55+ Unique Burgers in Greater Milwaukee You Need to Try

The Solly’s Grille butter burger

Forget everything you think you know about basic pub burgers—the six-county region surrounding Wisconsin's largest city is home to bone marrow butter smash burgers, cheese-stuffed Juicy Lucys, wild game blends featuring elk and boar, donut-bunned breakfast burgers, and even a state-champion beer cheese creation that sells 200 in a single day. This guide takes you county by county through more than 55 establishments where chefs and grill masters are pushing the boundaries of what belongs between two buns. Whether you're craving a butter-drenched classic from a 1936 diner or a wagyu smash burger with truffle aioli, your next burger adventure starts here.

Milwaukee County

Milwaukee County serves as ground zero for burger innovation, with chefs treating the humble hamburger as a canvas for culinary creativity. The density of options here means you could spend months exploring without repeating a spot.

The Diplomat on Brady Street has earned Milwaukee Magazine's top burger honor with their elevated take on the Big Mac. Every element is house-made—the bun, the pickle, the sauce, even the beef ground in-house. The Diplomac features American cheese (the owners deliberately avoid "ritzy" substitutions), creating something so rich and balanced that sharing is recommended. Located at 815 E. Brady Street, burgers run $18-20 and the attention to detail is unmistakable.

Crafty Cow in Bay View (2671 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue) has built its reputation on Juicy Lucy-style stuffed burgers—half-pound patties with cheese melted inside. The Dirtiest Swiss comes stuffed with Swiss and topped with soy-glazed wild mushrooms and parmesan herb aioli. For the adventurous, the Bone Marrow Burger layers two Oklahoma smash patties with thick-cut pork belly, American cheese, bone marrow butter, and pickles. The Wisconsin Dream drowns a patty in cheddar, Swiss, cheese curds, and crispy bacon, served swimming in molten cheese sauce. Open Monday through Sunday with varying hours, expect to spend $12-16 per burger. Kids love the welcoming atmosphere, and Wednesdays feature "Upside Down Kids Night" where dessert comes first.

For oversized burgers at unbeatable value, Oscar's Pub & Grill at 1712 W. Pierce Street (with a second location on Burnham Street) serves half-pound Black Angus burgers on buns made exclusively for them by Wild Flour Bakery. The Big O piles chipotle jack, gouda, hickory bacon, chorizo, fried onions, and guacamole onto the patty. With over 30 build-your-own topping options including Boursin cheese, you can create endless combinations for around $10-15.

Sobelman's Pub & Grill at 1900 W. St. Paul Avenue became nationally famous through the Travel Channel, though their burgers deserve as much attention as their over-the-top Bloody Marys. Fresh Black Angus patties (never frozen) arrive on country butter rolls baked exclusively for the restaurant. The Bomb combines American, Swiss, and cheddar with bacon, caramelized onions, and jalapeños. The El Guapo features habanero cheese and pastor meat from El Rey, while the Bourbon Pork Belly Burger takes indulgence to new levels. Hours run Monday through Sunday, with burgers priced $10-14. Family-friendly with a second location on Wells Street.

For Wisconsin burger history, Solly's Grille at 4629 N. Port Washington Road in Glendale has served butter burgers since 1936. Their 100% sirloin patties arrive doused in real Wisconsin creamery butter, literally dripping. This old-school diner—unchanged for decades—serves breakfast and embodies butter burger tradition at $8-12.

Inside Great Lakes Distillery, Fox Den (616 W. Virginia Street) pairs creative smash burgers with craft spirits. The Umami Bomb features drunken mushrooms, bacon, caramelized onion, mushroom ketchup, Swiss, and a giant parmesan crisp on top. The Chimi-Hendrix Experience adds Dominican slaw with carrot and raisins plus smoked cheddar chorizo spread. Notably, Fox Den refuses ketchup—they offer eight house-made sauces instead. Vegan options include the Beetbox (beet, black bean, quinoa, cilantro). Prices run $12-17.

Wild Roots in West Allis (6807 W. Becher Street) earned Milwaukee Magazine's second-place ranking with their duck fat burger—house-ground brisket seared in duck fat creating a golden, beefy crust with delicate tenderness. Best ordered medium-rare with tangy American, Thousand Island, and sweet caramelized onions. Chef Thi Cao brings Asian influences throughout the menu. Expect $15-20 per burger.

