10 New Jersey Burger Chains That Locals Swear Serve Beef Worth The Road Trip
New Jersey knows how to do burgers right. Forget the bland fast food you find on every corner because the Garden State has burger chains that actually care about quality beef, creative toppings, and making each bite memorable.
I have spent countless weekends hunting down the best patties across the state, and trust me, these spots are worth every mile you drive to get there. Let’s dive in!
1. Burger 25
Locals in Toms River and Brick can’t stop raving about this spot, and for good reason. Burger 25 serves up massive patties that are cooked to perfection every single time, with a char that adds just the right amount of smokiness.
The menu offers creative combinations that go way beyond basic cheeseburgers. My personal favorite is their bacon jam burger, which sounds weird but tastes like heaven between two buns.
Multiple locations mean you can satisfy your craving no matter where you are in central Jersey. The fries are thick-cut and crispy, making them the ideal sidekick to any burger you order.
2. The Committed Pig
Summit, Morristown, and Manasquan all get to enjoy this burger paradise that takes its beef seriously. The name alone tells you these folks are dedicated to delivering top-notch flavor in every single bite.
Their signature burgers feature locally sourced ingredients and creative flavor profiles that change with the seasons. I remember trying their maple bacon burger last fall and immediately understanding why people drive an hour just to eat here.
The atmosphere is relaxed but polished, making it perfect for both casual lunches and special dinners. Each location maintains the same high standards, so you know exactly what deliciousness awaits you.
3. The Habit Burger Grill
This California-born chain has made serious waves since opening locations across New Jersey, including Union. Their charburgers live up to the hype with perfectly grilled patties that have that signature flame-kissed taste.
What sets them apart is their commitment to fresh ingredients and never using frozen beef. The tempura green beans are an unexpected menu item that pairs surprisingly well with their classic burgers.
Prices are reasonable considering the quality you receive, making this a solid choice for families. Their grilled chicken sandwich also deserves a shoutout for anyone not in a beef mood but still craving something amazing.
4. Bareburger
Westfield, Woodcliff Lake, and Jersey City residents have access to this organic burger haven that caters to every dietary preference imaginable. Bareburger offers grass-fed beef, bison, turkey, and even plant-based options that actually taste good.
The customization options are endless, letting you build your dream burger exactly how you want it. I appreciate their commitment to sustainability and quality sourcing, which you can genuinely taste in every bite.
Their sweet potato fries are addictive, and the milkshakes are thick enough to require serious straw power. The vibe is casual and welcoming, perfect for both burger purists and adventurous eaters alike.
5. Shake Shack
Paramus and other New Jersey locations bring this beloved chain to burger lovers across the state. What started in Manhattan has become a Garden State staple, and locals line up regularly for those signature ShackBurgers.
The beef is never frozen, and the patties are smashed thin to create crispy edges while staying juicy inside. Their cheese fries with cheese sauce are dangerously good, and I may have ordered them three times in one week once.
The seasonal menu items keep things interesting, offering limited-time burgers that showcase creative flavors. Lines can get long during peak hours, but the wait is always worth it for that first delicious bite.
6. Smashburger
With locations scattered across New Jersey, Smashburger has perfected the art of the smashed patty technique. The method creates a caramelized crust that locks in flavor and makes every burger incredibly satisfying.
Their menu offers regional specialties that celebrate local tastes, including a Jersey-inspired burger option. The smash tots are a must-try side item that gives regular fries serious competition.
I love that you can watch them prepare your burger right there on the flattop grill. The cooking process is fast, but the taste is anything but rushed, delivering consistent quality at every single location statewide.
7. Five Guys
You can find Five Guys practically everywhere in New Jersey, and each location maintains the same obsessive quality standards.
Their burgers are cooked fresh to order with patties that sizzle loudly on the grill, announcing deliciousness to everyone nearby.
The free peanuts while you wait and the generous fry portions have become legendary among regulars. I once tried counting all the fries in a regular order and gave up after hitting fifty.
Customization is king here, with fifteen free toppings to choose from for your perfect burger. The Cajun fries add a spicy kick that transforms a good meal into a great one.
8. Wayback Burgers
Emerson and Newton burger fans know that Wayback delivers that classic American burger experience with a nostalgic twist. The burgers are substantial without being overwhelming, cooked just right with a nice sear on the outside.
Their milkshakes are ridiculously thick and come in flavors that remind you of childhood trips to the ice cream shop. The pricing is competitive, making this an excellent option when you want quality without breaking your budget.
The retro atmosphere adds to the overall experience, creating a fun environment for families and friends. Their double bacon cheeseburger is a personal weakness that I indulge in more often than I probably should admit.
9. BGR Burgers Grilled Right
Bloomfield and South Orange locals have discovered this gem that focuses on grilling burgers the right way every single time. BGR uses fresh, never-frozen beef that gets grilled to order, ensuring maximum juiciness and flavor in every bite.
The menu features both classic and creative burger options that satisfy traditional tastes and adventurous palates alike. Their onion rings are hand-battered and fried to golden perfection, making them a worthy companion to any burger.
The quality-to-price ratio here is impressive, giving you restaurant-quality burgers at reasonable prices. Service is consistently friendly, and the atmosphere is comfortable enough for a quick lunch or relaxed dinner.
10. Wahlburgers
Atlantic City visitors can stop by Ocean Casino Resort to experience this celebrity-backed burger chain that actually lives up to the hype. The burgers here are crafted with attention to detail, featuring high-quality beef and creative topping combinations.
Their signature Wahlburger comes with house-made pickles and a special sauce that keeps people coming back for more. The boardwalk location makes it a perfect stop during a beach day or casino visit.
Portion sizes are generous, and the menu offers something for everyone in your group. I tried their truffle burger last summer and still think about it randomly on Tuesday afternoons when hunger strikes unexpectedly.