Bless Your Heart Burgers | Portland, Oregon
Portland Super Chef John Gorham was a long-time bistro burger master with his beloved Tasty & Sons, Tasty & Alder, and Toro Bravo long-term fixtures. When he announced opening a burger-only stand in a Downtown food hall, there were high expectations. Gorham more than delivered, though unexpected. Crispy and messy burgers come loose-ground, fat-and-char-pocked patties, especially when they get chilli, slaw, and house-made pickles. Still, the simple double is arguably the best burger alone in the Pacific Northwest. — AK
Bless Your Heart Burgers
Brooks’ Sandwich Shop | Charlotte, North Carolina
Don’t let the name fool you — Brooks’ is very much a burger joint and has been since twin brothers David and Scott (Brooks, obviously) opened it in 1973. The little red shack attracts Carolinians of all stripes who are likely to experience Carolina’s finest burger, with a craggy char that immediately gives way to juicy perfection. If you want to go “all the way,” your burger is topped with mustard, raw onion, and the help of their other specialty. This wonderfully smoky chilli magically blends with the patty mentioned above. — ML
Brooks’ Sandwich Shop