12 Delaware Burger Stands Worth Hitting On Any Road Trip

Road trips through Delaware just got tastier! Nothing beats stopping for a juicy burger while cruising the First State’s scenic routes.

Seaside shacks and hidden small-town gems showcase a compact yet impressive burger scene. Grab your keys and your appetite as we explore the must-visit spots that make Delaware a paradise for patty lovers.

1. Two Fat Guys American Grill (Hockessin)

Located in charming Hockessin, this aptly named eatery delivers burgers that live up to the hype. Locals rave about the signature Fat Guy Burger topped with bacon, cheese, and a fried egg.

What makes this spot special is their commitment to fresh ingredients and generous portions. Outdoor seating during summer months adds to the casual, friendly vibe that keeps customers coming back.

2. Farmer & the Cow (Wilmington)

Craft beer and gourmet burgers create magic at this downtown Wilmington hotspot. Adventurous eaters flock here for creations like the Peanut Butter Bacon Burger that somehow works perfectly.

Beyond the innovative menu, vintage arcade games and an extensive bourbon selection make waiting for your food part of the fun. Vegetarians aren’t forgotten with plant-based options that satisfy even dedicated carnivores.

3. MadMacs (Newark)

University of Delaware students have kept this place packed since opening day. Combining burgers with mac and cheese creates comfort food heaven that’s worth the inevitable line.

Sink your teeth into the Buffalo Mac Attack: a burger topped with spicy buffalo mac and cheese that delivers a flavor explosion. Milkshakes made with local ice cream provide the perfect cool-down after the spicy options.

4. Restaurant 55 (Dover)

Nostalgia meets modern flavors at this 50s-themed Dover establishment. Named after Delaware’s year of becoming a state (1955), the restaurant honors tradition while creating innovative burger combinations.

Music lovers appreciate the rock-n-roll memorabilia decorating the walls. Monthly burger specials keep the menu fresh, but regulars swear by the Blue Hen Burger with its perfectly melted blue cheese and crispy onion straws.

5. Charcoal Pit (Wilmington)

Since 1956, this Wilmington institution has been grilling up nostalgia on a bun. President Biden has been spotted enjoying their classic burgers, adding presidential approval to this beloved landmark.

Vintage soda fountain vibes and black-and-white checkered floors transport diners back in time. Hand-cut fries and thick milkshakes complete the authentic experience that has barely changed in over six decades.

6. The Backyard (Milton)

Nestled near Dogfish Head Brewery, this Milton gem captures backyard cookout vibes year-round. Grass-fed beef burgers are cooked over open flames, creating that unmistakable smoky flavor of summer gatherings.

Picnic tables and string lights create an actual backyard atmosphere. Dogfish Head beer-infused condiments show thoughtful local collaboration, making this the perfect post-brewery tour destination for hungry visitors.

7. Dog House (New Castle)

Modest appearance hides extraordinary flavors at this no-frills New Castle legend. Watching skilled cooks work the flat-top grill while bantering with regulars is part of the authentic experience.

Burgers arrive wrapped in paper, juices soaking through which is always a good sign. Cash-only policies and limited seating haven’t deterred loyal customers for decades. Grab extra napkins for the perfectly greasy, thin-patty masterpieces.

8. Smash N’ Dash Burgery (Laurel)

Small-town Laurel hides this modern take on smashed burgers. Watch as fresh beef balls get pressed onto the scorching griddle, creating those irresistible crispy edges burger aficionados crave.

Fast service doesn’t mean sacrificing quality – ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible. Garlic aioli and house pickles elevate simple burgers into memorable meals that justify the drive to this southern Delaware destination.

9. The Grey Fox Grille (Dover)

Sophistication meets comfort food at this downtown Dover establishment. Just blocks from the state capitol, you might spot politicians debating legislation over gourmet burgers in this refined setting.

Mahogany paneling and soft lighting create an upscale atmosphere. Splurge on the Kobe Burger with truffle aioli for a true indulgence, or stick with the perfectly executed classic cheeseburger that never disappoints.

10. Gus and Gus Place (Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk)

Ocean breezes enhance every bite at this boardwalk institution dating back to 1956. Watching burgers sizzle on the grill while waves crash nearby creates peak summer memories for generations of beach visitors.

Salt air somehow makes the simple griddled burgers taste even better. After your meal, walk a few steps to put your feet in the sand. Cash-only policies maintain the old-school charm of this seasonal favorite.

11. Arena’s Deli (Rehoboth Beach)

Beyond fantastic sandwiches, Arena’s serves burgers that keep locals coming during off-season months when tourists have gone home. Family-friendly atmosphere makes this a reliable choice for hungry beach-goers.

Creative names like the “Slam Dunk” burger hint at the sports bar vibe. Multiple locations throughout Delaware speak to their success, but burger purists insist the original Rehoboth location maintains the perfect seasoned grill that makes the difference.

12. Kid Shelleen’s Charcoal House & Saloon (Wilmington)

Named after a character from an old Western movie, this Trolley Square favorite captures saloon spirit with modern flair. Weekend brunchers rave about the Morning After Burger topped with a fried egg and bacon.

Cowboy décor creates playful atmosphere without feeling kitschy. Outdoor patio seating makes this a prime spot for people-watching in one of Wilmington’s trendiest neighborhoods while enjoying hand-formed patties cooked over charcoal.