Best Burgers in DC: 9 Local Favorites

People come from all over the world to see DC’s historical sights, but we would argue that one of the most patriotic things you can do in the nation’s capital is sink your teeth into some all-American food. Yes, we are talking about burgers—and Washington DC boasts some of the best.

But the options can be overwhelming, and you may find yourself asking where you can find the best burgers in DC. We’re happy to say we’ve taken it upon ourselves to find the answer. From fancy and gourmet to fast and casual, follow our guide to experience the very best burgers in Washington DC.

9. Bistro Bis

Bistro Bis is a French restaurant on the senate side of Capitol Hill. It has a private, upscale ambiance and is often frequented for lunch meetings by hungry politicians. The Bis Burger Americaine is a hidden gem in this fine dining establishment. Messy? Yes. Insanely delectable? YES. Dripping with cheese, onions, lettuce, tomato, and crispy mushrooms that are covered in buttery bliss, this burger is amazing and absolutely one of the best burgers in DC.

8. Lucky Buns

Lucky Buns serves up delicious sandwiches and some of the best burgers in DC. These gourmet burgers pack tons of unique flavor inspired by cultures from all over the world including South East Asia, Australia, and the UK. All of their bread is baked fresh daily and the pickles and sauces are made in-house. The best burger here is the Bogan Bun, and it is not your typical burger. With double patties, gouda, their Bacon XO Jam, Lucky Sauce, pickles, and arugula, the Bogan Bun offers a truly unique burger experience. Don’t forget to order a side of the cheesy chips, which are fries covered in green chili queso and cotija cheese.

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7. Swizzler

Swizzler is located in Navy Yard and is an amazing fast food option when you want one of the best burgers in DC. The Swizzler Stack burger is melt-in-your-mouth good, and surprisingly not too heavy despite having a double patty. It is also built with cheddar, arugula, shallot, dill pickle, and their special Stack Sauce which takes the burger to another level. The Parmesan Truffle Spudz (their house-cut fries) are not to be missed!

6. Holy Cow

A stone’s throw from DC is Holy Cow, located in the charming neighborhood of Del Ray in Alexandria, Virginia. There’s something for every type of burger lover here. Fancy gourmet burgers with ingredients like fried pickles, pulled pork, and mac and cheese? Got it. Build your own burger? Yep. And the burgers aren’t the only phenomenal offering at Holy Cow—their shakes and fries are not to be missed. Arguably just as good as the burgers, the hand-cut sweet potato waffle fries are the perfect ratio of crispy and salty, and come with marshmallow dipping sauce. Their Oreo shake? It’s the best in the city. For a family-friendly experience and one of the best burgers in DC, head straight to Holy Cow.

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5. Ghostburger

The first word that will leave your mouth after trying a bite of the signature Ghostburger will undoubtedly be “wow”. It is a daaang good burger crafted with two juicy patties, American cheese, red onion, dill pickles, and their Spooky Sauce on a potato roll, and we’re thrilled to include it on our guide to the best burgers in DC. Ghostburger is relatively new to the city but has quickly made a name for itself and it’s easy to see why.

4. Good Stuff Eatery

Good Stuff Eatery is known and loved by locals and tourists alike for having some of the best burgers in DC. Our favorites are the Prez Burger and the Good Stuff Melt. These burgers are beyond tender and gourmet with toppings like Roquefort cheese, sweet onion marmalade, and grilled mushrooms. Pair your burger with Spike’s Village Fries that are sprinkled with fresh rosemary and thyme, and dip them in one of the many free sauces Good Stuff proudly serves. Whatever you do, be sure to try a shake here. When they ask if you want whip cream on it, say YES—it’s hand-churned daily and takes their shakes to the next level.

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3. Due South

The bacon pimento cheeseburger at Due South is truly a jaw-dropping experience and one of the best burgers in DC. Located in the vibrant Navy Yard neighborhood, this fun southern restaurant is a must-try, and the burger is to die for. This beautiful burger is stacked high with applewood smoked bacon, buffalo tomato, and tobacco onions (fried onion crisps). The pimento cheese takes this burger over the top with its authentic southern flavor and just the right amount of kick. Beware, order this burger and everyone at your table will have food envy.

2. Duke’s Grocery

The Proper Burger at Duke’s Grocery has been the talk of the town for quite some time, and we’re here to confirm that it is worthy of the hype. Succulent and delicious, this is a messy burger, but one that will leave you licking your fingers. It’s made with thick-sliced, homemade pickles, double patties, gouda, red onion, sweet chili sauce, garlic aioli, and arugula on a brioche bun—no doubt one of the best burgers in DC. Although we love ourselves some fries with a burger, we can’t forget to mention Duke’s truffle mac and cheese. We’re talking big shells filled with sharp and mild white cheddar and truffle oil. Get it as your side or for the table to share.

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1. Le Diplomate

Chewing is barely necessary as the Burger Americain at Le Diplomate immediately melts in your mouth. This is easily the best burger in DC. Simple and classic, but packed with huge flavor. Two patties, American cheese, pickles, onions, and special sauce all on a fresh-baked brioche bun. It’s the quintessential burger and more delicious than we can put into words. The crispy and thin pommes frites are equally as impressive as the burger. Yes, dining at Le Diplomate is a bit of a splurge, but it is worth every penny and more. Trust us, this is what your burger dreams are made of!