On the burger trail

On the burger trail

By Lori Fredrich | Published: May 19 at 11:02am

The bacon cheeseburger at Milwaukee Brat House

Score: 36/50

  • Milwaukee Brat House
  • 1013 N. Old World 3rd St., (414) 273-8709
  • 4022 N. Oakland Ave. (414) 539-5826
  • milwaukeebrathouse.com

It’s not all sausages at the Milwaukee Brat House.

Read the full review

The cheeseburger at Alioto's

Score: 41/50

  • Alioto's Restaurant
  • 3041 N Mayfair Rd.
  • (414) 476-6900
  • aliotos.net

The old school half-pounder is still alive and well at Alioto's.

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The Duck Fat Burger at Wild Roots

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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The Courage Burger at Colonel Hart's

Score: 38/50

The Courage Burger hits most of the right notes as bacon cheeseburgers go.

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The Cheez-It Burger at Uncle Wolfie's Breakfast Tavern

Score: 42/50

  • Uncle Wolfie's Breakfast Tavern
  • 234 E. Vine St.
  • (414) 763-3021
  • unclewolfies.com

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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The Third Street Cheeseburger at Third Street Tavern

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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On the Burger Trail extra:

The 15 highest scoring burgers, 2019

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.

The double Naughty Angel at Don's Grocery & Liquor

Score: 42/50

  • Don's Grocery & Liquor
  • 1100 S. 1st St.
  • (414) 808-0805
  • donsmke.com

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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The Chimay Burger at Ferch's Crafthouse Grille

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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The I'm So Stuffed Burger at Golden Nest Pancakes & Cafe

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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The Spicy Queso Burger from The Crooked Crow

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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The Brew Burger at The Explorium Brewpub

Score: 42/50

If you want a juicy, beefy, well-seasoned half-pounder, you’ll find it at Explorium.

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The Double Dream Burger at Wonderland a Go-Go

Score: 42/50

I might just dream of this burger and its wonderful tomatoes.

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The Tavern Burger at Buckatabon

Score: 36/50

Don't judge a burger by its name alone.

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The Double Simple Smash Burger at Pete's Pub

Score: 39/50

This burger looked beautiful, and with just a few tweaks, Pete’s Simple Double Smash Burger has the potential to be one for the books.

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The double burger at Dairyland

Score: 49/50

  • Dairyland Old Fashioned Hamburgers
  • 924 E. Rawson Ave., Oak Creek
  • Zocalo Food Park, 636 S. 6th St.
  • (262) 207-4093
  • ilovedairyland.com

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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The double burger at Betty's Burgers and Custard

Score:

  • Betty's Burgers and Custard
  • 1233 E Brady St.
  • (414) 249-4972

Betty’s Burgers & Custard makes a mighty fine carry-out burger.

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On the Burger Trail extra:

The top 10 frozen custard stand burgers

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.

The Double Jumbo Butter Burger at Pop's Frozen Custard

Score: 33/50

  • Pop's Frozen Custard
  • N87 W16459 Appleton Ave., Menomonee Falls
  • (262) 251-3320
  • popscustard.com

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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The double cheeseburger at LeDuc's Frozen Custard

Score: 40/50

The double cheeseburger at LeDuc's is a modern burger with a nostalgic feel.

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The double cheeseburger at Kraverz Frozen Custard

Score: 41/50

  • Kraverz Frozen Custard
  • N88 W15325 Main St, Menomonee Falls
  • (262) 255-5728
  • kraverzcustard.com

The cheeseburgers at Kraverz fit the bill for kraveable custard-stand eats.

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The Cedar-Burger at Hefner's Frozen Custard

Score: 42/50

  • Hefner's Frozen Custard & Jumbo Burgers
  • 2N71W5184 Columbia Rd, Cedarburg
  • (262) 376-0601
  • hefnerscustard.com

The Cedar-Burger is a delicious homage to Wisconsin in a bun.

