There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly cooked burger, especially when shared with good company in a welcoming local spot. Omaha takes its burgers seriously, with restaurants offering everything from classic patties to chef-inspired creations that tempt the taste buds.
Let’s get to it.
Block 16
Block 16 raises Omaha’s burger bar with chef-driven creativity and a lively atmosphere. Each burger starts with local Rosman Family Farms beef, hand-pattied and cooked to order. House-made sauces and unexpected toppings create bold combinations, while music and open seating add to the spot’s fun energy.
The Croque Garçon is a standout. It layers ham, a fried farm egg, truffle mayo and melty cheese on a pillowy ciabatta roll. For fans of tradition, the Block Burger delivers all the classic flavors with extra care, from fresh lettuce to ripe tomato on an artisan sesame seed bun. Vegan and gluten-free options show the menu’s inclusive spirit, and daily specials keep things playful.
Sides here are equally tempting. Seasoned fries and poutine share space with rotating cocktails, milkshakes and an ever-changing craft beer list. Indoor seating works for lunch or an early dinner, and highchairs, curbside pickup and a zero-waste station keep families and eco-minded diners happy. Orders are placed at the counter, napkins are always within reach and free street parking adds to Midtown’s easy charm.
Everett’s
Everett’s delivers down-to-earth energy and Midwestern comfort in a family-run neighborhood pub. Its menu centers on thick, griddled smash-style patties that stay juicy inside a toasted brioche bun. The Everett’s Classic stacks cheddar over crisped edges, while the mushroom Swiss layers portabella mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian-friendly twist.
If you crave bolder flavors, the pulled-pork barbecue bacon burger packs sweet and savory notes. Fried Brussels sprouts tossed in honey, bacon and lime have developed a local following alongside hand-cut fries seasoned with sea salt.
Local craft beers meet a house “garlic ale” on tap, and friendly service from the owners keeps the atmosphere warm and social. Families will find highchairs, kids’ menu options and plenty of booth seating. The strip-mall location offers ample parking for drivers, and pickup service adds convenience. Whether you’re grabbing a casual lunch or settling in for dinner with friends, Everett’s hits every note for a great burger outing.
Louie M’s Burgerlust
Louie M’s Burgerlust satisfies serious burger cravings with a half-pound, hand-pattied patty that stays juicy bite after bite. You can choose from classics like the Bacon Cheddar, or branch out with the Italian Burger topped with salami and provolone, or Guacamole Bacon layered with fresh avocado. A vegetarian burger is also available, so everyone has an option. Beyond burgers, the diner opens early with a full breakfast and brunch menu featuring homemade cinnamon rolls and hearty breakfast burritos.
The vintage 1890s brick building on Vinton Street gives the space a genuine retro vibe. Tin ceilings, neon signage and warm wood booths create a cozy setting, while the outdoor patio invites al fresco dining on sunny days. Sides run from crispy shoestring fries to chili cheese fries, and made-to-order chocolate shakes are a highlight.
This family-owned spot has welcomed neighbors since 1980 and stays open daily for breakfast and lunch. Plenty of parking makes every visit easy, and the service feels as warm as the fresh coffee. For a no-frills diner experience with standout burgers and classic sides, Louie M’s Burgerlust delivers.
Barrett’s Barleycorn Pub & Grill
Barrett’s Barleycorn Pub & Grill has been a neighborhood favorite since 1987, serving straightforward burgers that stick to your ribs. The Killer Burger features half a pound of daily-ground beef on a classic sesame seed bun. For a more loaded approach, the Kitchen Sink comes stacked with bacon, barbecue sauce and nearly every topping available. Bakery-fresh kaiser rolls come from a rotating selection of local bakers, ensuring each bun is soft and flavorful.
All burgers arrive with your choice of crispy shoestring fries, kettle chips or onion chips, with curly-Q fries available for a festive upgrade. Weekly Burger Monday specials and happy hour drink deals add extra value for regulars. The covered patio offers a relaxed spot for outdoor dining, while indoor seating with large-screen TVs keeps sports fans happy. Families will appreciate kids’ menu items, and late-night hours accommodate night owls. Friendly staff, an easygoing pub vibe and ample parking make Barrett’s an ideal spot for anyone seeking a classic burger and a cold drink without fuss.
Wilson & Washburn
Wilson & Washburn occupies a beautifully restored 19th-century building in downtown Omaha, giving the gastropub a historic backdrop. The classic Cheeseburger brings together an 80/20 beef patty, cheddar, crisp lettuce, tomato and housemade red onion jam on a soft sandwich bun. For a plant-based option, the Beet Burger features a falafel-style beet patty, house-smoked peanut butter and pickled jalapeños on a vegan bun. Daily chef specials offer seasonal twists that highlight local produce.
