Tacoma's Best Hamburgers [Updated 2025]

Over the past few weeks, I’ve tasted my way through a dozen of Tacoma’s finest burger joints. From local diners to trendy food trucks, each burger offered a unique twist and mouthwatering flavors that left me craving more.

In this article, I’ll share my top picks, highlighting what makes each burger special and worth a visit.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, this guide will help you navigate Tacoma’s vibrant burger scene and discover your new favorite spot. Get ready to drool over some of the best patties this city has to offer!

Frisko Freeze

Highlights
Tasty burgers with onions
Delicious onion rings
Perfect patty-to-bun ratio
Crispy and plentiful fries
Pricey for fast food quality

Frisko Freeze, a quintessential Tacoma gem, entices with its charm and mouthwatering burgers. As I approached this beloved eatery, I could already sense the irresistible aroma wafting through the air. The menu offers a tantalizing selection, but I decided to go for their classic burger, adorned with perfectly grilled onions. Every bite revealed an exquisite balance of flavors, highlighted by a juicy patty that was undeniably satisfying.

The onion rings, golden and crispy, were the perfect sidekick to my burger adventure. They paired delightfully with the burger, and I found myself unable to resist going back for just one more. Complementing my meal were the fries, freshly fried and plentiful, delivering that right amount of crunch.

Though the pricing might seem a touch high for your everyday fast food, I discovered that Frisko Freeze genuinely delivers quality that satisfies. The atmosphere is festive and inviting, making it a delightful place to unwind and enjoy. I left with a happy belly and a smile, convinced that Frisko Freeze has carved its niche in the Tacoma burger scene. If you're searching for a burger that combines taste and nostalgia, Frisko Freeze is a must-visit!

You might also want to check out the best hamburger in Bellevue.

Spanky Burger & Brew

Highlights
Best burger experience
Helpful staff recommendations
Quick preparation time
Surprisingly good prices
Only available for takeout

Spanky Burger & Brew in Tacoma is a delightful gem for burger enthusiasts that deserves your attention. From the moment I walked in, the vibrant atmosphere set the stage for an unforgettable experience. I was greeted by the friendly staff, who offered their helpful recommendations with a smile. I decided to go for their signature Spanky Burger, and I can say with certainty that it was one of the best burger experiences I've had!

The burger arrived quickly, which is always a plus when that mouthwatering aroma is wafting through the air. Biting into the juicy patty, I was delighted by the perfect combination of toppings; the flavors danced on my palate, creating a symphony of deliciousness. Best of all, the prices were surprisingly reasonable for such a quality meal.

One thing to note is that Spanky Burger & Brew is only available for takeout, but that didn’t hinder my enjoyment. Instead, I savored every bite while soaking in the local vibe as I strolled around the neighborhood. If you’re seeking a top-notch burger in Tacoma, I heartily recommend giving Spanky Burger & Brew a try; it might just become your new favorite spot!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Tacoma.

The Red Hot

Highlights
Omg!! Tideflats Burger
Very good Rodeo Burger
Unique hot dog varieties
Delicious Mac & Cheese
Friendly service and atmosphere

Nestled in the heart of Tacoma, The Red Hot is a delightful joint that had my taste buds dancing with glee. My journey began with the sublime Omg!! Tideflats Burger. This mouthwatering creation was an instant hit, featuring juicy, well-seasoned beef paired with unique toppings that elevated my burger experience to a whole new level. I couldn't resist trying the Rodeo Burger, which presented a perfect union of smoky flavors and crispy onion rings—truly a treat for the senses!

Beyond their burgers, The Red Hot offers an impressive selection of unique hot dog varieties that are worth a mention, making it a veritable playground for meat lovers. And let's not overlook the side of delicious Mac & Cheese that I couldn't help but indulge in; it was creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting.

The ambiance is equally inviting, characterized by friendly service that made me feel right at home. If you're looking for a fantastic spot for burgers in Tacoma, I wholeheartedly suggest giving The Red Hot a visit—you won't be disappointed! This place isn’t just another stop; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen!

You might also want to check out the best boba in Seattle.

E9 Firehouse & Gastropub

Highlights
Unique historical vibe
Phenomenal service
Amazing garlic fries
Messy but tasty burgers
Crisp and hot accompaniments

Visiting E9 Firehouse & Gastropub is like stepping into a vibrant slice of Tacoma’s history. The ambiance has a charm that perfectly complements its delicious offerings, creating a unique dining experience. As I settled in, the phenomenal service immediately caught my attention—friendly staff eager to make recommendations, which is always a plus.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the burgers. Each bite was a symphony of flavors—messy yet enticing! I savored the juiciness and the thoughtful combination of toppings that made it stand out among the competition. The burgers here are more than just food; they’re an experience, just the way I like them.

