is an entertaining restaurant that recreates the traditional American burger joint. It’s a great place for anyone who enjoys strong, flavorful food because they serve large double burgers, crunchy fried chicken, and bright drinks. Your meal will become an enjoyable experience because of the active atmosphere, cool music, and plant-filled patio. Lucky Buns is one of the greatest places to get a burger, whether you live in D.C. or are just visiting. It is a fantastic option that you are not going to pass up because it combines excellent taste with an energetic vibe.

Lucky Buns More Details:

Exact Address: 2000 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009

Number of Burger Types:

Juicy Stacks:

• Lucky Bun
• Bogan Bun
• Royale Bun
• Crunchy Bun (vegetarian)
• Impossible Bogan
• Impossible El Jefe
• Impossible Lucky
• Impossible Royale

Crispy Chicks:

• Hot Tiger Bun
• Dirty Bird
• Chicky Bun
• Mumbo Bun

Number of Reviews: Approximately 606 reviews on Yelp for the Adams Morgan location.

Opening and Closing Hours:

• Monday–Thursday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Friday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM

• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM / 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM

• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM / 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Note: Kitchen closes at 10:00 PM Sunday–Thursday, and at 11:00 PM on Friday & Saturday

Website: www.luckybuns.com

Phone Number: (202) 506-1713

Offers: Lucky Buns offers gift cards for purchase, allowing customers to share the experience with friends and family.

9. Duke’s Counter

Located directly across from the National Zoo, Duke’s Counter is a welcoming place. It’s great for families and has a fun, British-style pub vibe. The Proper Burger is among the best items there. This burger is regarded as the greatest burger in Washington, D.C., and it has won awards. It’s served on a soft brioche bun with a sweet and spicy Thai chili sauce, crunchy garlic-dill pickles, gooey melted gouda cheese, and delicious Creekstone Farms Angus beef. There is something for everyone on the menu, which also includes delicious sandwiches and fresh salads with international flavors.

Duke’s Counter More Details:

Exact Address: 3000 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite J, Washington, DC 20008

Number of Burger Types: Proper Burger, Wagyu Burger, Impossible Burger (plant-based)

Number of Reviews: Over 620 reviews on Yelp

Opening and Closing Hours:

• Monday–Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM

• Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Website: https://www.dukescounter.com/

Phone Number: (202) 733-4808

Offers: Happy Hour from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

10. CIRCA at Foggy Bottom

Situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., CIRCA at Foggy Bottom is a chic dining setup. They serve traditional American fare with a contemporary twist. The Circa Burger is among their best-selling items. It is a delicious, juicy burger served on a soft brioche bun with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and homemade pickles. It is regarded by many as one of the city’s best burgers. You can choose from a fantastic selection of cocktails and enjoy it with crispy truffle fries. The restaurant shows a lively and enjoyable atmosphere, and lots of customers love the outdoor patio. Burger lovers and anyone else looking for a tasty and enjoyable dining experience in D.C. will love this place.

CIRCA at Foggy Bottom More Details:

Exact Address: 2221 I St NW, Washington, DC 20037

Number of Burger Types: Circa Burger, Turkey Burger, Fried Chicken Sandwich

Number of Reviews: Over 2,000 reviews on Postmates

Opening and Closing Hours:

• Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Website: https://www.circabistros.com/

Phone Number: (202) 506-5589

Offers: Happy Hour specials available; check website for current offerings.

Best Plant-Based and Vegan Burgers in D.C.

The city of Washington, D.C., has become a popular destination for plant-based burger lovers. Whether they are vegans on a regular basis or just want to eat less meat occasionally, the city offers a wide variety of delicious options for anyone looking to replace regular meat burgers.

Ingenious vegan comfort food is what makes Bubbie’s Plant Burgers & Fizz unique. They use a homemade beet patty in their well-known “Monkey Wrench” burger. Rich and tasty, it contains plant-based bacon, vegan cheddar cheese, spicy pickled jalapeños, and barbecue sauce. Because they produce their own vegan meats and cheeses in-house, the food has a unique and authentic flavor.

For those looking for a Mediterranean-style meal, Shouk offers a delicious chickpea-based burger. Lentils, oats, black beans, and spices are also added. Topped with arugula, pickled turnips, and tahini, the burger is served on pita bread. Those who are not able to eat gluten they can choose this great option. A delicious and important option, it’s a great substitute for common burgers.

Created by Chef Spike Mendelsohn, PLNT Burger offers plant-based requires on traditional American burgers like the “Crispy Chik’n Sandwich” and the “Mushroom BBQ Bacon Burger.” People who enjoy the typical burger flavors but prefer a meatless option will love these delicious vegan dishes.