In the Third Ward, Bavette La Boucherie (217 N. Broadway) serves an upscale butcher-shop burger featuring grass-fed beef with raclette cheese (with its subtle, discernible funk), oyster mushrooms, pickled shallots, smoky bacon, and arugula. At $25 including beef-fat fries, it's a premium experience befitting the elegant atmosphere.

Merriment Social in Walker's Point (240 E. Pittsburgh Avenue) has developed a cult following for their wagyu smash burger—two crackly-edged patties on house-made seeded milk buns with American cheese and tangy-sweet "Big Cat Sauce" creating an oozy pickle relish effect. Hit happy hour Tuesday through Friday, 4-6pm, for a $5 burger special. Regular prices run $15-19.

For halal options, The Fatty Patty operates locations in West Allis (1119 S. 108th Street) and Milwaukee's north side. Their 100% Zabiha halal burgers include the Fix Mix with turkey bacon, avocado, ranch, American cheese, and fried egg, plus the Gyro Burger topped with gyro meat and tzatziki. Double-stacked patties with deeper flavor notes run $10-14. Vegan bean burgers available.

Burger Hub in Greenfield (6231 S. 27th Street) occupies a former George Webb diner and serves 100% halal-certified beef hand-packed and pressed fresh daily. The Cheese Curd Burger adds Wisconsin curds and turkey bacon to the patty. Open daily 10am-10pm with combos priced $7.99-$11.99, it's potentially a top-10 Milwaukee burger.

Café Bavaria in downtown Wauwatosa (7700 Harwood Avenue) brings German flair with the Ludvig Burger—featuring apple chutney and herbed garlic cheese on a pretzel bun. All burgers use ⅓ pound grass-fed, grain-finished, prime beef smash patties at $12-15.

Stack'd Burger Bar in Walker's Point (170 S. 1st Street) specializes in creative stacks like the Campfire Burger with jalapeño bacon, bleu cheese, haystack onions, and chipotle mayo. Their build-your-own menu features dozens of cheese types and 20+ sauces. Burgers run $12-16.

Goodkind in Bay View (2457 S. Wentworth Avenue) takes a different approach—their Tuesday Night Burger Night features a new artisan creation each week. Past examples include Carlisle beef with seared pork pâté, pimento cheese, pickle, and cider vinegar slaw. Open until 1am for late-night food, prices run $15-20.

For the ultimate hidden gem, Nite Owl Ice Cream Parlour (830 E. Layton Avenue) has served house-ground burgers from the same hands for over 70 years. Standard servings include 3-4 slices of American cheese, and they sell out daily—arrive by lunchtime. Cash preferred, seasonal hours, closed most of winter. Simple double cheeseburgers run $8-10 and have won Milwaukee Magazine's burger bracket.

Archie's Flat Top in West Allis (shares space with Scratch Ice Cream) channels 1950s nostalgia with smashburgers like The Archie—two house patties with American cheese, PBR-braised onions, shredded lettuce, tomato, and special sauce on a potato roll. The Schlitz-infused smoked cheddarwurst adds Wisconsin character. Owned by West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe, pair your burger with Scratch Ice Cream next door. Prices run $8-12.

Additional Milwaukee County gems worth noting include Riley's Bar + Burger in Bay View (opened June 2025) featuring wagyu smashburgers at $14-18, Kopp's Frozen Custard (three locations) serving classic jumbo burgers under $5 since 1950, The Wicked Hop in the Third Ward with build-your-own options and free toppings on Sundays, and Elsa's on the Park downtown with the Burger Au Poivre covered in peppercorns and simmered in Burgundy reduction.

Over in Shorewood, Crave Cafe at 3592 N. Oakland Avenue operates as a strip-mall sleeper hit. Their Crave Burger features an inch-thick patty with Swiss, caramelized onions, arugula, and white truffle aioli that reviewers describe as surprisingly authentic rather than synthetic. The Korean BBQ Burger adds kimchi, spicy mayo, and cabbage slaw to an Angus patty. Prices sit at a remarkable $7.50-$11, and food arrives in adorable Chinese takeout boxes.

Crave Cafe

Waukesha County

Waukesha County emphasizes local sourcing, Wisconsin cheeses, and family-friendly atmospheres, with several spots extending popular Milwaukee concepts westward.

