Best Burgers in Cincinnati: Local Guide to 10 Burger Spots You Need to Try
The Baron Group
Best Burgers in Cincinnati: Local Guide to 10 Burger Spots You Need to Try
Let's be real—finding a truly great burger in Cincinnati isn't rocket science, but it does require knowing where to look. And lucky for you, we've done the homework (someone had to eat all these burgers, right?).
Our team at The Baron Group recently went on what might be the best work assignment ever: taste-testing Cincinnati's most talked-about burger joints to see which ones actually live up to the hype. From old-school spots that have been around since your grandparents were kids to new places doing wild things with toppings, this guide has everything you need to find your next favorite burger in the Queen City.
Whether you're team smash burger or prefer a thick, juicy patty that barely fits in your mouth, Cincinnati's got you covered. Let's dig in.
Delwood: The Mount Lookout Must-Try
Address:
Mt. Lookout - 3204 Linwood Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45226
Google Reviews:
4.7 stars with 400+ reviews
There's usually a line out the door at Delwood in Mount Lookout, and once you try their Classic Double, you'll understand why. This burger isn't messing around—two four-ounce patties on a soft potato bun, melty American cheese, tangy pickles, and here's the kicker: a Peruvian aioli that somehow makes everything taste even better.
Delwood sits right at the corner of Delta and Linwood (hence the clever name), and they've got both a cozy indoor space and an outdoor patio that's dog-friendly. So yes, bring your furry friend.
Want to level up your order? Grab a side of blistered shishito peppers or crispy brussels sprouts. And definitely check out their craft beer and cocktail menu—they know what they're doing there too. The whole vibe is relaxed and welcoming, which is exactly what you want when you're about to demolish a seriously good burger.
Best for: Bold, creative burgers with global influence.
Gulow Street: Your Northside Go-To
Address:
Northside - 1614 Hoffner St, Cincinnati, OH 45223
Google Reviews:
4.8 stars with 300+ reviews
Sometimes the best burgers are the ones that don't try too hard. Gulow Street in Northside gets it. Their burger is straightforward—two buns, a great patty, American cheese, pickles, plenty of lettuce, and mayo. Nothing fancy, just really well done. And the price? Super reasonable.
This place feels like hanging out in someone's really cool living room. There are paintings everywhere, the lighting is perfectly dim, and everyone who works there—from the bartenders to the cooks—makes you feel welcome. The back patio is great when the weather's nice.
It's the kind of neighborhood spot where you'll see the same faces week after week, and that's always a good sign. When locals keep coming back, you know the food is consistently good and the atmosphere is right.
Best for: Neighborhood pub burgers at an affordable price.
Nation Kitchen & Bar: Burgers That Give Back
Address:
Westwood - 3435 Epworth Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45211
Milford - 203 Mill St, Milford, OH 45150
Google Reviews:
4.5 stars with 600+ reviews
Nation is doing something pretty cool—they're located in an old Cincinnati fire department (which is already awesome), and every month they feature a "Burger of the Month" where part of what you pay goes to charity. They even have a leaderboard inside showing the top ten burgers based on what customers are ordering.
The whole place has this fire department theme going on with hatchets on the door handles and even on top of the buns. It's a fun touch that sets the mood.
If you're trying to eat a bit healthier, they've got options like the Legion of Shroom. But don't worry, they've also got classic burgers that'll hit all the right notes. And they've got two locations—one in Westwood and another in Milford—so whether you're on the west side or east side, you're covered.
Best for: Classic American burgers serving both the West siders and East siders.
Colette OTR: When You Want Something a Little Fancier
Address:
OTR - 1400 Race St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Google Reviews:
4.8 stars with 300+ reviews
Okay, so Colette is mostly known as a French restaurant, but their burger is legit. It's got all your standard toppings—lettuce, cheese, onion, pickles—but the real star is their house-made Dijonnaise. It's basically a fancy mustard-mayo situation that takes the burger to another level.
The location is perfect, right across from Washington Park and Music Hall in Over-the-Rhine. The inside has that cool urban energy with dim lighting that makes it feel special, whether you're there with friends, family, or on a date.
Your burger comes with frites (that's fancy-speak for fries), and they're really good. The whole experience feels a bit more upscale than your typical burger joint, but it's not stuffy or pretentious. It's just a really solid burger in a great atmosphere.
