Score: 36/50
It’s not all sausages at the Milwaukee Brat House.
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Score: 41/50
The old school half-pounder is still alive and well at Alioto's.
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Score: 49/50
Duck fat alone does not a great burger make, but in this case it added to what was already a stellar creation.
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Score: 38/50
The Courage Burger hits most of the right notes as bacon cheeseburgers go.
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Score: 42/50
If you are a fan of both Cheez-Its and bacon cheeseburgers, this creative take is likely to spark a bit of classic snack joy.
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Score: 31/50
The idea behind the Third Street Burger is super solid; and it has the potential to be a solid pick. But, before that happens, its execution needs a bit of work.
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Last updated: October, 2019
With over 100 burgers under Lori Fredrich's belt, she thought it was high time to take a look at the top-scoring set. Each of these 15 featured burgers scored at least a 46 on her 50-point scale. Read more.
Score: 42/50
The Double Naughty Angel is proof that a bit of naughty can make just about any day just a little bit nicer.
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Score: 40/50
It's a shame the Chimay Burger is being phased out. It's definitely a step up from the usual mushroom Swiss.
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Score: 41/50
The I'm So Stuffed Burger was a delightful surprise of a burger that I'd gladly eat again.
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Score: 40/50
The Spicy Queso Burger might not be particularly spicey, but it's a solid bar burger worth seeking out.
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Score: 42/50
If you want a juicy, beefy, well-seasoned half-pounder, youâÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂll find it at Explorium.
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Score: 42/50
I might just dream of this burger and its wonderful tomatoes.
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Score: 36/50
Don't judge a burger by its name alone.
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Score: 39/50
This burger looked beautiful, and with just a few tweaks, PeteâÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂs Simple Double Smash Burger has the potential to be one for the books.
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Score: 49/50
If you want a well executed burger that tastes just like a burger should, this is among just a few in town that deliver.
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Score:
Betty’s Burgers & Custard makes a mighty fine carry-out burger.
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Last updated: September, 2020
This summer, Lori Fredrich focused her efforts on visiting area frozen custard stands, reporting back each week on her findings from over 20 local spots. In honor of Labor Day, the unofficial end of summer, she reveals the ten highest scoring burgers in the category. Read more.
Score: 33/50
With a few tweaks, the Pop's Jumbo Double Butter Burger could be a burger that lives up to its very big name.
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Score: 40/50
The double cheeseburger at LeDuc's is a modern burger with a nostalgic feel.
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Score: 41/50
The cheeseburgers at Kraverz fit the bill for kraveable custard-stand eats.
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Score: 42/50
The Cedar-Burger is a delicious homage to Wisconsin in a bun.
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Score: 35/50
In the world of custard stand burgers, Oscar's falls pretty solidly in the average camp.
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Score: 35/50
If you're looking for a burger that falls outside the usual box, the Sloppy-Egg might just suffice.
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Score: 43/50
The Porgie is a classic burger that's worth seeking out and devouring.
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Score: 40/50
The Ferch's Greendale Burger might not have offered me insights into the nature of Greendale, but it took me on a textural ride that was well worth $10.
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Score: 41/50
Robert's cooks up a fine custard stand cheeseburger. No complaints here.
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Score: 38/50
In the end, I found myself valuing the potential of the Bubba Burger over its reality.
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Last updated: June, 2019
Lori Fredrich doesn't generally review burgers from newly opened restaurants. But when she was offered the opportunity to try a MooSa burger before MooSa's actually opened, she decided to make an exception.Read more.
Score: 24/50
I really do like the custard at Kitt's. And this burger might make me love it even more.
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Score: 41/50
The Volcano Burger isn't incendiary. But it's pretty darn tasty.
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Score: 34/50
The Big Daddy isn't big. But the nostalgia it offers definitely is.
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Score: 44/50
If nachos – or maybe a gringo-style taco – collided with a chargrilled burger, you'd get something like The Mexican Burger at Natty Oaks.
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Score: 45/50
The Big Ebs is delicious, messy and classic in its flavor. It's also a good example of what a stuffed burger can be.
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Score: 41/50
The Steny's Mack has its flaws, but in the end it's a delicious mess of a burger.
