17 Public Square
Why we love it: This century-old American eatery offers views of Main Street Medina's iconic gazebo as well as bar seating for modern, locally inspired bites. “It’s a really special place. Not every town has a square like this,” says chef and general manager Ryan Kasson. Try this: The maple bacon burger ($14) is a customer favorite, topped with hickory-smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, apple slices, house-made bourbon onion jam and a maple aioli, served with house fries for the perfect comfort meal. 17 Public Square, Medina, 330-952-2330, 17publicsquare.com
Bearden’s
Why we love it: Step inside the nostalgic Rocky River standby, and you'll be greeted by a model train in the dining room and a friendly bear mascot. Since 1948, this family steakburger joint, which stars shakes and hand-cut, battered onion rings, has been a community favorite. Try this: “Our signature items are never-frozen, single-source steakburgers, like the Peanut Butter Bear ($7.50), featuring a steakburger with peanut butter and sweet pickles,” says owner Jim Griffiths. 19985 Lake Road, Rocky River, 440-331-7850, beardens.com
(Courtesy Betty's Bomb Ass Burgers)
Betty’s Bomb Ass Burgers
Why we love it: Flavor bomb! For 12 years, this military-themed food truck has whipped up delicious scratch-made burgers and tots. “The personality of the truck is really fun and easy,” says Lena Brown, chef and owner. Try this: The Hawker Typhoon ($15) features a burger patty topped with an over-easy egg, bacon jam, grilled jalapenos and onions, tomato and garlic confit, a homemade cheesy tot patty, American cheese, spicy pepper relish, garlic aioli and spring mix. 440-719-9196, bettysbombassburger.com
Billy’s A Cappelli Martini Bar
Why we love it: Known for its happy hour and long list of fabulous cocktails, this chic spot's robust lineup of relaxing live music and prime patio seating calls for a burger with a specialty martini sidekick. Try this: The delectable Shroom Burger ($16) is topped with grilled mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese. Don’t forget that all burgers are served with homemade potato chips. 7338 Industrial Park Blvd., Mentor, 440-585-8815, billysacappellimartinibar.com
The BottleHouse Brewery and Mead Hall
Why we love it: Chef Michael Schoen first started serving his famed Tin Man burger under the Eugene's name at the former Ohio City Galley. In more recent years, Schoen has teamed up with BottleHouse Brewery to present his iconic smashburger alongside more than 30 offerings of beer, meads and ciders. Try this: The Tin Man Burger ($14.50) stacks two quarter-pound smash patties made with all-Ohio beef on a toasted challah bun with Great Lakes American cheese, special sauce, homemade pickles and onions. “Every burger gets slices of the house-made, sweet and spicy pickles, a fan favorite,” says Schoen. Honorable mention: The vegan diner burger ($14), uniquely crafted with a house-made roasted beet and pistachio patty, is unsurprisingly delicious. 13368 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-401-9473, bottlehouse.com
Black Box Fix
Why we love it: Behind Chef Eric Rogers began his culinary journey as an 8-year-old helping out at his grandparents' restaurant. Now, he whips up gourmet sandwiches and street food in Legacy Village. Try this: We often crave the hibachi burger ($13.50), which features a house-seasoned Angus beef patty, Creole shrimp, mozzarella, provolone, mushrooms, onions, peppers, a toasted brioche roll and the House Yum mayo. 25359 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, 216-675-3129, blackboxfix.com
BrewDog
Why we love it: This large, riverside brewpub pairs elevated bar food with an industrial-chic setting of exposed brick, high ceilings and steel beams — plus, pinball and shuffleboard tables. Outside, a massive patio with firepits and lawn games offers the perfect hangout spot, complete with scenic views and dog-friendly vibes. Try this: The Patriot Burger ($18.95) includes an Angus beef patty, smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, house pickles, red onion and barbecue sauce. All burgers are served with fries, or upgrade to Louisiana fries, featuring a signature house Cajun dry rub and creamy Sriracha sauce. 1956 Carter Road, Cleveland, 216-367-2494, drink.brewdog.com/usa/cleveland
(Courtesy Buckeye Beer Engine)
Buckeye Beer Engine
Why we love it: Ask Lakewood locals where to grab a burger, and Buckeye Beer Engine is sure to be named. This low-key gourmet burger haven offers a variety of specialties alongside a German-focused beer list with 31 taps. Try this: The West Side burger ($14.50) is topped with a potato and cheddar pierogi from Parma favorite Rudy's Strudel, plus caramelized onions. New York sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream finish off the delicacy. 15315 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-2337, buckeyebeerengine.com