Accompanying my burger were their garlic fries, which were the perfect complement—crispy, golden, and bursting with garlicky goodness. You can’t go wrong with a side like that; it had me sneaking fries long after they were meant to be shared.

If you're in Tacoma and craving a burger with character and taste, E9 Firehouse & Gastropub deserves a top spot on your list. With each visit, I find that this joint never fails to deliver an exceptional dining experience!

You might also want to check out the best hamburger in Bellevue.

BURGER SEOUL

Highlights
Great tasting burgers
Amazing tartar sauce
Delicious french fries
Friendly and helpful staff
Popular location

BURGER SEOUL has quickly carved out a niche for itself in Tacoma’s ever-growing burger scene, and let me tell you, it’s deserving of all the buzz! Upon entering, I was greeted by a team of friendly and helpful staff, instantly making me feel at home. The atmosphere is casual yet inviting, perfect for burger enthusiasts of all kinds.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the burgers! Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavor, showcasing a deft balance between juicy, well-seasoned patties and an array of toppings that sang harmoniously together. The amazing tartar sauce they offer is a game-changer, adding a creamy, tangy twist that elevates the entire experience.

Of course, no burger meal is complete without a side of crispy goodness, and their delicious french fries did not disappoint. Perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, they complemented the burger splendidly.

What’s more, I discovered that BURGER SEOUL has quickly become a popular location in town, and it’s easy to see why. With tantalizing burgers and a welcoming vibe, this spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking out the best hamburgers in Tacoma!

You might also want to check out the best chocolate in Seattle.

Bomb Burger Tacoma

Highlights
Spicy burger explosion
Incredible onion rings
Flavor-packed fry sauce
Inspired by LA's Apple PAN
Top-secret spicy sauce

Review of Bomb Burger Tacoma

Nestled in the heart of Tacoma, Bomb Burger is a place that genuinely lives up to its name. From the moment I stepped inside, the tantalizing scent of sizzling patties wrapped around me. I decided to dive into their spicy burger explosion—a culinary creation that promises to ignite your taste buds. Let me tell you, this burger is not for the faint-hearted! Each bite delivers a delightful kick, complemented by their top-secret spicy sauce that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.

But the real star of the show? The incredible onion rings. These are not your average crunchy companions; they are thickly sliced, perfectly battered, and utterly addictive. Pair them with their flavor-packed fry sauce—a blend of flavors that dances on your palate—and you’re in for a treat.

Drawing inspiration from LA's iconic Apple PAN, Bomb Burger has done an impressive job of modernizing the classic burger experience. Whether you're a spice aficionado or just someone on the hunt for a stellar meal, this spot offers a unique take that is undeniably satisfying. If you haven’t already, make your way to Bomb Burger Tacoma—it’s a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in South Seattle.

Stack 571 Burger And Whiskey Bar

Highlights
Attentive and knowledgeable staff
Great gluten-free options
Popular with locals
Outdoor seating available
Variety of unique burgers

Stack 571 Burger And Whiskey Bar is a vibrant addition to Tacoma's burger scene, and my recent visit left me craving more. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the attentive and knowledgeable staff, who were eager to guide me through the extensive menu. It was evident they take pride in their creations, a detail that immediately set a positive tone for my meal.

I decided to try one of their unique offerings—the "Whiskey BBQ Burger." The flavors were a delightful explosion! The beef was juicy and cooked to perfection, complemented by a smoky whiskey barbecue sauce that danced on my palate. For those with dietary preferences, the restaurant also provides excellent gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.

One of the standout aspects of Stack 571 is its outdoor seating, perfect for savoring a burger on a sunny Tacoma day while soaking in the local vibe. It's no surprise this spot is popular with locals. With a tempting variety of burgers and an inviting atmosphere, Stack 571 has undoubtedly earned its place among the best burger joints in Tacoma. If you're on the hunt for an unforgettable burger experience, this is one place you won't want to miss!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Tacoma Waterfront.

Flipping Out Burgers & Fries

Highlights
Incredible burgers
Amazing service
Thick, nicely seasoned patties
Great mom and pop shop
Excellent value with large fries

Visiting Flipping Out Burgers & Fries was an absolute delight! Right from the moment I walked in, the charming atmosphere of this mom-and-pop shop enveloped me like a warm hug. The tantalizing aroma of grilled beef instantly whetted my appetite, promising something special, and let me assure you, it certainly delivered.

I opted for their signature burger, and boy, was I in for a treat! The patties were thick and perfectly seasoned, giving a flavor explosion with every bite. Each mouthful was a joyous celebration of juicy deliciousness, sending my taste buds dancing. The accompanying fries were generously portioned and provided the ideal crunch to complement the burger's juiciness—an excellent value that left me more than satisfied.

