10 Louisiana Drive-In Burger Joints That Locals Swear Are Timeless
Louisiana has no shortage of great burger spots, and once you try a few, you’ll see why people keep going back. Some of these places have been around for ages, run by families who know exactly what they’re doing.
You’ll find small-town diners and old drive-ins that still have that easy, friendly feel. I stopped at one on a road trip, and the cook started chatting like we’d known each other for years.
The burger was simple but perfect, and I couldn’t help thinking how many folks have had that same experience. Here’s why these Louisiana spots are worth checking out.
1. Rocket Drive Inn, Jennings
A local favorite since 1963, this place serves burgers the way they’re meant to be made. The patties are fresh, never frozen, and cooked to order every single time.
Families have been pulling up to this spot for over 60 years. The onion rings are hand-battered, and the shakes are thick enough to need a spoon. You can still get carhop service if you park in the right spot.
The menu hasn’t changed much because it doesn’t need to. Everything tastes like it did when your parents were kids.
2. Dixie Maid Drive-In, Baton Rouge
Since 1949, this Baton Rouge staple has been serving up burgers that keep people coming back generation after generation. The building looks like it belongs in an old movie, and that’s part of the charm.
Order at the window, grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables, and wait for your name to be called. The burgers are simple but perfectly seasoned. The fries are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Locals say the secret is in the grill seasoning and the fact that nothing here is rushed.
3. Ted’s Frostop, New Orleans
This New Orleans spot has been around since the 1950s and still draws a crowd every day. The burgers are thick and cooked just right, with toppings piled high.
What really sets this place apart is the house-made root soda. It’s crafted fresh and served ice cold in frosted mugs. Pair that with a cheeseburger and some onion rings, and you’ve got a perfect meal.
The atmosphere is laid back and friendly. You’ll see everyone from construction workers to retirees stopping by for lunch.
4. LaPlace Frostop, LaPlace
Another Frostop gem, this one sits right in LaPlace and has been serving the community for years. The burgers are messy in the best way possible, with juice dripping down your hands as you eat.
The root soda floats here are legendary. Creamy vanilla ice cream mixed with that signature Frostop root soda makes for a treat you will not forget. Locals say it is the perfect way to cool down on a hot Louisiana afternoon.
Service is quick, and the prices are fair. It is a straightforward, no nonsense kind of place.
5. Frostop Restaurant, Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge has its own Frostop, and it’s just as beloved as the others. The burgers come with all the classic fixings, and they don’t skimp on portion sizes.
This location has a nostalgic vibe that takes you back in time. The menu is straightforward, focusing on what they do best. Burgers, fries, and that famous drinks.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch or a late-night snack, this place delivers every time. It’s been a local favorite for good reason, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
6. Griff’s Hamburgers, Shreveport
Shreveport’s Griff’s has been a burger institution since 1960. The burgers are thin, crispy around the edges, and stacked high with fresh toppings.
What makes this place special is the consistency. Every burger tastes exactly like you remember it. The onions are grilled to perfection, and the buns are always toasted just right. Regulars swear by the chili cheeseburger.
The staff is friendly and efficient, keeping the line moving even during the lunch rush. It’s a local landmark that’s earned its reputation.
7. Cotten’s Famous Hamburgers, Lake Charles
Lake Charles has Cotten’s, and locals will defend it as the best burger spot in town. The burgers are cooked on a flat-top grill, giving them that signature crispy crust.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming. You order at the counter, and your food comes out hot and fresh. The menu is straightforward, focusing on burgers, fries, and shakes. Nothing fancy, just the basics done exceptionally well.
People have been coming here for years, and many say it’s better now than ever before.
8. Ben’s Burgers, Metairie
Metairie’s Ben’s Burgers has been feeding families since the 1960s. The burgers are big, messy, and absolutely delicious. They come wrapped in foil to keep everything together while you eat.
The shakes are thick and creamy, made with real ice cream. Locals recommend getting a chocolate shake to go with your burger. The combination is hard to beat.
The staff is friendly and quick, even when the place is packed. It’s a neighborhood spot that feels like home every time you visit.
9. Lee’s Drive-In, Hammond
Hammond’s Lee’s Drive-In has been a local staple for decades. The burgers are cooked fresh, and the buns are always soft and slightly sweet.
What keeps people coming back is the consistency and the friendly service. The staff treats everyone like a regular, even if it’s your first visit. The menu has all the classics, and everything is reasonably priced.
It’s the kind of place where you can bring the whole family and know everyone will find something they love. Simple food, done right, every single time.
10. Dairy Barn, Sulphur
Sulphur’s Dairy Barn is a throwback to a simpler time. The burgers are thick and juicy, cooked to order and served with all your favorite toppings.
The milkshakes here are some of the best in the area. They’re made with real ice cream and come in all the classic flavors. Pair one with a cheeseburger and some fries, and you’ve got a meal worth remembering.
The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly. It’s a great spot to stop after a long day or on a weekend afternoon.