The Signature Fast Food Burger Each State Is Proud To Call Its Own

Fast food burgers may come wrapped in paper, but state pride wraps around them just as tightly.

Across the country, certain burgers rise above the drive-thru crowd and become unofficial local symbols, the kind people defend fiercely and recommend without hesitation.

Each one reflects regional flavor, loyal followings, and years of familiarity.

1. Alabama: Milo’s Hamburgers – The Milo’s Burger

Famous for its tangy secret sauce that has locals hooked since 1946, this burger is Alabama’s pride and joy.

The patty is thin, crispy-edged, and perfectly seasoned, while the sauce adds a sweet-and-savory punch that keeps you coming back.

Pair it with Milo’s legendary extra-sweet tea, and you’ve got a match made in Southern heaven.

Address: 1800 4th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233

2. Alaska: Arctic Roadrunner – The Ranch Burger

When you’re in the Last Frontier, you need a burger that can handle the wild, and the Ranch Burger delivers.

Loaded with creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, it’s a hearty meal that fuels adventures.

Arctic Circle has been a staple in Alaska for decades, serving up comfort food that locals swear by.

Address: 2477 E 5th Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99508

3. Arizona: The Stand – The Standard Burger

Ground in-house daily, the beef at The Stand is as fresh as it gets, and you can taste the difference in every juicy bite.

This burger keeps things simple but does it so well that you won’t miss the frills.

Locals in Arizona flock here for a straightforward, high-quality burger that hits all the right notes.

Address: 3538 N 7th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85013

4. Arkansas: David’s Burgers – The David’s Burger

Throwback vibes meet serious flavor at David’s Burgers, where the patties are thick, juicy, and made the old-fashioned way.

This is the kind of burger your grandpa would approve of, with no shortcuts or gimmicks.

Each bite is a reminder of simpler times when burgers were about quality meat and honest cooking.

Arkansas residents know that David’s is the real deal, and once you try it, you’ll understand the hype.

Address: 2710 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, AR 72202

5. California: In-N-Out Burger – The Double-Double

There’s a reason people lose their minds over the Double-Double.

Two beef patties, two slices of American cheese, and that magical spread come together in a burger that defines West Coast fast food.

In-N-Out has cult status in California, and the Double-Double is the crown jewel.

Fresh ingredients, never-frozen beef, and a secret menu that makes ordering an adventure all add up to burger perfection.

Address: 9149 W Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069

6. Colorado: Smashburger – The Classic Smash

Born in Denver, Smashburger revolutionized fast-casual dining by smashing patties onto a hot griddle, creating those irresistible crispy edges.

The Classic Smash is where it all started, and it remains a fan favorite.

Colorado takes pride in this homegrown chain that brought the smash technique to the masses.

Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by juicy, flavorful beef that makes you want to order seconds.

Address: 3033 E 1st Avenue, Denver, CO 80206

7. Connecticut: Ted’s Restaurant – The Steamed Cheeseburger

Forget grilling or frying; Connecticut does things differently with the steamed cheeseburger, a regional oddity that’s surprisingly delicious.

The beef and cheese are both steamed, resulting in a tender, moist burger that’s unlike anything else.

Ted’s has been perfecting this method for decades, and locals wouldn’t have it any other way.

It’s quirky, it’s unique, and it’s proof that Connecticut marches to its own burger beat.

Address: 1046 Broad Street, Meriden, CT 06450

8. Delaware: Wayback Burgers – The Cheesy Burger

Originally called Jake’s Hamburgers when it opened in Newark, Wayback Burgers has grown into a beloved chain, but Delaware still claims it as its own.

The Cheesy Burger lives up to its name with gooey, melted cheese blanketing a juicy patty.

Delawareans know that Wayback keeps things simple, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying every single time.

Address: 1000 W Perimeter Road, Newark, DE 19713

9. Florida: BurgerFi – The BurgerFi Cheeseburger

Born in Delray Beach, BurgerFi brought gourmet fast-casual burgers to Florida and beyond.

The BurgerFi Cheeseburger features all-natural Angus beef, fresh toppings, and a commitment to quality that sets it apart from the competition.

This is the burger that proves fast food can be both delicious and responsible.

Floridians love the fresh flavors and the fact that BurgerFi cares about what goes into every bite.