Sobelman's Pub & Grill Waukesha at 332 Williams Street brings the Milwaukee institution's formula to the county seat. Beyond the Black Angus classics, the Wisco Burger combines beef and brat—a distinctly Wisconsin hybrid that locals praise. The Widmer Melt features Wisconsin brick cheese from Widmer Cheese on grilled rye. Hours run Monday through Sunday with burgers priced $13-18. Outdoor seating available and family-friendly.

Crafty Cow Oconomowoc (153 E. Wisconsin Avenue) continues the stuffed burger tradition with antibiotic and hormone-free, humanely raised Midwest beef. The Hangover Burger comes stuffed with white cheddar and bacon, topped with over-easy egg and hot pepper medley. The Spinach Artichoke Burger contains house-made spinach artichoke dip inside, topped with prosciutto and breaded onion rings. Their Pork Belly Burger layers two smash patties with thick-cut pork belly and bone marrow butter. Open Monday through Sunday at $13-18, with kids menu available.

Point Burger Bar in Pewaukee (W229 N1400 Westwood Dr) combines premium Angus burgers with entertainment. The Ward Prime Burger tops Prime Angus with sliced prime rib, provolone, and horseradish sauce. The Fire Pit Burger brings ghost pepper cheese with jalapeños and bacon. But the real draw for families: a massive arcade game room and adjacent go-kart facility (Veloce Indoor Speedway). Alcoholic milkshakes available for adults, prices run $12-18.

Badger Burger Company operates locations in Oconomowoc and Mukwonago featuring ½-pound char-broiled Black Angus burgers highlighting Wisconsin ingredients. The Mac Attack piles homemade Wisconsin cheese macaroni, shredded cheddar, haystack onion rings, and BBQ sauce onto the patty. The Curd Burger adds white cheddar cheese curds and bacon. The Pickle Back Burger includes paprika-seasoned fried pickles with ranch drizzle. Both locations offer private party rooms and burgers priced $12-16.

Murf's Frozen Custard & Jumbo Burgers in Brookfield (18840 Capitol Dr area) has served locally-sourced burgers since 1993. Everything comes from Wisconsin—from cows to cheese—with fresh, never frozen beef on soft bakery buns. Their Specialty Egg Sandwich piles coleslaw, tomatoes, and fries so high it requires silverware. Famous cheese curds and daily frozen custard flavors round out the menu at $8-13.

Raised Grain Brewing Co. (1725 Dolphin Dr, Suite B, Waukesha) crafts their 50/50 Blend Burger from freshly ground brisket and chuck with house-made dilly pickles and 1000 Island dressing. The Mushroom Swiss Burger features their signature "N3S Beeroli"—a beer-infused aioli. Cheese curds come battered in their Birdseye Tripel. With 30+ craft beers on tap and Saturday brewery tours, it's a destination for beer lovers. Burgers run $12-16.

Mainstream Bar & Grill at 404 W. Main Street in Waukesha offers serious build-your-own customization. Choose from ½-pound beef, turkey, Angus shoulder tender, veggie burger, tuna steak, or chicken patty as your base, then customize with extensive toppings. Monthly burger specials (March is legendary) keep regulars returning. Housemade potato chips with famous chip dip accompany every burger. Open Monday through Sunday with burgers priced $11-17, plus live music and trivia nights.

Milk Can Hamburgers & Frozen Custard in Muskego delivers old-school burgers done exceptionally well—fresh, never frozen beef with perfectly seasoned fries and drive-thru convenience. Reviewers call it their "favorite fast food burger around" with prices running $7-12.

Lou's Lucky Penny (739 W. St. Paul Ave, Waukesha) specializes in fresh, never frozen burgers in a remodeled space with "Up North" Wisconsin vibes. Their Mom's recipe cheesy potatoes provide a unique side option. Award-winning wings and Friday fish fry round out the menu. Burgers run $10-15 with a large outdoor patio.

Sweet Dreams at 332 West Broadway in Waukesha commits to Wisconsin-sourced everything—from Wisconsin cows to Wisconsin cheese to Wisconsin soda. Cooked-to-order burgers pair with fresh frozen custard made on-site. Family-friendly atmosphere with prices around $8-12.

