Where to Find the Best Burgers Around the Eastside

The Eastside area is a burger lover’s playground, where classic drive-in charm and wild flavor experiments go bun-to-bun for top billing. Whether you crave a retro milkshake, a filet mignon patty, or a spicy zinger wrapped in paratha, there’s a spot with your name (and appetite) on it. Hungry yet? Let’s dig in and crown your new favorite burger joint.

Burgermaster | Classic Drive-In Nostalgia

Stepping into Burgermaster is like hitting rewind to the drive-in heyday when carhops ruled and burgers meant an evening feast on your front seat. The grass-fed beef patties here skip antibiotics and hormones, delivering a juicy foundation for classic toppings: melty American cheese, crisp lettuce and tomatoes that taste like they sprang from a garden. A swipe of tangy special sauce ties it all together and leaves you plotting which secret recipe made it so addictive.

Generous portions mean you’ll no doubt be sharing fries with anyone brave enough to lean over you. Milkshakes in flavors like Snickers and Oreo redefine dessert by letting you sip and slurp your way through a candy bar. Families love the nostalgic vibe and no-fuss menu makes ordering a breeze.

There’s no craft beer list or kale salad here, just a straightforward lineup of burgers and hand-breaded Alaskan cod if fish is more your style. Whether it’s a late-night fix or a retro treat, this classic spot ensures your car-dining experience feels both fun and shameless. Check out the menu that made them a staple.

Tipsy Cow | For the Adventurous Burger Fiend

If you’re convinced that a burger needs an ingredient your grandma can’t pronounce, this spot will feel like Disneyland for your taste buds. Here a pasture-raised, grass-fed beef patty meets beer-battered bacon, Beecher’s cheddar, harissa aioli or Sriracha lime sauce on a fluffy Grand Central Bakery bun.

The “Rockstar” burger pushes boundaries with maple syrup, a fried egg, and a hefty dose of attitude. It almost reads like breakfast in disguise and laughs at anything too classic. Each order arrives with hand-cut fries that live up to the hype.

The decor strikes the perfect balance between playful and refined, inviting you to kick back and savor every bite. Bright pops of color give the space casual energy without feeling cluttered.

Milkshakes come spiked or sober, free of judgment. Kids get their own menu and vegetarians won’t be left longing. Ample parking and a family-friendly atmosphere make it easy to relax.

This is the spot to toss aside restraint and eat like a local. Check out the menu that will ruin fast-food for you.

Ox Burger | Smash Burgers With a Laotian Twist

Leave ordinary smash burgers behind and step into Ox Burger’s vibrant world of crispy edges and bold toppings. Each beef patty cooks until it sprouts lacy, crunchy borders that demand applause. They then pile on daring ingredients like thick-cut cured pork belly, herby taro stem, pickled onions and a Laotian jaew bong mayo that’s creamy and fiercely spiced.

The signature Lao Burger is a glorious mess of double patties, oozy American cheese and fresh cilantro for brightness. Plant-based Impossible patties stand proudly alongside crispy fried chicken and even flaky fish sandwiches. No matter your preference, you can trust Ox Burger to surprise you. The patio under neon lights buzzes with laughter until late in the evening.

Save room for seasoned fries that arrive with three house-made sauces you’ll fight over. And for a sweet finish, the Vietnamese coffee soft serve hits every note of bitter and sweet. It’s a burger joint with a point of view, reminding you that playful twists can make classics feel brand new. See what’s cooking at Ox Burger.

FlintCreek Cattle Co. | For Filet Mignon Fans Only

FlintCreek Cattle Co. grinds filet mignon into patties so tender they redefine expectations. The Blue Cheese Butcher lives up to its name with house sauce, tangy blue cheese and caramelized onions on peppery arugula. All of it rests on a Sea Wolf Bakery bun that somehow feels almost too fancy for a casual meal.

Craft cocktails appear in sleek glasses, daring you to swap beer for something more creative. Even the fries refuse to play it safe, showing up as bite-sized Pommes Dauphinoise instead of your usual shoestrings. The modern dining room balances upscale touches with a welcoming vibe for families.

There’s no outdoor patio, but inside you’ll find crisp design and a burger experience worth every bite. Expect to stay a while and savor every morsel. This is the spot for a responsible yet indulgent treat that sets a new benchmark. See why locals never settle for basic beef.

Uneeda Burger | Best for Burger Adventurists

Walking through the door feels like stepping inside a garage-chic time capsule. Half roadside diner, half hip workshop, it dares you to leave boring burgers behind.

