14 Hole-In-The-Wall Michigan Burger Joints Serving Double Cheeseburgers Everyone In Town Swears By
If you think a great burger is just a patty and some cheese, Michigan’s got 14 things to teach you.
Picture this: a greasy paper wrapping, a meltdown of American cheese, and a chewy onion ring that might just be your new best friend.
I’m talking about the kind of double cheeseburgers that make you forget your own name-assuming you don’t slur it into your soda after the first bite.
These aren’t your chain-restaurant, “hold the pickles” kind of places.
No, this is holy water for burger zealots: hole-in-the-wall spots where the fry cook’s got more personality than the entire cast of The Great Gatsby, and the grill’s been so hot since ’83 that the term “well-done” is just a punchline.
Everyone in town swears by their favorite-whether it’s the one with the secret sauce, and the recipe lives on, or the one where the locals say the onions are grown in the shadow of the Great Lakes (they’re not, but you’re not arguing).
Let’s crank up the jukebox, dodge a few flies, and chase down those 14 legendary bites-even if we have to survive the winter just to do it.
1. Miller’s Bar
Since 1941, this Dearborn institution has been flipping burgers the old-fashioned way, and nothing about the process has changed.
Located at 23700 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48124, this place looks exactly like it did when your grandparents might have stopped by for lunch.
The double cheeseburger here comes with perfectly seasoned beef patties that sizzle on a well-worn griddle, creating those crispy edges everyone craves.
Melted American cheese blankets each patty, and the whole thing gets tucked into a soft bun that soaks up all the juicy goodness.
Cash-only operations and a no-frills atmosphere keep things authentic, while regulars crowd the small dining room during lunch hours.
Service moves quickly despite the crowd, and the staff treats everyone like family.
Some folks have been coming here for fifty years, and they’ll tell you the burgers taste exactly the same as they did back then.
That consistency is what makes Miller’s Bar a true Michigan treasure.
2. Telway Hamburgers
Telway has been a Detroit staple since 1944, serving up sliders before sliders were trendy everywhere else.
The location at 6820 Michigan Ave in Detroit keeps the tradition alive with burgers that are small in size but massive in flavor.
Order a double cheeseburger and you’ll get two thin, perfectly grilled patties with cheese melted right into the meat.
The steamed buns are soft and slightly sweet, creating the perfect vessel for these juicy little wonders.
Prices remain remarkably affordable, making it easy to order several without breaking the bank.
Late-night hours mean you can satisfy burger cravings when most other places have closed up shop.
The simple menu focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well rather than trying to be everything to everyone.
Locals know that Telway burgers hit differently at 2 AM after a long night, though they’re equally delicious at noon.
3. Motz’s Burgers
Walking into Motz’s at 7208 W Fort St in Detroit feels like stepping back to a simpler time when burgers were king.
This family-owned spot has been around since 1929, making it one of the oldest continuously operating burger joints in the state.
The double cheeseburger features hand-formed patties that get smashed on the griddle, creating a caramelized crust that locks in all the flavor.
Grilled onions add a sweet, savory element that complements the beef perfectly, while gooey cheese ties everything together.
My uncle swears he proposed to my aunt over burgers here in 1987, and they still come back every anniversary.
The vintage decor hasn’t been updated much, which is exactly how customers prefer it.
Counter seating puts you right in front of the action, where you can watch skilled cooks work the griddle with practiced precision.
Every burger comes out hot, fresh, and exactly right.
4. Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger
Ann Arbor’s most eccentric burger spot doesn’t mess around when it comes to portion sizes or personality.
Located at 304 S Ashley St, Krazy Jim’s has been feeding hungry college students and locals since 1953.
The ordering system here is unique and slightly intimidating for first-timers, but the staff will guide you through it with good-natured teasing.
A double cheeseburger means two quarter-pound patties cooked to order, and you can pile on toppings until the burger barely fits in your hands.
Grilled mushrooms, crispy bacon, and fried eggs are popular additions that turn an already hearty burger into a full meal.