Address: 1221 S Federal Highway, Delray Beach, FL 33483

10. Georgia: The Varsity – The Varsity Chili Burger

As the world’s largest drive-in, The Varsity is an Atlanta institution, and the Chili Burger is its most legendary creation.

A juicy patty gets smothered in rich, meaty chili, then topped with mustard and onions for a flavor explosion.

Generations of Georgians have grown up on this burger, and it remains a must-try for anyone visiting the Peach State.

Address: 61 North Avenue NW, Atlanta, GA 30308

11. Hawaii: Teddy’s Bigger Burgers – The Original Burger

Straight out of Waikiki, Teddy’s Bigger Burgers serves up 1950s-style burgers with island flair.

The Original Burger is all about big, bold flavors and a patty that’s as thick as your appetite.

Hawaii locals and tourists alike line up for this burger, which perfectly captures the laid-back, fun vibe of the islands.

Address: 134 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

12. Idaho: Arctic Circle – Cheeseburger with Fry Sauce

Idaho is the birthplace of fry sauce, that magical blend of ketchup and mayo that transforms any burger into something special.

Arctic Circle’s Cheeseburger paired with fry sauce is a regional treasure that locals guard fiercely.

The burger itself is solid, but the fry sauce is what makes it unforgettable.

If you’ve never dipped a burger in fry sauce, you haven’t truly experienced Idaho’s culinary genius.

Address: 7990 W Fairview Avenue, Boise, ID 83704

13. Illinois: Steak ‘n Shake – The Steakburger

Founded in Normal, Illinois, in 1934, Steak ‘n Shake has been serving up Steakburgers for nearly a century.

The thin, griddled patties are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, delivering old-school diner vibes with every bite.

Illinois residents grew up on these burgers, and the nostalgia factor is strong.

Pair it with a hand-dipped milkshake, and you’ve got a meal that never goes out of style.

Address: 610 Trinity Lane, Normal, IL 61761

14. Indiana: Schoop’s Hamburgers – The Mickey Burger

Schoop’s has been a Northwest Indiana favorite since 1948, and the Mickey Burger is the star of the show.

The patties are smashed onto a hot griddle, creating those signature crispy edges that burger lovers crave.

Indiana locals know that Schoop’s delivers consistency and flavor in every single bite, making it a true regional gem.

Address: 215 Ridge Road, Munster, IN 46321

15. Iowa: Maid-Rite – The Maid-Rite

Technically a loose meat sandwich rather than a traditional burger, the Maid-Rite is Iowa’s quirky answer to fast food beef.

The seasoned ground beef is piled onto a bun without being formed into a patty, creating a unique texture and flavor.

Locals argue passionately about the best way to eat it, but everyone agrees it’s a must-try.

Address: 119 S 3rd Avenue, Marshalltown, IA 50158

16. Kansas: White Castle – The Slider

Founded in Wichita in 1921, White Castle invented the fast-food burger, and the Slider remains an American icon.

These small, square patties are steamed with onions and served on soft buns that practically melt in your mouth.

Kansas proudly claims White Castle as its own, and for good reason.

The Slider changed the way America eats, and it’s still just as craveable today as it was a century ago.

Address: 1511 E Douglas Avenue, Wichita, KS 67214

17. Kentucky: Frisch’s Big Boy – The Big Boy

The Big Boy is a double-decker legend that has been feeding families in the Ohio River Valley since the 1940s.

With two beef patties, special sauce, and fresh toppings, it’s a burger that demands respect and a big appetite.

Frisch’s holds a special place in Kentucky hearts, serving up nostalgia along with every Big Boy.

Address: 2800 Dixie Highway, Crestview Hills, KY 41017

18. Louisiana: Bud’s Broiler – The Number 4

Charbroiled to perfection and slathered in tangy hickory sauce, the Number 4 at Bud’s Broiler is a New Orleans staple that locals swear by.

The smoky flavor from the open flame gives this burger a unique edge you won’t find anywhere else.

Bud’s has been serving up these beauties since 1952, and they’ve never strayed from the recipe that made them famous.

Address: 500 City Park Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119

19. Maine: Fat Boy Drive-In – The Whop-er

A classic coastal drive-in experience awaits at Fat Boy, where the Whop-er has been satisfying Maine appetites since 1955.

