VIRGINIA - If you think burgers are boring, you haven't tried Virginia's best. The top burger joints in the state boast world-class burgers at reasonable prices. They offer diverse choices, including classics like the double-double and a grilled cheeseburger.
Virginia’s Burger Quest: 7 Must-Try Gourmet Burger Havens (2026 Guide)
For our readers at PhillyBite Magazine and WherePhilly taking a road trip down the East Coast, Virginia's culinary scene is an absolute treasure trove for burger enthusiasts. We have completely updated and expanded this guide for 2026, removing outdated information and adding the hottest new regional favorites that locals can't stop talking about.
1. Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint (Multiple Locations)
The Wagyu & Craft Beer Heavyweight
You cannot discuss Virginia's burger scene without mentioning Jack Brown's. With locations spanning Richmond, Charlottesville, Norfolk, Harrisonburg, and Roanoke, this beloved joint is all about great food, cold beer, and incredibly good vibes. They exclusively serve 100% natural Wagyu beef patties (often referred to as American Kobe) alongside a staggering, award-winning selection of over 100 craft beers. The atmosphere is cozy, retro, and unapologetically divey. Order the Cobra Kai—topped with cream cheese, pickled jalapeños, and jalapeño jelly.
2. Repeal Bourbon & Burgers (Virginia Beach)
The Speakeasy Experience
Step back into the Prohibition era at this Virginia Beach gem. With its dim lighting, vintage decor, and sophisticated speakeasy ambiance, Repeal pairs a massive, small-batch bourbon selection with masterfully crafted burgers. They take extreme pride in their locally sourced ingredients, utilizing Mid-Atlantic free-range eggs and locally farmed mushrooms. The absolute standout is "The Prohibition" burger, a spectacular creation topped with premium Surry County bacon, cheddar, Swiss cheese, and a perfectly cooked over-easy egg.
Address: 202 22nd St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
3. Big Buns Damn Good Burgers (Northern Virginia)
The Fast-Casual Innovator
Rapidly expanding and recently voted one of the best burgers in the region, Big Buns is the new heavyweight champion of Northern Virginia. With multiple locations across Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Vienna, this fun-casual brand specializes in incredible, smashed-style burgers, hand-spun shakes, and cold craft beer. The vibe is designed to feel like a high-energy backyard party.
Address: Multiple locations across Northern Virginia
4. MELT Gourmet Cheeseburgers (Leesburg)
Loudoun County's Crown Jewel
Consistently voted one of the best burger joints in the state, MELT is a haven for serious cheeseburger enthusiasts. Operating out of Leesburg with a relaxed, casual atmosphere, they grind their 100% natural Angus beef fresh every single day. With over 15 gourmet varieties on the menu, their combinations are highly creative. Do not miss the Paris Burger, stacked high with creamy French brie and sweet balsamic-glazed onions.
Address: 525 E Market St, Suite J, Leesburg, VA 20176
5. The Farm-to-Table Champion: 80/20 Burger Bar (Norfolk)
The Premium Dry-Aged Patty
A classic and beloved late-night staple in Norfolk's vibrant Ghent neighborhood, 80/20 Burger Bar takes the science of the patty very seriously. As the name suggests, they focus on the perfect 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio to ensure maximum juiciness. They source exclusively grass-fed, 30-day dry-aged Virginia beef from Harris Farm. Pair your burger with an order of truffle fries or fried pickles and wash it down with something from their 100+ local craft beer menu.
Address: 123 W 21st St, Norfolk, VA 23517
6. Brauburgers Craft Burgers & Beer (Forest)
The German-Inspired Gastropub
Located just outside of Lynchburg, this German-inspired eatery has quietly garnered numerous accolades for its phenomenal craft beer selection and exceptional culinary execution. Made with freshly ground Angus beef, their signature menu items are absolute flavor explosions. If you want something totally unique, order the Jammin' Bacon Blue Burger, loaded with imported Danish blue cheese and a rich, savory black pepper bacon jam.
Address: 1332 Venture Dr, Suite A, Forest, VA 24551
7. Gourmet Burger Bistro (Portsmouth & Suffolk)
The Local Neighborhood Favorite
This family-friendly haven has become a true local powerhouse in the 757 area code, now boasting locations in both Portsmouth and Suffolk. They focus heavily on fresh, high-quality ingredients, grilling their patties to perfection. The fan-favorite is the award-winning "Major Way" burger, topped with American cheese, smoked pork bacon, grilled onions, and their highly addictive homemade drip sauce.
Address: 1915 Victory Blvd, Portsmouth, VA 23702 (Also located in Suffolk)
From the speakeasy vibes of Virginia Beach to the charming streets of Leesburg, these five burger havens offer a diverse and delectable experience for any burger aficionado. The next time you're craving a juicy, handcrafted patty with creative toppings, venture beyond the ordinary and discover the best gourmet burgers that Virginia has to offer.
Disclaimer: Please note that restaurant hours and menu items can change. It's always a good idea to check the restaurant's official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.