The no-nonsense attitude extends to the service, where efficiency matters more than small talk.
Despite the gruff exterior, regulars know the staff genuinely cares about putting out quality food.
University of Michigan students consider eating here a rite of passage, and many alumni make pilgrimages back just for these burgers.
5. Marcus Hamburgers
Tucked away at 6349 E McNichols Rd in the Hamtramck area, Marcus Hamburgers has been quietly serving exceptional burgers since 1929.
This tiny spot doesn’t have fancy decorations or elaborate menus, just straightforward burgers done the right way.
The double cheeseburger arrives wrapped in paper, still steaming hot from the griddle where it was cooked to perfection.
Thin patties get crispy around the edges while staying juicy in the middle, and the American cheese melts into every crevice.
Simple toppings like pickles, onions, and mustard let the quality of the beef shine through without unnecessary distractions.
The place operates on a cash-only basis, so come prepared with bills in your wallet.
Neighborhood regulars treat this spot like their personal kitchen, stopping by multiple times a week for their burger fix.
Finding Marcus might take some effort, but the reward is worth every bit of the journey.
6. Little Brothers Burgers
Royal Oak’s Little Brothers Burgers at 201 W 4th St brings a slightly more modern twist to the classic burger joint concept.
Opened by brothers who grew up loving burgers, this spot combines old-school techniques with creative topping combinations.
The double cheeseburger features two fresh beef patties seasoned simply but perfectly, allowing the meat quality to speak for itself.
What sets this place apart is the attention to detail in every component, from the toasted buns to the crisp lettuce.
Creative sauce options add layers of flavor without overwhelming the burger, and everything tastes fresh rather than processed.
The casual atmosphere welcomes families, couples, and solo diners alike, with friendly service that makes everyone feel at home.
Reasonable prices keep this spot accessible despite the elevated quality compared to typical fast-food chains.
Locals appreciate having a burger joint that respects tradition while still bringing something new to the table.
7. Got Burger
Ypsilanti’s Got Burger at 301 W Cross St proves that great burgers can come from unexpected places.
This spot started as a food truck before finding a permanent home, and the commitment to quality never wavered during the transition.
Double cheeseburgers here feature thick, hand-formed patties that are cooked to your preferred temperature, which is rare for casual burger joints.
The signature sauce adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick that keeps you coming back for another bite.
Fresh vegetables and quality cheese elevate what could be an ordinary burger into something memorable.
I remember stopping here after a concert nearby and being blown away by how good everything tasted, even at midnight.
The small dining area fills up quickly during peak hours, but takeout remains a solid option.
Local college students have adopted this place as their go-to spot for comfort food that doesn’t sacrifice quality for convenience.
8. BB’s Diner
BB’s Diner at 5223 E 7 Mile Rd in Detroit embodies everything a classic American diner should be.
The double cheeseburger here comes with all the traditional fixings, prepared exactly the way diners have loved for generations.
Beef patties are grilled to order on a flat-top that’s been seasoning itself for years, creating incredible flavor.
Cheese melts perfectly over the hot meat, and the bun gets lightly toasted to add a subtle crunch.
Portions are generous without being wasteful, giving you plenty of food without feeling overstuffed afterward.
The diner atmosphere includes counter seating where you can chat with staff while they work, creating a community feeling.
Regulars have their favorite seats and usual orders, but newcomers are welcomed just as warmly.
Breakfast is served all day, but the burgers remain the star attraction no matter what time you visit.
9. Taystee’s Burgers
Since opening in the 1950s, Taystee’s at 10419 Ford Rd in Dearborn has been serving burgers that live up to the playful name.
The double cheeseburger features thin patties that crisp up beautifully on the griddle, creating texture contrast with the soft bun.
American cheese melts into the meat while it’s still cooking, becoming almost one with the beef patty.
Simple toppings like pickles and onions add brightness without complicating the classic flavor profile.
The walk-up window service keeps things casual and quick, perfect for grabbing lunch during a busy workday.
Prices remain incredibly reasonable, making it easy to feed a whole family without spending a fortune.
