An American classic and long-time favorite, the burger needs no formal introduction. With endless variations on this juicy, sometimes greasy and often cheesy sensation, crafting the perfect burger bite is one thing Lubbock restaurants get right time and time again.
On a quest to find the best Hub City hamburger, we tried everything from simple sliders to pastrami-topped patties. What we found was a list of must-try, mouthwatering creations across the city.
The Bacon & Bleu is one of two burgers on this farm-to-table restaurant’s menu. Cambazola cheese, bacon and tomato jam make up this must-try bite, but, dare I say, the house-made bun, might be the star of the show! And don’t get us started on the sweet potato chips- thin, crispy, salty and a hint of sweetness. This pairing is a match made in culinary heaven.
Sometimes the best bites are on wheels. This food truck find is a testament to that. Whenever you come across the bright yellow exterior of this hotspot, you’ll know smash burgers and hand cut fries are near. From the toasted bun and grilled onions to queso and pico de gallo toppings, this eat is something to write home about. Be sure to find out where they are while you’re in town.
Lubbock locals rave about this tiny A-frame structure on 50th St.- so much so that last time we did a burger roundup, all of its supporters let us know what we were missing. Fair! This no frills, family-owned business is doing it right with drive up, greasy classics and an old fashioned burger. It’s a spot where you’re guaranteed to get great service and a cooked to order meal.
A fourteen-minute drive from the Lubbock city center, this nationally-acclaimed barbecue joint serves up a one-of-a-kind smash burger. Freshly ground brisket is shaped into patties, smoked on the pit and finished on the griddle where cheese is melted over the top. The burger is served with thin-cut fries and completed with caramelized onions and a toasted bun. With everything going for it, this burger lives up to the rave. Only available on Tuesdays, be sure to beat the lunch crowd and hop in line before opening at 11 a.m.
What appears as one of many “hole-in-the-wall” restaurants down 34th Street is a coveted, women-run mom-and-pop shop that opened its doors more than two decades ago. As soon as you pull up to the drive-thru window or walk up to the counter, West Texas hospitality greets you. We were encouraged to try the fan-favorite Christaki’s burger that’s topped with a generous handful of pastrami and melted Swiss cheese. A unique twist on a classic, this burger was a savory showstopper. After tasting the tots, fries and onion rings, we’re sure you can’t go wrong with any side options. The team favorite was the thick, slightly sweet and crispy onion rings that come fresh out of the fryer.
If you love cheese, stop what you’re doing and head to Caprock Cafe to try the Queso Burger. A juicy patty is topped with the restaurant’s iconic Pecos Queso, a blend of Velveeta, green chiles, habanero hot sauce and spicy beef. Served closed-face with all the fixings on the side, this burger comes with your choice of side. Try the seasoned fries or twisted taters for a classic combo. After 25 years of service to the Lubbock community, Caprock Cafe continues to bring a lively atmosphere to the restaurant scene. With live music, cold beer and a seriously cheesy burger, make sure to stop by next time you’re in town.
This Texas-favorite chain is known for serving American classics. Whether you want to top your burger with bacon, chili, guacamole, mushrooms, hickory sauce, grilled jalapenos and more or keep it simple, the expansive menu offerings mean there is something for everyone. The patties are 100% ground chuck and are seasoned to perfection. For the full Blue Sky experience, try the Fried Jalapeno Rings, Fried Pepper Jack Cheese and a creamy Blue Bell ice cream float or shake for dessert. This no-frills, counter-service restaurant is a casual stop for lunch and also makes the best late-night snack.
The newest burger spot on the list, Wrecked is serving up pressed patties with creative toppings every day of the week. And what goes better with an American classic than a frozen Texas Tea? Not much! When you stop by, you can stick with the OG or go all out with a burger that features fried Mac N’ Cheese stacked on two pressed patties topped with queso and BBQ sauce. Egg lovers will also find a Sunny Side Up twist on the menu. Foodies, I know you want to try it!
The star of this neighborhood diner’s menu is the burger. It’s so good and quintessentially burger that the name needed no further explanation. The dish features A1 bacon jam, caramelized onions, American cheese and toasted brioche. It sounds simple, but it’s easily one of- if not- the best I’ve ever tasted. It is perfectly seasoned, texturally well-rounded, and, after you taste it once, craveable daily. Trust me, one bite and you might be planning a trip back to Lubbock before you even leave!
It’s breakfast time but you’re craving a burger. Where do you go? There’s only one answer to that question. Claraboya. Every Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Carter’s Cinnamon Roll Burger adorned with bacon, sausage, hashbrowns, fried eggs and American & Swiss cheese is stacked between bourbon syrup dipped cinnamon roll buns and served with a side of shoestring potatoes. If the description of this dish alone doesn’t convince you to plan a weekend stay in the LBK, I don’t know what will. But, seriously, if you choose to stay at the Doubletree by Hilton, this breakfast burger is only steps away from your room…
By: Maggi Gallaspy
By: Maggi Gallaspy
By: Maggi Gallaspy
By: Intern
4