Best for: Elevated, chef-driven takes
Fifty West: Way More Than Just a Burger
Address:
Mariemont - 7605 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227
Deerfield Township - 5224 District Pk Dr, Mason, OH 45040
Google Reviews:
4.4 stars with 1,200+ reviews
Here's something different—50 West is part restaurant, part activity center. In the summer, they've got sand volleyball and pickleball courts. In the winter, they turn it into an ice skating rink. So yeah, you can work up an appetite before hitting the burger.
Their Classic burger is simple and delicious—single patty, American cheese, their own special fry sauce, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion. But if you're feeling adventurous, check out their 12 different burgers based on the states that US Route 50 goes through.
The Colorado burger is not for the faint of heart—it's got spicy green chili salsa, ghost pepper jack cheese, and jalapeños. If you can handle heat, go for it. If not, stick with the Classic.
They recently opened a location in Deerfield Township too, so if you live in the northern suburbs, you don't have to drive as far. With good food, craft beer, and year-round fun, 50 West is perfect for making a whole outing of your burger run.
Best for: Burgers paired with craft beer with a fun atmosphere for the whole family.
Tickle Pickle: Rock 'n' Roll Meets Burgers
Address:
Northside - 4176 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223
Fort Thomas - 915 N Ft Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas, KY 41075
Google Reviews:
4.5 stars with 1,900+ reviews
Tickle Pickle is all about having fun with it. The whole place has a music theme, with most menu items named after bands or songs. They've got locations in both Northside and Fort Thomas, Kentucky, so take your pick.
If you want to keep it classic, try the Bread Zeppelin (see what they did there?). But they've also got wild combinations with jalapeño jam, sauerkraut, and ghost pepper jack cheese if you're into that kind of thing.
The ingredients are top-notch, and they really know how to cook a patty. What's great is that every time you come back, you can try something different. The menu has enough variety that you won't get bored, and the whole vibe is energetic and fun.
Best for: Creative burgers and vegetarian options
Zip's Cafe: A Cincinnati Classic Since 1926
Address:
Mt. Lookout - 1036 Delta Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208
Google Reviews:
4.6 stars with 1,600+ reviews
When a place has been around for almost 100 years, you know they're doing something right. Zip's Cafe has been serving burgers in Mount Lookout since 1926, and they've won "Best Burger in Cincinnati" more times than we can count.
The Zip Burger keeps it simple—fresh ground beef that's delivered daily from a local meat market, cooked just right, with all the classic toppings. No gimmicks, no weird fusion stuff, just a really great burger done the way it should be done.
The atmosphere is pure neighborhood charm. There's literally a train that goes around the restaurant while you eat. Regulars fill the place, and everyone's friendly. It's the kind of spot that feels like a piece of Cincinnati history, which makes sense because it basically is.
Best for: All-Time Classic Cincinnati burger
Bard's Burgers: Worth the Drive to Kentucky
Address:
Covington - 3620 Decoursey Ave, Covington, KY 41015
Google Reviews:
4.7 stars with 1,900+ reviews
Don't let the river stop you—Bard's Burgers in Chili, Kentucky is worth crossing state lines for. They're all about the smash burger technique, and they nail it every time. Hand-crafted, seared to perfection, and seriously delicious.
Here's what's cool: you can either go classic with the toppings you know and love, or get weird with it. We're talking donut buns, different spice levels, and super Cincinnati toppings like goetta and chili. And the chili doesn't just go on the burger—you can swap your fries for chili or a coney if you want.
Now, if you're really hungry (or really brave), there's the Bardzilla Challenge—11 patties, three and a half pounds of burger, 22 slices of cheese, and two pounds of fries. You've got one hour to finish it all. Most people don't, but it's fun to watch someone try.
The whole place has that neighborhood burger joint feel where everyone's comfortable and the food is consistently great.
Best for: Smash-style burgers with creative options
Quatman Cafe: No-Frills, Just Good Burgers
Address:
Norwood - 2434 Quatman Ave, Norwood, OH 45212
Mason - 224 W Main St, Mason, OH 45040
Google Reviews:
4.6 stars with 1,400+ reviews
Sometimes you just want a thick, juicy burger without all the extras, and that's exactly what Quatman Cafe delivers. They've got two locations—one in Norwood and one in Mason—and both have that classic diner vibe going on.
