Arlington sits between Dallas and Fort Worth, but locals know you don’t have to leave town for a great burger.
From old‑school drive‑ins to modern sports‑bar vibes, these five spots are constantly in the rotation.
1. Tom’s Burgers & Grill
Tom’s looks like a classic Texas diner, and the burgers back it up.
Patties are big, juicy, and cooked on a flat‑top with plenty of sear.
The Tom’s Burger with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and mayo or mustard is the baseline, but you’ll also see jalapeño burgers, bacon‑cheddar builds, and chili‑topped options.
Locals love the consistency, generous portions, and the fact that you can pair your burger with breakfast‑style sides, onion rings, or fries and a massive milkshake.
2. J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill
Best known for its Irish nachos, J. Gilligan’s also serves a classic, no‑nonsense burger that gets a lot of hometown love.
The patties are grilled, the toppings are simple—cheese, bacon, sautéed onions, jalapeños, etc.—and the overall effect is “this is exactly what a pub burger should taste like.”
It’s especially popular on game days and concert nights with people headed to AT&T Stadium.
3. Kincaid’s Hamburgers (Arlington location)
Originally a Fort Worth institution, Kincaid’s has a loyal following at its Arlington spot too.
Expect thick, old‑school burgers with a backyard‑cookout vibe: fresh ground beef, American or cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion on a soft bun. Nothing fancy—just dialed‑in flavor.
Hand‑cut fries, onion rings, and milkshakes make it feel like the throwback burger joint everyone wishes they grew up with.
4. Grease Monkey Burger Shop & Social Club
Right near downtown Arlington, Grease Monkey leans into the garage‑bar theme with a big patio, live music, and an unapologetically indulgent burger lineup.
Smash‑style or classic patties, melty cheese, and toppings like fried eggs, bacon, jalapeños, grilled onions, and house “grease monkey” sauce.
The Grease Burger or Black & Blue (blackened seasoning + blue cheese) are local favorites. It’s rowdy, fun, and very “Arlington on a Friday night.”
5. Fork in the Road
A small, quirky spot with a scratch‑kitchen mentality, Fork in the Road has one of Arlington’s most talked‑about “chef‑style” burgers.
You’ll find creative builds with caramelized onions, fancy cheeses, bacon jams, aiolis, and fresh buns. It’s less about sheer size and more about flavor balance. Locals rave about the seasoning on the patties and the care that goes into every plate, plus the playful menu and daily specials.
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