Ozaukee County

Ozaukee County combines Lake Michigan waterfront dining with charming small-town atmospheres, including one of Wisconsin's oldest bars.

Skippy's Burger Bar in Thiensville (113 Green Bay Road) operates from a building constructed in 1855—the oldest bar in Ozaukee County. They reached the Elite Eight in Wisconsin's 2024 Best Burger Contest with 17 signature burgers including The Better Mac (thousand island, grilled onions, pickles on American cheese) and the Bourbon Burger. Homemade potato chips and crispy onion rings accompany every order. Open Tuesday through Sunday (closed Monday) with burgers priced $10-16. Outdoor patio seating by the river makes it family-friendly.

Wayne's Drive-In in Cedarburg (1331 Covered Bridge Road) transports you to the 1950s with counter seating, booths, and picnic tables. Every burger arrives on a toasted Sheboygan Hard Roll with a heap of butter—a Wisconsin regional specialty. Black Angus Choice Chuck beef forms the patties, with The Big Wayne doubling up to two quarter-pound patties with "Round" bacon. Wednesday Corvette Nights and Thursday Classic Cruise Nights attract car enthusiasts. Seasonal: April through mid-November only. Cedar Crest Ice Cream (local Cedarburg brand) supplies the malts and shakes. Prices range $5.89-$13.49 and the nostalgic atmosphere is perfect for families.

Schooner Pub in Port Washington (114 N. Franklin Street) has served stunning harbor views of Lake Michigan since 1977. Their Buffalo Burger uses ground bison for a leaner, unique flavor, while the WTF Burger has earned customer-favorite status. Open Monday through Sunday with late-night hours on weekends, burgers run $12-18.

Crave Bar and Food in Mequon (10401 N. Port Washington Road) earned Milwaukee Magazine's recognition with their premium 7-ounce certified Angus prime beef blend combining sirloin, short rib, chuck, and brisket. Choose from brioche butter bun, whole grain, or pretzel with multiple signature options: WISCO Burger, Truffle Mushroom, Southwest with avocado and pico, or Mediterranean with roasted red peppers and dill cream cheese. White cheddar beer-battered cheese curds are award-winning. Closed Sundays, burgers run $13-18 with kids cheeseburgers noted as "a huge hit."

Hefner's Frozen Custard & Jumbo Burgers (N71W5184 Columbia Road, Cedarburg) has anchored the community since 1995. Their Cedar-Burger features Cedar Creek Winery's pinot grigio Swiss cheese spread—a unique wine-infused local collaboration—plus American cheese, bacon, and fried onions. The Huge Hefner doubles up with extra bun, Thousand Island, and classic fixings. Seasonal specials include the Oktoberfest Burger with Swiss, fried Oktoberfest beer onions, bratwurst, bacon, and mustard on a pretzel bun. Daily frozen custard flavors rotate. Prices run $6.19-$11.39 with excellent family atmosphere and outdoor seating.

Inventors Brewpub in Port Washington (305 E. Washington Street) occupies the site of an 1847 brewery and brews 10-12 beers on-site with inventive names like Edison IPA and SS Porter. Their burger creativity includes the PB&J Burger (yes, peanut butter and jelly themed), Jalapeno Popper Burger, and Black and Bleu. Canadian-inspired poutines include Wisconsin Brat Poutine with beer cheese and cheese curds. Stunning harbor views from the pet-friendly patio and craft sodas for kids. Open Tuesday through Sunday with burgers priced $13-18.

Moonlight Tavern & Supper Club inside The Port Hotel (101 E. Main Street, Port Washington) brings modern supper club refinement with the Over the Moon Burger—a chef-crafted gourmet creation. New ownership (March 2024) includes nationally recognized chefs, and they've assembled over 200 bourbons and whiskeys. The best goat cheese curds per customer reviews. More upscale pricing at $16-22 but family-welcoming.

Washington County

Washington County punches above its weight with Wisconsin's 2025 Best Burger winner and some of the region's most creative specialty burgers.

Brazen Head Pub in West Bend (147 N. Main Street) claimed the 2025 Wisconsin Beef Council Best Burger title with their Brazen Beer Cheese Burger—a half-pound Angus patty topped with cheddar, bacon, onion rings, and house-made Harp beer cheese sauce on a pretzel roll. The kitchen produces over 8 gallons of beer cheese weekly, and after winning the state competition, they sold 200 burgers in a single day. Open daily with kitchen hours 11am-10pm, burgers priced $13-18. The oldest independently owned bar in West Bend with staff tenure exceeding 10 years.

