7th Heaven Burger: Each bite of this decadent burger sends us into culinary bliss. The Rail’s 7th Heaven ($11.50) divinely layers thick-cut bacon, red onion jam and savory truffle butter on a half-pound local beef patty. “The proteins add different flavors and textures,” says executive chef Michael Hawks. “The sweet and sour mix of the jam with the bacon and butter complement each other well.” Various locations, therailburger.com
Green Eggs and Ham Burger: Inspired by the classic Dr. Seuss story, this Flip Side burger ($10.50) tells a tasty tale that starts with fresh Ohio grass-fed beef and crispy Canadian prosciutto. A baked Parmesan wheel, sauteed spinach, a sunny-side up egg and basil mayo play supporting characters. “Green eggs and ham is a classic combination, but our process is unique,” says head chef Damian Bohn. “Blue Ribbon [Meats] always grinds our beef fresh the night before.” Various locations, flipsideburger.com
Hoppin’ John Burger: Nano Brew is stepping up its vegetarian game with the Hoppin’ John burger ($9.50). A patty made with black-eyed peas, green onions, eggs and chickpea flour is infused with a strong Southern spice blend of cumin, paprika, cayenne and garlic powder. “It’s got a little bit of a kick without burning anybody’s face off,” says executive chef Billy Crompton. Toppings such as pickled tomatoes, pimento cheese and mixed greens help cool things down. 1859 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-862-6631, nanobrewcleveland.com
Market Burger: This gourmet burger ($14) layers tender short rib, house-made bernaise sauce and baby arugula onto an 8-ounce beef patty and a brioche bun. “We braise the short ribs for six to seven hours,” says Heck’s Cafe chef Rob Broka. “We wanted to come up with something savory and something people could sink their teeth into.” 2927 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, 216-861-5464; 35514 Detroit Road, Avon, 440-937-3200, heckscafe.com
New Jack City Burger: Inspired by Mexican flavors, this B Spot burger ($10.99) comes with everything on it but a sombrero. A brisket, short rib and sirloin beef patty joins spicy chorizo, fresh avocado, salsa verde, roasted red pepper, red onion and spicy pepper jack cheese. “With the chorizo on top, you get a little bit of spice and some extra fat, which I always enjoy,” says owner Michael Symon. “The two worst words in the English dictionary are ‘lean burger.’ ” Various locations, bspotburgers.com