The menu isn't huge, but that's kind of the point. They focus on doing a few things really well instead of trying to be everything to everyone. You get your burger, your fries, and you're happy. Plus, the prices won't make you wince.
It's straightforward, it's affordable, and it's good. What more do you need?
Best for: Old-school burger bar experience
Gordo's: Big Burgers, Bigger Flavor
Address:
Norwood - 4328 Montgomery Rd #1, Norwood, OH 45212
Google Reviews:
4.6 stars with 1,200+ reviews
Gordo's is that neighborhood pub where locals hang out, and the burgers are absolutely massive. They've got tons of flavor and plenty of different options to choose from.
The Hangover Burger is stacked high with toppings—perfect for when you need something substantial. But the IPA Burger might be the real winner here. It's got IPA-infused fondue drizzled on top (yeah, seriously), plus bacon and mushrooms. It's one of those burgers where every bite is different and delicious.
The atmosphere is super chill—lots of character, lots of regulars, and that comfortable feeling you get at your favorite local spot. Great location, friendly people, and legitimately great burgers make Gordo's a solid choice.
Best for: Casual pub burgers with huge portions
So, Where Should You Go First?
Cincinnati's burger scene is way more diverse than you might expect. You've got almost-100-year-old institutions serving the same great burgers they've always made, right alongside new spots doing creative stuff you've never seen before.
Every neighborhood has its own flavor (literally and figuratively). Mount Lookout's established favorites feel different than Northside's quirky spots. OTR brings the upscale vibes, while Northern Kentucky keeps it straightforward and delicious.
The best part? This list is just the beginning. There are hidden burger gems all over Cincinnati waiting for you to discover them. Everyone has their own favorite based on what they value—some people care most about atmosphere, others just want the biggest burger possible, and some are all about that perfect flavor combination.
So which one are you hitting first? Will you go for Zip's history and tradition? Try to conquer the Bardzilla Challenge at Bard's? Or explore Tickle Pickle's creative menu? Honestly, the only wrong answer is not trying them at all.
Grab some friends, make a plan to work through this list, and find out for yourself why Cincinnati takes its burgers seriously. Your taste buds will thank you.
Looking to keep exploring Cincinnati’s food culture?
Don’t miss our guides to the best pizza places and top coffee shops across the city.
❓ FAQs About Cincinnati’s Best Burgers
Q: What burger spot is most iconic in Cincinnati?
A: Zip’s Cafe is often cited as Cincinnati’s burger institution, with decades of consistent praise for its classic cheeseburger.
Q: Which place serves the most creative burgers?
A: Tickle Pickle stands out for its bold, inventive toppings and variety of signature burgers.
Q: Where can I get burgers with a great beer selection?
A: Fifty West Brewing Company pairs its burgers with craft beers and outdoor activities, perfect for groups.
Q: What’s a great neighborhood burger bar in Northside?
A: Gulow Street combines a welcoming bar atmosphere with a solid burger and local favorites.
Q: Is there a fine-dining burger option on the list?
A: Colette OTR sometimes features elevated burger specials as part of its chef-driven menu.
Q: Which spot on this list is best for a casual pub burger?
A: Gordo’s Pub & Grill offers classic bar-style burgers and casual comfort food.
Q: Are there vegetarian burger options on this list?
A: Tickle Pickle typically features vegetarian options alongside its regular burgers.
Q: What place is best after a Reds or Bengals game?
A: Nation Kitchen & Bar (Downtown) is a fun, lively choice near The Banks for post-game burgers and drinks.
Q: Which spot is great for family-friendly dining?
A: Fifty West Brewing Company has outdoor space, games, and a casual vibe that works well for families.
Want To Read More?
Other Entries
Discover Cincinnati's best burgers from historic classics to trendy newcomers. This local's guide covers smash burgers, thick patties & neighborhood gems.
Explore Hyde Park Cincinnati, a historic, walkable neighborhood known for luxury homes, dining, parks, and timeless charm in the heart of the city.
Discover Maronda Homes' building process, pricing, and communities in Cincinnati. Expert insights on timelines, floor plans, and what makes them unique.