Local Press Burger Bar in Kewaskum (143 Main Street) reached Wisconsin's Elite Eight with possibly the region's most creative menu. The Beasty Boy ($17) combines wild boar, Wagyu, buffalo, and elk with short rib ragu, truffle gouda fondue, balsamic onion jam, and mixed greens. The Notorious P.I.G. piles BBQ pork, bacon, fried mac and cheese, and five-cheese mac onto a pretzel bun. The Dough Boy arrives on a glazed and sprinkled donut bun with burger, American cheese, bacon, and over-easy egg. The Birria Bandit serves a Southwest burger with chipotle braised short ribs on corn tortillas with consommé for dipping. The Juicy Brucie stuffs American cheese inside the patty Juicy Lucy-style. All burgers are half-pound Angus steak at $13-17, closed Sunday and Monday.

Bixenberg Tavern in Germantown (N112W21209 Mequon Road) operates as a hidden gem with 4.9-star average ratings and upcoming feature on "America's Best Restaurants." Their Bixenburger smash burger with beer cheese and caramelized onions earns praise for seasoning so good "you don't need anything on it." German-American influences appear in German Poutine (beer cheese over sausage, cheese curds, and fries) and Chicken Döner Kebab Wrap. Cozy "Up North" woodsy vibe with local craft beers. Open Thursday through Sunday with burgers priced $12-15. Family-friendly with games.

Badger Burger Company in Richfield (1872 State Highway 175) serves The Wisconsinite ($19.19)—the ultimate Wisconsin burger with Wisconsin cheddar, white cheddar cheese curds, Wisconsin smoked bacon, lettuce, and tomato on brioche. The Mac Attack adds homemade five-cheese mac and cheese with fried onion rings. The Spicy Ranch includes paprika-seasoned fried pickles with ranch drizzle. Open Wednesday through Sunday with burgers priced $17-20. Stone-fired pizza also available.

Big Sky Country Bar & Grill in Germantown (N96W18640 County Line Road) serves the Boom-Boom Burger ($15.95)—half-pound Angus charbroiled with candied black pepper bacon and house-made "boom-boom sauce." Western outdoor theme with prices at $14-16.

Smash Daddy's in Hartford dedicates itself to the smash burger trend. Their signature adds cheddar, deep-fried jalapeños, cheese curds, onion straws, and house smash sauce. The Mushroom Swiss arrives on a pretzel bun with garlic aioli. Also known for "Dirty Sodas" and loaded fries. Prices around $10-15.

Big Guys Pike Lake (5869 Franklin Drive, Hartford) offers exceptional value with Monday Burger Specials featuring half-pound burgers cooked to order with fries or tots and choice of cheese. Local favorite in a casual sports bar setting at $8-14.

Racine County

Racine County preserves Wisconsin's burger history while offering some of the most family-friendly dining experiences in the region.

Kewpee Lunch in downtown Racine (520 Wisconsin Ave) represents one of only five remaining Kewpee Hamburgers locations in America. Operating since 1926, patties start as spheres of fresh ground beef, hand-shaped and flattened on the grill until crusty brown. Homemade root beer brews on premises. The 1950s time-capsule atmosphere features original art deco design, horseshoe-shaped lunch counters, and Kewpie doll memorabilia throughout. Racine birthed malted milk (Horlick's company), and Kewpee serves authentic malts. Cash only, limited hours (closes by 5pm, 2-3pm some days), and prices are remarkable: $1.20-$3.55 per burger. Perfect for introducing kids to classic Americana.

Fred's Burgers in Burlington (596 N. Pine St) bills itself as serving "World's Best Burgers" since 1980. NFL quarterback Tony Romo (a Burlington native) endorses this spot, with memorabilia throughout. Specialty hamburgers include Cajun with homemade seasoning, Cowboy, Horseradish, and Roasted Garlic with Swiss. Fresh-ground beef comes from local butcher shops, and famous homemade chips are hand-cut from Kennebec potatoes with optional cajun seasoning, parmesan, or french onion dip. Customers write orders on paper and bring them to the bar. Open Monday through Sunday until 9-10pm with moderate pricing. Family-oriented in a wood-paneled tavern atmosphere.