The Big Star Burger piles on crispy-fried onions and tangy slaw until it teeters on the edge of indulgence. If you crave something unexpected, the lamb burger finished with tempura lemon will rewrite your burger rulebook. This chef-driven menu skips fast food shortcuts and celebrates bold flavor.

Beef isn’t the only hero here. Bison, turkey or veggie patties each stand tall and juicy, often crowned by gooey cheese curds. They all arrive with golden hand-cut fries and shakes made with local Snoqualmie ice cream.

Whether you’re planning a family feast or mending a midweek mood swing, the inventive pairings hit every craving. The bar of hand-cut fries and Snoqualmie ice cream shakes solves any side dish indecision. It’s casual but confident enough to feel like a celebration. Order yourself some edible adventure.

The Pumphouse Bar & Grill | Bellevue’s Old-School Burger Bar

If you thought burger spots on the Eastside were all about truffle aioli and edible flowers, think again. This local institution has been serving up pints and perfectly charred patties since the disco era.

Their classic 1/3 pound burger tastes like something your dad might grill, if your dad also whipped up a mean homemade chili. Standouts include the Avocado Bacon Swiss and the tangy Blue Cheese version. Vegetarian friendly options ensure everyone gets in on the fun.

Sports fans will appreciate sixteen TVs and a covered patio that never feels drafty. A mountain of loaded potato skins arrives like a trophy above your fries. The beer list pours local favorites alongside solid standards.

Friendly servers welcome families and friends each time you walk through the door. Free parking keeps the stress levels low, even on game day. Weekend specials and rotating deals mean every Saturday tastes a little different. Check out the menu that made them a staple.

Loretta’s Northwesterner | The Classic Dive-Bar Burger Hangout

Here you won’t find smoke bombs or edible flowers—just a perfectly charbroiled beef patty, a slice of American cheese and a toasted bun. A swipe of special sauce has elevated this humble combination into local legend status.

The Tavern Burger draws late-night devotees and Thrillist fans alike. Vegetarians can rejoice in a homemade vegan patty that stands up to its beefy counterpart. Hand-cut fries arrive golden and crispy on every plate.

Inside feels like a lived-in dive bar that knows its strengths. Outside there’s a massive backyard patio perfect for starry summer nights. A full bar pours solid cocktails and local drafts until the grill winds down at 2 AM.

Bring an ID—this is a 21+ scene only. See why everyone’s talking about their Tavern Burger.

Foody moody halal Indian Pakistani cuisine | For Spicy Zinger Obsessives

Imagine swapping classic ketchup-and-mustard for bold Pakistani spices. Foody Moody parks in a modest Bellevue gas station lot, its food truck tempting passersby with aromatic heat instead of unleaded fumes. The zinger burgers here are fried chicken sandwiches loaded with just enough kick to tingle your taste buds without sending you sprinting for water.

The Chicken Tikka Burger brings tender, marinated chicken into a soft bun, while the Shami Kabab Burger turns comfort food into a hand-held thrill ride. You’ll want to taste each creation, from the juicy patties to the pillowy paratha flatbreads. And if you’re the sharing type, or simply indecisive, the Malai Boti Paratha Roll is a must-order.

Seating is almost non-existent, which only adds to the fun of eating spicy chicken in your car like a laid-back outlaw. Whether it’s a late-night craving or lunchtime adventure, this spot proves you don’t need fancy decor to serve up unforgettable burgers. Follow your nose; it never steers you wrong. Go see why the locals swear by it.

The Box & Burgers Eatery | Asian Fusion Burger Wonder

The Box & Burgers Eatery will reset any burger radar stuck on plain cheddar and barbecue sauce. Their Macrina Bakery buns cradle hearty patties layered with ingredients like house-made wasabi garlic aioli and crispy pork belly. The Miso Belly steals the show by marrying beef, pork belly and umami in a single bite that might make you forget your own name.

For something surf-worthy, order the flaky salmon burger or get a taste of the islands with the loco moco, featuring gravy-smothered rice, a perfectly cooked egg and all the comfort you crave. Hand-cut fries arrive golden and crisp, begging for a dunk in tangy yuzu aioli. Seriously, this is no place for boring ketchup.

Casual and kid-friendly, the eatery operates Tuesday through Sunday. Outdoor tables await on sunny days and parking is always free. Just don’t make the rookie mistake of showing up on a Monday. Check out the menu that made them a staple.