A Michelin-starred restaurant offering an excellent vegan dining experience, Oyster Oyster offers a plant-based menu that makes vegetables taste amazing.

There are plenty of delicious vegan options in D.C. that anyone can enjoy, no matter their preferred flavor, whether they’re looking for a strong satisfying burger or a classy plant-based meal.

Budget-Friendly Burger Joints

You can definitely find a tasty burger in Washington, D.C., without spending too much money. There are numerous locations in the city that are excellent for students and those looking for ways to reduce costs. These restaurants provide delicious food at affordable rates.

The Dog Haus Biergarten is a popular destination in Dupont Circle. They serve soft King’s Hawaiian buns with fancy burgers. Their burgers, which are about $8, are made with hormone- and antibiotic-free beef, chicken, and plant-based meat. They also offer a variety of craft beers that are constantly changing. It’s a great option for affordable, high-quality food and an enjoyable atmosphere because it’s active and fun.

A favorite hangout for George Washington University students is Burger Tap & Shake in Foggy Bottom. The burgers are freshly made in the restaurant and cost $6. On weekdays between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., you can get a combo meal for only $10 that includes a burger, fries, and a drink.

Happy hour at McCormick & Schmick’s on K Street offers a classic cheeseburger for just $3.95, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget. Additionally, every Monday night, Mr. Henry’s on Capitol Hill offers half-priced burgers, making it a well-liked meal option.

Chef Spike Mendelsohn founded Good Stuff Eatery, which offers luxurious burgers for less than $10. They put a premium on using high-quality ingredients so you can eat well without spending high amount of money.

Five Guys provides large portions of fries and burgers that you can customize to your preferences at affordable rates for a more relaxed time.

Finally, Elevation Burger sells organic, grass-fed beef burgers for around $8. Their goal is to attract customers who value their money and are concerned about eating a healthy diet.

These restaurants show that you can have a delicious burger in Washington, D.C., without spending too much money.

Tips for the Ultimate Burger Experience in D.C.

Selecting the proper side dishes is important if you want to enjoy the greatest burgers in Washington, D.C. While classic crispy fries are a must, consider the unique options that improve your meal, such as loaded cheese fries, onion rings, or truffle fries. A lot of the best burger joints also serve their own slaw or pickles, which adds a crispy flavor to the juicy burgers.

When you choose the time to visit can make your experience better or worse. You can typically get special discounts and short wait times when you go for lunch on a weekday. However, you may have to wait in longer lines if you visit on the weekends or in the evenings, even though the place may be busier and more enjoyable. You can avoid the busiest times and crowds if you arrive early or make a reservation in advance, especially at well-known locations like Dog Haus Biergarten or The Capital Burger.

The best way to enjoy a burger is to customize it to your preferences. A lot of restaurants allow you to select a different bun, such as a soft brioche or gluten-free bun. There is usually a variety of sauces and toppings available, and you can add extra cheese or bacon if you’d like. Asking how you want your burger cooked is perfectly acceptable, if you prefer it juicy, go for medium rare, and if you want it cooked through, go for well done.

After your meal, pair your burger with a tasty cocktail, a craft beer, or a local cider. With these simple ideas, you’re ready to have the best burger experience that Washington, D.C. has to offer.

Conclusion: Savoring the Best of D.C.’s Burgers

You can find some truly delicious burgers in Washington, D.C. It is similar to taking a fun food adventure rather than just grabbing a quick meal. While Lucky Buns and Duke’s Counter serve large, delicious classic burgers, there are also cool places like PLNT Burger and Bubbie’s Plant Burgers that make amazing plant-based burgers. In D.C., you can find a burger that’s right for your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a late-night snack, something luxurious, or something inexpensive, the city’s burger joints always have something delicious to offer.

There is something unique about every burger joint, whether it’s a delicious sauce, a perfectly smashed patty, or an attractive atmosphere with locally made beer and music chosen for the occasion. The experience of eating a burger here is more than just the food, it’s a unique experience created by neighborhood chefs that welcome locals.

Now is your time to go out and enjoy yourself! Go back to your favorite spots or try something new out there. To enjoy it together, invite your friends. The local restaurants truly appreciate the support, so don’t forget to take a picture and share it on Instagram. If you find a specific restaurant or a dish that you always order, share it on social media or leave a comment telling others about it.

In D.C., the burger scene keeps changing and improving. So go ahead, get a burger, eat it, and let the city show you what the tastiest burger in Washington is really like.