Georgie Porgie's Treefort Restaurant in Mount Pleasant (5502 Washington Ave) creates one of Wisconsin's most unique dining environments—a large fake tree with upper "treefort" level seating built into the restaurant. Their Beer Cheese Bacon Burger features Wisconsin beer cheese made with Spotted Cow (local craft beer), hickory smoked bacon, and fried onions on a pretzel bun. The Cowboy Burger adds crispy onion strings and fried cheese curds with homemade ranch. The Wisconsin Curd Burger includes fresh cheddar curds, jalapeños, sautéed onions, cream cheese, onion rings, and a jalapeño popper on the side. Locally-baked Pretzilla buns, hand-rolled mozzarella sticks, and craft sodas made with real sugar syrups (no Coke/Pepsi products). Fresh daily Wisconsin custard. Open Monday through Saturday 10:30am-10pm at $8-15. Exceptional for families—the treehouse theme, games, and kids' menu make this a destination.

Toad Hall in downtown Racine (611 Wisconsin Ave) grinds beef in-house for creative gastropub burgers. The Trojan Horse tops the patty with gyro meat, tomato, feta, and onion for Mediterranean-American fusion. The N.W.A. Burger (a contest winner) features house-created "Saporous Sauce" (umami-style), sharp cheddar, bacon, and caramelized onion on pretzel bun. The Buffalo Mac Burger adds Buffalo sauce and signature Mackin' Cheese with crumbled bacon. English pub atmosphere with board games, craft beer selection, and trivia nights. Open Monday through Sunday with burgers priced $12-16.

TinCAN Roadhouse in Union Grove (20715 Durand Ave) has won "Best Restaurant West of I-94" in Racine County five times. Build-your-own burgers with extensive customization, scratch-made menu, and famous poblano dip. Rustic industrial decor with handcrafted iron tables, concrete bar, and barn wood beams. Accessible by snowmobile trail. Open Tuesday through Sunday at $10-15. Family-welcoming.

Stumble Inn in Union Grove (1501 200th Ave) serves half-pound seasoned burgers at remarkable prices—the Crispy Pig Burger with crispy pork elements runs just $5.50-$6.50. Local neighborhood bar atmosphere, more adult-oriented but suitable for families during day hours.

Kenosha County

Kenosha County bridges Wisconsin traditions with creative innovation, from authentic 1945 carhop service to sophisticated wagyu creations.

The Garage (3001 60th Street, Kenosha) pays homage to Kenosha's auto manufacturing history with a proprietary meat blend of brisket, short rib, and ground chuck. Their build-your-own concept offers 27 "body works" (toppings), 16 "under the hood" (stuffing) options, and various "dents and dings" (sauces) for virtually unlimited combinations. Weekly rotating specials keep regulars returning. Open Monday through Sunday with burgers priced $11-16. Family-friendly sports bar atmosphere with games and bingo nights.

Captain Mike's Beer & Burger Bar (5118 6th Avenue, Kenosha) has won multiple "Best Burger in Kenosha" awards with premium options including Kobe beef, organic grass-fed beef, or black bean veggie burgers. Rotating weekly creations with playfully named seasonal combinations pair with famous mac 'n cheese and one of the largest craft beer and gin selections around. They operate a food truck for catering. Prices run $12-18 with outdoor seasonal dining.

Apis Hotel & Restaurant (614 56th Street, downtown Kenosha) elevates the burger experience with wagyu beef in an upscale setting. Their signature Wagyu Burger features Wisconsin cheddar, caramelized onions, Calabrian chili aioli, and arugula on brioche. The Mushroom Burger adds gorgonzola and garlic aioli. Stunning rooftop bar with lake and city views. Modern Italian steakhouse concept with USDA Prime beef from Chicago's Stock Yard Butchers. Prices range $18-24+, better suited for adults and date nights. Participating in Kenosha Restaurant Week (February 21 - March 1, 2026).