Butcher & Sprout
Why we love it: A partnership with Farmer's Rail, the locally owned butcher shop down the road, illustrates how this family dinner spot is intensely dedicated to a farm-to-table dining experience. You'll find a variety of dishes that combine classic comfort food with modern culinary techniques. Beyond the bites, board games are available at the entrance for some meal-time entertainment, and the high seating capacity is great for large groups. Try this: The You’re My Boy, Blue burger ($17) comes piled high with a grass-fed, all-Ohio, non-GMO burger patty, crumbled blue cheese, thick-cut bacon, pickled red onion and balsamic mayo for a savory wallop with house fries on the side. 1846 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-801-0009, butcherandsprout.com
CleaveLand Grill
Why we love it: Owner Fasih Syed takes pride in using high-quality brisket, choice grade or higher, all processed in-house. As Ohio’s only HFSAA-certified Halal restaurant, this four-year-old family spot serves beef, chicken or lamb burgers and recently opened a second location in the former Rumi's Market. Try this: Locals love the double cheddar smash burger ($12.99) with burger sauce and fries. Add-ons like egg, beef bacon or grilled onions take it to the next level. 17024 Pearl Road, Strongsville, 440-210-4886, clegng.com
Cordelia
Why we love it: Opened in 2022, Cordelia blends “Midwest nice” hospitality with bold, seasonal cuisine crafted by James Beard Award finalist chef Vinnie Cimino. The interior exudes charm and a modern-granny aesthetic with cozy booths, textured wallpaper and vintage-inspired fixtures. Try this: The Burger Box ($22) is a splittable cheeseburger that includes a house-made Japanese-style milk bun with everything spice, two Certified Angus Beef smash patties, smoked cheddar cheese, shaved sweet onions, house-made special sauce and Nana’s Kool-Aid pickles. 2058 E. Fourth St., Cleveland, 216-230-2355, cordeliacle.com
Crowley’s Dive
Why we love it: With locations in Kirtland, Eastlake and Painesville, this dive combines Irish and Croatian influences, paying homage to Thomas Crowley (Tomislav Kraulić), an Irishman who fought in the Croatian War of Independence. Inside, you’ll find a cozy space with a full bar serving up frothy brews and a handful of tables where you can enjoy classic bar eats. Try this: The renowned smashburger ($14-$16) remains top-rated and comes piled with government cheese, iceberg lettuce, sauteed onions and burger sauce, all on a potato roll and served with fries. Various locations, crowleysdive.com
Doinks Burger Joint
Why we love it: What started as a pandemic pop-up by Six Shooter Coffee owner Peter Brown and chef Bonn Rassavong has become one of Cleveland’s most exciting burger spots. Located in the heart of the Waterloo Arts District, it dishes out indulgent smashburgers in a cozy, 25-seat space decorated with retro flair. Try this: Although the OG is always a classic, the Bonn Mi burger ($16) brings a twist of flavor, topped with cucumbers, jalapenos, kimchi, pickles, and spicy Doinks sauce. Side options include fries, a wedge salad, onion rings, kimchi mac salad or a spicy pickle salad. 15519 Waterloo Road, Cleveland, 216- 417-0211, instagram.com/doinksburgerjoint/
The Fairmount
Why we love it: Nestled in the heart of Cleveland Heights’ Cedar-Fairmount district, this space is equal parts cocktail lounge and neighborhood hangout. The outside bar boasts an enormous, secluded patio, while the food menu balances comfort and versatility, offering everything from vegan dishes to signature burgers. Try this: The Fairmount Burger ($19) features Angus Reserve Beef, bacon-fig chutney, brie sauce, crispy onions and a brioche bun served with fries or a classic Caesar salad. 2448 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-229-9463, thefairmount.net
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The Farmer’s Rail
Why we love it: With an emphasis on “feel good for you food," this spot has an inviting, homestyle energy across three locations that leans into the farm behind the concept. All the meat sold in the display cases up front comes fresh from restaurant owners Jeff and Melanie Brunty’s farm in Ashland. Try this: Dine in at a table or at the small bar, and try the TFR Burger ($13), which comes stacked with two Brunty Farms ground beef patties, American cheese, pickles, caramelized onions and a house burger sauce. The locally sourced, freshly ground patties are the star ingredient. Various locations, thefarmersrail.com
(Gavin Tennyson)
Flip Side
