A mouthwatering burger can really hit the spot after a day exploring Asheville and our surrounding mountains. Many downtown Asheville restaurants offer burgers on their menu, but there are some that stand out as exceptional. Your best bet for vegan burgers is The Smokin' Onion vegan diner, but there are more options, including at food trucks.
The Vault Burger is a longtime local favorite made with grass-fed beef.
If you're shooting for an all-American cheeseburger topped with pickles or prefer to try something new, the best burger in Asheville is offered in a variety of ways. Don't forget the French fries.
Burgers range from traditional ground beef to local grass-fed beef, bison, lamb, turkey, and veggie burgers of all kinds. Aside from the popular American cheese, many restaurants source our local creameries for fresh gourmet cheeses like goat, sharp cheddar, blue and more. Top it with a Southern favorite: Pimento cheese. Toppings run from from fried pickles, slaw, pickled veggies, and house sauces. Many burger joints offer gluten-free options.
Best Burgers in Asheville
Universal Joint
Located in West Asheville, this full-service neighborhood restaurant offers friendly service, rotating draft and bottle selection, and one of the more dog-friendly patios in town. Their menu… More Information
All Day Darling
Located in Asheville’s historic Montford neighborhood, this cozy bistro was named a MICHELIN Guide Recommended restaurant in November 2025. It offers fresh coffee and baked goods, smoothies,… More Information
White Labs Kitchen & Taproom
This brewpub showcases craft cocktails, wine and 32 rotating taps of local beer. They serve wood-fired pizzas, farm-fresh salads and beer-infused dishes and desserts. Their winning cheeseburger… More Information
Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge
This favorite local hangout features creative American fare, local beer and craft cocktails. Their delectable Vault Burger features 100% grass-fed beef from local farms, taking home local awards… More Information
The Smokin' Onion: (West Asheville) For a plant-based burger, head to this vegan spot on Haywood Road, or catch its food truck around town. Save room for a giant cookie. See their menu on their website.
Baby Bull: (River Arts District) The laid-back sister spot to The Bull & Beggar serves burgers you order at the counter and eat outside. Look for Burger Monday deals on their website.
Hail Mary: (West Asheville) This kitschy diner took over the old Tastee Diner space. The smash burger comes with pickles, caramelized onions, and house sauce. Vegan and gluten-free options are available. Visit their website.
Juicy Lucy's Burger Bar & Grill: (South Asheville) Near Biltmore Village, this casual, family-friendly spot is known for its cheese-stuffed "Juicy Lucy" burgers. It's open seven days a week and pours local beer and thick shakes.
Rye Knot: (North Asheville) This brewery, distillery, and neighborhood tavern on Merrimon Avenue serves a big burger that pairs well with a house whiskey cocktail. There's plenty of parking and space for groups. Visit their website.
Cedric's Tavern: (Biltmore Estate) Named for the Vanderbilts' St. Bernard, this cozy pub serves a burger worth the trip. You'll need an estate ticket, annual pass, or overnight stay to dine here, and reservations are a good idea.
Farm Burger: (Downtown and South Asheville) Build your own burger at this counter-service spot, including a house-made vegan patty. Sides include sweet potato fries and onion rings. There are locations on Patton Avenue downtown and on Hendersonville Road.
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