Bristol 45 Diner (8321 200th Avenue, Bristol) delivers authentic 1950s nostalgia with vintage decor, zodiac booths, classic soda counter, and 45 rpm records on display. The Bristol 45 Bomb Burger (10 oz. charbroiled) comes with BBQ sauce, cheddar, and haystack onions. Beyond Burger option available. Fresh homemade soups included with most meals. Classic car cruise nights run May through September (1st and 3rd Mondays). Hand-dipped milkshakes. Open daily at $9-14 with soups and fries included. Ranked #1 on Tripadvisor among Bristol restaurants and highly family-friendly.

Milwaukee Burger Company in Pleasant Prairie (9901 77th Street, #810) serves super-sized Wisconsin-style burgers with legendary "golf ball-sized" cheese curds in Classic, Pepper Jack, Mozzarella, and Fair varieties. The Defibrillator features a jalapeño bacon and cheddar-infused patty with smoked cheddar and fresh jalapeño. The Curd Burglar stuffs cheese curds inside the burger. The Milwaukee Smash Burger pairs two smashed butter-blend patties with double American and caramelized onions. Extensive kids menu and gluten-friendly options. Open Sunday through Saturday at $13-19. Giant Bloody Marys available.

Ron's Place (3301 52nd Street, Kenosha) has perfected their craft since 1972. The legendary "5x5" burger—8 oz. certified choice beef on a 5-inch sesame seed bun—comes in 11 varieties including The Roger (ham, cheese, grilled onion), Black & Blue (blue cheese crumbles and onion straws), Atomic (jalapeño and nacho cheese), and the massive Big Ron (⅔ pound with bacon, cheddar, Thousand Island). Over 40 flavors of Long Island Iced Teas in mason jars have achieved legendary status. Kids "2x2" version available. Open daily until late at $7.45-15—exceptional value.

El Camino Kitchen in Pleasant Prairie (9900 77th Street) brings Mexican-American fusion with SoCal-inspired gourmet burgers. The Elote Burger tops two 4-ounce patties with chihuahua cheese and Mexican street corn. The Bandito adds chorizo, grilled jalapeños, queso blanco, and guacamole. Cheeseburger quesadillas appetizer offers a unique Mexican twist. Vegetarian and vegan options available. 19 craft beers on tap with specialty margaritas. Prices run $15-18.50.

The Spot Drive-In (2117 75th Street, Kenosha) has operated year-round carhop service since July 4, 1945—one of the last authentic drive-ins. Never-frozen beef arrives fresh daily, and homemade root beer (including Diet) comes in frosted mugs. The unique "Spot" burger combines a single brat patty with a hamburger patty, layered with 2 thick bacon slices and cheese—a customer-created combination. Cooked in peanut oil for distinctive flavor. Famous breaded cheese squares and cauliflower. Cash only (ATM on premises), open daily 11am-2am at just $5-10. Extremely family-friendly with outdoor seating and dogs allowed.

Additional Kenosha County options include Big Star Drive-In (carhop service since 1954, open March-August only), The 1844 Table & Mash inside The Stella Hotel with their Stella Burger featuring Nueske's pork belly, and Waterfront Warehouse serving Merkts signature cheese spread burgers.

Planning Your Burger Tour

The Greater Milwaukee burger scene offers something for every preference and budget. History buffs should prioritize Kewpee Lunch (1926), The Spot Drive-In (1945), Ron's Place (1972), and Solly's Grille (1936). Families will find paradise at Georgie Porgie's Treefort, Point Burger Bar's attached arcade and go-karts, and Bristol 45 Diner's nostalgic atmosphere.

For the most adventurous palates, Local Press Burger Bar's wild game blends, Fox Den's ketchup-free creativity, and Crafty Cow's cheese-stuffed innovations push boundaries. Budget-conscious eaters should hit Kewpee Lunch (under $4), The Spot Drive-In (under $10), Stumble Inn (under $7), and Kopp's Frozen Custard (under $5).

Most establishments welcome walk-ins, though weekend evenings at popular spots like Brazen Head Pub (especially after their state win), Crafty Cow, and Merriment Social may require patience. Seasonal spots like Wayne's Drive-In (April-November), Nite Owl (limited winter hours), and Big Star Drive-In (March-August) require planning.

Whether you're seeking a butter-drenched tradition, a creative chef-driven experiment, or a nostalgic carhop experience, Greater Milwaukee's six counties deliver some of the Midwest's most interesting burgers. Your only challenge is deciding where to start.