Well the time has come (actually it’s long overdue) to assemble a list of my “Top 5” burgers from the YEG Burger Odyssey.
The burgers in my top 5 all have one thing in common- They are all burgers I’d drive across town specifically to have. I debated trying to pick an overall #1 Edmonton burger, but ultimately decided my #1 would change based on which one of these 5 I’m craving on any given day. (Please note that I’ve included the immediately surrounding communities in my description of Edmonton, so don’t be surprised to see a couple places you’ll need a car to visit).
So, in no particular order, here’s my Top 5 Edmonton Burgers, and links to the full reviews.
Sugarbowl Cafe- Lamb Burger
A super-flavourful Lamb patty and a big dollop of creamy goat cheese make this burger a standout. The rich meat is complimented by the the freshness of the mint, resulting in a burger that tastes like spring any time of the year.
Read the full review here.
The Downtown Diner- Fort Saskatchewan- The Downtowner
Delicious toppings, not the least of which is the brown sugar bacon, push this burger into my top 5. Everything from the hybrid white/brioche bun slathered in tasty diner sauce, to the crispy onions work perfectly together, and there’s no chance you’re leaving the diner hungry.
Read the full post here.
Local- The Deluxe
This burger has a lot going for it, from the tasty and well seared patty and perfectly toasted bun, to the lightly brined homemade pickles. It’s nothing fancy, just a really solid burger, with enough of the green stuff on top to make mom happy. Every bite was juicy and satisfying.
Read the full post here.
Next Act Pub
Sweet, salty, and meaty… the Peanut Butter and Bacon Jam burger has it all. This is a great burger for those days when you accidentally do a sit-up and need to reward yourself afterwards.
Read the full post here.
Jack’s Burger Shack- St. Albert
There’s a ton of interesting flavour combinations to choose from at Jack’s, and the prices will make your penny-pinching side happy. The fries come with a malt vinegar aioli, which almost stole the show.
Read the full post here.
*Honorable mention goes to Daravara and Select, whose burgers I very much enjoyed too, and agonized over including in the top 5.
Have you tried any or all of these tasty burgers yet? Leave a comment and let me know what you thought of them, or which one you’re most anxious to try.
Adam McGale says
This is important work. Thank you.
baconhound says
This is all an elaborate scheme to fatten you up, Adam!
Styler says
PB&J Burger is the only one of your top 5 I have been privileged to try…. And agree it deserves such accolades! I am thrilled to head to my old stomping grounds to try the burger at The Downtown Diner!
Thanks Baconhound!
baconhound says
I grew up in Fort Saskatchewan too, but hadn’t been out there in years. I’m glad to see there’s a great place to eat in the Fort now!
Thanks for reading, Styler!
Phil
Wayne says
yep have eaten at the downtown diner quite a few times…..and if i didnt work in Madagascar it would be alot more….congrats the the owners
Wayne
Joe Malo says
Sad to see the Burger Joint didn’t make the cut, I love that place
Tim B says
Seconded
MIKE says
that’s also my favourite burger place.
Glen says
Bang on with Jack’s Burger Shack! I love that place!!!
brian cuthbertson says
try Hahtaway’s near 132Ave and 128St.
aironmo says
mmm Hathaways! Tasty indeed good Sir
mom says
Jack’s has great burgers & fries!
John says
Five Guys Burgers and Fries, is very good as is Burger Baron on 99st south of Whyte Ave. The Burger Baron mushroom burger is an old favourite of mine, and delicious!
Matthew L. says
I have yet to try Downtown Diner or the Local burger, but this indicates to me that Yeg doesn’t have a five star burger. Though I will say that the Lamb Burger at Sugarbowl has a fantastic flavor profile. The burgers you’ve included are well topped, but they still don’t compare to the best I grew up with in Southern California. But for this, we need to blame our inability to get a burger cooked anything less than well done. Have you tried Boogie’s in Calgary? Their patties are quite thin, but this helps bypass the hockey puck texture. I’ve had fun reading this series – thanks!
Lorri says
A little out of the Edmonton area, but the burgers at the Calmar drive-in are fantastic!
Tara says
Love going to Downtown Diner! Best burger I’ve ever eaten! All there other food is fantastic as well and love the 50’s the theme!
Tracey says
Only tried the Deluxe, but I feel a trip to Fort Saskatchewan coming up in my future! Agree with John though: 5 guys & BB serve great burgers. Sad to see The Burg not make the list. All local and mostly home made condiments. You should definitely give that place a try if you like burgers!
MANDY says
THE BURGER JOINT is #1 !!!!