Unearth The Voyage
Indiana might not be the first place you think of when craving the perfect burger, but locals know better. Scattered across the Hoosier State are burger joints that have earned legendary status through decades of serving up juicy patties, creative toppings, and unforgettable flavors. From historic drive-ins to modern gastropubs, these spots prove that the best burgers are often worth a little extra drive time.
1. BRU Burger Bar
BRU Burger Bar has transformed the burger scene across Indianapolis and its surrounding suburbs with over 17 locations throughout the region. Chef-driven creativity meets classic comfort food here, where fresh-ground patties receive elevated treatment with unexpected toppings and flavor combinations.
What sets BRU apart is its commitment to quality without pretension. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual neighborhood hangout and modern gastropub, making it ideal for both family dinners and nights out with friends.
Their menu rotates seasonal specials alongside dependable favorites, ensuring repeat visitors always find something new. With locations spread across the metro area, you’re never too far from a BRU experience worth planning your route around.
2. Bub’s Burgers & Ice Cream
Hand-pattied perfection defines every burger at Bub’s, where the pledge to never freeze their ground chuck has become a badge of honor. Locations in Carmel, Bloomington, and Zionsville each radiate that hometown warmth that makes regulars feel like family from their first visit.
The famous “Big Ugly” challenge has turned casual diners into local legends—those brave enough to tackle this massive creation earn bragging rights and a spot on the wall of fame. Even if you skip the challenge, standard-sized burgers deliver the same quality beef and house-made buns.
Hand-dipped shakes provide the perfect sweet finish, making Bub’s a true burger pilgrimage destination that rewards the journey with genuine flavor and character.
3. Steak ‘n Shake
Founded right in the Indianapolis area, Steak ‘n Shake carries deep Indiana roots that stretch back generations. The chain built its reputation on steakburgers—patties made from premium cuts—and hand-dipped milkshakes that have fueled countless late-night study sessions and road trips.
While the brand has expanded beyond state lines, Indiana locations hold special significance as the birthplace of this beloved institution. Recent developments in 2025 have kept the chain active and newsworthy, maintaining its presence across the Hoosier landscape.
Nostalgia runs strong here, from the black-and-white checkered floors to the signature shoe-string fries. It’s an easy, reliable stop that connects modern travelers to decades of Indiana dining history.
4. Triple XXX Family Restaurant
Claiming the title of Indiana’s first drive-in restaurant, Triple XXX has served West Lafayette and Purdue University crowds since the early days of automobile culture. The Duane Purvis All-American burger honors a local football legend and remains the star attraction on a menu steeped in tradition.
College-town energy fills this iconic spot, where generations of students have celebrated victories and nursed defeats over burgers and fries. The champagne-bottle root beer served alongside your meal adds authentic vintage charm you won’t find at modern chains.
Historic photographs line the walls, telling stories of decades past while current patrons create new memories. If you’re anywhere near Purdue, skipping Triple XXX would be missing a genuine piece of Indiana culture.
5. Powers Hamburgers
Since the 1940s, Powers Hamburgers has perfected the art of the slider in Fort Wayne. These aren’t your typical mini-burgers—they’re flavorful, satisfying little gems that locals order by the half-dozen without blinking.
The tiny patties cook quickly on a well-seasoned griddle, developing crispy edges while staying tender inside. Simple toppings let the beef quality shine through, proving that great burgers don’t need elaborate ingredient lists.
Deep local following barely describes the devotion Powers inspires; families return generation after generation, introducing newcomers to this Fort Wayne institution. The compact size means you can (and probably will) try multiple burgers in one sitting, making it an active, celebrated piece of Hoosier burger history that continues drawing crowds eight decades later.
6. Don Hall’s Hollywood Drive-In
Part of the respected Don Hall restaurant family, Hollywood Drive-In captures authentic 1950s drive-in magic that most places only imitate. The Big Buster burger lives up to its name—a hearty, classic construction that satisfies serious appetites.
Curb service adds nostalgic charm, letting you enjoy your meal from the comfort of your car just like diners did seventy years ago. The experience transports you back to simpler times when drive-ins dotted every highway and burgers were the ultimate road food.
Fort Wayne claims several burger legends, and Don Hall’s Hollywood stands proud among them. Whether you park and eat outside or grab a booth inside, you’re participating in a tradition that defines Indiana’s love affair with great burgers and memorable dining experiences.
7. Flamme Burger
Wood and char-grilled preparation sets Flamme Burger apart in the Indianapolis area, where fire adds distinctive smoky depth to every patty. Creative beef blends ensure each burger delivers big, bold flavors that satisfy serious burger enthusiasts.
The modern fast-casual format means you order at the counter but receive food quality that rivals sit-down restaurants. Flames kiss the meat, creating those coveted grill marks and caramelized crust that elevate a good burger to greatness.
Located near Keystone, Flamme has built a loyal following among locals who appreciate the difference real fire makes. The menu balances classic builds with inventive combinations, giving both traditional and adventurous eaters something to celebrate. Reliably great describes every visit, making it worth programming into your GPS.
