I used to think nothing beat a double-double with extra spread—until I met some serious contenders flipping patties on the West Coast. These spots don’t need secret menus or bumper stickers to prove they’re doing it right. West Coast burgers are stacking up flavor, personality, and just enough attitude to put the old favorites in check. If your idea of burger perfection starts and ends at one chain, you might be missing out big time. Sometimes the best bites come from the places flying under the radar, not coasting on the hype.
Turkey Burger
Don’t let the lean meat fool you—this turkey burger doesn’t skimp on flavor. It cooks evenly and holds together without weird filler or mystery seasoning. Toss it on a grill or skillet and you’re done in minutes. For anyone burned out on beef, it’s an easy switch.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Burger
Quesadilla Burger
It’s part burger, part quesadilla, and somehow better than both. The crispy tortilla keeps everything snug while jalapeño and avocado do the heavy lifting. No soggy bun, no boring bites. You won’t miss the drive-thru once this is in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Quesadilla Burger
Arizona Bombshell Burger
This burger stacks everything good—melty cheddar, double peppers, crispy bacon, and MJ’s sauce that hits just right. It’s loud, bold, and doesn’t apologize for it. No secret menu needed here. A solid reason why In-N-Out isn’t always the answer.
Get the Recipe: Arizona Bombshell Burger
Smoked Blackened Salmon Sliders
Smoked salmon and wasabi mayo aren’t standard burger fare—but here, they belong. The fish is smoky, not dry, and gets extra punch from pickled onions. These sliders hit different and still hold up next to beef-heavy favorites. Proof a burger doesn’t need beef to be great.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Blackened Salmon Sliders
Burgers with Blue Cheese
Big on funk and bold in flavor, this one’s for people who actually like blue cheese, not pretend to. It melts in with the beef instead of sitting on top like a last-minute idea. Grill it, sear it—doesn’t matter. It wins on confidence alone.
Get the Recipe: Burgers with Blue Cheese
BLT Burger
You’ve got roasted garlic mayo, avocado, and caramelized onions stacked on a beef patty that doesn’t mess around. It leans into classic BLT energy but goes harder. The sauce makes it memorable, the textures keep it interesting. This one doesn’t need a secret menu nickname.
Get the Recipe: BLT Burger
BBQ Burgers
These BBQ burgers don’t drown in sauce—they’re balanced. Bacon, avocado, and a low-effort creamy topping pull everything together without being too much. They go from grill to plate fast and don’t fall apart mid-bite. When your usual isn’t hitting, start here.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Burgers
