It’s National Burger Day, and you probably have the same question as we do – where can I find the BEST burger in the Spokane and Spokane Valley area? Well, we took on the arduous task of trying every single one of them so that we could deliver to you a list that is sure to sizzle. Now I can’t fit into my swimsuit, but I don’t care. It’s all for science.
Reviewing the Best Burgers in Spokane
The anatomy of the perfect burger is different for everyone. Some people want it medium-rare, some hate pickles, others are bun-focused.
Not this burger lover. I am looking for a balance of lots of different criteria. First, I prefer a house-made bun whenever possible, but if the interior components are really, really good, I’ll overlook it.
Next, I’m thinking about the patty. Is it well seasoned? Is it juicy and not overcooked? Did they use fresh beef instead of frozen? Any special blends of beef or even adding pork?
My last priority is what they used for the added toppings, though it is really important that they are fresh and properly prepared. Nothing makes me rage quite like having the part where the stem attaches to the slice of tomato on my burger. Not a fun thing to eat.
Also, is the lettuce crispy, green, and fresh? Did they make any special components like the cheese, a house-made pickle, or sauce? Every detail counts when it comes to one of America’s most beloved foods.
These are in no particular order, and I may have to expand the list because WOW do we have some phenomenal burgers in our city. I’ve included prices here that are accurate the day of publication, but they’re subject to change at the restaurant’s discretion. Click on the picture of each burger to learn more about where to get these beauties yourself.
If you go to any of these spots, please do me a favor and tell them I sent you. You’ll probably get a knowing wink in return – as you’ve become a Spokane burger insider. Pro tip: Grab a pile of napkins – these pictures are INTENSE.
Hogwash Whiskey Den – Downtown Spokane, WA
A ridiculously rich burger that we keep going back for. These guys are consistently on our best burger list for a number of reasons. One – they have a fried cheddar burger on their secret menu that will blow your ever-loving mind. Ask about it. The gooey house-made American cheese is fried to perfection so that when you cut it and pull it apart, it creates this oozy awe-inspiring melted effect that will even make the most dedicated vegan drool. The smash burger is also a great go-to any day of the week.
The buns are made from scratch in a giant mixer by the highly trained culinary team. Bonus points for a wickedly cool vibe in the basement of the super trendy Washington Cracker Building. They are also home to some of the most exceptional cocktails in town (tipping my hat to Simon and Erin).
Location – 304 W. Pacific Avenue, Spokane, WA
Durkin’s – Downtown Spokane, WA
A multiple award winner, and for good reason. The beef is fresh as can be, and it’s always juicy AF. With a pretty pair of 4 oz ground chuck patties, house-made American cheese and a funky delish dill mayo and some of my favorite pickles in town, this one is worth adding an egg or bacon to. Plus, they’re open until 1am so you can get the burger you crave well into the wee hours.
Random thought – I haven’t tried adding their handcrafted fried bologna to it, but it may be worth asking about. This place was named after one of the most entertaining characters in Spokane history, too, so while you wait for your burger, give him a Google search. You won’t regret reading about his antics, and learning that this spot is in the namesake bar’s same location.
Luna – Spokane, WA
This is the a mac daddy of Spokane burgers. It’s a little on the pricey side, but it’s so. Worth. It. The side of ambiance alone is just phenomenal – you’re in for a whole experience! It’s one of the city’s best restaurants tucked away on the South Hill, and the patio alone are worth a trip here.
The Casa Cano grass-fed beef patty is a thing of beauty, and so is the bacon from the same source. This is a burger for refined palates and casual diners to admire in unison. It also has crisp Palouse greens, tomato, dill pickles, aioli and house cheese, and is served on house brioche with frites on the side. It’s definitely a date-night appropriate burger!
Heritage Bar and Kitchen – Downtown Spokane, WA
If you haven’t been here yet, fix that immediately. This little hangout near Railroad Alley is a must-try if you’re a true burger lover. Their Heritage Smash Burger has fresh beef cooked to order on a brioche bun and super crisp toppings piled to perfection show you just how seriously they take the humble burger.
Ambiance is killer, too. The bar is designed to look like the Monroe Street Bridge, and if you love Spokane, this place definitely has that hometown feeling – you’ll notice subtle nods to our city throughout, including the menu with drinks named after beloved TV anchors. It has the added benefit of being close to Whistle Punk Brewing so you can get one of the best brews in town with each bite.
Wooden City – Downtown Spokane, WA
An unsung hero of masterful burger preparation, Jon Paul Green and his team have a winner on their hands with their Tavern burger. It’s got two signature patties topped with house-made pickles, shredded iceberg, grilled onion and double cheese. I cannot in good faith forget to tell you to order the blistered hungarian peppers, too. I was once brought dinner by these fine folks when I was sick, and they insisted on including the peppers in my care package. I’ve been hooked ever since.
Outsider – Downtown Spokane, WA
If you’re looking for a burger experience that elevates the entire category, Outsider—a sleek new addition just steps from the Spokane Arena—needs to be your next stop. This isn’t your grab-it-in-the-drive-thru kind of burger. It’s the kind you slow down for, served in a space that’s as refined as the plate it comes on.
Outsider is quickly gaining a reputation for delivering high-concept dining without the ego, and the burger? It’s a headliner. Thoughtfully composed and cooked to absolute perfection, it’s built with locally sourced beef, artisan toppings that shift with the seasons, and housemade accompaniments that somehow manage to make even the humble fry feel fancy.
This is the kind of meal that invites you to linger, to sip something craft and bold, and to savor every single bite without distraction. It’s not cheap, but it’s not trying to be. It’s memorable. Sophisticated. And worth every cent.
Zozo’s Sandwich House
Zozo’s Sandwich House on North Monroe is an absolute gem, and their smash burger is one of Spokane’s best-kept (but rapidly spreading) secrets. With double patties smashed to crispy perfection, melted American cheese, grilled onions, pickles, and a swipe of tangy house sauce all stacked on a soft, golden Martin’s potato bun—it’s got that perfect balance of juicy, crunchy, salty, and sweet. The menu is packed with fun variations like the Bun Jovi or the Smash & Burn, but even the classic OG hits like a dream. It’s comfort food with personality, made fresh to order, and way more affordable than you’d expect for this level of quality. If you like your burgers messy, crave-worthy, and made with care, Zozo’s is the move. Just be warned: once you’ve had it, you’ll be back.
Uprise Brewing – Spokane, WA
Uprise Brewing Co. in Spokane was highly anticipated when it opened, and now it’s fully hit its stride. Their smash burger is exceptionally crafted, and every detail is considered. Made with premium ingredients and topped with things like pickles, cheddar, red onion, mustard, and roasted tomato aioli (yes please), this burger is unbelievably juicy with a smoky finish that makes you want to order two. Every single ingredient is dialed in.
Honestly, I wish this place was franchised nationwide. But for now, take a little trip out to Spokane and get this in your belly immediately.
Whether it’s National Burger Day or not, Spokane has an amazing variety of options when it comes to burgers. If you’re looking for some of the best burgers in Spokane, make sure to bookmark this page and share it with the friends you like best.
Love 💕 the article! It’s just the way I look to find a great burger but my frugality keeps me on the under $10 side!! It just occurred to me that I could save calories and keep within my budget on the more expensive ones by getting it Togo and splitting it with a loved one at a picnic spot nearby!!
Thank you for this great article. Burger preferences are huge. I prefer smaller and basic. Like the smashburger at the Elk, and a delicious classic hamburger from the Maxwell House.