Equally impressive was the amazing service. The staff welcomed me with warm smiles and attentive care, enhancing my experience tenfold. At Flipping Out, it’s more than just a meal; it’s a genuine experience that showcases the heart of Tacoma's food scene. If you’re in the area and yearning for an unforgettable burger experience, you’ll definitely want to stop by this gem!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Bellevue.

Legendz

Highlights
Quick service under 5 minutes
Halal options available
Freshly prepared food
Great shakes and combos
Outdoor seating only

Legendz is a delightful gem that elevates the classic burger experience in Tacoma. As soon as I stepped in, the vibrant atmosphere welcomed me, and I was promised a quick service that delivered — my order was ready in under five minutes! With a special emphasis on halal options, Legendz caters to a wider audience, which I found incredibly refreshing.

The burgers were simply fantastic. Each bite revealed a juicy patty that was freshly prepared, showcasing the kitchen's dedication to quality. I decided to try one of their house specials, and let me tell you; it was an explosion of flavor that left me craving more.

In addition to their stellar burgers, the shakes were a marvelous treat. I indulged in a chocolate concoction that was rich, creamy, and downright heavenly. If you’re considering a meal and feel like dining al fresco, the outdoor seating provides a perfect backdrop to enjoy your feast with a side of Tacoma’s charm.

Legendz isn’t just a burger joint; it’s an experience worth savoring. If you find yourself in Tacoma, this hot spot is a must on your culinary adventure!

You might also want to check out the best burger in Bellevue.

Ooh La La Burgers

Highlights
Friendly and welcoming staff
Fresh, high-quality ingredients
Amazing cheddar Kaiser roll
Hand-cut, perfectly seasoned fries
Quick service and great ambiance

When I stepped into Ooh La La Burgers, I was greeted by a friendly and welcoming staff that instantly made me feel at home. The ambiance was vibrant yet casual, setting the perfect stage for indulging in some serious burger goodness. As I browsed the menu, I could already sense the promise of fresh, high-quality ingredients used in their creations.

I opted for their signature burger, which appeared as though it was crafted with love. The first bite was a revelation—the amazing cheddar Kaiser roll was soft yet sturdy enough to hold the juicy patty, and the flavors melded together beautifully. Each ingredient complemented the next, showcasing the culinary care behind the scenes.

To accompany my burger, I couldn’t resist their hand-cut, perfectly seasoned fries. Crispy and golden, they perfectly rounded off my meal and kept me coming back for more. What I appreciated most was the quick service without compromising on quality.

With a solid reputation for excellence, Ooh La La Burgers isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that lingers long after the last bite. If you're in Tacoma and craving a delightful burger, this is the spot to visit!

You might also want to check out the best burger in Everett.

Frugals

Highlights
Quick drive-thru service
Tasty burgers and sandwiches
Decent fries, but could improve
Excellent shakes
Great alternative to chain fast food

Frugals Review

When I pulled into Frugals in Tacoma, I was welcomed by the inviting hustle of the drive-thru and the delightful aroma wafting from the kitchen. Known for their quirky charm, this spot is far from your average fast-food joint. Their menu boasts a variety of tasty burgers that really pack a flavorful punch. I couldn’t resist trying their signature burger, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!

The beef was cooked to perfection, juicy and well-seasoned, while the fresh toppings added that extra pop. They even have a range of sandwiches that tickle the taste buds if you’re in the mood for something different. While the fries were decent (a tad soggy for my liking), the shakes were a true standout—rich, creamy, and utterly divine.

What I appreciated most was the quick service; it felt like the perfect balance between fast and satisfying. If you’re looking for a deliciously affordable hamburger experience that rivals chain fast food, Frugals is the place to be. It’s the kind of spot that keeps you coming back for those perfect bites of burger bliss!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Burien.

Lucky's Drive-In

Highlights
Classic drive-in experience
Incredible special sauce
Air-fried crunchy fries
Unique Burger Bus setting
Thick and flavorful shakes

Lucky's Drive-In is a delightful gem that transports you straight back to the classic era of drive-in diners, and it’s where I found one of the best hamburgers in Tacoma. As I pulled into the unique Burger Bus setting, I could practically feel the nostalgia rolling in. The classic drive-in experience excites not just the taste buds but also the spirit!

The star of the show, of course, was the burger. Topped with their incredible special sauce, every bite was a delightful journey of flavors that danced on my palate. The thick, juicy patty was cooked to perfection, offering a robust taste that left my mouth watering for more.

And let’s talk about the sides! Their air-fried crunchy fries are a must-try; they perfectly complemented the burger without stealing its thunder. For a sweet finish, I couldn't resist indulging in one of their thick and flavorful shakes—a creamy delight that made my experience all the more memorable.

In conclusion, if you’re on the hunt for the ultimate burger experience in Tacoma, Lucky's Drive-In should be at the top of your list. You won't just be filling your stomach; you’ll be feasting on a classic slice of Americana!