From classic drive-ins and neighborhood cafes to bold fusion joints and hidden gems tucked inside gas station lots, the Eastside has quietly built a burger scene worth bragging about. Whether you crave a nostalgic roadside fix or feel ready to test your taste buds on adventurous flavors, this list will lead you straight to your next favorite bite.
Let’s get to it.
Burgermaster
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
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.
The Pumphouse Bar & Grill
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.
Foody Moody Halal Indian Pakistani Cuisine
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
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.
Wibbley’s Burgers
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.
Katsu Burger
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.
Von’s 1000Spirits – Woodinville
When you step into Von’s 1000Spirits in Woodinville, it feels more like a flavor lab than a family joint. The American menu confidently walks on house-baked sourdough buns made with a 75-year-old starter… yes, the bread has stories to tell. Burgers arrive as prime beef creations topped with candied black-peppercorn bacon or thick caramelized onions. Hand-cut fries arrive dusted in Umami Seasoning Salt for an extra punch.
Vegetarians aren’t left behind. A plant-based option stands firm among all the beefy choices. And then there are the spirits. With over a thousand bottles on display, whiskey lovers, gin fans, and the cocktail curious can wander the menu until something catches their eye.
The vibe stays relaxed and full-service, so dragging kids along isn’t a gamble. The cheese pizza, shakes, and simple kids’ meals might just buy you enough quiet time to figure out what a Wagering Wheel is. This place loves surprises… both on your plate and in your glass. Browse Von’s menu here.
Mox Boarding House
You haven’t experienced a game night upgrade until you step into Mox Boarding House in Bellevue. Under one roof, you’ll find a board game store, a quirky café, and a full-service restaurant. The space manages to feel more like an Art Deco dream than a nerdy carnival.
Burger selections range from house-ground beef patties to a black bean option that deserves its place on the menu. Go classic or indulge in the King of the Forest Burger with elk and king oyster mushrooms, pickled enoki, and tomato jam on a brioche bun. Sides like truffle fries, poutine, and house-made nachos transform simple accompaniments into highlights.
The drink list runs from local drafts to inventive cocktails. Parking is free, and the game library seems endless, perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends. The team stays calm even if your table erupts in a Settlers of Catan showdown. Drop by for dinner and discover why Mox feels like your next regular haunt. See what makes their menu a game changer.
STK Steakhouse
If a classic steakhouse had a party, it would look a lot like STK Steakhouse in Bellevue. This isn’t your typical wood-paneled joint. Bright lights mingle with low music so the room hums without ever feeling too loud.
The burger lineup deserves its own spotlight. Lil’ Brgs are bite-sized sliders made from Wagyu beef and deliver a serious hit of flavor. The Wagyu Burger itself arrives stacked with all the right toppings and a special sauce that ties everything together. Those hand-cut fries are here for a reason… you’ll count each one as you go.
Cocktail lovers get plenty of options and boozy shakes are on offer when you need a little extra celebration. Outdoor seating is available, and the family-friendly menu means you can bring everyone along.
Late-night cravings don’t have to end in regret. STK stays open late so you can sneak in a burger after your evening plans. With a rotating menu, there’s always a fresh wildcard to try. This steakhouse is as much about the scene as it is about the food. Discover what the fuss is about at STK Bellevue.
Hollywood Tavern
At Hollywood Tavern in Woodinville, roadside Americana meets artisanal detail. The 1920s service-station bones still peek through, but the feel is seasoned, not stuffy. Since opening in 1947, it has taken classic tavern fare and pushed its flavors a little further.
You can order the proper Hollywood Burger on a sturdy Grand Central Bakery bun. A few menu pages over sits the Pork Belly Burger with Gorgonzola cream cheese sauce plus a glug of Woodinville Whiskey maple syrup. Vegetarians will appreciate a homemade beet, bean, and poblano patty that holds its own.
Sides range from hand-cut fries and ancho chile tots to crispy fried pickles. Cocktails and milkshakes carry bold whiskey notes, more punch than your average soda fountain treat.
Kids have a dedicated menu and lawn games outside to burn off energy. When the weather is right, the spacious patio fills up and the fire pit comes alive. It’s a spot that balances casual comfort with unexpected twists, making every visit feel familiar and fresh. See what’s cooking at Hollywood Tavern.
Jak’s Grill
When you step into Jak’s Grill, you’re greeted by more than two decades of steakhouse tradition. This Issaquah-to-West Seattle favorite serves up half-pound, corn-fed Nebraska beef burgers alongside classic steakhouse sides under warm, inviting lighting.
The signature South Hill Haymaker is a bold mix of bacon, cheddar, peanut butter, and pickled jalapeños on a toasted Macrina Sodo bun. If you prefer keeping it classic, that’s here too. Veggie options stand ready for friends tagging along who want a plant-based bite.