Harry’s Fine Foods | For the Locally Obsessed Burger Lover

Tucked into a converted corner house, this place feels like dinner at your coolest friend’s home. Vintage tiling, mid-century chairs, and mismatched tables create an effortlessly eclectic vibe. Soft lights and jazz records spinning overhead invite you to settle in and stay a while.

They take ranch-to-bun seriously, sourcing 28-day dry-aged beef from a family farm and melty Beecher’s cheese. Every lettuce leaf arrives crisp and fresh, draped over a patty almost too perfect to ruin—but of course you will.

The house-made sauce puts mayo brands to shame, and the brioche bun is so pillowy it practically whispers bedtime stories. Fries dusted with Pecorino, rosemary, and sage turn simple spuds into something magical.

An eclectic drink list spans natural wines, craft sodas, and rotating local brews. The backyard patio has room for kids, dates, and self-appointed food critics beneath twinkling lights. Come for the burger and leave bragging to everyone you know about supporting local ranchers in style. See what’s sizzling this week.

Heyday Bar & Restaurant | Where Your Burger Has a Passport

If your burger bucket list includes flavors that wander far from the beaten path, you’ll feel right at home. Here, there’s no pressure to stick with classic beef and cheddar.

Choose from an adventurous lineup: lamb drizzled with tangy yogurt sauce, crispy chicken smothered in spicy slaw, plump shrimp patties dusted with Old Bay, or a plant-powered option that actually delivers on taste. The crown jewel is the Saigon Burger—a harmonious trio of beef, pork, and shrimp packed with pickled carrots, fresh herbs, and a zingy Sriracha mayo that hits every note.

To round out the experience, hand-cut fries arrive golden-crisp, while lemon-kissed onion rings come with a creamy chipotle aioli for dunking. Don’t even get me started on the tater tots—each bite summons memories of childhood roadside diners.

Wash it all down with one of their signature cocktails, or keep it simple with a rotating draft selection and a carefully curated wine list. Modern but unpretentious, this spot manages to please both hardcore foodies and picky kids, so everyone leaves with a smile (and maybe a looser waistband). Scope out the creative menu here.

Good Burger | Creative Combos for Everyone

Few debates are as passionate as the pineapple-on-burger showdown. Fortunately, this place accommodates both sides of the fence.

Their one-third-pound patties are crafted from 100% Angus beef, grilled to juicy perfection and tucked into a toasted bun. The California Burger layers crisp bacon and creamy avocado, while the Teriyaki-Hawaiian swaps bacon for ham and adds grilled pineapple that sings with sweet smoke.

Beyond beef, you can choose chicken, a plant-based option with an impressively meaty texture, or even a flaky fish patty. House-made sauces elevate every bite, and don’t skip the sweet potato fries—they arrive golden and slightly caramelized at the edges.

A rack of milkshakes promises peace among any arguing siblings, and the casual Shoreline spot even boasts a drive-through for lazy weekend mornings. Pajama pants welcome. Kids adore it, albeit at the cost of total back-seat destruction. The laid-back seating area feels unpretentious, whether you’re alone or with a gaggle of friends. Go see what all the fuss is about.

Wibbley’s Burgers | Old-School Charm, Modern Kicks

Since 1992, this spot has quietly redefined what a burger joint can be. Stepping inside feels like nabbing a corner booth in a London pub, with dark wood paneling and framed jerseys. But the menu reads like an All-American love letter.

Classics get a twist with personality. The South of the Border Burger arrives with smoky chipotle and fresh pico, while the Century Burger stacks blue cheese, bacon, and crisp sprouts in a cholesterol party you won’t forget.

Sides refuse to stay in the background. Garlic Parmesan fries and beer-battered onion rings share the spotlight, and seasonal creations pop onto the menu without warning. If commitment scares you, a daily special rotates in something unexpected.

Local regulars mingle with celebrities in cozy booths, and kids can roam free thanks to a dedicated play nook. Service moves at the perfect pace, and free parking makes weekend visits a breeze for busy families. Check out the menu that keeps locals coming back.

Rain City Burgers | Classic Burgers, Sporty Vibes

Imagine the perfect neighborhood burger spot where your kid’s soccer poster hangs beside a signed baseball, and the cooks tinker in the kitchen like flavor mad scientists. It feels like a sports bar and a test kitchen rolled into one.

The menu feels classic at first glance: beef, chicken, salmon, or a vegetarian patty grilled fresh. But then the house hot sauce makes a bold cameo, and you find yourself eyeing a Mariners Burger drenched in avocado and bacon. There is even a chicken masala burger if you’re itching for an unexpected twist.