This burger is straightforward but delicious, with a juicy patty and all the fixings you’d expect from a seaside joint.

Mainers love the no-frills approach and the reliable quality that keeps them coming back summer after summer.

Address: 198 Old Bath Road, Brunswick, ME 04011

20. Maryland: Boardwalk Fries Burgers Shakes – The Classic Burger

Born in Maryland, Boardwalk Fries Burgers Shakes brings beach-style food to the masses with their Classic Burger.

It’s simple, fresh, and perfectly executed, just like a burger you’d grab after a day at the ocean.

The focus here is on quality ingredients and a laid-back vibe that makes every meal feel like a mini vacation.

Address: 8024 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122

21. Massachusetts: Friendly’s – The Big Beef

Friendly’s has been a New England staple since 1935, and the Big Beef is a nostalgic favorite that brings back childhood memories for many.

This burger is hearty, satisfying, and pairs perfectly with one of Friendly’s famous ice cream sundaes.

Massachusetts residents grew up on Friendly’s, and the Big Beef remains a comforting choice for a casual meal.

Address: 1380 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103

22. Michigan: Halo Burger – The Olive Burger

Michigan’s Olive Burger is a regional oddity that locals absolutely adore.

The combination of juicy beef, chopped green olives, and creamy mayo sounds strange, but it works beautifully, creating a tangy, savory flavor profile that’s totally addictive.

Halo Burger has been serving this unique creation since the 1920s, and it’s become a point of pride for Michiganders.

Address: 3500 Davison Road, Flint, MI 48506

23. Minnesota: Matt’s Bar – The Jucy Lucy

Cheese stuffed inside the patty instead of on top?

That’s the genius of the Jucy Lucy, and Matt’s Bar claims to be the original. When you bite into this burger, molten cheese erupts, so be careful or you’ll burn your tongue.

Minnesota takes its Jucy Lucy seriously, and Matt’s has been perfecting it since the 1950s.

Address: 3500 Cedar Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55407

24. Mississippi: Ward’s – The Big One

Ward’s has been a Mississippi institution since 1978, and The Big One lives up to its name.

This burger is loaded with a thick patty, signature chili, and all the toppings you could want, making it a filling meal that satisfies every time.

Pair it with Ward’s homemade root beer, and you’ve got a classic Southern meal that hits all the right notes.

Address: 1510 W Government Street, Brandon, MS 39042

25. Missouri: Winstead’s – The Winstead Steakburger

A Kansas City institution since 1940, Winstead’s serves up Steakburgers that have stood the test of time.

The patties are griddled to perfection, creating a crispy exterior and juicy interior that burger purists love.

Missouri residents have been enjoying Winstead’s for generations, and the recipe hasn’t changed because it doesn’t need to.

This is old-school burger excellence that never disappoints, served with a side of nostalgia.

Address: 101 Emanuel Cleaver II Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64112

26. Montana: The Burger Dive – The Huckleberry Burger

Montana’s famous huckleberries find their way onto this burger in the form of a sweet-and-savory sauce that’s surprisingly perfect with beef.

The Huckleberry Burger at The Burger Dive is a creative twist that showcases local ingredients with style.

Montanans love this burger because it represents the spirit of the state: adventurous, unique, and unafraid to break the rules.

Address: 117 W Main Street, Bozeman, MT 59715

27. Nebraska: Runza – The Runza Sandwich

While technically a meat-filled bread pocket rather than a traditional burger, the Runza is Nebraska’s answer to fast-food beef, and locals are fiercely loyal to it.

The combination of seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and soft dough is comforting and delicious.

Runza has been a Nebraska staple since 1949, and it’s as much a part of the state’s identity as cornfields.

Address: 2760 S 48th Street, Lincoln, NE 68506

28. Nevada: Heart Attack Grill – The Octuple Bypass Burger

Las Vegas is all about excess, and the Octuple Bypass Burger at Heart Attack Grill takes that philosophy to its logical extreme.

With eight beef patties, this burger is less a meal and more a dare, designed to shock and awe.

It’s not for the faint of heart or the health-conscious, but it’s a spectacle that perfectly captures the Vegas spirit.

