Burgers That Still Have ATL in a Chokehold 🍔 National Burger Day Edition
Some things never change, & my obsession with a good Atlanta burger is one of them. In honor of National Burger Day (May 28th), I’m bringing back a few spots that still slap hard (oh & yes, I’ve tested them more than once for quality assurance).
Whether you’re into smashburgers, stacked patties, or wild flavor combos, these ATL gems are worth every bite… & the mess!
MY PICKS
🍔Smiley’s Burger Club
From pop-up to brick & mortar, Smiley’s still has me in a chokehold. There’s a reason they’ve taken home the crown during Atlanta Burger Week two years in a row. Go ahead— sink your teeth into greatness.
🍔Ganji (Pop-Up)
I didn’t get a chance to try the burger at Minhwa Spirits (residency), but Ganji’s take on a burger lives in my head rent-free. The kimchi relish & Ganji sauce pack a flavor punch that’s bold, balanced, & wildly underrated. Kimchi lovers, this one’s for you.
🍔Little’s Food Store (Cabbagetown)
Neighborhood dive energy with no-frills burgers that just hit. It’s the kind of place locals keep close to the chest—and honestly, I respect it.
🍔Che Butter Jonez
The lamb burger? Fire. Hands down. While I miss the OG SWATS location being close to home, you can still catch the crew, Bae Butter & Malik in Brookhaven… because “I COOK BETTER THAN YOUR MUVA” still rings true.
PRO TIP: Don’t sleep on the chopped cheese.
🍔NFA Burger (Dunwoody)
Lives rent-free in my taste memory. Crispy-edged, juicy smashburgers + tots served from a gas station… yes, really & somehow, it just works.
PRO TIP: A second location just opened at Avalon in Alpharetta.
OTHER NOTABLE BURGERS
1. Fred’s Meat & Bread (Krog Street Market)
Still elite. Their cheeseburger is classic in the best way, & the garlic fries? Dangerous.
2. Evergreen Butcher & Baker
Atlanta’s Sunday secret you didn’t know you needed. This burger pop-up is a foodie must-do! With fresh, top-tier ingredients, perfectly seared patties, & house-baked buns. Evergreen is serving up one of ATL’s most unforgettable burger experiences… but only on Sundays.
PRO TIP: Come early & act right. Let’s keep this gem thriving by showing love + respect to everyone in line.
3. Jose’s Birria (Brick & mortar + pop-up)
Birria smashburger? Yes please.
4. Thicc Burgers (Pop-up)
Living up to the name— thicc, juicy, messy goodness.
5. The Vortex (Little 5 Points & Midtown)
You’re not a true ATL burger explorer until you’ve tackled a Vortex burger. Come hungry, stay for the chaos.
PRO TIP: Hit the Little Five location, it’s got the vibe, plus there’s stand-up comedy next door.
6. Fox Bros BBQ (multiple locations)
Not just for BBQ, their burger melts into your soul. Thank me later.
7. Holeman and Finch (HF)
The OG “you had to be there” burger spot.
8. Hero Doughtnuts & Buns
Yes, the burgers slap just as hard as the doughnuts. No notes.
9. Slutty Vegan
Whether you’re vegan or not, this burger brings the flavor & the fun. The hype is real— & deserved.
10. Patty’s & Franks (Chattahoochee Foodworks)
A newer fave on the scene, but definitely one to watch.
11. Sad Boy Burger Shop (Pop-up)
The name might be emo, but the flavor isn’t sad. Keep an eye on them.
BONUS: How Crispy (Summerhill)
Okay yes, it’s a chicken spot. But if you know the special smashburger they’ve been dropping? You’re already in line.
NOTES
If these ever come out of retirement, add them to your list ASAP (Instagram handles)
🍴 @smoke.and.honey
🍴 @godtohatl
🍴 @poundtownsmashburgers
🍴 @the_bookhousepub Still lives in my heart (RIP)