Stacker utilized YouGov Ratings to compile a list of the top 20 burger restaurant chains in America based on customer feedback from the third quarter of 2024.
Since 1986, this Los Angeles-based concept has provided a nostalgic 1950s diner experience, complete with classic burgers and hand-spun milkshakes. Known for its retro ambiance and friendly service, Johnny Rockets is a staple in shopping malls and tourist areas across the U.S. It offers a taste of classic American comfort food.
#20. Johnny Rockets
Since 1986, this Los Angeles concept has offered a nostalgic 1950s diner experience with classic burgers and hand-spun milkshakes. The Johnny Rockets franchise is prominent in shopping malls and tourist areas throughout the U.S., giving customers retro ambiance, friendly service, and classic American comfort food.
#19. Smashburger
Founded in Denver, Colorado, in 2007, Smashburger is celebrated for its “smash” technique, where burger patties are hand-smashed on a hot grill to create a crispy, caramelized crust. The chain has expanded to about 240 locations in the U.S. and internationally, spreading its flavorful burgers far and wide.
#18. Culver’s
Known for its ButterBurgers, Culver’s has used locally sourced butter from Alcam Creamery in Sauk City, Wisconsin, since its inception in 1984. The rich, flavorful burgers are paired with regional specialties like cheese curds and frozen custard.
#17. Big Boy
Originally known as Bob’s Pantry when it opened in Glendale, California, in 1936, Big Boy has been offering its signature double-decker burgers for nearly nine decades. These burgers include two thin beef patties, shredded lettuce, American cheese, and Big Boy special sauce on a sesame seed bun.
#16. Shake Shack
Shake Shack began as a hot dog cart in New York City’s Madison Square Park in 2001 and evolved into a full restaurant by 2004. Now with over 330 locations across the U.S., it is a popular spot for high-quality burgers served on potato buns, often paired with seasonal frozen custard shakes.
#15. Fuddruckers
Founded in 1980 in San Antonio, Texas, Fuddruckers is famous for its “world’s greatest hamburgers,” made from meat ground on-site and buns baked in-house. Customers can personalize their burgers at the toppings bar, with options like the beloved cheese sauce.
#14. Carl’s Jr.
Originating in California in 1941, Carl’s Jr. is known for its charbroiled burgers, particularly the Western Bacon Cheeseburger. The chain has expanded to 28 countries and is recognized for its attention-grabbing advertisements over the years.
#13. Whataburger
Established in 1950 in Corpus Christi, Texas, Whataburger is famous for its large, Texas-style burgers served on five-inch buns. The chain is also known for unique condiments like fancy ketchup, available for purchase at Whatastore.
#12. Ruby Tuesday
Founded in 1972 in Knoxville, Tennessee, Ruby Tuesday is known for its garden bar and handcrafted burgers. The menu includes varieties like the classic Ruby’s cheeseburger and the French onion smashed burger.
#11. Jack in the Box
Since 1951, Jack in the Box has been serving a wide-ranging menu that includes the popular Jumbo Jack burger. Known for its late-night offerings, the chain has built a strong customer base with its quirky menu options and value.
#10. Steak ‘n Shake
Founded in 1934 in Normal, Illinois, Steak ‘n Shake attracts customers with its thin, crispy-edged burgers and nostalgic diner atmosphere. The “steakburgers” are made from quality beef cuts, and pairing them with hand-dipped milkshakes is a popular choice.
#9. White Castle
Established in 1921 in Wichita, Kansas, White Castle is credited with inventing the fast-food burger chain. Known for its small, square sliders, the chain offers a nostalgic feel and is the oldest mass burger chain in America.
#8. Hardee’s
Hardee’s began serving its charbroiled burgers in Greenville, North Carolina, in 1960. Known for its char flavor, the chain continues to offer the same quality burgers that have attracted customers for decades.
#7. In-N-Out Burger
A West Coast staple, In-N-Out Burger was founded in 1948 in Baldwin Park, California. Known for fresh, never-frozen patties and “Animal Style” burgers, the chain is celebrated for its simplicity and consistency.
#6. Red Robin
Established in 1969 in Seattle, Red Robin started as Sam’s Tavern in the 1940s. It now has over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada, offering gourmet burgers and bottomless fries in a family-friendly setting.
#5. McDonald’s
Founded in 1940 in San Bernardino, California, McDonald’s revolutionized the fast-food industry with its “Speedee Service System.” As the world’s largest burger chain, it offers iconic menu items like the Big Mac and Quarter Pounder.
#4. Five Guys
Founded in 1986 in Arlington, Virginia, Five Guys is renowned for its customizable burgers and freshly cut fries. The chain makes 165 million burgers annually and has 1,800 stores worldwide.
#3. Sonic
Founded in 1953 in Shawnee, Oklahoma, Sonic popularized the drive-in experience with curbside speakers. The chain offers a classic dining experience with juicy burgers, foot-long hot dogs, and an extensive drink menu.
#2. Burger King
Burger King, the second largest fast-food hamburger chain globally, began in Miami in 1954. Famous for its flame-grilled burgers, the chain sells millions of Whoppers daily.
#1. Wendy’s
Founded in 1969 in Columbus, Ohio, Wendy’s introduced the modern pick-up window. Known for its quality ingredients and value menu, Wendy’s is famous for its square burgers and signature Frosty dessert.