Summer means hamburgers. And Arizona residents have plenty to choose from. But which ones are the absolute best? The Arizona Republic has once again launched the Burger Battle to determine who makes the very best burger in all of metro Phoenix, according to readers.
In 2024, The Chuckbox, a longtime Tempe titan that lets the food speak for itself, took home the title.
This year, we split the votes into three categories: We wanted to know what’s the best old school burger joint, the best new school burger boss and the best burger with a brew. As much as we love The Chuckbox, we want to allow a new victor to take the crown, so we’ve made previous winners ineligible.
Last week, you voted for the winner in each of the three categories. Now, we’re asking you to choose which of those top three winners is the ultimate Burger Battle champion.
Vote for the best burger in metro Phoenix
Voting for the second round of the Burger Battle is open now through 9 p.m. Sunday, May 10, at azcentral.com/things-to-do/food-dining. But first, let’s meet the contenders.
Best old school burger joint: Original Hamburger Works
The Original Hamburger Works was the runner-up in the previous Burger Bracket. The restaurant is beloved for its juicy, mesquite-grilled burgers, which range in size up to a full 1-pound patty, served on classic sesame seed buns. They come with an all-access pass to the giant condiment bar.
Details: 2801 N. 15th Ave., Phoenix. 602-263-8693, greatburgeraz.com.
The Original Hamburger Works in Phoenix at 2801 N. 15th Ave.
Best new school burger boss: Bad Jimmy’s
Bad Jimmy’s began as a food truck, but it has quickly become a fan favorite burger joint with four Valley locations serving mouthwateringly juicy smashburgers, cocktails and classic diner vibes.
Details: 108 E. Pierce St., Phoenix. Also, 6101 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. More locations at badjimmys.com.
Best burger with a brew: Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co.
Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. is a fan favorite spot for its award-winning beers and nothing pairs better with an IPA than a wagyu smashburger. The classic smashburger comes with either one or two patties, Americana sauce, beer mustard, Colby cheese, pickles and braised onions on a Noble Bread bun.
Details: 721 N. Arizona Ave., Suite 103, Gilbert. 480-497-2739. More locations at azwbeer.com.
Keith Beaumont prepares to make a toast while Alexa Farley and Cody Lind at eat food at Arizona Wilderness DTPHX in Phoenix on June 25, 2021.
Readers agree: This old school, no-frills restaurant makes the best burger in metro Phoenix
Reach the reporter at eddie.fontanez@azcentral.com. Follow @ERFontanez on Instagram.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Best burger in Phoenix? Meet the top 3 and vote for the champ