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The double cheeseburger at Oscar's Frozen Custard

Score: 35/50

  • Oscar's Frozen Custard
  • 2362 S. 108th St., West Allis, (414) 327-5220
  • 21165 Highway 18, Waukesha, (262) 798-9707
  • 7041 S. 27th St., Franklin, (414) 304-8700
  • Flavor hotline: (414) 327-5768
  • oscarscustard.com

In the world of custard stand burgers, Oscar's falls pretty solidly in the average camp.

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The Sloppy-Egg Cheeseburger at Murf's Frozen Custard

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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The Porgie at Georgie Porgie's

Score: 43/50

  • Georgie Porgie's Treefort Restaurant
  • 9555 S. Howell Ave., Oak Creek
  • (414) 571-9889
  • georgieporgies.com

The Porgie is a classic burger that's worth seeking out and devouring.

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The Greendale Burger at Ferch's Malt Shoppe & Grill

Score: 40/50

  • Ferch's Malt Shoppe & Grille
  • 5636 Broad St., Greendale
  • (414) 423-1414
  • ferchs.com

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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The cheeseburger at Robert's Frozen Custard

Score: 41/50

Robert's cooks up a fine custard stand cheeseburger. No complaints here.

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The double Bubba burger at Bubba's Frozen Custard

Score: 38/50

In the end, I found myself valuing the potential of the Bubba Burger over its reality.

Read the full review

On the Burger Trail extra:

The MooSa Burger at MooSa's

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.

The cheeseburger at Kitt's Frozen Custard

Score: 24/50

I really do like the custard at Kitt's. And this burger might make me love it even more.

Read the full review

The Volcano Burger at Big Deal Burgers & Custard

Score: 41/50

  • Big Deal Burgers & Custard
  • 1440 S. 84th St., West Allis
  • (414) 774-4000
  • bigdealburgers.com

The Volcano Burger isn't incendiary. But it's pretty darn tasty.

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The Big Daddy at Gilles Frozen Custard

Score: 34/50

The Big Daddy isn't big. But the nostalgia it offers definitely is.

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The Mexican Burger at Natty Oaks

Score: 44/50

  • Natty Oaks Pub & Eatery
  • 11505 W. National Ave., West Allis
  • (414) 543-2255
  • nattyoaks.com

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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The Big Ebs at Club Charlies

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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The Steny's Mack at Steny's Tavern & Grill

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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The Mean Jean at Fuzzy's Sports Pub & Grill

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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The Cheeseburger Cheeseburger at The MECCA

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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The "Filthy" Five Cheese at Blue's Egg

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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The Cheeseburger at Hotel Madrid

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.

Read the full review

On the Burger Trail extra:

Lori Fredrich's top 10 (favorite) burgers

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.

The Breakfast Burger at Hacienda Beer Co.

Score: 42/50

If your idea of the ideal brunch is a burger and a brew, count Hacienda among your spots to try.

Read the full review

The Mushroom Swiss at Bougey's Bar & Grill

Score: 42/50

  • Bougey's Bar & Grill
  • 16760 W. Greenfield Ave., Brookfield
  • (262) 784-4092
  • bougeysbar.com

Looking for a solid half-pound bar burger? Bougey's has one.

Read the full review

The Burger at Fixture Pizza Pub

Score: 44/50

The burger at Fixture isn't just an afterthought; it's a nicely executed addition to a pizza heavy menu.

Read the full review

The Mason Street Grill Burger

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.

Read the full review

The Bacon Pepper Jack Burger at Foltz Family Market

Score: 43/50

The Foltz Family Market is one of a kind. As it turns out, so are their burgers.

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The Cheese Curd Burger at The Social Haus

Score: 40/50

  • The Social Haus
  • N48W18474 W. Lisbon Rd., Menomonee Falls
  • (262) 293-9565
  • thesocialhaus.pub

The Social Haus Cheese Curd Burger is a solid Wisconsin-style bar burger.

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The Drive By at Precinct Tap + Table

Score: 47/50

  • Precinct Tap + Table
  • W161 N11629 Church Ave., Germantown
  • (262) 415-5680
  • prec1nct.com

The Drive By burger at Precinct Tap + Table is well worth seeking out.