Fridays bring the occasional Rio Bravo Burger special if you’re in the mood for something unpredictable. Sides of French fries, crunchy onion rings, and garlic mashed potatoes feel both familiar and indulgent. Cocktails, beer, and wine round out the experience without any pretense.
Families appreciate the spacious layout and easy parking. Kids can order from a simple menu so parents can enjoy some quiet. The friendly staff makes everyone feel at home, whether you’re out with friends or celebrating a special occasion. Browse the Jak’s Grill lineup.
DERU
In Kirkland, DERU has been crafting scratch-made New American dishes since 2011. The moment you arrive, the scent of baking brioche and sizzling grass-fed beef sets the tone. The DERU Burger brings together gruyere, caramelized onions, house-cured applewood bacon, and Dijon aioli on a fluffy, house-made brioche bun.
Hand-cut fries arrive coated in Parmesan and fresh herbs with a side of house remoulade that raises the bar for any side dish. Their beetroot lemonade shows that hydration can be fun without feeling gimmicky.
Monday Burger Night turns an ordinary start to the week into a celebrated tradition. Covered outdoor seating offers a cozy place to eat year-round, while the warm interior feels just right for families and groups.
Parking is ample and free, making visits easy. DERU strikes a balance between gourmet ambition and neighborhood friendliness you’ll want to revisit. This spot proves that community-focused, independent restaurants can thrive in every neighborhood. Explore what scratch-made really tastes like.
Woodinville Cafe
Open early every day, Woodinville Cafe caters to anyone who believes breakfast belongs on the menu around the clock. Since 1986, this independent diner has been a community mainstay, dishing out generous portions and classic comfort food.
Burgers range from char-broiled beef to plant-based patties, but the star is the Veggie Ranchero Burger. It layers a Dr. Praeger’s veggie patty with ranchero salsa, tortilla strips, and lemon avocado cream sauce into one glorious, messy bite. If you can’t choose a side, options include hand-cut fries, malted shakes, or a cup of hearty Northwest chili.
The full-service staff greets everyone from toddlers to grandparents. The dining room buzzes with regulars who appreciate friendly faces behind the counter. No one leaves this cafe still hungry. Ample free parking and a casual atmosphere make every visit effortless. See what’s cooking over at Woodinville Cafe.
El Gaucho Bellevue
Stepping into El Gaucho Bellevue feels like walking into a classic steakhouse with a touch of theatre. For more than ten years, this independent spot has mastered high-end dishes delivered with polished service… tableside Caesar salads and gleaming glasses set the tone.
Though steak takes center stage, burger fans will want to explore the happy hour and bar bites. The Mason Burger combines Maine lobster and béarnaise sauce atop a beef patty on a soft brioche bun, proving the burger lineup holds its own next to an extensive wine list.
Duck fat fries make the perfect side, especially for anyone who doesn’t mind indulging. The cocktail menu offers both classic and modern options, and outdoor seating opens up when the weather allows. A free parking lot adds to the convenience.
El Gaucho strikes a balance between sophisticated atmosphere and friendly service. Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a night out, this Bellevue staple delivers consistent quality. right here.
Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar
From its start in 2002, Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar has built a reputation for pairing serious seafood with inventive burgers. The varied menu moves from fresh sushi rolls and raw oysters to hearty American dishes without missing a beat.
The standout burger is the American Wagyu Beef Mushroom Burger. It features a rich porcini spread, quality cheese, and crisp arugula on a light brioche bun… truffle-seasoned shoestring fries arrive on the side and add a touch of indulgence.
The atmosphere is polished yet approachable. Warm lighting and attentive service set the stage for special occasions or casual gatherings. Families appreciate the children’s menu, and validated parking takes the stress out of dining near downtown Bellevue.
Cocktails range from classic martinis to seasonal mixes that highlight fresh ingredients. Whether you arrive for ceviche, sushi, or a gourmet burger, the attention to detail shines through. Seastar’s blend of upscale elements and relaxed touches makes it a reliable choice for groups with varied tastes. Dive into Seastar’s menu here.
Duke’s Seafood Bellevue
Although best known for sustainable seafood, Duke’s Seafood Bellevue serves a burger lineup that stands out on its own. The kitchen uses grass-fed beef from Royal Ranch and pairs it with brioche buns from Essential Baking Co.
One highlight is the Chipotle Havarti Bacon Burger. It layers sharp Tillamook cheddar, smoky nitrite-free bacon, chipotle aioli, and ripe avocado… resulting in a burger as memorable as any oyster. Crinkle-cut fries and tangy slaw make for classic accompaniments.
The dining room offers a relaxed coastal vibe with polished wood accents and large windows. Cocktails range from light and citrusy to bold and spirit-forward. Families are welcome thanks to a small but satisfying kids’ menu.
