Top 10 Burgers in Greater Grand Rapids, MI (2025 Edition)
Greater Grand Rapids boasts a thriving burger scene, from classic diners to innovative brewpubs. Drawing from reviews on Yelp, Google, Reddit, and social media like X and Facebook, we’ve curated this list of the top 10 spots offering juicy patties, creative toppings, and unbeatable flavors. Whether you’re craving a smash burger or a stuffed masterpiece, these restaurants deliver quality and local charm.
1. Black Napkin (966 Fulton St E)
Surprised? Of course not. Black Napkin excels in smash burgers, earning high praise on Reddit and Yelp (4.6/5 from 130+ reviews) for inventive options like the Malcolm with American cheese, shredduce, pickles, and special sauce. This takeout spot focuses on quality ingredients and house-made sodas—perfect for a quick, flavorful bite in Eastown.
2. Nonla Burger (449 Bridge St NW)
Nonla Burger brings a modern twist to classic burgers, consistently topping Yelp lists with a 4.5/5 rating from hundreds of reviews. Their smash burgers, like the Nonla Way with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and special sauce, are praised for fresh ingredients and perfect execution. Affordable and fun, with locations expanding from Kalamazoo—don’t miss the hand-cut fries.
3. Stella’s Lounge (53 Commerce Ave SW)
Stella’s Lounge is renowned for its award-winning giant stuffed burgers, earning accolades like “Best Burger in Grand Rapids” from GR Mag and even national recognition from GQ. With a 4.4/5 rating on Yelp from over 900 reviews, locals rave about originals like the Stella Blue with bacon and blue cheese sauce. Pair it with one of their 250+ whiskeys in a retro arcade atmosphere—great vegan options available too.
4. Butcher’s Union (438 Bridge St NW)
Butcher’s Union is a local favorite for its high-quality, house-ground burgers, earning a 4.5/5 rating on Yelp from over 600 reviews. Their signature Union Burger, featuring aged cheddar, bacon jam, and pickles, is celebrated for its rich flavors and paired with an extensive whiskey selection. This upscale gastropub offers a refined yet approachable vibe.
5. Bigfoot Burger Co. (5344 Plainfield Ave NE)
Bigfoot Burger Co. stands out with its 1/2 lb Bigfoot Blend patties (brisket, bacon, chuck), earning 4.7/5 on Google from enthusiastic reviews. Favorites like the Scorchin’ Squatch with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and jalapeños deliver bold flavors. Started as a food truck, now with a brick-and-mortar spot—pair with fresh fries.
6. Lost Art Brewhouse (3393 Remembrance Rd NW)
Lost Art Brewhouse combines craft beer with smash burgers, boasting 4.7/5 ratings. Their food truck origins shine in flavorful patties—try the double with house fries. Nano-brewery vibe in Walker.
7. The Littlebird (95 Monroe Center St NW)
The Littlebird is a downtown hotspot earning 4.4/5 on Yelp from over 500 reviews for its smashed burgers and creative menu. Reddit users praise the juicy patties and amazing fries—try the classic smash burger. Great for breakfast or dinner in a vibrant, friendly atmosphere.
8. The Electric Cheetah (1015 Wealthy St SE)
The Electric Cheetah is a quirky Uptown favorite, boasting a 4.4/5 rating on Yelp for its creative burgers like the “Burger Bonanza” with bacon, cheddar, and house-made aioli. Known for bold flavors and local ingredients, this spot’s eclectic vibe and root beer selection make it a must-visit.
9. The Winchester (648 Wealthy St SE)
The Winchester offers elevated pub burgers with local ingredients, rated 4.4/5 on Yelp. Try the classic with house-made pickles—paired with craft cocktails. Cozy atmosphere in Uptown, great for brunch too.
10. Brick and Porter (47 Monroe Center St NW)
Brick and Porter is a downtown gem known for its craft burgers, earning a 4.3/5 rating on Yelp from over 400 reviews. The signature B&P Burger, with smoked gouda, bacon, and house aioli, is a fan favorite on Reddit for its juicy patty and perfect balance. Pair it with a craft beer or cocktail in this cozy, modern pub setting.
Honorable Mentions!
These spots just missed the top 10 but are still worth a visit for their standout burgers and unique vibes.
Choo Choo Grill (1209 Plainfield Ave NE)
This historic diner, open since 1946, scores 4.5/5 on Yelp for its legendary burgers like the Red Caboose half-pounder. Reddit users highlight the homemade shakes and railroad-themed charm. A true local gem with breakfast all day.
Blue Dog Tavern (638 Stocking Ave NW)
Blue Dog Tavern is a neighborhood favorite with a 4.4/5 on Tripadvisor, known for its no-frills burgers and hot dogs. Reviews praise the juicy patties, like the double cheeseburger with bacon, in a historic building turned cozy pub—pair with tots for the full experience.
Terra GR (1429 Lake Dr SE)
Terra GR focuses on farm-to-table fare, earning 4.3/5 on Yelp from over 500 reviews for its sustainable burgers made with local ingredients. Try the double smash with special sauce—praised for fresh flavors in an Eastown setting with happy hour deals.
7 Monks Taproom (740 Michigan St NE)
7 Monks Taproom pairs craft beer with gourmet burgers, rated 4.4/5 on Tripadvisor. Their Greasy Spoon double smash burger is a hit on social media, especially on $10 burger nights—enjoy with one of 51 taps in a lively gastropub atmosphere.
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