Every patty sits snug between golden buns, and the crowd here treats onion rings like a championship sport. Regulars toss around sports trivia while they wait, and kids run wild through the kid-friendly corner.

Wash it down with a hand-dipped shake while you debate which of the seasonal specials will be your next champion. Gawk at the burger lineup yourself before you get benched.

Katsu Burger | Deep-Fried Burger Fever Dream

Picture a classic American cheeseburger that actually took a trip to Tokyo. You won’t find a charcoal grill here. Instead, each patty wears a panko tombstone and dives into hot oil until it emerges crisp as a drum. That golden crunch rewards every bite.

Choose from beef, pork, chicken, or even tofu. The Godzilla Attack will test your limits with pepper jack, jalapeños, a secret 12-spice blend, spicy mayo, and drizzles of tonkatsu sauce.

Side dishes won’t play second fiddle either. Nori-dusted fries shimmy under a sea of umami, Banzai Bites surprise with gooey fillings, and potato korokke offer a silky center. The salty seaweed kiss on the fries takes snacking to another level.

The vibe is a casual pop art kaleidoscope with Japanese pop culture posters, neon signs, and low tables for group hangouts. Families feel at home, and parking is as free as the smiles on staff faces. There’s even a kid’s menu that keeps little ones busy. Dive into the fusion menu here.

Shahana Steakhouse (Burger n Gyros) | Bold Flavors, Pakistani Twist

Step into a family-owned spot that feels more like dining at a friend’s home than a restaurant. The wood-paneled walls and soft lighting set a relaxed tone, and every server seems genuinely happy you’re there.

Burgers here don’t follow the usual rules. Each patty—beef, chicken, salmon, even veggie—gets an injection of homemade masala that sings over every layer. The sauces drip unapologetically, so napkins become your best friend. The Lava Chicken Burger delivers a fiery punch, while a Chapli Burger boasts secret spice blends.

You’ll wrestle with the decision between masala fries dusted in fragrant chilies and crispy samosas stuffed with seasoned potatoes. A kid’s menu stands ready, and plans for a fresh juice bar mean your whole crew will find a favorite. Coffee spiced with cardamom keeps the meal lively. The dining area feels snug yet open enough to hear spices sizzling in the open kitchen.

If halal cooking, cozy hospitality, and a touch of the unexpected are on your burger wish list, this steakhouse takes you straight to flavor paradise. Come hungry, expect to leave planning your next visit. Check out the menu that made them a staple.

John Howie Steak | The Fancy Burger Splurge

If you dream of USDA Prime beef, Beecher’s Reserve cheddar and Kurobuta bacon, this elegant steakhouse puts them all between a house-baked bun. Every bite of the signature Prime Beef Bacon Cheeseburger can spark tears of joy.

A secret drive-in sauce adds a nostalgic wink beneath layers of premium bacon. Cloth napkins and modern decor set the stage for a meal that feels more upscale than your average burger night. A cocktail in hand reminds you that fries need not be bottomless to be unforgettable.

The wine list spans labels you’ve never heard of but will want to taste. Full table service and valet parking elevate the entire experience.

Surprisingly family-friendly in spirit, this spot still feels like a special occasion. Happy hour rotating specials invite you back for a new twist on perfection. Plan your next cheat day here.

Steve’s Bar & Grill | The Classic Dive Experience

Walking into this place feels like stepping back to a simpler era. No frills, no fuss—just good old-fashioned burgers done right.

The patties here are all beef, grilled until juicy, topped with a blanket of melted cheese and straightforward fixings your grandmother would approve. Craving a cheeseburger? They’ve got you. Want to test your tolerance for chili-covered meat? Dive into their chili-burger creation that oozes hearty warmth.

If you’re someone who sneers at avocado mousse or lavender aioli, you’re in luck. They don’t chase food trends here. Their patty melt sports caramelized onions sandwiched between griddled rye, and classic cheeseburger gets zero apologies for its simplicity.

The space has dive bar charm, complete with vinyl booths, neon signs, and a friendly “come as you are” vibe. A well-stocked bar serves cold beer and stiff drinks, plus happy hour deals that feel like a neighborhood secret.

Pull tabs at the ready—just don’t let the game distract you too long. And if you’ve got kids in tow, fear not: the relaxed atmosphere doubles as an unofficial training ground for young burger aficionados. Check out the menu that made locals loyal.

Honorable mentions:

Dick’s Drive-In

Whistle Stop Ale House

Big Max Burger Co

PICK-QUICK Drive In

Ranch Drive-In

Otter Bar and Burger

8oz Burger & Co. – Takeout Only

Sunset Alehouse

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