These 9 Arkansas Burger Chains Are Worth The Road Trip, Locals Say
A simple drive through Arkansas quickly turns into a hunt for the most seasoned griddle in the county. The state has a way of making you pull over just by the scent of searing beef drifting across a two-lane road.
I recently spent time navigating these routes, moving from one small-town counter to the next. Local residents usually point the way toward the best spots, and their pride in these patties is hard to ignore.
Some of these kitchens have operated for decades, while others represent a newer wave of flavor. Each stop offers a different style, from thin, crispy edges to thick cuts that require both hands.
You find yourself focusing entirely on the meal, ignoring the phone as the afternoon sun shifts across the table. These locations create a circuit of reliable stops that turn a simple drive into something much better.
1. Feltner’s Whatta-Burger
Some places just have that old-school magic you can’t fake. Feltner’s Whatta-Burger, sitting at 1410 N Arkansas Ave in Russellville, AR, has been a local institution for decades, and the moment you pull into the parking lot, you feel it.
There’s a certain charm to a place that hasn’t tried to reinvent itself, because it never needed to.
The burgers here are straightforward, honest, and absolutely satisfying. No gimmicks, no trendy toppings — just a well-built burger that reminds you why the classic formula works.
The patties are cooked to order, the buns are soft but sturdy, and every bite feels like it was made with genuine care.
What struck me most was how consistent everything felt. This wasn’t a place trying to impress food bloggers or chase Instagram trends.
It was a place that showed up every day and did its job well, and the locals clearly noticed. The line moved at a comfortable pace and the crowd was a mix of regulars and curious out-of-towners like me.
Russellville isn’t always on people’s radar when they think of food destinations, but Feltner’s makes a strong case for putting it on the map. If you’re passing through on I-40, there’s really no good reason to skip it.
A burger this reliable, this unpretentious, and this deeply rooted in its community is exactly the kind of discovery that makes road trips worth taking in the first place.
2. CJ’s Butcher Boy Burgers
Right up the road from Feltner’s, also in Russellville, CJ’s Butcher Boy Burgers operates out of 2803 N Arkansas Ave and brings a completely different energy to the burger game. Where Feltner’s leans into nostalgia, CJ’s feels like it’s got something to prove, and honestly, it delivers.
The concept here centers around quality cuts and fresh preparation, and you can taste the difference. The patties have that satisfying crust on the outside with a juicy, tender center that makes you stop mid-bite just to appreciate what’s happening.
It’s the kind of burger that earns a second visit before you’ve even finished the first one.
I ended up here after hearing about it from someone at a gas station, which is honestly the best kind of recommendation. No Yelp algorithm, no sponsored post, just a local pointing down the road and saying “you need to go there.” That kind of word-of-mouth credibility is hard to manufacture.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, the kind of spot where you don’t feel rushed and the food actually arrives looking like the photos. Both CJ’s and Feltner’s being in the same city is almost unfair to the rest of Arkansas, because Russellville is quietly running one of the best burger corridors in the state.
If you’re doing a road trip through central Arkansas, make this your lunch stop and thank yourself later. Seriously, don’t overthink it.
3. David’s Burgers
David’s Burgers is one of Arkansas’s most beloved homegrown burger chains, known for its old-fashioned approach and commitment to fresh, never-frozen beef. The location at 200 S Bowman Rd, Little Rock, AR 72211 is a popular stop where locals and road-trippers alike come for thick, juicy patties cooked to order and piled high on toasted buns.
The menu keeps things refreshingly simple, focusing on classic burgers, hand-cut fries cooked in peanut oil, and complimentary vanilla ice cream cones that have become part of the restaurant’s charm.
What really sets David’s Burgers apart is its dedication to quality and consistency across locations. Staff members grind fresh beef daily, and the open kitchen lets guests watch their burgers being prepared from start to finish.
The fries arrive hot and crisp, often served with an extra scoop tossed directly into the bag — a small touch regulars appreciate. Friendly service and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere make it easy to settle in for a relaxed meal.
For many Arkansas residents, David’s Burgers represents the ideal roadside stop: dependable, satisfying, and unmistakably local, with straightforward flavors that keep people coming back again and again.
4. Big Orange
Big Orange stands out as one of Arkansas’s most polished burger chains, blending gourmet ingredients with a relaxed, modern atmosphere that appeals to both locals and travelers. The Little Rock location at 17809 Chenal Pkwy Ste G-101, Little Rock, AR 72223 is a popular stop for visitors exploring the Chenal Promenade area and looking for a burger that goes beyond the basics.
The menu features a wide range of creative options, from classic cheeseburgers made with high-quality beef to specialty builds topped with house-made sauces, premium cheeses, and fresh vegetables.
Big Orange is especially known for its attention to detail, including freshly baked buns and carefully balanced flavor combinations that elevate each burger without feeling overly complicated. Guests can pair their burgers with hand-cut fries, onion rings, or truffle-seasoned sides, along with a selection of shakes and local beverages.
The bright, contemporary dining room and consistently friendly service make it an easy place to linger, whether you’re stopping in for lunch or winding down after a day on the road. For many Arkansas diners, Big Orange delivers a dependable mix of creativity and comfort that makes it well worth the drive.
