5 Tampa Restaurants Locals Say Serve the Best Burgers

Tampa’s food scene is exploding—Cuban sandwiches, seafood, and yes, some seriously strong burgers. From strip‑mall sleepers to buzzy bars, these five spots are where locals send anyone chasing the best burger in town.

1. Datz

Known for its over‑the‑top comfort food, Datz also does some of Tampa’s most talked‑about burgers.

You’ll find thick patties topped with things like bacon jam, pimento cheese, fried jalapeños, and even mac and cheese. The buns are sturdy, the sides (truffle fries, chips, and dips) are excellent, and the whole experience leans joyful excess in the best way.

2. Burger Culture

What started as a food truck turned into one of Tampa’s most beloved burger spots.

Burger Culture pushes creative combos—think burgers topped with fried mac and cheese, grilled cheese “buns,” or Cuban‑inspired flavors. They also nail the basics, with juicy patties and classic toppings. Locals love it for a casual, “this is so Tampa” burger fix.

3. Engine No. 9 (St. Pete, but worth the bridge)

Technically across the bay in St. Petersburg, but Tampa locals happily make the drive for these burgers.

The menu offers a long list of specialty burgers with creative toppings—peanut butter and bacon, spicy chorizo blends, blue cheese, fried eggs, and more. The patties are thick, the cook temp is on point, and it’s become a standard “best burger in the Bay” contender.

4. Thee Burger Spot

A no‑frills, neighborhood joint that’s turned into a local legend.

The burgers are big, messy, and packed with flavor, with options to stack patties, add wings on the side, or go for seriously loaded fries. It’s not about being fancy—just juicy patties, good seasoning, and that classic “this is the real deal” feel.

5. Boozy Pig

Part butcher shop, part café, Boozy Pig is where locals go for meat done right—including fantastic burgers.

They grind their own beef from whole animals, so the flavor is rich and beefy. The burger itself is usually a simple but perfect combo: house‑ground patty, melty cheese, pickles, and a good bun, with rotating specials that get more creative. It’s the butcher’s burger, and it tastes like it.