posted May 03, 2024

Lancaster, PA’s Best Burger Spots

High quality local burgers hot off the grill!

Fewer things are better than a burger fresh off the grill. From the classic cheeseburger to one piled high with tasty toppings, this nostalgic sandwich conjures up memories of backyard barbeques and days at the diner. Here in Lancaster County, you can find restaurants inspired by the past, along with spots focused on today’s trending flavors– who are all flipping delicious burgers for you to try.

DJ’s Taste of the 50s
2410 Old Philadelphia Pk, Lancaster
A trip to DJ’s Taste of the 50s will have you feeling like you stepped back in time – from the décor and vintage lunch counter to the all-American menu featuring burgers, fries, milkshakes and floats. Locals raved about their burgers that range from the classic (lettuce, tomato, onion & mayo) to the spunky Caribbean Burger (crushed pineapple, spicy jerk sauce & pepper jack cheese combined with crispy bacon). For the complete experience, be sure to pair your burger of choice with a creamy, dreamy shake or soda float.

Iron Hill Brewer y
781 Harrisburg Pk, Lancaster
Another stellar recommendation is Iron Hill Brewery and their beer-inspired burgers. Pop in to this sleek-yet-casual brewery and restaurant for one of their signature beers and scratch-made eats. Two of their burger offerings will have your mouth watering as you read the menu, both inspired by the beer they brew – the Pimento Cheeseburger (Vienna Red Lager and Ore House IPA-pickled pimento cheese, bacon, bread and butter pickles, pickled jalapenos, crispy fried onion rings, served on potato roll) and the Drunk Monk Burger (Wee Heavy Ale-caramelized onions, mushrooms, arugula, rosemary truffle aioli, brie cheese, served on potato roll).

Cabalar Meat Co.
325 N Queen St, Lancaster
Cabalar is a unique eatery that combines the best of a butchery and a burger joint. Located in the heart of Lancaster, they offer a delicious selection of burgers, sandwiches, fries, and shakes, all made with high-quality ingredients. They are a family-run establishment, so they take pride in serving their customers only the best. There is also a great selection of craft beers and cocktails from Mad Chef Brewery. Since 2018 their goal has been to create food that you'll want to rave about to your neighbors. So, come down to Cabalar with an open mind, an empty stomach, and stretchy pants to enjoy some tasty offerings.

Horse Inn
540 E Fulton St, Lancaster
At the Horse Inn, there’s only one burger on the menu – but trust us, it’s the only one you need. Locals love this burger and rightfully so. It’s custom blend of short rib, brisket, chuck & 10% dry aged beef makes for a tender, juicy and most importantly, flavorful burger that they top simply with lettuce, red onion, tomato, white American cheese and special sauce. The bun is made locally by Alfred & Sam’s and toasted to perfection. While you’re enjoying the burger paired with an artfully crafted cocktail, take in the speak-easy vibes of this restaurant that dates back to the 1920s.

Route 66
45 W Liberty St, #2700, Lancaster
Locals can’t get enough of Route 66 and their out-of-this-world burgers. Their burgers are more of the flat, crispy on the edges type that are ideal for stacking and layering with melted American cheese. They make a mean special sauce, then top the burger with the classics (lettuce, tomato and onion). You’ll dig this uncomplicated, classic burger while visiting Downtown Lancaster.

Smokestack BBQ
15 W Main St, Strasburg
New to the dining scene in Strasburg, Smokestack BBQ is a cozy spot to grab a bite with house-smoked meats and delectable mac & cheese. Also on their menu is a fantastic selection of cheeseburgers – from the simple cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, and onion to something they’ve dubbed “the MOAB (mother of all burgers)” – featuring four cheeses, bacon, pulled pork AND brisket. For those seeking a happy medium, ask for “The Pig’s Caboose” – a cheddar topped burger with pulled pork, cole slaw and their original house made BBQ.