10 Florida Burger Spots So Popular, People Line Up For Hours
Florida isn’t just about sunshine and theme parks, it’s also home to some of the most mouth-watering burger joints in the country.
These aren’t your average fast-food stops; they’re legendary spots where folks happily wait in long lines just to sink their teeth into juicy, perfectly crafted patties.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these burger havens are worth every minute of the wait.
1. Brooks Burgers
Naples locals know the drill: arrive early or prepare to wait because Brooks Burgers draws crowds like seagulls to beach fries. This spot has perfected the art of the classic American burger, using fresh ingredients and cooking each patty to perfection.
What makes Brooks stand out is their commitment to quality without the pretense. No fancy frills here, just honest-to-goodness burgers that taste like childhood memories wrapped in butcher paper. Their secret? Simple seasonings and beef that’s never frozen.
The line might snake around the building during peak hours, but regulars swear it moves faster than you’d think. Plus, watching the grill masters work their magic is half the fun.
2. Gilbert’s 17th Street Grill
Since 2008, Gilbert’s has been flipping burgers that make Fort Lauderdale residents lose their minds—in the best way possible. This family-owned gem serves up thick, juicy patties that practically require two hands to hold.
Walk in and you’ll immediately notice the nostalgic diner vibes mixed with that unmistakable sizzle of beef hitting a hot griddle. The menu keeps things straightforward: burgers done right, with all the classic toppings you crave. Their bacon cheeseburger has achieved near-mythical status among locals.
Weekend waits can stretch past an hour, but nobody complains much when the payoff tastes this good. Bring your appetite and your patience.
3. Thee Burger Spot
Tampa Bay’s burger scene got a serious upgrade when Thee Burger Spot opened its doors. Lines form before lunch because word spreads fast when someone’s making burgers this ridiculously delicious.
What sets them apart? They’re not afraid to experiment with bold flavors while respecting burger traditions. From creative topping combinations to perfectly toasted buns that hold everything together, each bite delivers satisfaction. The beef is locally sourced and cooked to your exact specifications.
First-timers often make the rookie mistake of ordering just one burger, only to regret not getting extras for later. The wait might test your hunger, but the reward is absolutely worth it.
4. La Birra Bar
Burgers and beer—a match made in heaven, perfected at La Birra Bar in Miami. This gastropub elevates the humble hamburger into something worthy of the South Beach dining scene without losing its soul.
Their burger game is strong, featuring high-quality beef paired with inventive toppings that somehow always work. The atmosphere buzzes with energy as patrons sip craft brews while waiting for their orders. It’s the kind of place where the line is part of the experience.
Pro tip: grab a cold one while you wait because the bar staff pours as expertly as the kitchen cooks. Your taste buds will thank you for your patience.
5. Johnny’s Fillin’ Station
Orlando visitors often spend hours waiting for theme park rides, but locals know the real attraction is Johnny’s Fillin’ Station. This quirky spot channels vintage Americana with its gas station theme and burgers that fuel more than just your car.
The menu reads like a greatest hits album of burger perfection. Each creation comes loaded with fresh toppings and that indefinable something that keeps people coming back. The retro decor adds charm, but it’s the food that creates the buzz.
Lines can get wild during dinner rush, especially on weekends. But hey, good things come to those who wait, and these burgers are definitely worth the standing around.
6. Duffy’s Tavern
Island time takes on new meaning when you’re waiting for a table at Duffy’s Tavern on Anna Maria Island. This beachside institution has been serving up legendary burgers since way back, and the crowds prove it hasn’t lost its touch.
Picture this: ocean breezes, cold drinks, and a burger so good it makes vacation memories. Duffy’s keeps things simple but executes flawlessly. Their patties are thick, juicy, and cooked over an open flame that adds that perfect char.
Tourists and locals alike pack this place year-round. Arriving before noon gives you better odds, but even the wait feels like part of the island experience.
7. BurgerRobs
Space Coast residents don’t need NASA to launch their appetites into orbit—they just head to BurgerRobs in Titusville. This local favorite has built a cult following with burgers that are out of this world (pun absolutely intended).
What started as a small operation has grown into a must-visit destination for anyone serious about their beef. Fresh-ground patties, quality ingredients, and cooking techniques that respect the craft make every burger special. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold.
Don’t be surprised if the parking lot looks like a launch day at Kennedy Space Center. These burgers create their own gravitational pull, attracting hungry folks from miles around.
8. Boulevard Burgers
St. Petersburg’s food scene has exploded in recent years, and Boulevard Burgers sits right at the center of the action. Their approach combines traditional burger-making with modern culinary creativity that keeps taste buds guessing.
Each burger showcases premium ingredients and thoughtful preparation that elevates the entire experience. The kitchen doesn’t cut corners, and it shows in every perfectly seasoned bite. From the bun to the final topping, everything works in harmony.
Weekend lines can stretch down the block, but the staff keeps things moving efficiently. Regulars recommend ordering a side of their famous fries—they’re the perfect accomplice to burger greatness. Trust the process; your patience pays off.
9. Willy’s Burgers & Brews
Willy’s Burgers & Brews proves that sometimes the best spots are the ones locals try to keep secret (but can’t because they’re too darn good). This Pinellas County gem combines neighborhood charm with seriously impressive burger craftsmanship.
The menu offers creative twists on classics without getting too weird—think bacon jam, fried eggs, and artisan cheeses that complement rather than overwhelm. Their beer selection pairs perfectly, making the wait at the bar actually enjoyable. The atmosphere feels welcoming, like hanging at a friend’s backyard barbecue.
Prime time brings the crowds, so plan accordingly. Once you taste their signature burger, you’ll understand why people gladly sacrifice their lunch hour standing in line.
10. Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish / Hamburgers
Wait, a fish shack that’s famous for hamburgers? Yep, Ted Peters pulls off this unlikely combo like nobody’s business. Since 1951, this South Pasadena institution has been smoking fish and grilling burgers that draw lines.
The burgers here are old-school Florida: simple, charcoal-grilled, and absolutely perfect. No fancy toppings or trendy ingredients—just quality beef cooked over real flames the way burgers were meant to be. The smoky aroma alone is worth the trip.
Bring cash, bring patience, and bring your appetite. This place operates on its own timeline, but that’s part of the authentic charm that’s kept generations coming back.