Address: 450 Fremont Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101

29. New Hampshire: Gilley’s PM Lunch – The Cheeseburger

What started as a mobile lunch cart in 1912 has become a permanent Portsmouth landmark, and Gilley’s

Cheeseburger is a simple, delicious piece of New Hampshire history. The patties are griddled to perfection, and the no-frills approach lets the quality shine.

Locals love the authenticity and the fact that Gilley’s has stayed true to its roots for over a century.

Address: 175 Fleet Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801

30. New Jersey: White Manna – The Slider

The Hackensack legend known as White Manna has been serving up sliders since 1946, and they’re famous for their small, onion-heavy patties that pack a serious flavor punch.

These burgers are cooked on a flat-top griddle, creating a caramelized crust that’s irresistible.

New Jersey locals know that White Manna is the real deal, with a no-nonsense approach and burgers that speak for themselves.

Address: 358 River Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601

31. New Mexico: Blake’s Lotaburger – The LOTA Burger with Green Chile

Green chile is the official state vegetable of New Mexico, and Blake’s Lotaburger honors that by piling roasted green chile onto their signature LOTA Burger.

The combination of juicy beef and spicy, smoky chile is pure New Mexican perfection.

This burger is so beloved that it’s practically the official state burger, and locals wouldn’t have it any other way.

Address: 10800 Montgomery Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111

32. New York: Shake Shack – The ShackBurger

What started as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park has become a global phenomenon, and the ShackBurger is the star of the show.

With a perfectly cooked patty, melty cheese, and tangy ShackSauce, it’s a burger that balances simplicity and sophistication.

New Yorkers take pride in Shake Shack’s humble beginnings and meteoric rise.

This burger proves that sometimes the best ideas start small and grow into something truly special.

Address: Madison Avenue and E 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010

33. North Carolina: Cook Out – The Cook Out Tray

Cook Out is famous for its insane variety and value, and the Cook Out Tray is the ultimate customizable meal.

Choose your burger, add two sides from a massive list, and wash it down with a Cheerwine float for the full North Carolina experience.

Locals love the affordability and the endless combinations that keep every visit interesting.

Address: 4601 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27606

34. North Dakota: Sickies Garage – The Sickies Burger

With a garage theme and creative toppings that range from the classic to the crazy, Sickies Garage has become a North Dakota favorite.

The Sickies Burger is the flagship, offering a juicy patty with toppings that change things up from the usual burger routine.

The fun atmosphere and commitment to quality make Sickies a go-to spot for locals.

Address: 2505 13th Avenue South, Fargo, ND 58103

35. Ohio: Wendy’s – Dave’s Single

Founded in Columbus by Dave Thomas in 1969, Wendy’s revolutionized fast food with fresh, never-frozen beef and square patties that hang over the bun.

Dave’s Single is a tribute to the founder’s vision of quality and simplicity.

Ohio proudly claims Wendy’s as its own, and the Dave’s Single remains a gold standard in fast-food burgers.

Address: 257 E Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215

36. Oklahoma: Tucker’s Onion Burgers – The Onion Burger

Oklahoma’s Onion Burger is a Depression-era invention that stretched meat by smashing onions directly into the patty, and it’s become a beloved state tradition.

Tucker’s does it right, with caramelized onions that add sweetness and texture to every bite.

The result is a burger that’s greater than the sum of its parts, with onions and beef melding together perfectly.

Address: 324 NW 23rd Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

37. Oregon: Burgerville – The Tillamook Cheeseburger

Oregon’s Burgerville celebrates local ingredients, and the Tillamook Cheeseburger showcases the state’s famous cheddar in all its glory.

The cheese is thick, sharp, and melts beautifully over a juicy beef patty, creating a burger that tastes like the Pacific Northwest.

Seasonal ingredients and a commitment to sustainability make Burgerville a point of pride for Oregonians.

Address: 114 SW 2nd Avenue, Portland, OR 97204

38. Pennsylvania: Burgatory – The Meat Your Maker

Pittsburgh-born Burgatory brings gourmet burgers to the masses, and the Meat Your Maker is a decadent creation loaded with bacon, cheese, a fried egg, and more.

Pennsylvanians love the creativity and the fact that Burgatory isn’t afraid to go big.

This burger is indulgent, satisfying, and worth every single calorie you’re about to consume.

