Nothing beats a juicy burger cooked to perfection paired with local craft beer, salty french fries, and a shake. Discover where to get the best burgers in Asheville, including Baby Bull, Rankin Vault, Rye Knot, White Labs, and Romeo’s. As a hungry local, I’ll share gluten-free and plant-based options, too. Don’t tell my doctor, but I eat a lot of patties for “research” to keep this list fresh.
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As Asheville residents, Tom and I have eaten our way across Western North Carolina. We know that with so many unforgettable Asheville restaurants (we are pretty lucky here in the NC mountains!), it can be hard to choose. These are just a few of our favorite burger joints. All photos are our own of the food we order and enjoy. 💙 Christine
Baby Bull Asheville
If Tom and I had to pick only ONE place for the best burger in Asheville, it’s Baby Bull. There, I said it. This is the sister River Arts District (RAD) restaurant to fancier, The Bull & Beggar. Head here when you are craving a low-key, budget-friendly patty paired with artist studio hopping and a walk along the RAD Riverwalk. (We are thrilled to see RAD recovering post-Helene.)
Order at the counter, and sit outside overlooking the Asheville silo. Baby Bull showcases “Burger Monday,” with a burger, fries, and beer, wine, or soda for a discount. Also, find anything from a rotating lobster roll, fried fish sandwich (my favorite), and pork cutlet to a pressed pork sandwich. Sides include pork rinds, fries, and hushpuppies.
Baby Bull | 1 Roberts St, Asheville, NC 28801
White Labs Brewing Co.
Whenever our readers think of White Labs, they go for that delicious pizza. However, Tom and I both agree that they also make the best smash burger in Asheville.
Located on the quieter edge of Downtown and North AVL, we love coming here for the gluten-reduced beer, Cesar salad (with a vegan option), and indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a local gem, and when on tap, I’m obsessed with their Mexican Lager. We practically live here.
White Labs Brewing Co. | 172 S Charlotte St, Asheville, NC 28801
Romeo’s Vegan Burgers
A milkshake a day keeps the doctor away, right?! Asheville is full of vegan and vegetarian restaurants that are 100% worth a visit, whether or not you are vegan. Slightly newer to the scene, Romeo’s cooks up the best melty burger using Impossible and Beyond Meat. This North Asheville joint will have you craving Oreo milkshakes and fries for days.
Along with your meal, select from kale salads, nuggets for the littles, buffalo “chicken” sandwiches, and tater tots. I head here while running errands for quick, friendly service or a to-go order. Zen Sushi, The Hop, Pho Real (delicious Asheville Pho), and Pop Bubble Tea are in the same plaza. So many choices, so little stomach.
Romeo’s Vegan Burgers | 640 Merrimon Ave Unit 203, Asheville, NC 28804
Juicy Lucy’s Burger Bar & Grill
A great restaurant close to busy (and recovering) Biltmore Village and Biltmore Estate, Juicy Lucy’s is an Uncorked Asheville Readers’ favorite, boasting local beer, endless shakes, and “Juicy Lucys,” burgers stuffed with melted cheese. Select from pulled pork plates, 10 different kinds of wings, and baby back ribs. Tom and I appreciate that they are open 7 days a week, which is sometimes harder to come by in Asheville.
Juicy Lucy’s Burger Bar & Grill | 620 Hendersonville Rd, Asheville, NC 28803
Farm Burger
For meaty and vegan burgers in Asheville, Farm Burger is a must with easy counter service. We eat here for a quick, convenient, and positive experience. I think their homemade vegan patty is out of this world, usually consisting of quinoa, black-eyed peas, kale, roasted mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and spices.
Build your own burger, and for sides, Farm Burger features regular, cheese, and sweet potato fries, slaw, and massive onion rings. This is a Southern regional chain with locations in Tennessee, North Carolina, Alabama, and Georgia.
Farm Burger | Downtown Asheville at 10 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801 | South Asheville at 1831 Hendersonville Rd, Suite 100, Asheville, NC 28803
Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge
Even though everyone knows the Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge, it is a more local Downtown Asheville dive bar. We enjoy Rankin Vault for its chill ambiance and delicious food. And let’s talk about those creative cocktails. Lavender lemonade, an Ashevillian Love Affair, and margaritas? Yes; please!
Along with handhelds and hot dogs, Rankin Vault’s menu features sandwiches, chili, nachos, salads, and local ingredients. P.S. The Vault Burger is their most famous and award-winning dish. Explore even more of Asheville’s quirkiest bars.
Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge | 7 Rankin Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Rye Knot
If you appreciate all things craft AVL beer, local distilled beverages, and pub grub, Rye Knot is our go-to brewery, distillery, and North Asheville neighborhood tavern. While I usually order a beet salad, grilled chicken sandwich, or fish and chips, Tom gets their burger with a smoky Old Fashioned. He also loves their ribs and pulled pork sandwich.
We tend to leave with a bottle of their whiskey for more drinks at home. It’s one of our favorite casual restaurants in all of Asheville. If the Strawberry Wheat Ale is on tap, get it! This is also a great meet-up spot for larger groups.
Rye Knot | 868 Merrimon Ave, Asheville, NC 28804
The Madness AVL
Who knew you could find delicious sushi and burgers in the same restaurant? That’s what you can expect at The Madness AVL. Their cocktail list is creative and delicious, and we think their appetizers look like pieces of art. The Madness is great for families, takeout, and groups of people who don’t all want handhelds.
The Madness AVL | West Asheville at 275 Smokey Park Hwy Ste 251, Asheville, NC 28806 | North Asheville at 1020 Merrimon Ave Suite 104, Asheville, NC 28804
Cedric’s Tavern
Tom will tell you that one of the best burgers in Asheville is at Biltmore Estate. Even though Biltmore is a major tourist attraction as America’s largest home, we still frequent the property as locals and annual passholders for Biltmore dining, the winery, and those hiking trails. A ticket, annual pass, or overnight stay on property is required to dine here, though.
Cedric’s Tavern pays homage to the Vanderbilts’ beloved St. Bernard, showcasing a statue of Cornelia and Cedric playing, Cedric’s massive dog collar, and historic black and white photos of the beloved pooch. Sit at the bar or grab a table, and yes, we highly suggest making advanced reservations. Cedric’s Tavern features the best craft cocktails in town, fish and chips, stews, sandwiches, soups, and salads. Read our full guide to exploring Biltmore to get your money’s worth.
Cedric’s Tavern | Biltmore Estate | 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
More Asheville Restaurants Serving Amazing Burgers
A few more notable restaurants we enjoy for the best burgers in Asheville:
- Haywood Common
- The Smokin’ Onion (vegan)
- Hillman Beer (brewery)
- The Village Porch ($10 burger Mondays)
- Stoney Knob Cafe (nearby Weaverville gem)
More Asheville Restaurants by cuisine