MAP IT
Grab a delicious cheeseburger at any of these awesome local spots
With several locations around the District, including spots in neighborhoods such as Dupont Circle, Navy Yard and Chinatown, Shake Shack should be no stranger to the cheeseburger lovers in your life. The classic ShackBurger with cheese and Shack Sauce is delicious (we recommend asking for extra Sauce), but the ‘Shroom Burger is also sure to get your taste buds going as well. Don’t worry – it features melted muenster and cheddar cheeses, so it still qualifies for National Cheeseburger Day.
Known for its can’t-miss brunch, Le Diplomate also boasts a can’t-miss burger on its menu. The Burger Américain is the French take on a Big Mac. We’re talking two patties, American cheese, pickles, onions and special sauce, and this all comes with a side of pommes frites. Mmmm … is it lunch time yet?
Located in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, The Salt Line is mainly known for its awesome seafood. However, insiders are well aware of the delicious New England Smash Burger. Prepare yourself for two ground patties, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle and mayo on a sesame bun. Currently, the restaurant is open for pick-up, delivery and socially distanced patio seating.
Head to NoMa for beer and burgers at Wunder Garten, where the always welcoming and vibrant beer garden has partnered with local food trucks to provide all the nomz. While La Buena serves up authentic empanadas, Swizzler offers eight different burgers, including two vegetarian options, as well as three types of fries. Chow down on the Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño (two patties, cheddar, thick-cut bacon, candied jalapeños, arugula, shallot and secret sauce), the Livin’ On The Veg (sweet potato-tahini burger, avocado, arugula, shallot, dill pickle and viva sauce) or one of the other six mouth-watering options.
You can find Spike Gjerde’s Good Stuff Eatery and their delicious burgers in Capitol Hill or while strolling through Georgetown. Give the Prez Obama Burger a try, featuring Good Stuff’s signature farm-raised beef patty, along with applewood bacon, onion marmalade, roquefort cheese and horseradish mayo.
Duke's Counter
Conveniently located in three neighborhoods in the District (Dupont Circle, Foggy Bottom and Woodley park), Duke’s Grocery has a burger that’s sure to properly satisfy your burger fix. The Proper Burger (see what we did there?) is packed with flavors. Daydream on this: Creekstone Farms Angus beef, melted gouda cheese, charred red onions, pickles, sweet chili sauce and garlic aioli, all on a brioche bun.
If bold burger flavors tickle your fancy, Lucky Buns is the place for you. Spice up your life with the El Jefe Bun, a stunning concoction that includes two patties, hatch green chili relish, gouda cheese, queso fresco, red onion yellow mustard and shaved lettuce. You can order take-out or delivery from Lucky Buns’ locations at Union Market and in Adams Morgan.
A luxurious overnight stay is not the only reason to visit the Four Seasons in Georgetown. Stop by the Seasons Restaurant for lunch to experience the Spinach & Bacon Wagyu Burger. Yes, you read that correctly. Elevate your mid-day meal with this nine-ounce grass-fed Wagyu beef creation with sautéed spinach, crispy bacon sauce, sweet onion and American cheese. It's okay to enjoy it another two or three times before you check out.
Doyle Bar and Lounge, located inside the Dupont Circle Hotel, features cocktails inspired by the 1950s and '60s and a menu with a little something for everyone, including The Dupont Prime Aged Burger. Imagine your classic cheeseburger, but elevated with Irish cheddar, heirloom tomato, crispy butter lettuce and caramelized onions. Add a side of frites and smoked bacon on top of your burger and your taste buds will thank you.
This gastropub located in Penn Quarter offers a variety of flavors and fusions, but the USDA Prime Tap Burger delivers a classic cheeseburger experience to satisfy your craving. Savor this juicy creation that features American cheese, lettuce, red onions, pickles and special sauce layered on a brioche bun. Round it out with a cold craft beer and hand-cut fries.
How about a burger with a view? Situated at the top of Hotel Washington, the VUE Rooftop features panoramic views of the District and indulgent selections of surf and turf, cocktails and more. The VUE burger is piled high with double beef patties, grilled onions, a house sauce, cheddar, pickles, lettuce and tomato. There’s also the option to add on pork belly – yes, please! For those who abstain from eating meat, there’s a vegetarian option, complete with Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, grilled onions and truffle mayo.
