Steaks get a lot of attention in Omaha, but you’re missing out if you never order a burger every once in a while. Here are a few of my favorite restaurants and the best burgers I recommend you try there (well, one you can try if you dare).
UPDATED: This post was first published in February 2020, and has been updated in January 2023 following the closure of some of the restaurants on the list.
The Midwestern favorite burger
What: Haystack Burger
Where: Dinker’s Bar & Grill, 2368 S. 29th St.
Why: Since 1965, Dinker’s has been serving hand-pressed burgers. The one that helped them make a name for themselves is the Haystack Burger, which Midwest Living ranked it as one of the best in the Midwest. The Haystack is served on a Rotella’s bun (a local bakery) and comes with American, honey smoked ham and a free-range fried egg.
This photo, by the way, is of a different Dinker’s burger. Because I was craving bacon on the day I was taking burger pictures. I’m only human.
The classic burger
What: Backyard Burger
Where: Blatt Bar + Table, 610 N. 12th St.; 2835 S. 170th Plaza; Flagship Commons, 10000 California St.
Why: If you prefer your hamburger to not stray too far from the traditional toppings, the Backyard Burger at Blatt is one to try. Served on a fresh brioche bun, the angus beef is topped with the typical lettuce, tomato, red onions and yellow mustard, with a little pepped up garlic dill pickles and smoked ketchup. It’s cooked to perfect and will not have any hidden flavor surprises.
Tip: Blatt is one of the most kid-friendly restaurants in Omaha, with a great kid’s menu.
Star-studded favorite burger
What: Croque Garcon Burger
Where: Block 16, 1611 Farnam St.
Why: You can order anything off the farm-to-table menu at Block 16 and love it, but if I had to direct you to one sandwich, it would be the Croque Garcon Burger. It’s messy, but you will not be able to stop eating it. This delectable creation is a ⅓-pound Jon’s Natural burger served on a ciabatta roll and topped with cheese, ham, a sunny-side-up farm egg, mustard and truffle mayonnaise.
I started devouring it before I remembered I had wanted to get a picture of it!
It’s star-studded because my foodie hero, Alton Brown, loves it. Pretty much, he said Block 16 turned the standard burger into high art.
Related post: Block 16 is also included in the list of 33 Must Try Restaurants In Omaha.
Mt. Everest of burgers
What: Stellanator
Where: Stella’s Bar & Grill 106 Galvin Road S, Bellevue, Neb.
Why: Finishing the Stellanator will give you a life-time of bragging rights. What’s on this bad boy? Served on one bun, you’ve got six burger patties, six fried eggs, six pieces of cheese, 12 pieces of bacon, and then all the extra toppings like lettuce, tomato, fried onion, pickles, jalapenos, and peanut butter. Oh, and you have to eat the fries that come with it. In 45 minutes.
I’ve never attempted this, actually. Most people haven’t, actually. Since 1936, Stella’s has made a name for themselves for their burgers (their single patty burgers), and I much rather prefer those.
Best vegetarian burger
What: Beet burger
Where: Wilson & Washburn, 1407 Harney St
Why: Rather than create something that’s meat-like, Wilson & Washburn has created a surprisingly good beet burger that doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not. And I’m not a fan of beets at all. AT ALL. And this is a burger I enjoy.
Tip: If you’re looking for the Impossible Burger in Omaha, Stella’s was one of the first ones to put it on their menu.
I’m curious about your favorite burgers in Omaha so leave a comment with your recommendations!
Patricia Larson
Friday 17th of September 2021
How is Charred not on this list? They have INCREDIBLE burgers!
Kim
Friday 17th of September 2021
I'll add Charred to my to-visit list. Thanks for the heads up!
Joe
Wednesday 12th of August 2020
The French dip burger at Charred needs to be tried.
leah
Friday 21st of February 2020
ohhh, you've got to also try Cunningham's! They have amazing burgers...the pepper burger is my all-time fave.