Whether you're craving a hearty lunch or a reward after a tough workout, it's hard to beat a juicy, mouthwatering burger right off the grill. We've ranked four of our favorite spots to savor a burger around town—along with one best-bet vegetarian option, for those who'd rather abstain from meat.
Red Apron Butcher
Penn Quarter/Union Market District
With a dedication to butchery and charcuterie that dates back to his teenage years, chef Nathan Anda puts out some delicious burgers, using only the best in locally sourced and humane meats. Offered at all three of Red Apron's locations, the Original burger (pictured above; $10) comes with cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickles, tomato and Thousand Island sauce—but adding the house-cured bacon (an extra $2) is a must.
Duke's Grocery
Dupont Circle
If the word "grocery" is making you question our judgement on great burger joints, then get ready to be pleasantly surprised by the one at Duke's. The East London-inspired local pub and supper spot offers glorious double-stacked burgers with melted Gouda on a toasted brioche bun for $12. You can also get it well into the wee hours: 1am on Wednesday and Thursday, and 2am on Friday and Saturday.
Le Diplomate
Logan Circle
Burgers may be as American as apple pie, but this French brasserie's version gives the classic a run for its money. Along with all the traditional accompaniments (cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles), it's also topped roasted mushrooms and fried onion bits, along with the restaurant's special sauce. And you can pair it with an order of thin, crispy, and oh-so-French pommes frites.
Good Stuff Eatery
Capitol Hill/Georgetown
Owned by Top Chef alum Spike Mendelsohn, Good Stuff is the go-to spot for many Washingtonians, and even has a burger named for President Obama, who dined there in 2011. (It boasts bacon, onion marmalade, cheese, and horseradish mayo, but Obama turned it down in favor of a simple cheeseburger.) Good Stuff has two locations around D.C., and you can also catch it on the fly with an outpost at Reagan National Airport.
Vegan burger: Fare Well
H Street Corridor/Atlas District/Near Northeast
This 100% vegan bakery, diner and bar has been heralded for its mushroom-chickpea burgers, which come in Mexican (with spicy cashew cheese and jalapeños) and Greek (with tofu feta and kalamata olives) variations. If you're eating healthy, you can sub out the fries for soup or salad—and maybe make room for a treat from pastry chef Jenny Webb, a two-time champion of Food Network’s Cupcake Wars.