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The Steakhouse Burger at The Hale House

Score: 41/50

  • The Hale House
  • 10539 W. Forest Home Ave., Hales Corners
  • (414) 377-9392
  • hale-house.com

The Hale House serves up a meaty fine Steakhouse Burger.

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The Corazon Burger at Cafe Corazon

Score: 42/50

  • Cafe Corazon
  • 3129 N. Bremen St., (414) 810-3941
  • 2394 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., (414) 544-2774
  • corazonmilwaukee.com

If you're looking for a simple, fresh take on the average half-pound burger, you'll find it at Cafe Corazon.

Read the full review

The Rising Sun at Fontelle's Eatery

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.

Read the full review

On the Burger Trail extra:

15 Best Bar Burgers

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.

The Cheeseburger at Kam's Thistle & Shamrock

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.

Read the full review

The Double Cheeseburger at Fred's Frozen Custard

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.

Read the full review

The Big Boy Burger at Coach's Pub & Grill

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.

Read the full review

The True Grit at Crafty Cow in Bay View

Score: 44/50

The burgers at Crafty Cow are, indeed, crafty. Tasty, too.

Read the full review

Le Bistro Burger at Le Reve Patisserie & Cafe

Score: 45/50

  • Le Reve Patisserie & Cafe
  • 7610 Harwood Ave.
  • (414) 778-3333
  • lerevecafe.com

If you'd like a mushroom Swiss with a bit of French flair, this burger is the appropriate choice.

Read the full review

The hamburger with cheese at Uncle Wolfie's

Score: 46/50

  • Uncle Wolfie's Breakfast Tavern
  • 234 E. Vine St.
  • (414) 763-3021
  • unclewolfies.com

The burger's name might be boring, but the "hamburger with cheese" is decidedly not.

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The Rocky burger at South Shore Terrace

Score: 35/50

You can get your burger with a brew and a view at the South Shore Terrace.

Read the full review

The burger at Birch + Butcher

Score: 49/50

The Birch + Butcher burger is truly a stand-out.

Read the full review

The Foxfire Burger

Score: 48/50

  • Foxfire @ Hawthorne Coffee Roasters
  • 4177 S. Howell Ave.
  • (414) 331-1382
  • foxfiremke.com

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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The Boss Burger at Ted's Ice Cream & Restaurant

Score: 44/50

If you're craving a deliciously greasy diner burger, there's nothing quite like The Boss Burger at Ted's.

Read the full review

On the Burger Trail extra:

Lori’s 5 highest rated old school burgers

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.

The Smokehouse Burger at Lulu Cafe

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.

Read the full review

The Black & Bleu Burger at Jack's American Pub

Score: 42/50

The Black & Bleu burger at Jack's American Pub is a nicely balanced burger with toppings that play well together.

Read the full review

The Mushroom Swiss Burger at Rollie's

Score: 38/50

  • Rollie's
  • 7751 N. Teutonia Ave.
  • (414) 354-9827

If you've got a craving for a solid, no-frills bar burger, you can find it at Rollies… for right around $5.

Read the full review

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The Pfister Burger

Score: 43/50

  • The Pfister Hotel (Cafe or Lobby Lounge)
  • 424 E. Wisconsin Ave.
  • (414) 390-3878
  • thepfisterhotel.com

The Pfister Burger is a deceptively simple, but well executed burger where the beef is the star of the show.

Read the full review

The Sobelman at Sobelman's Pub & Grill

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.

Read the full review

The California Burger at O'Lydia's Pub & Grill

Score: 40/50

  • O'Lydia's Pub & Grill
  • 338 S. 1st St.
  • (414) 271-7546
  • olydias.com

As bar burgers go, O'Lydia's serves up a solid.

Read the full review

The House Burger at Honeypie Cafe

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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The Kobe Burger at Lagniappe Brasserie

Score: 45/50

The burger at Lagniappe is deceptively simple, but quite wonderful.