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Score: 46/50
If you're looking for a mouthwateringly greasy burger with plenty of personality, you'll find it at Fuzzy's.
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Score: 44/50
There's a pretty good double smash burger (plus a birds' eye view of the game) waiting for you at The MECCA.
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Score: 47/50
If a cooked-to-order half-pounder covered in plenty of cheese is your jam, you'll find a well-executed choice at Blue's Egg
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Score: 47/50
If a high quality tasty burger (and a well-made cocktail) are your idea of a good time, there's a seat for you at the bar at Hotel Madrid.
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Last updated: May, 2020
The Burger Trail is built on a scoring system which aims to keep the reviews as objective as possible. What that means is – even if Lori subjectively loves a particular burger (for its flavor profile, style or composition) – she bound to fairness, rather than her own particular preferences. But this top 10 list isn't about scores; it's all about her personal favorites. Read more.
Score: 42/50
If your idea of the ideal brunch is a burger and a brew, count Hacienda among your spots to try.
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Score: 42/50
Looking for a solid half-pound bar burger? Bougey's has one.
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Score: 44/50
The burger at Fixture isn't just an afterthought; it's a nicely executed addition to a pizza heavy menu.
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Score: 49/50
If you are a fan of substantial pub-style burgers and a kitchen that cooks them precisely to order, the Mason Street Grill Burger is where it's at.
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Score: 43/50
The Foltz Family Market is one of a kind. As it turns out, so are their burgers.
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Score: 40/50
The Social Haus Cheese Curd Burger is a solid Wisconsin-style bar burger.
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Score: 47/50
The Drive By burger at Precinct Tap + Table is well worth seeking out.
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Score: 41/50
The Hale House serves up a meaty fine Steakhouse Burger.
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Score: 42/50
If you're looking for a simple, fresh take on the average half-pound burger, you'll find it at Cafe Corazon.
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Score: 44/50
The Rising Sun Burger might seem like a step outside the usual burger comfort zone; but, if you love an umami-packed burger with the richness imparted by a well cooked egg, you'll want to give it a try.
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Last updated: March, 2019
On the list you'll find a variety of styles, from diner-style smash burgers to half-pounders and over-the-top beasts. But they all have one thing in common. They're delicious. Read more.
Score: 44/50
Kam's Thistle & Shamrock has a number of delicious burgers on their menu. And even the most basic of them all is well worth the eating.
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Score: 40/50
There's a reason why Fred's has been thriving for over 50 years. If you're looking for a classic burger, solid fries and the prerequisite chocolate malt, this is among a cadre of spots that truly delivers.
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Score: 38/50
There's more than one spot these days to find a Big Boy Burger. But you can't go wrong with the version at Coach's Pub 'N' Grill.
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Score: 44/50
The burgers at Crafty Cow are, indeed, crafty. Tasty, too.
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Score: 45/50
If you'd like a mushroom Swiss with a bit of French flair, this burger is the appropriate choice.
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Score: 46/50
The burger's name might be boring, but the "hamburger with cheese" is decidedly not.
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Score: 35/50
You can get your burger with a brew and a view at the South Shore Terrace.
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Score: 49/50
The Birch + Butcher burger is truly a stand-out.
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Score: 48/50
The best burgers don't need frills to make them shine. Such is the case with the double brisket burger from Foxfire. The fact that it's only available for six hours once a week makes the mystique of this burger even more sweet.
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Score: 44/50
If you're craving a deliciously greasy diner burger, there's nothing quite like The Boss Burger at Ted's.
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Last updated: September 2017
There's a reason why some of the area's old school joints serve up some of the best burgers around. They might not be loaded with frills or special toppings. But, they're well-executed burgers, made with quality ingredients, that all come with a big sloppy side of nostalgia. Read more.
Score: 36/50
While the Smokehouse Burger at Lulu Cafe was fine -- and boasted a nicely toasted bun and pretty great toppings -- it didn't didn't sufficiently deliver on the promise of smokiness.
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Score: 42/50
The Black & Bleu burger at Jack's American Pub is a nicely balanced burger with toppings that play well together.
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Score: 38/50
If you've got a craving for a solid, no-frills bar burger, you can find it at Rollies… for right around $5.