Discover Madisonville, Cincinnati's fastest-growing neighborhood. Explore homes from $200K-$500K+, trendy restaurants, and why buyers are flocking here.
Explore the best Cincinnati skyline views from 10 amazing spots. From Mount Adams to Newport, find hidden gems and classic viewpoints across the Queen City.
Discover Lebanon, Ohio—a Warren County gem blending 19th-century history, vibrant festivals, and affordable living. Your complete 2025 relocation guide.
Explore the devastating yet exhilarating reality of being a Cincinnati sports fan. From Reds to Bengals to FC Cincinnati—this is our year!
Discover why D.R. Horton is a top Cincinnati home builder. Learn about floor plans, pricing, communities in Dayton & Northern Kentucky. Expert insights inside.
Step inside Cincinnati’s most breathtaking new build — a $1.68M masterpiece by Justin Doyle Homes showcased at Homearama 2025 in Oakley.
Discover Norwood, Ohio—a historic enclave of Cincinnati where affordability, charm, and community thrive amid modern growth and local vibrancy.
Discover Northern Kentucky in 2025 — from top neighborhoods to must-try restaurants, breweries, and outdoor escapes. Your complete relocation and travel guide.
Discover why Beavercreek, Ohio is becoming the most sought-after Dayton suburb. Explore housing prices, top-rated schools, dining, and community insights from local experts.
Discover the history and highlights of Cincinnati Homearama, where stunning design, luxury living, and community converge in an unforgettable showcase.
Discover Cincinnati's most iconic bridges from Roebling to Brent Spence. Complete guide to spans shaping the Queen City's connectivity and charm.
Discover Pleasant Ridge, Cincinnati's vibrant walkable neighborhood. Explore dining, housing market, amenities & community life in this diverse area.
Tour the exquisite 8060 Trotters Trail Ct estate—6,500+ sqft, 2 acres, pool, theater, and premium finishes.
Discover the full Cincinnati home building process from selecting a builder to move-in day. Build confidently with expert insight and insider tips.
Discover the proven 7-step home buying process that eliminates stress and secures your perfect home. Expert guidance from pre-approval to closing day.
Discover The Baron Group's revolutionary Cincinnati real estate process. Get top dollar for your home with proven strategies, expert marketing, and stress-free selling.
Discover why Cincinnati's real estate market remains stable amid national volatility. Expert insights on pricing, inventory, and opportunities for 2025
Discover Northside Cincinnati through our comprehensive neighborhood tour. Explore dining, housing, culture & amenities in this vibrant walkable community.
Explore Cincinnati's best-preserved Victorian architecture in East Walnut Hills. Tour this historic home featuring original mahogany details, turret rooms, and John Ruthven heritage.
Discover Drees Homes, Cincinnati's premier home builder since 1928. Explore their 200+ floor plans, custom builds, and family-owned construction excellence.
Join the excitement of the Baron Group Reds Game—an unforgettable night of baseball, bonding, and community spirit in Cincinnati.
Explore Loveland, Ohio—a top Cincinnati suburb known for its scenic trails, vibrant downtown, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Discover 11 beloved Cincinnati coffee spots locals love. From espresso artistry to community vibes, here's your ultimate Cincinnati coffee guide.
Explore why The Baron Group is Greater Cincinnati's #1 real estate team. Redefining how homes are bought and sold.
Discover essential tips and insights for any first-time homebuyer. Learn how to budget, negotiate, and close with confidence.
Discover the thriving Cincinnati running scene. Explore run clubs, top races, and expert gear tips for a next-level running experience in the Queen City.
Explore the top 2025 home design trends, from earthy color palettes to curved furniture, biophilic design, maximalism, and more. Discover how to apply them.
Discover the story of Two Cities Pizza in Cincinnati. A unique restaurant blending New York and Chicago styles, community love, and award-winning pizza.
Discover the forgotten Cincinnati Subway and explore bold new ideas to repurpose the tunnels. Could this be the city's next big transformation?
Explore the best Cincinnati pizza spots! From crispy Detroit-style to cheesy deep dish, these top 5 pizzerias serve up unforgettable slices.
Meet Cincinnati home builder Justin Doyle Homes. Discover their custom process, quality focus, and why they lead in Cincinnati home building.
Explore the must-see Cincinnati events in 2025, from food fests to fireworks. Your ultimate guide to the Queen City's best celebrations.
