Unearth The Voyage
Minnesota is home to some of the best burger joints in the country, and locals know it. From cheese-stuffed masterpieces to classic grilled patties, these restaurants have earned devoted fans who will travel far and wide for a single bite. Whether you crave gourmet creations or old-school diner vibes, the North Star State delivers unforgettable burger experiences worth every mile of the journey.
1. Matt’s Bar
Since 1954, this Minneapolis institution has been serving up the legendary Jucy Lucy, a burger that hides molten cheese inside the patty rather than on top. The spelling might be different, but the taste is unforgettable.
Locals and tourists alike pack this no-frills tavern for a taste of history. The cheese center gets dangerously hot, so take your first bite carefully.
Matt’s keeps things simple with classic toppings and a straightforward menu. The atmosphere feels authentically old-school, with wood paneling and a welcoming neighborhood vibe that makes you feel right at home every single visit.
2. 5-8 Club Tavern & Grill
This beloved tavern claims to be the original inventor of the Juicy Lucy, and they have been perfecting their cheese-stuffed creation for decades. With several locations around the Twin Cities, you can find this molten masterpiece close to home.
The cheese inside these burgers gets incredibly hot and gooey, creating an explosion of flavor with every bite. Their casual pub setting makes it perfect for families and burger lovers alike.
Beyond burgers, the menu offers plenty of comfort food favorites. But honestly, most people come here for one thing: that iconic cheese-filled patty that has sparked friendly debates about burger origins for years.
3. The Blue Door Pub
Known for putting a creative spin on the classic stuffed burger, The Blue Door Pub serves up the Blucy, featuring tangy blue cheese melted inside the patty. Their inventive approach has made them a favorite among adventurous eaters.
Multiple Twin Cities locations mean you can satisfy your craving without driving too far. Each burger comes with unique flavor combinations that go beyond traditional toppings.
The pub atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual and trendy. Whether you try the classic Blucy or one of their seasonal specials, expect bold flavors and generous portions that keep customers coming back month after month.
4. Red Cow
Gourmet burgers get serious attention at Red Cow, where locally sourced beef meets premium toppings and creative flavor profiles. With locations across the Twin Cities and Rochester, this mini-chain has built a strong reputation.
Their commitment to quality ingredients shows in every bite. The menu features inventive combinations like peanut butter and bacon or wild mushrooms with truffle aioli.
The modern, upscale atmosphere makes it great for date nights or celebrations. Despite the fancier vibe, prices remain reasonable, and the staff genuinely cares about your dining experience, making Red Cow a standout choice for burger enthusiasts seeking something special.
5. My Burger
This family-owned fast-casual spot has become a Twin Cities favorite thanks to consistently fresh beef and customizable options. Multiple metro locations make it convenient when burger cravings strike.
Everything tastes made-to-order because it is. The patties never see a freezer, which means superior flavor and texture in every burger.
Prices stay affordable despite the quality ingredients. The simple menu focuses on doing burgers right rather than trying to be everything to everyone. Families appreciate the quick service and kid-friendly atmosphere, while burger purists love the straightforward approach that lets the beef quality shine through without unnecessary complications or fancy presentations.
6. Snuffy’s Malt Shop
Step back in time at Snuffy’s, where the 1950s come alive through classic burgers, creamy malts, and vintage decor. Locations in Bloomington, Edina, and Minnetonka bring nostalgic charm to the suburbs.
The retro atmosphere features checkered floors, chrome accents, and servers who make you feel like family. Kids especially love the old-fashioned vibe and sweet treats.
Burgers here are straightforward and delicious, just like grandma might remember from her youth. Pair your meal with a hand-spun malt for the complete experience. Reasonable prices and generous portions make Snuffy’s perfect for family outings or anyone craving comfort food.
7. King’s Place Bar & Grill
Over 80 different burger options await at this small-town legend in Miesville, making it worth the drive for adventurous eaters. The massive menu offers everything from traditional favorites to wild combinations you never imagined.
This humble bar and grill has earned a cult following among Minnesotans willing to travel for exceptional burgers. The variety means every visit can bring a new taste adventure.
Despite the rural location, people drive from Minneapolis and beyond to experience the burger magic. The friendly small-town atmosphere adds to the charm, and the prices remain surprisingly reasonable given the quality and creativity packed into each creation.
8. The Nook
Tucked into a St. Paul neighborhood, The Nook has won hearts with its Juicy Nookie, a cheese-stuffed burger that rivals any in the state. The cozy pub atmosphere makes it feel like your favorite local hangout.
Bowling lanes inside add unexpected entertainment to your burger experience. The combination of great food and fun activities creates a memorable outing.
Limited seating means waits can be long during peak hours, but regulars insist the burger is worth every minute. Creative topping options and perfectly seasoned patties have built a loyal following. The neighborhood vibe keeps things relaxed and welcoming for everyone who walks through the door.
9. Lions Tap
Operating since the 1930s, Lions Tap has mastered the art of the simple, perfect burger using never-frozen beef. Eden Prairie locals consider it a treasured institution that has stood the test of time.
The straightforward approach focuses on quality beef cooked just right without fancy toppings or complicated preparations. Sometimes simplicity truly is best.
The old-school charm extends from the decor to the menu, which keeps things refreshingly uncomplicated. Families have been coming here for generations, creating memories over juicy burgers and crispy fries. The consistent quality over decades proves that when you do something well, there is no need to change.
10. Smashburger
While this national chain operates across the country, Minnesota locations have earned praise for handcrafted patties and local menu variations. The smashing technique creates crispy, caramelized edges that burger fans adore.
Fast-casual service means you get quality without the wait of a sit-down restaurant. The menu offers plenty of customization options to build your perfect burger.
Fresh ingredients and made-to-order preparation set Smashburger apart from typical fast food. Minnesota-specific touches show the chain respects regional tastes. Reasonable prices and consistent quality make it a reliable choice when you need a solid burger without the fuss or commitment of a full restaurant experience.
11. Crooked Pint Ale House
Spread across the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota, Crooked Pint combines excellent Lucy burgers with pub-style comfort food and craft beer. Their stuffed burgers compete with the best in the state.
The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for casual dinners, sports watching, or gathering with friends. Multiple locations mean convenience without sacrificing quality.
Beyond burgers, the menu offers plenty of shareable appetizers and entrees. But the Lucy burgers remain the star attraction, with cheese oozing from perfectly seasoned patties. The combination of good food, cold beer, and friendly service creates an inviting environment that keeps customers returning week after week for another delicious meal.
12. Burger Jones
With locations in Minneapolis and Burnsville, Burger Jones brings trendy energy to the burger scene through gourmet beef blends and inventive toppings. The modern atmosphere attracts younger crowds seeking Instagram-worthy meals.
Creative combinations push boundaries while respecting burger fundamentals. Options range from classic builds to adventurous flavor profiles that surprise and delight.
The bar atmosphere includes craft cocktails and local beers to complement your meal. Despite the upscale vibe, the staff keeps things approachable and fun. Quality ingredients justify slightly higher prices, and the attention to detail shows in every aspect from presentation to taste, making Burger Jones a destination for serious burger enthusiasts.