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Score: 43/50
The Pfister Burger is a deceptively simple, but well executed burger where the beef is the star of the show.
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Score: 32/50
In the end, the Sobelman is a relatively basic bar burger on a great bun; for the best experience, I'd definitely advise ordering a double.
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Score: 40/50
As bar burgers go, O'Lydia's serves up a solid.
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Score: 46/50
The Honeypie Cafe House Burger is a deliciously beautiful mess. Its biggest flaw is that it's filling enough you might not have room for a slice of pie.
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Score: 45/50
The burger at Lagniappe is deceptively simple, but quite wonderful.
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Score: 44/50
Feeling torn between Benji's tender corned beef and that burger craving that's been nagging? You can have them both in this beautifully balanced diner burger.
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Score: 44/50
Stubby's isn't a diner, but their Double Diner Smash Burgers are a Wisconsin classic in the making.
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Last updated: May 2017
Eager to try a great burger? Check out the five highest scoring burgers on the Burger Trail so far. Read more.
Score: 39/50
If you're torn between the thin crispness of a smash burger and the thicker juiciness of a more substantial patty, the burger at Eagle Park might just be for you.
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Score: 46/50
If you're craving a smash-style burger, it's tough to go wrong with the G+G Simple.
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Score: 45/50
Eat this. Your heart will not thank you, but your taste buds will.
Read the full reviewScore: 42/50
As they would say in France, "C'est un délicieux hamburger."
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Score: 46/50
Craving a burger for lunch? Don't overlook Fauntleroy in the Third Ward.
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Score: 40/50
If you like a good messy, cheesy burger, you can't go wrong with the Wisco Burger.
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Score: 45/50
If you're looking for a sexy, grown up pub burger, look no further than Crazy Water.
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Score: 43/50
If you love burgers, you should definitely put this one on your list to try.
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Score: 48/50
If a Big Mac and a Whopper had a baby – and that baby inherited all the good genes and then some – you'd end up with the Diplomac.
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Score: 42/50
If you like the burgers from Oscar's on Pierce, you'll likely find another happy place at Oscar's Winner's Circle.
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Score: 47/50
I got nothin' to say except go and eat one of these burgers.
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Score: 48/50
Is the Wednesday night Bavette burger the best in the city? It very well could be.
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Score: 47/50
The Tre Rivali burger is a worthy indulgence.
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Score: 46/50
Damn, Boo Boo's, you make a fine burger.
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Score: 45/50
If you are looking for something delicious – but distinctively different – you'll find it in the Buckley's Burger.
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Score: 41/50
In some ways, this was two sandwiches in one. There was plenty of pork, and the burger was a meaty half-pounder. Both made the $12 price tag well worth the cost.
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Score: 46/50
If you want a great classic smash burger with fresh, imaginative toppings, look no further than Burger Moto.
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Score: 39/50
Take a mini-road trip to Cedarburg for a bit of nostalgia and a burger that's distinctly Wisconsin.
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Score: 44/50
Was this burger worth a 67-year wait? Of that I'm not altogether certain. However, if you're a fan of Kopp's burgers, and love burgers that take things a little bit over-the-top, this burger is likely to put a smile on your face.
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Score: 42/50
Want a hefty, great tasting burger that relies very little on its toppings for flavor? That's exactly what you get at The Tandem.
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Score: 47/50
So now that the cat's out of the bag about Meraki's delicious secret cheeseburger, you really have no choice but to get there and try it out for yourself. If you want to try a burger with a bit more flair, stop over between 9 p.m. and midnight on Thursday evenings when they feature a special themed late-night burger with toppings that jive with the vinyl they've chosen for that particular evening.
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Score: 36/50
Some people are burger patty people. Others are topping people. If you're one of the latter, you just might find your niche at Ka-Bob's Bistro.
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Score: 33/50
If you're looking for a char-grilled burger and a great view of Lake Michigan, Northpoint isn't a bad bet at all. Be sure to add a bit of custard for the full experience.
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Score: 39/50
This simple satisfying burger doesn't rely on any frills; but it's a tasty value-driven find.
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Score: 47/50
Bass Bay Brewhouse has a menu filled with delicious burgers. Among them, the mushroom Swiss is a standout.