Discover expert-backed tips for winterizing your home. Avoid costly mistakes and stay cozy with this complete guide to winterizing your home this season.
Discover the inspiring story of City Gospel Mission, a leading Cincinnati non-profit transforming lives through housing, recovery, youth programs, and more.
Discover the six standout Cincinnati restaurants named in OpenTable's Top 100 for 2024. Explore where to dine in style in the Queen City.
Discover a step-by-step guide to a smooth and stress-free home renovation. Learn how to plan, budget, and execute your next home renovation with confidence.
Discover five transformative Cincinnati developments elevating the Queen City's skyline, economy, and neighborhoods.
Discover expert painting tips to enhance your home's value and aesthetic. Learn how to paint smart with these professional Cincinnati painting insights.
Explore Mt. Lookout, Cincinnati's #1 neighborhood to buy a home. From food to parks and real estate, discover what makes Mt. Lookout the gem of Queen City living.
Discover the best Cincinnati date night ideas for every budget. From rooftop views to jazz in the park, these top 10 experiences will elevate your next romantic outing.
Discover the best Cincinnati date night ideas for every budget. From rooftop views to jazz in the park, these top 10 experiences will elevate your next romantic outing.
Discover the best Cincinnati hiking trails within the I-275 loop for every skill level—from wooded paths to river views. Your go-to guide for local outdoor adventures.
Discover Clifton, a dynamic Cincinnati neighborhood rich in history, culture, and amenities. Explore housing, dining, entertainment, and more in Clifton!
Explore the top Cincinnati careers across tech, healthcare, finance, education, and more. Discover top companies hiring and where your future could thrive in the Queen City.
The NAR settlement has changed how real estate works nationwide. Learn how buyer and seller rules have shifted and what the changes mean for your next transaction.
Explore the architectural evolution of Cincinnati home styles, from Federal and Queen Anne to Mid-Century Modern and Contemporary.
Discover the architectural brilliance of The Westcott House in Ohio, Frank Lloyd Wright's only Prairie-style home in the state.
Discover 10 surprising insights about living in Cincinnati—from neighborhood vibes to chili debates and scenic parks.
Explore Fort Thomas, Kentucky's #1 place to live in 2024. Learn about its lifestyle, real estate, parks, and strong sense of community.
Learn everything you need to know about the pre-approval process. From credit checks to documentation, here's your guide to navigating home buying.
Explore the vibrant lifestyle, historic homes, and walkable charm of East Walnut Hills. Learn why it's the top choice for living in Cincinnati.
Avoid common homebuyer mistakes with this comprehensive guide. Learn how to navigate the pre-approval process, inspections, budgeting, and more.
Discover how a home warranty works, what it covers, and why it's a smart investment for buyers and sellers. Learn the truth about home warranties.
Discover why Mason, Ohio is a top-rated suburb with elite schools, endless amenities, and a vibrant, family-friendly lifestyle.
The Baron Group Reds Game 2024 brought 3,000 guests together for a thrilling night of baseball and community. Relive the magic in Mason, Ohio.
Discover what makes living in Cincinnati so special. From sports to food, art, and history, here's how to thrive in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Discover five must-see Cincinnati hidden gems. From local eats to real estate trends, uncover the neighborhoods that deserve your attention.
Discover why Northern Kentucky is a hidden gem—offering big-city perks, small-town feel, top-notch schools, and low cost of living.
Unlock the secrets to home staging that sells—declutter, refresh, and style your way to top-dollar offers.
Discover why Silverton is the next hot Cincinnati neighborhood. Learn about real estate, growth, and unique local charm.
Explore Oakley, a vibrant Cincinnati neighborhood with rich amenities, unique homes, and unbeatable location. See why it's in high demand.
Found your dream home on Zillow? Here's how to move fast and smart in today's hot market to secure it.
Learn how to successfully buy and sell a home at the same time. Explore financing options, timing strategies, and expert insights to win in a hot real estate market.
Explore how to navigate the 2024 Cincinnati housing market. Essential tips for buyers and sellers in one of America's hottest real estate markets.
The Baron Group Newsletter
Stay Up To Date With New Media From The Baron Group
Make your move
Contact Baron Group
The Baron Group
513-600-4117