The no-seating setup means you’ll need to eat in your car or find a nearby park, but the burgers are worth the minor inconvenience.
Locals know to avoid peak lunch hours unless they enjoy waiting in line with everyone else who can’t resist these burgers.
10. Honest John’s Bar & Grill
Honest John’s at 488 Selden St in Detroit combines neighborhood bar vibes with seriously good burger game.
The double cheeseburger here is anything but basic, featuring thick patties that are juicy and flavorful.
Quality beef makes all the difference, and you can taste the care that goes into sourcing good ingredients.
Cheese options go beyond standard American, letting you customize your burger to match your preferences.
The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes this spot perfect for meeting friends or unwinding after a long day.
My neighbor claims she’s tried every burger in Detroit, and this one still ranks in her top three.
Live music on weekends adds entertainment value beyond just the food, creating a full experience rather than just a meal.
The kitchen stays open later than many burger joints, making this a reliable option when late-night cravings hit hard.
11. Food Exchange
Food Exchange at 8451 Harper Ave in Detroit might not look like much from the outside, but appearances can be deceiving.
The double cheeseburger served here has developed a cult following among those who’ve discovered this hidden gem.
Fresh beef gets seasoned perfectly and cooked on a griddle that imparts incredible flavor to every bite.
The cheese melts just right, creating those satisfying cheese pulls that make burger photos so appealing.
Toppings are fresh and crisp, adding texture and flavor complexity to an already solid burger base.
Service is friendly and personal, with staff who remember regular customers and their usual orders.
The small dining area encourages conversation between strangers who bond over their shared appreciation for good food.
Word of mouth keeps bringing new customers through the door, though parking can be tricky during busy times.
12. El Bigote’s Tacos & Burgers
El Bigote’s at 988 Vinewood St in Wyandotte offers an interesting twist by combining Mexican flavors with classic American burgers.
The double cheeseburger here can be ordered traditional-style or with creative additions inspired by Mexican cuisine.
Beef patties are thick and juicy, cooked to perfection whether you prefer them well-done or with a little pink.
Cheese options include both American and pepper jack, the latter adding a subtle kick that burger lovers appreciate.
The unique menu means you can satisfy multiple cravings in one stop, making it perfect for groups with different preferences.
Generous portions ensure nobody leaves hungry, and the prices remain fair despite the quality ingredients.
The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from construction workers on lunch break to families out for dinner.
This spot proves that innovation and tradition can coexist peacefully when the focus remains on making delicious food.
13. Bronx Bar
The Bronx Bar at 4476 2nd Ave in Detroit has been a neighborhood fixture for decades, serving burgers that keep people coming back.
Their double cheeseburger is straightforward but executed flawlessly, with attention paid to every detail.
Patties are hand-formed and cooked to order, ensuring freshness and quality in every burger that leaves the kitchen.
Grilled onions add sweetness and depth, while melted cheese brings everything together in perfect harmony.
The bar setting creates a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy your burger without any pretense or fuss.
Regulars treat the place like a second home, and the staff reciprocates with service that feels genuinely caring.
I once saw a guy celebrate his birthday here with just a burger and fries, claiming it was exactly what he wanted.
That kind of loyalty speaks volumes about the quality and consistency this place delivers day after day.
14. Travis Coffee Shop
Travis Coffee Shop at 23500 Greater Mack Ave in St. Clair Shores has been serving the community since the 1950s with unwavering consistency.
The double cheeseburger here represents classic diner cooking at its finest, with no shortcuts or compromises.
Fresh beef patties are seasoned simply and cooked on a well-maintained griddle that adds character to every burger.
American cheese melts perfectly, and the vegetables are always crisp and fresh rather than wilted or tired.
The coffee shop atmosphere means you can linger over your meal without feeling rushed, enjoying conversation and comfort.
Prices reflect a bygone era, making this spot incredibly affordable compared to modern burger chains.
Breakfast items share menu space with burgers, giving you options no matter what time of day you visit.
Long-time customers bring their children and grandchildren here, creating multi-generational memories over simple, delicious food.