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The Benji Burger at Benji's Deli & Restaurant

Score: 44/50

  • Benji's Deli & Restaurant
  • 4156 N. Oakland Ave., Shorewood, (414) 332-7777
  • 8683 N. Port Washington Rd., Fox Point, (414) 228-5130
  • benjisdeliandrestaurant.com

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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The Double Diner Smash Burgers at Stubby's

Score: 44/50

Stubby's isn't a diner, but their Double Diner Smash Burgers are a Wisconsin classic in the making.

Read the full review

On the Burger Trail extra:

Lori’s 5 highest rated burgers

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.

The Smashburger at Eagle Park Brewing Co.

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.

Read the full review

The G+G Simple burger at Glass + Griddle

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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Don's Burger at Don's Diner & Cocktails

Score: 45/50

  • Don's Diner & Cocktails
  • 1102 S. 1st St.
  • (414) 808-0805
  • donsmke.com

Eat this. Your heart will not thank you, but your taste buds will.

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The Grace Burger at Cafe Grace

Score: 42/50

As they would say in France, "C'est un délicieux hamburger."

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The Grande Royale with Cheese at Fauntleroy

Score: 46/50

Craving a burger for lunch? Don't overlook Fauntleroy in the Third Ward.

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The Wisco Burger at Oak Barrel Public House

Score: 40/50

If you like a good messy, cheesy burger, you can't go wrong with the Wisco Burger.

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The Grassfed Kettle Range Hamburger at Crazy Water

Score: 45/50

If you're looking for a sexy, grown up pub burger, look no further than Crazy Water.

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The Ney's Big Sky Burger at Cloud Red

Score: 43/50

If you love burgers, you should definitely put this one on your list to try.

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The Diplomac at The Diplomat

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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The Winner's Burger at Oscar's Winner's Circle

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.

Read the full review

Related reading:

In search of Milwaukee’s perfect pizza

By Rick Rodriguez

The Tuesday night burger at Goodkind

Score: 47/50

I got nothin' to say except go and eat one of these burgers.

Read the full review

The Burger Night Burger at Bavette La Boucherie

Score: 48/50

Is the Wednesday night Bavette burger the best in the city? It very well could be.

Read the full review

Tre Rivali's Beef Burger

Score: 47/50

The Tre Rivali burger is a worthy indulgence.

Read the full review

The Davido Burger at Boo Boo's Sandwich Shop

Score: 46/50

  • Boo Boo's Sandwiches
  • 405 S. 2nd St.
  • (414) 885-1532
  • boo-boos.net

Damn, Boo Boo's, you make a fine burger.

Read the full review

The Buckley's Burger

Score: 45/50

If you are looking for something delicious – but distinctively different – you'll find it in the Buckley's Burger.

Read the full review

The Double B Burger at Double B's BBQ

Score: 41/50

  • Double B's BBQ
  • 7420 W. Greenfield Ave.
  • (414) 257-9150
  • doublebs.com

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.

Read the full review

The Weezy Burger at Burger Moto

Score: 46/50

If you want a great classic smash burger with fresh, imaginative toppings, look no further than Burger Moto.

Read the full review

The Big Wayne at Cedarburg's Wayne's Drive-in

Score: 39/50

Take a mini-road trip to Cedarburg for a bit of nostalgia and a burger that's distinctly Wisconsin.

Read the full review

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The KRK Burger at Kopp's Frozen Custard

Score: 44/50

  • Kopp's Frozen Custard
  • 7631 W. Layton Ave., Greenfield, (414) 282-4312
  • 5373 N. Port Washington Rd., Glendale, (414) 961-3288
  • 18880 W. Bluemound Rd., Brookfield, (262) 789-9490
  • kopps.com

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.

Read the full review

The Burger at The Tandem

Score: 42/50

  • The Tandem
  • 1848 W Fond Du Lac Ave.
  • (414) 885-1919
  • tandemmke.com

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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The (secret) off-menu cheeseburger at Meraki

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.