Happy hour runs twice daily, featuring discounted appetizers and drink specials. On Mondays, a bottle of wine comes with a tempting deal. With three hours of validated parking downtown, Duke’s makes it easy to enjoy the view, the seafood, and a burger built with the same commitment to quality. See what’s cooking in the heart of Bellevue.
Sammamish Cafe & Spirits
Comfort rules the day at Sammamish Cafe & Spirits, where long-standing community hospitality meets creative comfort food. Open since the 1980s, this spot has become known for its welcoming vibe, dependable service, and full bar.
Burgers shine, especially the Bacon Blue. American Kobe beef patties carry the weight of tangy blue cheese, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and onions on a soft bun. Crinkle-cut fries and creamy coleslaw arrive alongside, completing the meal.
The menu covers breakfast through dinner. Daily specials keep things interesting… Fish and Chips Fridays are a local favorite. Picky eaters and adventurous diners alike will find satisfying options.
If you lean toward a frosty milkshake or a bold craft cocktail, the bar has something to suit your mood. Wood tables and communal seating invite conversation, while families and solo diners feel equally welcome. Sammamish Cafe & Spirits delivers comfort with a generous dash of creativity. Scope out their latest specials and menu.
The Black Duck Cask and Bottle
Nestled in Issaquah’s Gilman Village, The Black Duck Cask and Bottle isn’t the place to slump into a booth and order your go-to burger and fries. This gastropub reimagines pub grub with gourmet creations that wander off the beaten path. Take the Black & Blue Burger, for example—a decadent stack of prime beef, bleu cheese, huckleberry jam, pickled onions, and silky rosemary aioli tucked inside a potato bun.
Fries are just the beginning. Duck poutine and fried cheese curds join the lineup, turning classic sides into the main event.
The vibe is casual and rustic, with an open-air garage flair. Stretch out on the outdoor patio, warmed by heaters and wrapped in blankets. Conversations about the merits of IPAs easily stretch into late evening until last call at 11 PM on weekends.
This is a strictly 21+ hangout, a grown-up playground of craft beers and rotating taps. When your taste buds demand a little adventure, The Black Duck always delivers a beer list that refuses to sit still. Explore their wild side yourself.
Barking Frog
When you find yourself in Woodinville craving more than the typical burger-and-fries deal, Barking Frog steps up with New American flair. Their menu leans heavily into local ingredients, offering everything from vegan delights to gourmet mini burgers that don’t hold back on flavor.
For meat lovers, the Kobe beef burger arrives topped with Oregonzola and candied bacon for a sweet-and-savory punch. Petite lamb burgers pair Gruyère and red wine onions for a refined twist. Vegans aren’t left out—creative plant-based options extend well beyond the usual salad selection.
Golden French fries and sweet potato fries come as standard sides. Both styles are perfectly crisp, ideal for dipping or enjoying solo. A full bar and extensive wine list cater to any preference. Sip a local red or an inventive cocktail while you soak in the upscale yet casual atmosphere.
Outdoor seating floods the patio with Pacific Northwest sunshine. At Barking Frog, culinary creativity meets local charm for a dining experience that feels both familiar and exciting. Browse their creative menu here.
The Bine Beer & Food
Out on Main Street, The Bine Beer & Food in Bothell has nailed the art of pairing great beer with comfort food that refuses to be boring. The atmosphere leans hip without feeling cold.
The burger here shows off bacon, beer cheese, tomato jam, pickled red onion, and smoky aioli on a Macrina Bakery potato bun. It holds everything together so you’re not making a mess… okay, you are, but it’s delicious. Sides of house-cut fries or German-style potato salad round out the meal and seem essential.
Beer lovers will find over 20 rotating drafts. Light beer isn’t the only choice here. If you want something bold, this is the spot.
Outdoor seating is heated and there’s a kids’ menu for small appetites. The vibe encourages lingering over one more round. If comfort food with a twist sounds like your kind of fun, The Bine might just become your go-to place to grab a beer and a satisfying, creative meal. Browse their beer list right here.
Crystal Creek Cafe
Tucked away in Bothell, Crystal Creek Cafe blends retro diner charm with modern menu twists. Airplane-themed decor lines the walls, and the counter service vibes keep things casual. Burgers range from time-honored classics to a Kobe Burger Dip sandwich with savory au jus.
Plant-based patties sit alongside beef options for herbivores or veggie-curious diners. Generous portions mean hand-cut fries, crunchy onion rings, and milkshakes so thick they need a spoon. Friendly staff serve these up on outdoor patio tables when the rare Seattle sun makes an appearance.
Over 25 years old, this cafe has perfected its approach to comfort food and quirky details. It feels classic without being stuck in the past. Families and date nights both find a place here, and solo diners never miss out on the welcoming buzz.
Free parking out front makes hopping in and out effortless. Best of all, the diner keeps its doors open long enough to satisfy morning cravings and late-afternoon hunger alike. See what’s fueling Bothell’s favorite retro cafe.