Address: 1601 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228

39. Rhode Island: Stanley’s Famous Hamburgers – The Stanley Burger

Serving Rhode Island since 1932, Stanley’s Famous Hamburgers is a local icon that has perfected the art of the simple, delicious burger.

The Stanley Burger is straightforward, with a griddled patty and fresh toppings that let the beef shine.

Locals appreciate the consistency and the fact that Stanley’s has stayed true to its roots for nearly a century.

Address: 535 Dexter Street, Central Falls, RI 02863

40. South Carolina: Beacon Drive-In – The Chili Cheese A-Plenty

The Chili Cheese A-Plenty at Beacon Drive-In is less a burger and more an edible monument to excess.

Your burger gets buried under a mountain of fries, onion rings, chili, and cheese, creating a meal that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.

South Carolinians love the over-the-top portions and the fact that Beacon doesn’t do anything halfway.

Address: 255 John B White Sr Boulevard, Spartanburg, SC 29306

41. South Dakota: Sugar Shack – The Sugar Burger

A Black Hills legend, the Sugar Shack serves up the Sugar Burger to motorcycle enthusiasts and locals alike.

This burger is hearty, flavorful, and perfect after a long ride through South Dakota’s stunning landscapes.

The laid-back atmosphere and quality burgers make Sugar Shack a beloved stop for anyone exploring the region.

Address: 1320 Mt Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD 57701

42. Tennessee: Krystal – The Krystal Slider

Founded in Chattanooga in 1932, Krystal is the South’s oldest fast-food chain, and the Krystal Slider is a Southern icon.

These small, square burgers are steamed with onions and served on soft buns, creating a flavor that’s distinctly Krystal.

Tennesseans grew up on these sliders, and they remain a nostalgic favorite across the state.

Address: 1 Union Square, Chattanooga, TN 37402

43. Texas: Whataburger – The Whataburger

In Texas, Whataburger isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a religion. The Whataburger itself is a big, bold burger with a distinctive flavor that Texans fiercely defend.

The orange-and-white striped branding is as iconic as the Lone Star itself.

Everything about Whataburger screams Texas pride, from the size to the swagger.

Address: 1711 S Staples Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78404

44. Utah: Arctic Circle – The Black Angus Burger

Utah loves its fry sauce, and Arctic Circle delivers with the Black Angus Burger, a hearty option that pairs perfectly with that iconic condiment.

The Black Angus beef is a step up in quality, making this burger a Mountain West favorite.

Arctic Circle has been a Utah staple for decades, and locals appreciate the regional pride and the flavors that feel like home.

Address: 1302 W 9000 S, West Jordan, UT 84088

45. Vermont: Al’s French Frys – The Cheeseburger

Famous for its hand-cut fries (spelled “frys” on purpose), Al’s French Frys also serves up a simple, quality Cheeseburger that Vermonters adore.

The focus here is on fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation that lets the flavors shine.

It’s a Burlington-area staple that has been feeding locals since 1946.

Address: 1251 Williston Road, South Burlington, VT 05403

46. Virginia: Five Guys – The Cheeseburger

What started in Arlington, Virginia, in 1986 has become a global burger empire, and the Five Guys Cheeseburger is the reason why.

With fresh, never-frozen beef, customizable toppings, and a generous portion of fries, it’s fast-casual done right.

Virginians take pride in Five Guys’ humble beginnings and massive success.

Address: 4626 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22302

47. Washington: Uneeda Burger– Big Star Burger

A modern Seattle favorite, Uneeda Burger is best known for the Big Star Burger, a bold take on comfort food that locals swear by.

This burger stacks a juicy beef patty with bacon, cheddar, crispy fried onions, coleslaw, roasted Fresno chili, and barbecue sauce, delivering sweet, smoky, crunchy, and tangy in every bite.

It feels indulgent without being overworked, which is exactly why it has become Uneeda’s most talked-about order.

Address: 4302 Fremont Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103

48. West Virginia: Fat Patties – The West Virginian

Huntington’s Fat Patties brings creativity to the burger game with the West Virginian, a burger loaded with inventive toppings that showcase local flavors.

Each bite is an adventure, with combinations that surprise and satisfy in equal measure.

West Virginians appreciate the local pride and the willingness to experiment with bold flavors.

Address: 1316 4th Avenue, Huntington, WV 25701