There are so many questions and recommendations that are asked on our Facebook page called “ Grand Rapids Informed” today we are starting to compile those results into blogs weekly! This week we are starting with an American classic and something that many people wonder… “What is the Best Burger in Town?” You all gave your answers and now we look into it a little deeper.
We are going to go over the top ten that were mentioned on the Facebook post!
BLACK NAPKIN: 966 FULTON STREET EAST (22 Votes)
With an overwhelming 22 mentions, Black Napkin has taken the top spot!
Black Napkin is a takeout restaurant created by Jason and Korin, The restaurant follows the same approach as their popsicles, focusing on real food and high-quality ingredients.
The Menu
Black Napkin specializes in smash burgers, made with 3 oz Michigan craft beef patties, smashed thin and served on a Nantucket sesame seed challah bun. Customers can choose from single, double, or triple patties, with options to substitute an Impossible patty, vegan bun, A gluten-free bun.
Burger Options:
- Classic – American cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, pickles, mustard, ketchup.
- Fussy Hussy – Swiss cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, olive mayo.
- Big Malcolm – American cheese, shredded lettuce, pickles, special sauce.
- Le College Dropout – Grand Cru cheese, smashed Vidalia onion, arugula, peppercorn tomato jam, herb de Provence mayo.
Black Napkin also offers house-made sodas, continuing its emphasis on carefully selected ingredients.
https://www.blacknapkingr.com/
BIGFOOT BURGER CO: 5344 PLAINFIELD AVE NE (11 Votes)
Bigfoot Burger Co. is a casual eatery bringing bold flavors and creative combinations to the Grand Rapids area. Specializing in their signature Bigfoot Blend™ burgers, the restaurant focuses on high-quality ingredients and unique flavors that set their menu apart. Alongside their beef burgers, they offer gluten-free options and a house-made chipotle black bean burger for those looking for alternatives.
The Burgers
Each burger features a ½ lb Bigfoot Blend patty on a brioche bun, served with fries (with the option to upgrade).
- Aloha Bigfoot – Teriyaki, grilled pineapple, Swiss cheese, onion.
- Bleu Yeti – Scratch-made bleu cheese cream cheese spread, sautéed onions, lettuce, tomato.
- Brusselfoot – Flash-fried Brussels sprouts, balsamic reduction, shaved Parmesan, lettuce.
- CassSquatch – House-made Boursin cheese spread, sautéed onions, lettuce.
- Chee Burger – American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle.
- Elvis PresSquatch – Peanut butter, fried banana, lettuce.
- Mykonos – Feta cheese, tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, banana peppers.
- Olive You, Man – Scratch-made olive spread, lettuce, tomato.
- Scorchin’ Squatch – Jalapeños, habanero cheese, Nashville hot sauce, Hot Cheetos.
- Shroomin’ Swiss – Sautéed mushrooms, Swiss cheese.
- The Jerk – House-made Jamaican jerk sauce, house-made purple slaw, lettuce.
- The Picklefoot – House-made chipotle aioli, lettuce, house-pickled red onions.
- YeeHaw Yeti – Sharp cheddar cheese, crispy onions, KC-style BBQ sauce.
Sides & Extras
For those looking to round out their meal, Bigfoot Burger Co. offers a variety of house-made sides:
- Garlic Parm Fries
- Side of Fries (with secret seasoning)
- Mac & Cheese (house-made cheese sauce, cavatappi noodles)
- Fried Brussels Sprouts (maple bourbon Dijon, pumpkin seeds, feta)
- Fried Pickles (served with dipping sauce)
- Onion Rings (thick-cut, beer-battered)
- Sandy’s Fudge Chocolate Pretzels
- Side of Nuggets (instead of fries)
Bigfoot Burger Co. combines comfort food with culinary creativity, delivering bold flavors and unique burger combinations. Whether you’re a fan of classic smash burgers or adventurous toppings, there’s something on the menu for every taste.
https://bigfootburgerco.com/menu
CHOO CHOO GRILL 1209 PLAINFIELD AVE NE GRAND RAPIDS (8 VOTES)
Choo Choo Grill is a small, family-owned restaurant that has built a dedicated following over the years. Known for its friendly atmosphere, classic diner fare, and nostalgic train decor, this spot offers a dining experience that keeps customers coming back. Though it’s a local favorite, there’s not much information about it online—just plenty of rave reviews from regulars who love its charm.
What Customers Are Saying
Many visitors highlight the warm service, historic feel, and great food. One diner recommends taking it all in—the story, the owners, the people, and the friendly conversations that often spark between tables.
