10 Maryland Burger Chains That Locals Swear Are Worth The Drive
Marylanders don’t waste time or gas unless the destination is truly spectacular. We’ll endure the Beltway during rush hour for a bushel of steamed crabs, but what about the humble ground beef patty?
These 10 homegrown burger chains command that same level of devotion.
They represent the state’s unique flavor profile-unpretentious, high-quality, and deeply satisfying. Get ready to swap your crab mallet for a napkin; these local gems redefine what a “chain” can be in the Old Line State, proving that sometimes, beef trumps blue shell.
1. Five Guys
Born in Arlington but raised across Maryland, Five Guys has become a staple for burger lovers who appreciate simplicity done right. Every location offers the same promise of fresh-ground beef cooked to order, piled high with free toppings like grilled onions, mushrooms, and tangy pickles.
Their fries deserve their own fan club. Cut fresh daily and cooked in peanut oil, they arrive hot and plentiful, often overflowing from the cup into your bag. Locals know to order a small because the portions are generous enough to share.
What makes Five Guys special is consistency. Whether you stop by Rockville or Annapolis, you get the same quality burger every single time, no gimmicks required.
2. Shake Shack
Shake Shack brought its Madison Square Park magic to Maryland, and locals immediately fell in love. The ShackBurger combines Angus beef with a potato bun so soft it practically melts in your mouth, while the secret ShackSauce adds a tangy kick that keeps you guessing.
National Harbor became a burger destination once Shake Shack opened its doors. Families gather for weekend lunches, couples grab post-movie bites, and tourists discover why Marylanders rave about this spot. The crinkle-cut fries stay crispy even when you save a few for later.
Beyond burgers, their frozen custard shakes are legendary. Try the seasonal flavors or stick with classics like chocolate and vanilla for a sweet finish.
3. Smashburger
Smashburger perfected the art of the crispy-edged patty by literally smashing fresh beef onto a hot griddle. That technique creates a caramelized crust that locks in juices while adding a satisfying crunch with every bite. Regional toppings let you customize your burger with flavors that feel distinctly local.
Late-night cravings find their match here. Several Maryland locations stay open when other spots have closed, making Smashburger the hero of midnight hunger pangs.
Rosemary and garlic fries offer a gourmet twist on the classic side. Fast-casual service means you order at the counter, grab a number, and wait just minutes before diving into burger bliss.
4. BurgerFi
BurgerFi elevates fast food with all-natural Angus beef that never sees hormones or antibiotics. My cousin dragged me to the Woodmore Commons location last summer, insisting their CEO burger would change my life. Spoiler alert: he was right. The double patty with candied bacon and special Fi sauce became my new obsession.
Eco-conscious diners appreciate their commitment to sustainability, from compostable packaging to responsibly sourced ingredients. Hand-cut fries cooked in olive oil show they take quality seriously.
Frozen custard comes in rotating flavors that pair perfectly with any burger. National Harbor offers waterfront views while you enjoy your meal.
5. Wayback Burgers
Step into Wayback Burgers and travel back to simpler times when diners served made-to-order burgers without pretension. The retro vibe feels authentic, from the classic diner decor to the straightforward menu that focuses on doing the basics exceptionally well.
Double burgers arrive hot off the griddle with cheese melted just right. Thick enough to require serious suction through the straw, they come in traditional flavors plus seasonal specials that rotate throughout the year.
Locals appreciate the nostalgic atmosphere combined with consistent quality that never disappoints. Prices remain reasonable, making Wayback an easy choice for family dinners.
6. Fuddruckers
Fuddruckers built its reputation on massive half-pound patties and an epic toppings bar where you control your destiny. Fresh-baked buns arrive warm throughout the day, providing the perfect foundation for whatever burger creation your imagination conjures.
Pickles, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, and sauces wait for your assembly skills. Maryland fans celebrated when news broke about new locations opening across the state.
The chain had scaled back years ago, leaving burger lovers mourning the loss of their build-your-own paradise. Now returning locations are drawing crowds eager to relive those customizable burger memories.
7. Abbey Burger Bistro
Baltimore birthed Abbey Burger Bistro, and the city remains fiercely proud of this local success story. Multiple locations across the area serve creative specialty burgers that push boundaries while respecting burger traditions.
The Natty Boh burger pays homage to Baltimore culture with ingredients that celebrate local flavors. Knowledgeable staff can recommend the ideal drink to complement your meal.
Vegetarian and vegan options ensure everyone finds something delicious. Weekend brunch adds another dimension, featuring burger-inspired dishes that blur the line between breakfast and lunch in the best possible way.
8. Clark Burger
Clark Burger captures that neighborhood joint feeling where everyone knows your name and your usual order. This Baltimore chain serves hearty burgers that stick to your ribs without emptying your wallet, making it a favorite among locals seeking authentic comfort food.
Thick patties get cooked with care, not rushed through an assembly line. Poutine on the menu sets Clark Burger apart from typical burger joints. Those crispy fries smothered in gravy and cheese curds offer a Canadian-inspired twist that has become a signature dish.
The casual atmosphere welcomes families, students, and anyone craving something distinctive without the fuss of fine dining. Multiple locations mean you can find that comforting Clark Burger experience across Baltimore.
9. Z-Burger
Bethesda residents guard Z-Burger like a precious secret, though word has spread throughout suburban Maryland about this DC-area gem. Simple, well-made burgers arrive without fanfare but deliver maximum flavor through quality ingredients and proper technique.
Hand-cut fries taste like someone actually cared about making them right. The loyal following speaks volumes about consistency. Regular customers return weekly because they know exactly what to expect, and Z-Burger never disappoints.
Milkshakes blend to ideal thickness, burgers cook to proper temperature, and service remains friendly even during rush hours. Parking can be tricky in downtown Bethesda, but dedicated fans consider the hunt worthwhile for their burger fix.
10. Leo’s Smash Burgers & Dogs
Buzz surrounds Leo’s Smash Burgers & Dogs like bees around honey, and one bite explains the excitement. That perfect char on the patty edges creates a texture contrast that elevates the entire burger experience, while creative toppings add unexpected flavor combinations.
Traditionalists can keep it simple, but adventurous eaters should explore the specialty options. Milkshakes here rival the burgers for attention. Thick, creamy, and available in flavors that rotate seasonally, they provide the ideal sweet counterpoint to savory burger richness.
Hot dogs offer an alternative for anyone not in a burger mood, though most people stick with what Leo does best. Growing locations suggest this regional spot might become Maryland’s next big burger success story.