Concord’s food scene has grown fast along with the city itself, and burgers are one of the main things locals obsess over.
These five spots come up again and again in Concord burger conversations.
1. Punchy’s Diner
Punchy’s looks and feels like a classic American diner, and the burger fits that vibe perfectly.
It’s simple, big, and exactly what you want when you’re craving diner food.
Patties are griddled and juicy, topped with American or cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles on a toasted bun.
You can add bacon or mushrooms, but even the basic cheeseburger with a side of crinkle‑cut fries or onion rings is enough to keep regulars coming back. It’s pure comfort, no overthinking required.
2. 2 Gals Kitchen
2 Gals has more of a Southern scratch‑kitchen feel, but their burger has a devoted local following.
The restaurant is cozy and welcoming, and the food is clearly made with care.
The burger typically features a thick, well‑seasoned patty cooked to order, topped with melty cheese, fresh toppings, and a house sauce or aioli that gives it a little extra richness.
The bun is soft and slightly toasted, and the sides—fries, seasonal vegetables, or house chips—are all solid.
It’s the kind of burger you could easily pair with a glass of wine or sweet tea and feel totally satisfied.
3. Cabarrus Brewing Company
At Cabarrus Brewing, the beer is the main attraction, but the food truck and kitchen operations that partner with the brewery often turn out some of the area’s best burgers.
Locals treat it as a combo: craft beer plus a big burger.
Burgers here lean hearty and pub‑style: thick patties, plenty of cheese, bacon, onions, and sauces like barbecue or chipotle mayo.
Enjoying a burger on the patio with one of their house‑brewed ales has become a go‑to weekend ritual for a lot of Concord residents.
4. Afton Tavern
Afton Tavern is a neighborhood bar and grill that feels a bit like a comfy lodge, and the burger is one of its biggest draws.
You get a juicy patty that’s got a good char from the grill, topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and usually a house sauce, with optional add‑ons like bacon, mushrooms, or jalapeños.
The burgers are substantial without being ridiculous, and the fries and onion rings are reliably crisp. It’s a classic “after work” or “watch the game” burger spot.
5. The Smoke Pit (Concord)
The Smoke Pit is primarily a barbecue restaurant, but a lot of locals will quietly tell you that the burger is just as worthy of attention.
The patty is thick and smoky, sometimes incorporating brisket or other smoked meats into the grind or toppings.
You might see burgers piled with pulled pork, bacon, cheddar, and barbecue sauce on a toasted bun.
It’s rich, messy, and exactly the kind of thing you want when you show up hungry and can’t decide between barbecue and a burger—so you get both in one.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
