Hey there, fellow burger aficionados! If you’re on the hunt for the juiciest, most mouth-watering burgers in Minneapolis, you’ve come to the right place. We all know that nothing beats the perfect burger – it’s like a hug for your taste buds! Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this guide will take you through the city’s crème de la crème of burger joints.
From ooey-gooey cheese-stuffed wonders to sophisticated gourmet patties, Minneapolis is a gold mine of delicious, bun-encased treasures. So, loosen up your belt and let’s get into the beefy heart of this city’s burger scene!
What Makes A Great Burger?
A great burger should have a juicy, flavorful patty, a sturdy yet soft bun, and a balance of toppings and sauces that complement without overwhelming. The texture contrast, the savory meat against the slight sweetness of the bun, the crunch of lettuce or pickles, all contribute to the experience.
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Beef Patty | The patty should be juicy and flavorful, often a blend of different cuts of meat for depth of flavor. |
| Bun | The bun should be sturdy enough to hold the burger and its toppings but soft enough to provide a pleasant texture. A slight sweetness can enhance the overall flavor. |
| Toppings | Toppings should complement the burger without overwhelming it. Common toppings include lettuce, tomato, onions, and cheese, but the possibilities are endless. |
| Sauces | Sauces add moisture and flavor. They can range from classic ketchup and mustard to gourmet aiolis and special house-made sauces. |
| Cooking Technique | The way the burger is cooked affects its taste and texture. A good sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy is key. Preferences on doneness can vary from medium-rare to well-done. |
10. Matt’s Bar: Home of the Jucy Lucy
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A conversation about Minneapolis burgers inevitably leads to the iconic Jucy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger that’s become synonymous with the city’s culinary identity. Matt’s Bar is arguably the most famed purveyor of this molten-centered burger. The moment you bite into a Jucy Lucy, the hot, gooey cheese oozes out, blending perfectly with the seasoned beef. It’s a no-frills place with a dive-bar ambiance, but the focus is all on the burger, a simple yet irresistible creation that has locals and tourists queuing up for a taste.
- Average Price: $7 – $10
- Key Highlights: Known for inventing the Jucy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger. A no-frills, dive-bar atmosphere with a focus purely on the burgers.
9. Revival: Southern Charm in Every Bite
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Revival brings a Southern twist to the Minneapolis burger scene. Known for their fried chicken, their burger is equally commendable. What sets Revival apart is their attention to detail and commitment to quality ingredients. The patty is a mix of ground brisket, short rib, and sirloin, offering a rich and deep flavor. The burger is then topped with American cheese, thick-cut bacon, and house-made pickles, all nestled between a buttery toasted bun. It’s a hearty, comforting burger that exudes Southern hospitality.
- Average Price: $12 – $15
- Key Highlights: Offers a rich, Southern-inspired burger made from a mix of ground brisket, short rib, and sirloin. The menu includes other Southern delicacies like fried chicken.
8. The Nook: A Neighborhood Gem
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Nestled in the heart of St. Paul, The Nook is a small, cozy place that locals swear by. Their burgers are hand-pattied and grilled to perfection, offering a delightful char and juiciness. The Nook is particularly famous for its stuffed burgers, similar to the Jucy Lucy but with an even wider variety of fillings. The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, making it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
- Average Price: $10 – $13
- Key Highlights: Famous for its wide variety of stuffed burgers. A cozy, neighborhood bar vibe with hand-pattied, grilled burgers known for their delightful char and juiciness.
7. Parlour: Elevating the Burger Experience
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Parlour bar, located in the North Loop, is known for its cocktail scene, but their burger has garnered a cult following. This burger is all about minimalism and quality. Featuring just three components – a beef patty, American cheese, and pickles, all on a soft egg bun, the Parlour burger lets each element shine. The beef is a proprietary blend of brisket, ribeye, and sirloin, ground daily and cooked to a juicy medium rare. It’s a testament to how less can indeed be more when it comes to crafting the perfect burger.
- Average Price: $14 – $18
- Key Highlights: Known for a minimalist yet quality-focused burger. Features a proprietary blend of brisket, ribeye, and sirloin, served in a stylish, cocktail-centric atmosphere.
6. Red Cow: Variety and Innovation
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Red Cow offers a wide variety of burgers, appealing to traditionalists and adventurers alike. Their menu features everything from classic cheeseburgers to innovative creations featuring ingredients like goat cheese, date aioli, or bacon jam. Red Cow prides itself on using high-quality, locally sourced beef and fresh, artisanal buns. The ambiance is modern and lively, making it a great spot for a fun outing with friends or a casual date night.
- Average Price: $11 – $16
- Key Highlights: Offers a wide array of burger choices, from classic to innovative. Known for using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and featuring a modern, lively ambiance.
5. Blue Door Pub: The Flavorsome Blucy
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Another contender in the stuffed burger category is the Blue Door Pub, renowned for its “Blucy,” a version of the Jucy Lucy. What sets the Blucy apart are the inventive fillings and combinations that change regularly, offering patrons a new experience with each visit. From the classic to the daring, like a burger stuffed with peanut butter or one featuring a blend of ghost peppers and cheese, there’s always something new to try. The lively atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals looking for a fun, relaxed dining experience.
