5 Indianapolis Restaurants Locals Say Serve the Best Burgers

Indy does comfort food extremely well, and its burger scene is proof: old‑school taverns, chef‑y gastropubs, and drive‑ins that locals guard like secrets. These five are constantly in the conversation for “best burger in Indianapolis.”

1. Workingman’s Friend

This west‑side institution is almost mythic—cash‑only, no‑nonsense, and famous for its crispy‑edged burgers.

The burgers are thin, smashed, and cooked on a decades‑seasoned griddle, often stacked double with American cheese and pickles. The buns are griddled too, and the whole thing comes out wrapped in paper, greasy in the best way. Many locals will flat‑out tell you this is the best burger in the city, period.

2. Bru Burger Bar

With multiple locations but a strong local soul, Bru is the “upscale burger” spot everyone knows.

You’ll find a long list of inventive burgers—blue cheese and bacon jam, peppercorn‑crusted patties, lamb burgers, and veggie options—on brioche buns with hand‑cut fries. It’s the go‑to when a group wants burgers but also cocktails, salads, and a polished sit‑down vibe.

3. Punch Burger

Punch leans fast‑casual but is quietly one of Indy’s best spots to build your dream burger.

Start with Angus or bison, then layer on toppings like fried egg, peanut butter and bacon, jalapeños, or gourmet cheeses. Everything is cooked to order, the patties are thick and juicy, and the sweet potato tots are a sleeper hit.

4. Baby’s

A retro‑cool spot just off downtown, Baby’s feels like a modern diner crossed with a cocktail bar.

The burgers are griddled smashburgers with melty cheese, house sauce, and classic toppings; you can double or triple them if you’re hungry. Add crinkle fries, a boozy milkshake, or a tiki‑ish cocktail and you’ll understand why locals keep this in their regular rotation.

5. Upland Brewery – College Ave

More than just a beer stop, Upland’s College Ave location in SoBro does a seriously good burger.

The standard cheeseburger is a thick, nicely charred patty with sharp cheddar, veggies, and house pickles on a toasted bun. They also roll out fun specials, like pimento‑topped or smoked‑bacon variations. Paired with an Upland IPA or sour, it’s peak Indy comfort.