5. The Purple Cow
Bright colors, classic diner charm, and an easygoing atmosphere make this longtime Arkansas favorite a fun stop for burger lovers of all ages. The Purple Cow is located at 11602 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211.
It draws families and road-trippers alike with its mix of hearty comfort food and nostalgic touches. The menu centers on traditional burgers made with juicy beef patties and simple, satisfying toppings, served on soft toasted buns alongside crispy fries or onion rings.
Beyond the burgers, the diner-style selection includes sandwiches, salads, and classic comfort dishes, but many guests come specifically for the hand-spun milkshakes and old-fashioned fountain treats. The signature purple shake has become a local tradition and pairs perfectly with a fresh burger and fries.
Friendly service and a lively, welcoming setting make it an easy place to relax during a day of exploring Little Rock.
Generous portions and consistent quality have helped this Arkansas-grown chain maintain a loyal following for years. If you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or a casual family dinner, the combination of classic flavors and playful personality makes it a memorable roadside destination worth the trip.
6. Skinny J’s
Set in the heart of North Little Rock’s lively Argenta district, Skinny J’s offers a casual, welcoming spot where comfort food and big flavors draw in both locals and travelers. The restaurant at 314A Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114 has built a loyal following thanks to its hearty portions and laid-back atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in after a long drive.
Regulars often recommend arriving hungry, since the portions are generous enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites. The lively neighborhood setting adds extra charm, especially on evenings when the nearby streets fill with activity.
While the menu includes steaks, sandwiches, and Southern favorites, the burgers are a major highlight for visitors looking for something satisfying and well-made.
Each burger is cooked to order and served on a toasted bun with fresh toppings that balance flavor and texture. Guests often pair their burgers with crispy fries or other classic sides, making for a filling meal that feels like a step up from typical roadside fare.
The rustic interior and friendly service add to the relaxed experience, whether you’re stopping in for lunch or an easy dinner.
With dependable quality and a strong local reputation, Skinny J’s has become a go-to destination in central Arkansas. It’s the kind of place where generous portions and familiar flavors make the drive feel worthwhile.
7. Ron’s Hamburgers & Chili
Big, no-frills burgers and hearty comfort food have made this regional favorite a reliable stop for travelers exploring northwest Arkansas. Ron’s Hamburgers & Chili is located at 1702 S Walton Blvd, Bentonville, AR 72712.
It serves up classic, satisfying meals in a casual setting where the focus stays squarely on flavor and generous portions. Known for its straightforward approach, the menu features hand-formed burgers cooked on a flat-top grill and served hot with traditional toppings on soft buns.
Many visitors come specifically for the signature chili, which can be ordered on its own or ladled over burgers, hot dogs, and fries for an extra-rich meal. The combination of juicy beef and savory chili has earned the restaurant a loyal following among locals who appreciate simple comfort food done right.
Onion rings and crispy fries make popular sides, rounding out a filling plate that’s well suited to hungry road-trippers.
Friendly counter service and a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere make it easy to stop in for a quick bite before continuing the drive. With its dependable flavors and longstanding reputation, this Bentonville location offers a classic burger experience that keeps visitors coming back.
8. Braum’s
Combining a classic burger stop with an old-fashioned ice cream shop, Braum’s has become a dependable destination for travelers looking for a quick but satisfying meal in northwest Arkansas. You can find it at 2511 N College Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72703.
The restaurant offers a familiar mix of hot burgers, fresh dairy products, and frozen treats that make it an easy choice for families and road-trippers alike. Burgers are made with 100% beef patties cooked to order and served on soft buns with traditional toppings, delivering straightforward flavor that keeps regulars coming back.
In addition to burgers and fries, many visitors appreciate the chain’s old-fashioned soda fountain feel and wide variety of ice cream flavors made with Braum’s own dairy products. Shakes and sundaes are popular add-ons, especially after a hearty meal.
The on-site market area, stocked with milk, baked goods, and pantry items, adds another layer of convenience for travelers passing through town.
Clean dining areas and quick service make this Fayetteville location a reliable stop along busy College Avenue. For many Arkansas visitors, Braum’s offers a simple combination of burgers and ice cream that feels both nostalgic and dependable on the road.
9. Whataburger
Late hours and made-to-order burgers make this well-known regional chain a reliable stop for travelers passing through west Little Rock. Whataburger is located at 17100 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72223.
It’s is a convenient place to grab a filling meal after a long drive or a day of exploring the city. Burgers are prepared fresh when ordered, featuring sizeable beef patties served on toasted buns with crisp vegetables and a variety of topping options that allow guests to customize their meals.
The menu includes familiar favorites alongside larger specialty burgers known for their generous portions and bold flavors. Many visitors pair their burgers with hot fries or onion rings, while milkshakes and soft drinks round out the experience.
Consistency is a big part of the appeal, with dependable quality and quick service making it easy to stop in whether you’re traveling or just looking for a casual meal.
The spacious dining area and drive-thru add to the convenience, especially for road-trippers who want a satisfying meal without a long wait. For many Arkansas diners, this location delivers the dependable flavors and hearty portions that make the chain a frequent roadside stop.