Side dishes feel elevated, with crispy beet chips and poutine croquettes standing out. The bar pours 24 craft and import beers on tap, offers a curated wine list and serves cocktails inspired by Omaha’s past. Exposed brick walls meet sleek tables and under-bar charging stations for a modern yet inviting feel. Full table service makes for a relaxed meal, and weekend brunch extends the menu with items like duck-fat skillet potatoes. Whether you’re grabbing a bite before a show at the Orpheum or settling in for a dinner date, Wilson & Washburn delivers downtown flavor with personality.
Shirley’s Diner
When you step inside Shirley’s Diner, you’ll be greeted by retro booths and a warm, neighborhood feel. This spot specializes in classic burgers done right. Their signature Shirley burger layers a seasoned beef patty with grilled ham, American cheese, onions, pickles, lettuce and tangy house-made sauce. The locally sourced bun holds up through every bite—never soggy, always soft.
You can also try the BBQ Slaw Burger, topped with bacon, coleslaw and crispy fried onions. Both creations arrive alongside sides that shine on their own. The golden onion rings stack up tall and stay crunchy. The fried mushrooms are lightly breaded and addictive.
Rooms for families come equipped with a toy kitchen for little ones and generous kids’ portions. The no-alcohol policy keeps the vibe welcoming at any hour. Regulars mention the full dinner menu and the homemade desserts as extra highlights. If you want a true Omaha original where each lunch feels like a friendly throwback, Shirley’s Diner delivers every single time.
Jackson Street Tavern
At Jackson Street Tavern, burgers meet craft-driven flair without feeling over the top. Their Nebraska Burger starts with a patty made from local short ribs, chuck and brisket, then gets layered with bacon, cheddar, caramelized onions and garlic aioli. It all comes tucked in a toasted brioche bun from a neighborhood bakery.
The menu stays focused but offers enough variety to keep things interesting. You’ll find a fried chicken sandwich, a black bean and crimini mushroom burger, savory poutine and even ahi-tuna nachos. Side dishes include classic hand-cut fries and quick-pickle slaw. Brunch fans have their own burger and rotating coffee cocktails.
Warm brick walls and rustic wood accents give the tavern a cozy but casual edge. Staff members clearly care about the local ingredients and the neighborhood’s spirit. In warmer months, outdoor seating is a popular choice. Whether you’re planning date night or a group outing, Jackson Street Tavern pairs a standout burger with a selection of craft pints in comfortable surroundings.
Report In Pub
In West Omaha, Report In Pub has built a reputation on straightforward, no-frills burgers. They start with a half-pound of fresh ground beef, hand-formed and cooked to order. The soft bakery-style bun stays intact even when you pile on toppings.
Their core menu keeps beef at center stage. Try the Black and Bleu Burger, seasoned with steak spices and topped with bleu cheese crumbles. The BBQ Burger comes with pulled pork and house barbecue sauce. On the side, the fried pickles and hand-battered onion rings often steal the show.
Inside, wood paneling and sports on every screen give the room a friendly pub vibe. You’ll find shuffleboard, a full bar with 20 rotating taps and a giant Bloody Mary loaded with sliders and onion rings. Parking is easy, service feels welcoming and the kid-friendly menu keeps families coming back. With weekday specials and an atmosphere that feels anything but chain, this spot excels at honest burgers and cold drinks.
Paddy McGown’s Pub and Grill
Paddy McGown’s Pub and Grill impresses with burgers made from freshly ground, never-frozen Omaha Steaks beef. Each patty is shaped by hand every morning, resulting in juicy burgers that outshine big-chain offerings.
The signature lineup includes a Reuben Burger loaded with corned beef and sauerkraut. The Top O’ The Morning burger arrives with Irish cheddar, Applewood bacon and a fried egg. All burgers sit on Rotella’s bakery buns and come with house-made seasoned chips. You can upgrade to hand-cut fries or sweet potato fries for a small extra charge.
The full bar highlights Irish favorites alongside local beers. Service is friendly and attentive, whether you visit for a midday meal or a busy weekend brunch. Patio seating is available on warm afternoons. Paddy McGown’s blends homemade recipes with a relaxed, family-run pub atmosphere, making it easy to see why folks keep returning for these flavorful burgers.
Tiger Tom’s Pub
At Tiger Tom’s Pub, you’ll find thick, juicy burgers paired with a soft sesame-seed bun from a nearby bakery. The Tiger Burger arrives cooked to your preference with choices like cheddar or Swiss cheese. For fans of bold flavors, the Black & Blue Burger piles on bacon and crumbled blue cheese.
Sides here are worth ordering on their own. The onion rings come out crispy and seasoned just right. There’s also a kid-friendly pizza night and classic milkshakes if you want to round out your meal. Pool tables, wood-panel walls and a steady stream of neighborhood chatter create a welcoming vibe.
The pub offers rotating taps and happy hour specials for beer enthusiasts. Staff members make first-timers feel at home and regulars never feel rushed. Parking is convenient and there’s no hurry to clear your table. Tiger Tom’s Pub delivers straightforward pub food, friendly service and a down-to-earth setting that keeps people coming back.