- Average Price: $10 – $14
- Key Highlights: Renowned for the “Blucy,” a unique take on the stuffed burger. Offers a rotating selection of inventive fillings and combinations in a fun, relaxed setting.
4. Northbound Smokehouse & Brewpub: Smoky Sensations
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At Northbound Smokehouse & Brewpub, the appeal lies in their in-house smoked meats, and their burgers are no exception. The Smokehouse Burger features a smoked beef patty, adding a unique, deep flavor profile that sets it apart from your standard burger. Paired with smoked cheddar, caramelized onions, and a special sauce, it’s a smoky, savory treat. The brewpub atmosphere, complete with a selection of craft beers, makes it a great spot to unwind and savor a meal.
- Average Price: $11 – $15
- Key Highlights: Features a smoked beef patty for a distinct flavor, along with in-house smoked cheddar and a variety of craft beers in a casual brewpub setting.
3. P.S. Steak’s Lounge Burger: A Touch of Elegance
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P.S. Steak is known for its upscale dining experience, but the lounge area offers a more relaxed vibe where you can enjoy one of the city’s best burgers. The Lounge Burger is an elegant take on the classic, featuring a prime beef patty, special sauce, and the perfect amount of toppings. It’s about quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques, resulting in a refined, delicious burger that feels right at home in the steakhouse’s sophisticated setting.
- Average Price: $18 – $22
- Key Highlights: Offers a refined burger experience with prime beef and special sauce in the lounge of an upscale steakhouse, combining elegance with a relaxed vibe.
2. The Lynhall: A Culinary Haven
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The Lynhall is a multifaceted culinary space that includes a bakery, kitchen, and incubator, offering a diverse dining experience. Their burger, known as the Lynhall Burger, features grass-fed beef, special sauce, and a house-made bun that’s a cut above. It’s a simple yet effective combination that focuses on high-quality, flavorful ingredients. The bright, airy space provides a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
- Average Price: $13 – $17
- Key Highlights: Known for the Lynhall Burger featuring grass-fed beef and a house-made bun. Part of a multifaceted space that includes a bakery, kitchen, and incubator, providing a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
1. Burger Jones: Indulgent Creations
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Burger Jones is a place for those looking to indulge. Their menu is a playful exploration of what a burger can be, featuring over-the-top creations loaded with toppings and flavors. From a burger topped with pulled pork and coleslaw to one smothered in cheese curds and gravy, it’s a decadent experience. The lively, quirky atmosphere adds to the fun, making it a great spot for an adventurous meal out.
- Average Price: $12 – $18
- Key Highlights: Known for its playful and over-the-top burgers loaded with unique toppings and flavors. Offers a quirky and vibrant atmosphere for a fun dining experience.
FAQs
Are any of the top burger spots in Minneapolis suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, many of the top burger joints in Minneapolis offer vegetarian or vegan options. For example, The Blue Door Pub offers a variety of veggie burgers, and Red Cow has a quinoa burger that’s quite popular among vegetarians. Always check the current menu or call ahead as offerings might change or vary.
Can I find gluten-free options at these burger places? Absolutely!
Many of the restaurants listed, such as Red Cow and The Nook, provide gluten-free bun options for those with dietary restrictions. However, it’s always best to inform your server of any allergies or dietary restrictions to ensure your meal is safe for consumption.
Are reservations required or recommended at these burger restaurants?
For most of these locations, reservations aren’t necessary, as they operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, especially during peak hours. However, for places like P.S. Steak or Parlour, which might get quite busy or have a more upscale dining experience, making a reservation is recommended.
What price range might I expect for a burger at these top Minneapolis establishments?
The price for a burger can vary widely depending on the place and the type of burger. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $20 for a burger at these popular spots, with some specialty or gourmet burgers costing slightly more.
Do any of these burger spots offer delivery or takeout options?
Yes, many of these restaurants offer takeout, and some even have delivery options through third-party services like DoorDash, UberEats, or GrubHub. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or call directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Are there any seasonal or special burgers that are only available at certain times of the year at these restaurants?
Indeed, several places like The Blue Door Pub and Burger Jones are known for their seasonal or special burgers that rotate throughout the year. These might include unique toppings or themes related to holidays, local events, or seasonal ingredients. It’s always exciting to check back and see what new creations are available!
Final Words
Well, folks, that’s a wrap! We’ve ventured through the bustling streets of Minneapolis and uncovered the top spots that will satisfy your burger cravings. Whether you’ve got a penchant for the classics or a taste for the avant-garde, these joints are flipping patties that are sure to delight. Remember, life’s too short for average burgers, so go out and give these places a try.
Indulge in the juicy goodness, share with friends, or make some new ones over a basket of fries. In the land of 10,000 lakes, these burger havens are treasures waiting to be devoured. Happy eating, and remember, in Minneapolis, every bite is a new adventure!