I love a good burger, and Eugene, Oregon has some great spots to satisfy those cravings. As a local foodie, I’ve tried many burger joints around town and have my favorites.
I’m excited to share my top picks with you.
Eugene’s burger scene offers a mix of classic and creative options that will make your mouth water. From juicy patties topped with unique ingredients to simple, no-frills burgers done right, there’s something for everyone.
Let’s dive into my list of the 5 best burger restaurants in Eugene.
1. Eugene Burger Company
I recently stopped by Eugene Burger Company and was blown away by their build-your-own burger concept. It’s such a fun way to get exactly what you’re craving.
I picked my favorite toppings and sauces to create a mouthwatering masterpiece.
The restaurant has a cool vibe inside the 5th Street Market Eatery. It’s perfect for a quick lunch break or casual dinner with friends. I loved the relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff.
Their menu goes beyond just burgers. I saw chicken strips and other sandwiches that looked tempting too. They even have seasonal drinks to round out your meal.
I was impressed by their “Employee of the Month” contest. Customers can submit their own burger creations for a chance to be featured as a special. It’s a neat way to get people involved and try new flavor combos.
Rating: 4.7 (159 reviews)
Location: 296 E 5th Ave Suite 203B, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (541) 505-8323
Website: Visit Website
2. Barger Grill & Taphouse
I recently visited Barger Grill & Taphouse and was blown away by their burgers. The menu has a great selection, but their classic cheeseburger really hit the spot. The patty was juicy and flavorful, cooked to perfection.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming. I felt right at home as soon as I walked in. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure I had everything I needed throughout my meal.
One thing I love about Barger Grill is their daily specials. They have a great happy hour from 3-6 PM with discounted appetizers and drinks. On Mondays, you can snag a burger basket for just $10 – it’s a steal!
If you’re in the mood for more than just burgers, they’ve got you covered. Their menu includes flatbreads, wings, and even a surf and turf dinner on Fridays. I can’t wait to go back and try more of their offerings.
Rating: 4.3 (347 reviews)
Location: 4261 Barger Dr, Eugene, OR 97402
Contact: (541) 505-8501
Website: Visit Website
3. Zandos
I recently stumbled upon Zandos, a hidden gem on Blair Boulevard in Eugene. This cozy burger joint has quickly become one of my favorite spots in town.
The star of the menu is their Cheese Burger. Made with a third-pound chuck and brisket blend, it’s topped with house mayo and quick pickles. The flavors blend perfectly, creating a mouthwatering experience.
For those looking for something different, I recommend the Porker. It features a tasty combo of pork shreds and loin, topped with a unique katsu apricot yuzu chutney mayo. The mix of sweet and savory is unlike anything I’ve tasted before.
Vegetarians and vegans aren’t left out either. The pulled jackfruit burger, braised in tonkatsu sauce, is a delicious meat-free option. I was impressed by how well it mimicked the texture of pulled pork.
Rating: 5 (101 reviews)
Location: 543 Blair Blvd, Eugene, OR 97402
Contact: (619) 495-0250
Website: Visit Website
4. Cornucopia Bar & Burgers
I recently visited Cornucopia Bar & Burgers and was blown away by their amazing burgers. The patties were juicy and flavorful, cooked to perfection. I loved the variety of toppings and sauces available to customize my burger.
The atmosphere at Cornucopia is cozy and welcoming. I felt right at home as soon as I walked in. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure I had everything I needed throughout my meal.
Besides burgers, I was impressed by their drink selection. They have a great choice of local beers on tap, perfect for pairing with your meal. I also noticed they serve breakfast on weekends, which I’m excited to try next time.
One thing that stood out to me was how busy the place was. It seems to be a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Despite the crowd, the service was still quick and efficient.
Rating: 4.3 (1700 reviews)
Location: 207 E 5th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (541) 485-2676
Website: Visit Website
5. Bangers & Brews Eugene
I recently visited Bangers & Brews Eugene and was blown away by their burgers. The menu offers a great selection of unique burger creations that really hit the spot.
