June 16, 2026 · Theresa
What Is Milwaukee’s Best Burger?
Milwaukee’s burger culture is rooted in Wisconsin traditions: quality beef, locally made cheese, neighborhood taverns and generations of family-owned restaurants.
From classic tavern-style burgers and old school drive-in favorites to gourmet creations piled high with Wisconsin cheese, Milwaukee’s burger scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting Cream City for the first time, these burger destinations deserve a spot on your Milwaukee restaurant bucket list. If you want to taste the absolute best of the best without the guesswork, join us on a private Burger & Custard Capital of the World Tour for the ultimate culinary road trip through the city’s finest. With so many iconic spots, it’s impossible to crown just one as Milwaukee’s best burger, but here are a few of our personal favorites to get you started.
Oscar’s Pub & Grill
Get Directions: 1712 W Pierce St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
When locals have debates around Milwaukee’s best burger, Oscar’s is almost always agreed upon as one of the city’s best spots. The restaurant has earned praise for its classic burgers, creative specialty burgers and hearty portions. Their Big Gringo burger with bacon, white cheddar cheese, and American cheese on a toasted bun has cemented its status as a legendary crowd-favorite that tops every local foodie’s must-try list.
Not sure what to order? We recommend the Big O Burger, topped with chorizo, bacon, two cheeses, fried onions, and guacamole.
Sobelman’s
Get Directions: 1900 W St Paul Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Sobelman’s is a Milwaukee institution that practically reinvented the local burger and brunch scene from its original, historic tavern location. Housed in a century-old Schlitz tied house, this iconic spot is legendary for its thick, juicy burgers and outrageous, meal-in-a-glass Bloody Marys. Their approach relies on fresh, quality ingredients, featuring locally baked Sciortino’s buns and a signature crown of Colby-Jack cheese on their classic builds.
Do yo consider yourself a Bloody Mary connoisseur? Then we hope to see you on our Bloody Mary Brunch Tour for a bloody-good time!
Camino
Get Directions: 434 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Tucked away in the vibrant Walker’s Point neighborhood, Camino is a cozy, craft-beer-focused tavern that elevates classic American bar food into an art form. They are widely celebrated for making nearly everything from scratch, pushing past standard pub fare with a menu of expertly executed sandwiches and burgers. Their dedication to quality beef, locally sourced ingredients, and an exceptional rotating tap list has made them a certified favorite for Milwaukee foodies and late-night diners alike.
Looking for their ultimate crowd-pleaser? You can’t go wrong with the Camino Burger, a perfectly seared patty topped with American cheese, grilled onions, and their irresistible, house-made Camino sauce.
Archie’s Flat Top
Get Directions: 6922 W Becher St, West Allis, WI 53219
Archie’s Flat Top brings a hit of delicious nostalgia to the Becher Street strip with an unpretentious, retro-diner vibe. They are widely celebrated for mastering the art of the old-school smash burger, serving up thin patties boasting maximum lacy, ultra-crispy edges. Their commitment to the neighborhood shines through their use of premium, custom-blended beef sourced fresh from Becher Meats just down the block.
Looking for the ultimate house specialty? Dive into The Archie, a hefty double-patty masterpiece loaded with melted American cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, house special sauce, and their signature onions simmered in Pabst Blue Ribbon beer.
Wild Roots
Get Directions: 6807 W Becher St, West Allis, WI 53219
For burger lovers seeking something unique, Wild Roots offers a Duck Fat Burger with house-ground brisket seared in duck fat. This rich and flavorful burger is known for its crispy crusty and tender inside.
Want a night-cap after your burger? Head across the street to Station No. 06 for craft cocktails and a seat by the fire pit.
Kopp’s Frozen Custard
Get Directions: Multiple Locations
No discussion of Milwaukee’s best burgers would be complete without mentioning Kopp’s Frozen Custard. Since 1950, Kopp’s has been known for their jumbo burgers and frozen custard. This local institution is a must-visit stop for visitors and locals alike.
Did you know? Kopp’s Frozen Custard is credited with being the first-ever custard shop to invent the “Flavor of the Day” menu concept.
Nite Owl Drive-In
Get Directions: 830 E Layton Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Nite Owl is a 3rd generation family owned and operated drive-in since 1948. They are known for their daily handmade burgers and once they are sold out of burgers for the day they close. And they have built a loyal following thanks to its classic cheeseburger. Their approach is straightforward: quality beef, plenty of cheese and a perfecting toasted bun.
Get your burgers while you can! This local favorite is only open from March-November.
Harry’s Bar & Grill
Get Directions: 3549 N Oakland Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Located on Milwaukee’s East Side, Harry’s serves up large burgers packed with flavor. The Big Kahuna burger combines bacon, cheddar, caramelized onions and a unique sour cream topping for a memorable bite that will keep you wanting more.
Want an appetizer before your meal? We recommend their famous Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons.
Crave Cafe
Get Directions: 3592 N Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211
Crave Cafe is a Shorewood favorite, featuring mouthwatering burgers such as the Crave Burger which features Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, arugula and white truffle aioli on a toasted brioche bun. It has become a go-to for burger enthusiasts who are looking for something a little more elevated.
Looking for an Asian-inspired burger? Try the Korean BBQ Burger with Korean BBQ glaze, American cheese, spicy mayo, kimchi, and cabbage slaw.
Explore More of Milwaukee’s Food Scene
If you’re planning a Milwaukee food adventure, don’t stop at burgers. Milwaukee’s culinary scene is filled with iconic Wisconsin flavors, from cheese curds and frozen custard to local specialties that tell the story of our city.
One of the best ways to experience these flavors is on one of our many guided food tours that showcase the city’s most beloved foods, neighborhoods, history, and culture. It’s the perfect way to experience the authentic tastes that make Milwaukee unique. Below are a few of our current offerings:
- Tacos & Tequila Tour
- Brady Street Lunch Tour
- Bloody Mary Brunch Tour
- Pre-Prohibition Historic Bar Tour
- Dairyland Delights (Old World 3rd Street Tour)
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