Another longtime customer shared their experience:
“I had the opportunity to have a day date with my husband, and he picked Choo Choo Grill. It had been eight years since our first visit, and it was amazing! I had the olive burger with steak-cut fries, and from the first bite to the last, it was perfect. If you love train decor, the walls are covered with steam-era photos and memorabilia. It’s a small place, so seating is limited, but carryout is an option too!”
The Menu
Choo Choo Grill is known for its classic burgers and hearty meals, including their legendary olive burger. Their menu features:
- The Legend – 1 lb. deluxe cheeseburger
- Jumbo Taco Salad
- Large Chef Salad
- ½ Pound Deluxe Cheeseburger
- Depot Burger – Cheddar & ham
More Than Just Lunch
In addition to their beloved burgers and sandwiches, Choo Choo Grill serves breakfast, making it a go-to spot for early risers looking for a hearty meal to start the day.
With its small-town charm, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere, Choo Choo Grill is a true hidden gem in Grand Rapids. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime fan, it’s a place worth experiencing for yourself.
TURNSTILES 526 STOCKING AVE NW GRAND RAPIDS (7 VOTES)
Turnstiles is the realization of Rob Schellenberg’s decade-long dream of opening his own bar and restaurant in Grand Rapids. With 15 years in the service industry, Rob has worked his way through nearly every role in a restaurant, developing a deep appreciation for craft cocktails, bold flavors, and the local music scene. Named after his favorite Billy Joel album, Turnstiles is more than just a bar—it’s a community-driven venue celebrating great food, drinks, and live music.
The Menu: Smash Burgers & More
Turnstiles serves up double smash patties on a brioche bun (unless stated otherwise), with a side of Turnt Fries. Customers can substitute a veggie patty or add an extra patty for an additional charge.
Signature Burgers
- Cambodian Heat – Cherry jalapeño chutney, pepper jack cheese, shredded pickles, haystack onions, smoked habanero sauce.
- The Black Dahlia Burger – Bacon jam, smoked gouda, smoked jalapeños, tomato, BBQ sauce.
- Ballpark Burger – American cheese, shredded pickles, diced onion, mustard, mayo.
- Job for a Cowboy – American cheese, peppered bacon, haystack onions, BBQ ranch drizzle.
- The Good Burger – Parmesan garlic olive spread, Swiss cheese, lettuce, grilled onion.
- Patti LaMelt – Swiss cheese, haystack onions, tomato, smoked jalapeños, Thousand Island dressing on Texas toast.
- Paint It Black (and Bleu) – Blackened seasoned patties, bleu cheese, bacon, cherry jalapeño chutney.
- Big Pun – American cheese, lettuce, pickles, white onion, Thousand Island dressing.
- Royale with Cheese – American cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, ketchup, mustard.
- Scottie Voodoo – Caramelized white onion, mushrooms, Swiss cheese, bacon, garlic mayo.
More Than Just Burgers
Turnstiles also offers Hand Stuff, Mac Daddies, Greener Pastures, and Little ‘Uns, providing a mix of bar bites, mac and cheese creations, salads, and kid-friendly options.
The Experience
Turnstiles combines an eclectic menu, expertly crafted cocktails, and a lively atmosphere with a strong connection to Grand Rapids’ music scene. It’s a place where bold flavors meet great tunes, creating a unique space for locals to eat, drink, and enjoy live performances.
NONLA BURGER 49 BRIDGE ST. NW GRAND RAPIDS (5 VOTES)
Located on the Westside of Downtown Grand Rapids, Nonla Burger brings a fresh take on the classic diner experience. With a focus on quality ingredients, great service, and affordable pricing, this spot delivers simple yet flavorful burgers in a casual setting.
The Burger Menu
Each burger is made with a 3.2 oz patty and served with lettuce, tomato, raw onion, and Nonla spread—unless ordered Nonla Way, which substitutes grilled onions and adds jalapeños, cilantro, and cucumbers for extra flavor.
- Hamburger – A classic patty with fresh toppings and house-made Nonla spread.
- Cheeseburger – The same as the hamburger, but with American cheese.
- N.B. Double – Two beef patties, two slices of American cheese, and the classic Nonla toppings.
- Beyond “Veggie” Burger – A plant-based option made with beets, peas, bamboo, potato, and coconut, served with American cheese and classic toppings.
More Than Just Burgers
In addition to their signature burgers, Nonla Burger offers a variety of sandwiches (Sandos), starters, fries, and salads, rounding out a menu that’s simple, satisfying, and built for everyone.