I tried their signature banger burger, and it was juicy and packed with flavor. The patty was cooked to perfection, and the toppings were fresh and complemented the meat perfectly.
The atmosphere at Bangers & Brews is casual and welcoming. It’s a great place to grab a burger with friends or family. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure I had everything I needed.
One thing that stood out to me was the quality of ingredients they use. You can taste the difference in every bite. I’m already planning my next visit to try more of their delicious burgers.
Rating: 4.7 (434 reviews)
Location: 2506 Willakenzie Rd, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (541) 505-8004
Website: Visit Website
History of Burger Culture in Eugene
Eugene’s burger scene has evolved over the years, shaping local tastes and culinary traditions. From humble beginnings to trendy gourmet options, burgers have become a beloved staple in our city’s food culture.
Early Beginnings
I remember when burgers first gained popularity in Eugene back in the 1950s. Small diners and drive-ins popped up around town, serving classic American-style burgers. These simple creations usually featured a beef patty, cheese, lettuce, and tomato on a soft bun.
One of the earliest burger joints I recall was Joe’s Burgers. They opened in 1962 and quickly became a local favorite. Their no-frills approach focused on quality ingredients and consistent flavors.
As Eugene grew, so did our appetite for burgers. By the 1970s, several local burger spots had established themselves as go-to places for a quick, satisfying meal.
Popular Trends Over the Years
In the 1980s and 90s, I noticed burger trends shifting towards bigger portions and more toppings. Places like Cornucopia started offering gourmet burgers with unique flavor combinations.
The 2000s brought a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Many Eugene restaurants began using grass-fed beef and artisanal buns. Vegetarian and vegan options also gained popularity.
Recently, I’ve seen a surge in craft burger spots. These places experiment with bold flavors and unconventional toppings. Killer Burger, for example, serves up creative combos like peanut butter pickle bacon burgers.
Food trucks have also joined the burger scene, offering unique takes on this classic American dish. It’s exciting to see how Eugene’s burger culture continues to evolve and surprise us.
Criteria for a Great Burger
A truly outstanding burger combines quality ingredients, expert cooking, and creative flavors. These elements work together to create a memorable dining experience.
Quality Ingredients
I believe the foundation of any great burger starts with top-notch ingredients. The beef should be fresh, never frozen, and ideally grass-fed for better flavor and nutrition. I look for patties made from a blend of different cuts like chuck, brisket, and short rib.
The bun is just as important. A soft, slightly sweet brioche or potato roll complements the savory meat perfectly. I love when restaurants bake their buns in-house daily.
Fresh toppings make a huge difference too. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and sharp onions add crunch and brightness. High-quality cheese like aged cheddar or creamy American melt beautifully over the patty.
Cooking Techniques
The way a burger is cooked can make or break the final product. I’m a fan of smash burgers – thin patties pressed onto a scorching hot griddle. This creates a delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy.
For thicker patties, I prefer them grilled over an open flame. This adds a smoky flavor that’s hard to beat. The key is getting that perfect medium-rare center with a nicely charred exterior.
Proper seasoning is crucial too. A generous sprinkle of salt and pepper just before cooking brings out the meat’s natural flavors. Some places use special spice blends that add extra depth.
Flavor Innovations
While I love a classic cheeseburger, I’m always excited to try unique flavor combinations.
Eugene’s burger scene offers some creative options that really stand out.
I’ve had burgers topped with mac and cheese, fried eggs, and even peanut butter. These unexpected additions can take a burger from good to unforgettable.
Homemade sauces are another way to elevate a burger.
Garlic aioli, smoky barbecue sauce, or spicy chipotle mayo can add a whole new dimension of flavor.
Some places infuse their patties with ingredients like bacon, blue cheese, or jalapenos. This ensures every bite is packed with taste.