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Score: 38/50
If you're looking for a solid diner-style burger, you can find one right on the main drag in Cudahy.
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Score: 44/50
Hungry for a more-than-solid burger in Riverwest? This might be the hidden gem you've been looking for.
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Score: 41/50
If you haven't had a Fritzburger, it's high time you tried one. After all, you've got a limited amount of time to enjoy this laid back take on an Old World favorite.
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Score: 35/50
You can get a decent Mushroom Swiss burger – with a side of charm – at The Gingerbread House in Muskego.
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Score: 40/50
If you're craving the flavors of spring, it's time for a Gorgie Burger.
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Score: 30/50
Drink Wisconsinbly's namesake burger was a bust for me, making me wonder if I should have opted for their butter burger instead.
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Score: 47/50
In the end: Good City makes a really great burger.
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Score: 41/50
Not a burger for the faint-hearted, nor the lactose intolerant, the Joe Mama's burger is a celebration of excess at its finest.
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Score: 45/50
I love dining in places with atmosphere, where I can kick back, relax and enjoy my meal. But if there's a burger I'm happy to eat sitting outside on a concrete ledge, inside standing beside a table or plopped down on the seat inside of my car, this is still the one.
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Score: 37/50
The burgers at Bier & Burger are imaginative and well-presented; but they're not the sort of burgers I'd seek out sans bun and toppings.
Score: 43/50
The StiltBurger is well built, satisfying, and it pulls together a nice combination of sweet, salty and umami flavor into every bite.
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Score: 40/50
Although it had its flaws, Matty's Bleu Burger was only a few tweaks from being among the best I've had yet on the Burger Trail.
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Score: 39/50
If you find yourself at this barbecue joint, but you're not craving barbecue, the burger is a solid choice.
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Score: 45/50
If you love big juicy burgers that are prepared well to order, don't overlook The Knick.
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Don't be fooled by its strip-mall location. If you love a well-cooked burger with toppings to match, you'll find it at Jake's Burger.
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Score: 42/50
The Peppercorn Horsey is definitely a burger to put on burger bucket list.
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Score: 25/50
Maybe it was a case of reality not meeting expectations. Nonetheless, in the end, there was little bliss to be found in the Bliss Burger.
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Score: 41/50
Although a bit unwieldy (thanks to its pile of toppings) and a bit pricier than average, The Foolery was a burger worth eating. Potentially even more than once.
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Score: 41/50
In the end – traditional or not – Thee Dirty Burger from The Vanguard is filthy good.
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Score: 42/50
Dr. Dawg's burger is proof that great burgers can often be found in unexpected places.
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Score: 37/50
There's nothing fancy or fussy about it. In fact, The Plaza Burger is as classic as the cafe in which you're eating it.
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Score: 41/50
For me, the beauty of this burger was in its execution: from the tasty beef blend to its delivery at the perfect medium-rare temperature. Was it the best burger ever? No, not exactly (I'm not sure such a thing actually exists); but, I'd happily eat it again.
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Score: 31/50
While On the Clock's burgers aren't exactly "off the hook," they're satisfying bar burgers at a fair price.
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Score: 44/50
The brisket burger at Palomino is a great example of a classic diner-style burger that's been elevated with the use of exceptionally high quality ingredients. It's a must try.
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Score: 44/50
The burger at Stella Van Buren lives up to the restaurant's motto: "simple food prepared well."
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Score: 44/50
After eating this one at Cafe Soeurette, I might just have to drive to West Bend for burgers more often.
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Score: 31/50
The Bigger Mac is a great burger with one failing: its bun. It's proof positive that building a truly great burger is all about the balance.
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Score: 40/50
If you love meaty half-pound burgers, you'll find one at this historic gem just northwest of Milwaukee.
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Score: 35/50
If you like your burgers thick and meaty, Dino's might just have your number. Don't miss burger nights on Thursdays when burgers are just $5.
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Score: 35/50
The burgers at Gina's Sports Dock are big and tasty. And they come alongside a great lake view.
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Score: 30/50
The Kitchen burger had so much potential. It's a big meaty burger with a nice texture. But, it was missing something in terms of flavor.
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Score: 35/50
If it's old school you're looking for, then Wilson's Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor in Door County is where it's at.
