Americans consume 2.4 burgers per day, which adds up to 50 billion each year. We love our hamburgers, but not all burgers (and burger joints) are equally tasty. There’s a lot that goes into a quality patty, and you might be surprised to learn the many different restaurant options.
If you’re on a quest for a truly tasty meal and searching for a great “burger near me,” make sure to consider the following three factors.
1. Stick With the Classic or Be Adventurous
The original hamburger is a go-to staple for many. The classic recipe is one or more meat patties on a bun and sometimes accompanied by ketchup and mustard. Some people like adding lettuce, tomato, and onion or cheese to make it a cheeseburger.
However, there are burger options on menus now that don’t have any meat or dairy at all or recipes that seem downright wild. Some newer variations of burgers include:
- Veggie
- Plant-based burgers
- Black bean
- Shrimp
- Turkey
- Mushroom
- Egg
- Pepperoni
- Cream cheese
- Peanut butter and jelly
So, whether you prefer to stick to a classic recipe or try something new, you can find a restaurant with a menu suited to those tastes.
2. Smashed vs. Thick
There are two main types of burger patties: thick or smashed. Depending on where you live, people have their preferences on what they consider the superior choice. Both styles have their pros, and it’s largely up to what you like.
When searching for a restaurant, check out the menu to see what style they serve.
Smash burgers are a style popular in diners and chain burger joints. The cooking method requires a hot skillet or griddle and a tool to “smash” the patty and create a tasty crust.
Thick burgers are usually served in restaurants, and they’re the type you associate with on hot summer days cooking on the grill. You can find them with a variety of delicious toppings, including other types of meat.
3. The Meat Matters
So you’re looking for the best burgers in Tennessee, but what makes one better than another? A big part of what makes a quality burger is the meat, as it makes all the difference in taste and texture.
It should have the perfect ratio of meat and fat to achieve a flavorful, juicy patty. Great burgers are often combinations of more than one cut of beef. Some of the best cuts include:
- Sirloin and tri-tip
- Chuck steak
- Brisket
- Boneless short rib
Some restaurants also mix and match meat, such as beef and pork. Our burgers here at Burger Republic feature USA Angus Beef.
Craving a Burger Near Me
The next time you get a taste for a quality patty, don’t search for the best “burger near me” without considering these three factors. Each one affects the taste and experience.
Looking for some juicy burgers in Tennessee bursting with flavor? Stop by Burger Republic and find your new favorite dish. We have everything from the tried-and-true classic burger to patties served with Jack Daniel’s honey glaze, honey balsamic-glazed mushrooms, crispy shoestring fries, and tons more.