Why we love it: Flip Side serves up savory burgers made with Ohio-raised, grass-fed beef, alongside turkey burger options and thick, craveable shakes. Founded by Shawn and Tiffany Monday and Michael Schwartz, it also offers a strong beer selection, craft cocktails and brisket fries ($10.99) topped with pickled jalapenos you won’t want to skip. Try this: The aptly named Green Eggs & Ham Burger ($17.99) is topped with prosciutto, a fried egg, warm spinach, crispy Parmesan and basil mayo. 49 Village Way, Hudson, 330-655-3547, flipsideburger.com
Fresh & Meaty Burger
Why we love it: This Black-owned business offers a traditional American hamburger stand experience with simple fixings sure to entice any flavor palate. All burgers are topped with lettuce, pickle, onion, tomato, mayo, mustard and relish. Try this: Some less basic offerings are available to order, including the Royal Burger ($18): two 8-oz. beef or turkey patties, topped with bacon, a fried egg and chili cheese. 13187, Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-371-4400,
facebook.com/freshandmeatyburgerland
(Heidi M. Rolf)
Good Company
Why we love it: With its trendy, light-filled dining space and a menu full of delectable American comfort food, including boozy milkshakes, Good Company crafts legit burgers with saucy kicks of flavor in Detroit Shoreway’s Battery Park development. Try this: The Good One ($15) has two Certified Angus Beef patties made with a custom sirloin and beef belly blend and it's topped with griddled onions, malted pickles, shredded lettuce, American cheese and Company sauce on a house-made poppyseed milk bun, served with a side of red relish. 1200 W. 76th St., Cleveland, 216-331-0318, goodcompanycle.com
Gunselman’s Tavern
Why we love it: Locally sourced meat cooked on a cast-iron skillet has made Gunselman’s Tavern, formerly Fairview Park Public House, a Greater Cleveland mainstay for burgers since 1936. Check out Gunselbrunch on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring comfort classics like Irish corned beef hash ($13). Try this: Regulars chomp on the Gunny BBQ Bacon burger ($14) with spicy barbecue sauce, hickory-smoked bacon, cheddar and onion straws. Gunselman’s Tavern, 21490 Lorain Road, Fairview Park; Gunselman’s To-Go, 21800 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, 440-331-5719, gunselmans.com
Heart of Gold
Why we love it: Smash on a burger in style, surrounded by soft, bright aesthetics thanks to this Ohio City mainstay's inviting, white-and-brick dining room. While we typically come for the burger, the house-made Lunchables ($11), spiced waffle fries ($6) and other rotating specials are also great to enjoy on the patio. Try this: “While every season brings a newly crafted lineup of dishes, the Heart of Gold Smash Burger ($15) reigns supreme as our all-time best-seller,” says executive chef Joe Zegarac. The burger patty, fashioned out of 70-30 angus beef blend, is served on an oversized milk bun from Leavened Bakery in Tremont. It comes with all the fixings: melty American cheese, dill pickle chips, thinly sliced onions and creamy maggi mayo. 14133 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-938-8711, heartofgoldcle.com
(Tyler Boggs)
Heck’s
Why we love it: Since 1974, this Cleveland institution has offered a dining experience that harmoniously blends historic charm with modern sophistication. Burgers and fries are must at this American eatery, fitted with lush decor and chic seating, in Avon, Beachwood and Ohio City. Sip on a cocktail or beers and enjoy the on-trend, friendly vibes. Try this: You’ll love the juicy Burger Au Cheval ($18) with bacon, white cheddar, fried egg and sour cream. Various locations, heckscafe.com
Johnny’s Little Bar
Why we love it: Open late, with solid eats: It's a winning combination. This longtime Downtowner is an old-timey dive bar and a true hidden gem. Try this: In a classic place like Johnny's, stick to a classic world-famous burger ($8.75), made with a half-pound of fresh beef, served with lettuce, onion, tomato, pickle and chips (add your choice of cheese for $1). 614 Frankfort Ave., Cleveland, 216-861-2166, johnnys-little-bar.restaurants-world.com
Midway Oh Boy
Why we love it: For more than 70 years, this family-operated, independently owned diner has showcased hand-dipped milkshakes, homemade soups and burgers blessed by Michael Symon himself. “[It] is a place lots of generations bring back their own kids,” says Kim Disbrow, manager and daughter of the owners. Try this: You've got to get the original Oh Boy ($6.75). "It's all about the sauce," says Disbrow. This double-decker burger includes lettuce, cheese, special sauce and a middle bun, a concept that actually predates the Big Mac. 6620 Lake Ave., Elyria, 440-324-3711, midwayohboy.com
Noble Beast Brewing Co.