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Score: 38/50
Nostalgia. Friendly service. Great burgers. You can find them all at the Kiltie Drive-In.
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Score: 38/50
At Company you'll find more than solid burgers in a laid back venue with great beer and the food to match.
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Score: 31/50
Is the Food Wars champion burger at AJ Bombers full of beefy goodness? Or just a lot of hype? As with most things, it's a bit of both.
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If you haven't eaten a burger at Red Dot, you should go. They're solid burgers at a great price in a spot that doesn't take itself too seriously.
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Score: 27/50
Does Kroll's East serve up the best butter burgers in the state? That's debatable. But, there's pure nostalgia in both the space and the burgers making it worth the stop nonetheless.
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Score: 42/50
I ordered it once, and I'd order it again. If you love burgers, this is a nice one. And if you love slightly more unusual burgers, it's even better.
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Score: 25/50
It's Wisconsin. So, it certainly feels like heresy to diss the godfather of all butter burgers. But, hiking the burger trail is all about honesty. And, in this case, an excess of butter isn't able to make up the balance for an otherwise average burger.
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Score: 40/50
There's something special about seasonal fare. Asparagus tastes best when it's fresh and local. Citrus fruits shine brighter in the winter. And the first burger of the spring or summer at Nite Owl is rock solid proof that "absence makes the heart grow fonder."
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Score: 34/50
Miller Time Pub makes a decent burger. The Classic wasn't a burger I'd go too far out of my way for, but it's one I'd eat again if I happened to be in the neighborhood and was looking for a dependable lunch.
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Score: 36/50
Take a drive down to Burlington, catch a movie and then stop over for a burger. But get your napkins ready. It's a juicy one.
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Score: 45/50
If you're looking for a "crave-worthy" burger, you'll find it here. In fact, I'm looking forward to trying out a few more of their offerings, like the Korean BBQ burger, next time I'm in.
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Score: 42/50
The cheeseburger at All Purpose is just plain solid. And, while you can visit for any number of delicious reasons, there’s no shame in stopping by for nothing more than a burger and a glass of rose.
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Score: 38/50
In the end, pay a visit. At Kewpee’s you’ll find a solid, unpretentious burger that’s served with a smile, and a big fat nod to the past.
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Score: 28/50
If you bear a fondness for the original Marc’s Big Boy burger, there’s a walk down memory lane to be found at Kil@wat. The Big Boy Burger is available for lunch; but, it can also be found among the appetizers on the dinner menu, served cut into quarters for $10.
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Score: 44/50
Go, get a burger. Really.
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Score: 40/50
I’m giving this burger a nice big nod. I’d eat it again, and you probably should, too. If you need to feel slightly more virtuous in your decision, order the spicy vermouth carrots (also good) on the side instead of fries.
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Score: 43/50
If you haven't yet tried a burger from Oscar’s, you’d be remiss not to put it on your list. And if you have, well, you know what I’m talking about. While I can’t guarantee mariachi on your next visit, I can assure you there’s a great burger waiting for you.
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Score: 39/50
If you’re looking for a place to hang where you can grab a nice, juicy burger with plenty of choices for toppings, Stack’d is a great bet.
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Score: 34/50
Next time you’re in Oconomowoc, grab a craft brew at Crafty Cow and order one of the crazier burgers on the menu. After all, it’s one place where the burger is really all about the toppings.
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Score: 42/50
Never thought of eating a burger at the Milwaukee Art Museum? Well, you should.
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Score: 35/50
If you happen to be near the airport and you’re craving some of that classic burger flavor, you’ll find it at Brass Monkey.
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Score: 40/50
Mainstream’s burger is big, bold and well worth the drive to Waukesha. Be sure to try the crisp housemade potato chips (and dip) while you’re there.
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Score: 35/50
If you happen to be on the East Side and find yourself growing hungry for a burger, Hooligan’s is a fine spot to satiate your craving.
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In the end, if you’re looking for a juicy, juicy burger, the sort that drips down your arms when you eat it, you'll find that at Sal’s.
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There’s something to be said for a burger that stands solid, even without reliance on frills. In fact, it's likely the utter simplicity of the Mazo's burger that makes it a true Milwaukee classic.
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