Nonla Burger keeps it straightforward and delicious, making it a go-to spot for those looking for high-quality burgers with a twist.
OTHER NOTABLE BURGER AND DINING SPOTS IN GRAND RAPIDS
Grand Rapids has no shortage of great places to grab a burger, a bite to eat, or a drink. While some spots stand out as longtime favorites, others offer unique twists on classic comfort food. Here’s a look at some noteworthy mentions across the city.
Popular Burger and Tavern Spots
- Mr. Burger – A well-known local chain serving classic diner-style burgers.
- Mill Creek Tavern – A laid-back tavern with burgers and bar food.
- Stella’s – Famous for massive stuffed burgers and an arcade-style bar atmosphere.
- Eastern Deli – A hidden gem offering fresh sandwiches and deli-style eats.
- O’Brien’s Deli & Burgers – A go-to for hearty burgers and sandwiches.
Brewpubs & Gastropubs with Burgers
- Two Guys Brewery – A craft beer spot with an impressive food menu.
- Brickyard Tavern – A local pub serving burgers and bar fare.
- The Winchester – A neighborhood gastropub with a rotating menu.
- Broadway Bar – A cozy dive bar known for its burgers.
- Monelli’s – A sports bar with a solid lineup of burgers and Italian-American food.
- Vestal Inn – A long-standing tavern with burgers and classic pub food.
- Fat Boy Burgers – A no-frills spot serving up classic, old-school burgers.
- Butcher’s Union – A high-end tavern with a reputation for top-quality meats.
- 7 Monks Taproom – A beer-focused bar with a strong food menu, including burgers.
Casual Dining & Unique Finds
- Bistro Bella Vita – Known for upscale comfort food, including great burgers.
- Russo Ristorante & Mercato – A mix of Italian fare with a deli-style market.
- Ellnora’s Grill – A lesser-known but highly rated burger and grill spot.
- Cheers – A local watering hole with pub classics.
- House Rules Board Game Lounge – A place to enjoy food while playing board games.
- Anazeh Sands Billiards – A pool hall with food and drinks.
- Brick and Porter – A downtown spot with craft beer and hearty meals.
- Bosco’s Pub – A small pub known for its handcrafted burgers.
- Easy Street Restaurant & Bar – A laid-back neighborhood favorite.
Fast Casual & Food Trucks
- Dippers – A unique spot specializing in dipping-style meals.
- O’Tooles – A casual pub with a variety of burgers.
- 3 Gatos – A brewery with Latin-inspired food options.
- The Bistro – A simple yet quality spot for American fare.
- NOCOS – A hidden gem with a strong burger lineup.
- Wing Heaven – As the name suggests, a go-to for wings and more.
- A1 Burgers – A lesser-known burger spot with a solid reputation.
- Five Guys – A national chain known for fresh, made-to-order burgers.
- Brunch House – A breakfast and brunch spot with great burgers.
- The Alibi Bar and Grill – A casual bar with pub-style food.
Dive Bars & Local Favorites
- Logan’s Alley – A neighborhood bar with an extensive beer selection.
- Blue Dog – A lesser-known but beloved local bar.
- Putts Putts Bar – A classic dive bar.
- The Post Tavern – A small but well-regarded local tavern.
- The Station – A neighborhood bar with good eats.
- The Win – A cozy bar known for its welcoming atmosphere.
- Green Well – A farm-to-table gastropub with a great burger.
- Turk’s Tavern – A classic roadside bar and grill.
- Matchbox – A small but mighty food destination.
- Birch Lodge – A low-key spot with solid bar food.
- Reservoir Lounge – A hidden favorite for drinks and food.
- Broadleaf – A brewery with a creative food menu.
- Corner Bar – Known for its legendary hot dogs but also serves a great burger.
- Kim’s Coney Island – A classic diner with burgers and coney dogs.
- Bud and Stanley’s – A longtime favorite dive bar.
- Putt Putts – A no-frills bar with pub-style food.
- Lil Spot – A small, under-the-radar eatery.
- Bestside – A newer addition with a growing following.
- Wishes – A cozy bar with good eats.
- Brewery Vivant – A brewery with a European-inspired menu, including great burgers.
- Patty Matters – Food Truck – A well-loved burger truck with unique options.
With so many burger joints, pubs, and hidden gems across Grand Rapids, there’s no shortage of places to try. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic smash burger, a creative gourmet option, or a pub-style meal, the city’s food scene has something for every burger lover.