Read the full review

The Becher Burger at Ka-Bob's Bistro

Score: 36/50

  • Ka-Bob's Bistro (CLOSED)
  • 6807 W. Becher St.
  • (414) 588-8020
  • ka-bobs.com

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.

Read the full review

The Burger at Northpoint Custard

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.

Read the full review

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The cheeseburger at Triskele's

Score: 39/50

This simple satisfying burger doesn't rely on any frills; but it's a tasty value-driven find.

Read the full review

The Mushroom Swiss Burger at Bass Bay Brewhouse

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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The Mr. Fungi at Cudahy Burger Joint

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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The Filling Station Burger at Riverwest Filling Station

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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The Fritzburger at Fritz's Pub

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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The mushroom Swiss burger at The Gingerbread House

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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The Gorgie Burger at Jackson's Blue Ribbon Pub

Score: 40/50

  • Jackson's Blue Ribbon Pub
  • 1203 N. 10th St.
  • (414) 276-7271
  • jacksonsmke.com

If you're craving the flavors of spring, it's time for a Gorgie Burger.

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The DW Burger at Drink Wisconsinbly Pub

Score: 30/50

  • Drink Wisconsinbly Pub (CLOSED)
  • 135 E. National Ave.
  • (414) 930-0929
  • drinkwi.pub

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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The Brew Burger at Good City Brewing Co.

Score: 47/50

In the end: Good City makes a really great burger.

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The Joe Mama Burger at Joe Mama's Bar & Grill in Colgate

Score: 41/50

  • Jo Mama's Bar & Grill
  • 4600 County Line Q, Colgate
  • (262) 628-9211
  • joemamasbar.com

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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The cheeseburger at Kopp's

Score: 45/50

  • Kopp's Frozen Custard
  • 7631 W Layton Ave, Greenfield, (414) 282-4312
  • 5373 N Port Washington Rd, Glendale, (414) 961-3288
  • 18880 W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield, (262) 789-9490
  • kopps.com

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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The Draft Burger at Bier & Burger

Score: 37/50

  • Bier & Burger (CLOSED)
  • 5171 S. 108th St., Hales Corners
  • (414) 235-9085
  • bierandburger.com

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.

Read the full review

The StiltBurger at the Stilt House in Cedarburg

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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The Bleu Burger at Matty's Bar in New Berlin

Score: 40/50

  • Matty's Bar
  • 14460 College Ave., New Berlin
  • (414) 427-3838
  • mattysbar.com

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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The Atlas Burger at Atlas BBQ

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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The Bacon, Avocado Cheddar Burger at The Knick

Score: 45/50

If you love big juicy burgers that are prepared well to order, don't overlook The Knick.

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The Jake's Burger

Score: 46/50

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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The Peppercorn Horsey at North Avenue Grill

Score: 42/50

The Peppercorn Horsey is definitely a burger to put on burger bucket list.

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The Bliss Burger at Route 76 Diner

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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The Foolery at Foolery's Liquid Therapy

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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Thee Dirty Burger at The Vanguard

Score: 41/50

In the end – traditional or not – Thee Dirty Burger from The Vanguard is filthy good.

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The Cheeseburger at Dr. Dawg

Score: 42/50

  • Dr. Dawg
  • 6969 N. Port Washington Rd.
  • (414) 540-0400
  • drdawg.net

Dr. Dawg's burger is proof that great burgers can often be found in unexpected places.

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The Plaza Burger at Cafe at the Plaza

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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The Prime Smokehouse Burger at MOTOR

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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The Big Guy at On the Clock Bar & Grill

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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The Double Brisket Burger at Palomino

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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The Prime Burger at Stella Van Buren

Score: 44/50

The burger at Stella Van Buren lives up to the restaurant's motto: "simple food prepared well."

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The Oversized Wisconsinite at Cafe Soeurette

Score: 44/50

  • Cafe Soeurette (CLOSED)
  • 111 N. Main St., West Bend
  • (262) 338-2233
  • cafesoeurette.com

After eating this one at Cafe Soeurette, I might just have to drive to West Bend for burgers more often.