Why we love it: Beer awards hang proudly next to a red vintage motorcycle at this airy Downtown microbrewery. Among the decorated are brewer Shaun Yasaki's Evil Motives IPA and Murder Ballads Baltic Porter. The farm-fresh food menu incorporates spent grains into recipes. Try this: The house burger ($16-$17) comes meaty, or with a Beyond Burger meatless substitution. No matter your preference, it arrives topped with pimento cheese, savory onion jam and pickles on a leavened sesame seed bun, served with slaw or chips. 21470 Lakeside Ave., 216-417-8588, noblebeastbeer.com
Pub Frato
Why we love it: Rustic charm and gastropub flair twist together to give Pub Frato its refined, warm and welcoming space. The Chagrin Falls location is best-visited in the summertime, when garage doors open to a spacious patio. Try this: The menu, led by executive chefs Anthony Abare and Brian Toomey, elevates comfort food with standout dishes. The signature Pub Burger ($17) features Creekstone Farms Black Angus Beef topped with arugula, bacon, onion jam, brie and rosemary aioli on a brioche bun. 7548 Fredle Drive, Concord, 440-867-2441; 25 Pleasant Drive, Chagrin Falls, 440-600-7029, pubfrato.com
(Courtesy Rowley Inn)
Rowley Inn
Why we love it: A Tremont icon, the Rowley Inn is a no-frills kind of joint — one that's been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for its savory bites. “Our menu is very Cleveland comfort food-centric with unique and flavorful dishes like pierogies, kielbasa and house-made corned beef,” says owner Jon Oberman. Try this: The delicious hand-shaped burgers are mixed with a special blend of spices served on brioche buns. The Breakfast Burger ($17) comes topped with egg, bacon, home fries, cheddar and spicy mayo. 104 Rowley Ave., Cleveland, 216-795-5345, therowleyinn.com
Simply Greek
Why we love it: It's simply Greek cuisine with attention to all the details. “We do all the little things that you don’t think of,” says co-owner Pete Moissis. Try this: The half-pound certified premium Black Angus burger ($11) might be an oddity for a Greek restaurant, but it stands out. 33700 Aurora Road, Solon, 440-498-4976, simplygreekfood.com
Stevenson’s Bar & Grill
Why we love it: The East Side’s favorite smashburger might have moved away from its original home on Lakeshore Boulevard in 2013, but the East 200th Street location retains all the dive-bar charm that’s made it a Cleveland-Euclid legend since 1920. The combination of time-honored recipes and welcoming environment remains a staple in the local dining scene. Try this: The Works ($8.95) is a classic burger done right with lettuce, onion, pickle and tomato. 800 E. 200th St., Cleveland, 216-999-7156, facebook.com/p/stevensons-bar-grill-100063556152111/
Suds Maguire’s
Why we love it: This longtime Berea favorite is more than a sports bar. The grill is a hidden gem, serving up a premium blend of ground chuck, short rib and brisket. Try this: The Angry Abby ($16) stays true to its name and lays on some heat: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, jalapenos, Ohio pepper jack cheese and Sriracha mayo, served with fries. 1270 W. Bagley Road, Berea, 440-973-4243, sudsmaguires.com
(Courtesy Swensons)
Swensons
Why we love it: Established in 1934 by Wesley “Pop” Swenson, this nostalgic drive-in is known for its vintage menu and unique setup. Patrons pull up and flash headlights to order, with friendly curb service delivering classics like fresh-grilled burgers, crispy fried bologna sandwiches and milkshakes. Try this: The signature Galley Boy ($4.99) double cheeseburger is layered with two secret sauces and American cheese and topped famously with a green olive on a toothpick. Various locations, swensonsdriveins.com
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