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The Bigger Mac at Elsa's on the Park

Score: 31/50

  • Elsa's on the Park
  • 833 N. Jefferson St.
  • (414) 765-0615
  • elsas.com

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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The signature burger at Bibinger's in West Bend

Score: 40/50

  • Bibinger's
  • 3747 Cedar Creek Rd., West Bend
  • (262) 247-0703
  • bibingers.com

If you love meaty half-pound burgers, you'll find one at this historic gem just northwest of Milwaukee.

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The Riverwest Burger at Dino's Riverwest

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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The MOAB at Gina's Sports Dock in Pewaukee

Score: 35/50

  • Gina's Sports Dock
  • W278 N2315 Prospect Ave., Pewaukee
  • (262) 695-9600

The burgers at Gina's Sports Dock are big and tasty. And they come alongside a great lake view.

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The Kitchen Favorite at Fuel Cafe on 5th

Score: 30/50

  • Fuel Cafe on 5th
  • 630 S. 5th St.
  • (414) 847-9580
  • fuelcafe.com

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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The All American Cheeseburger at Wilson's in Door County

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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The double cheeseburger at the Kiltie Drive-In

Score: 38/50

  • Kiltie Drive-In
  • N48W36154 E. Wisconsin Ave., Oconomowoc
  • (262) 567-2648

Nostalgia. Friendly service. Great burgers. You can find them all at the Kiltie Drive-In.

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The Company Burger at Company Brewing

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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The Milwaukee Burger at AJ Bombers

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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The Mc Dot at Red Dot

Score: 38/50

  • Red Dot (CLOSED)
  • 6715 W. North Ave.
  • (414) 607-1045
  • reddotmke.com

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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The double cheeseburger at Kroll's East in Green Bay

Score: 27/50

  • Kroll's East
  • 1658 Main St., Green Bay
  • (920) 468-4422
  • krollseast.com

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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The house burger at Easy Tyger

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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The cheeseburger at Solly's Grille

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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The cheeseburger at Nite Owl

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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The Classic at Miller Time Pub & Grill

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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Cheeseburger at Fred's in Burlington

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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The Crave Burger at Crave Cafe

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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The All Purpose cheeseburger

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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Kewpee Sandwich Shop in Racine

Score: 38/50

  • Kewpee Sandwich Shop
  • 520 Wisconsin Ave., Racine
  • (262) 634-9601

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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Big Boy burger at Kil@wat

Score: 28/50

  • Kil@wat (CLOSED)
  • 139 E. Kilbourn Ave. (inside Intercontinental Hotel)
  • (414) 291-4793
  • kilawatcuisine.com

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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The Cream City Special at Merriment Social

Score: 44/50

Go, get a burger. Really.

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The Big KC Burger at Swingin’ Door Exchange

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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The Big O at Oscar’s Pub & Grill

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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Camino

Score: 41/50

If you haven’t been to Camino, consider this your invitation to try it out.

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By Rick Rodriguez

The Hangover Burger at Stack’d Burger Bar

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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The Lucy at Crafty Cow

Score: 34/50

  • Crafty Cow - Ocononomowoc
  • 153 E. Wisconsin Ave., Oconomowoc
  • (262) 354-8070
  • craftycowwi.com

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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The Sconnie Cheese Burger at Cafe Calatrava 

Score: 42/50

  • Cafe Calatrava
  • 700 N. Art Museum Dr.
  • (414) 224-3200
  • mam.org

Never thought of eating a burger at the Milwaukee Art Museum? Well, you should.

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The Pub Burger at Brass Monkey Pub & Grill

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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The Classic American at Mainstream Bar & Grill

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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The Hooli-burger at Hooligan’s Super Bar

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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The Pub Burger at Sal’s Pub & Grill

Score: 30/50

  • Sal's Pub & Grill
  • N88 W16697 Appleton Ave., Menomonee Falls
  • (262) 250-9900
  • salspubandgrill.com

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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The cheeseburger at Mazo’s

Score: 40/50

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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