Best Burger Stops

We can't get these great hamburgers out of our minds.

I like mine with lettuce and tomato, Heinz 57, and french fried potatoes," sings Jimmy Buffett in his popular tune. Just like the memorable song, these tasty sandwich explosions of meat, condiments, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and buns hover around our consciousness till we just have to eat another to forget about them for a few days.

For a burger that will make you break out into song, try one of the Travel staff's favorite spots.

ANNETTE THOMPSON

Buffalo Grill, Little Rock, AR; (501) 224-0012. "This bison-themed restaurant makes a big, juicy burger with hot-pepper cheese; they've elevated this classic to a new level," says Senior Photographer Art Meripol.

Charlie Joseph's, La Grange, GA; (706) 884-5416. Ask for these skinny burgers, akin to Krystals on steroids, from either the sidewalk counter or from atop a stool inside the short-order shop. Take it from me, you'll want to order several of these slathered with condiments and mouthwatering pickles.

Ferrell's Hamburgers, Hopkinsville, KY; (270) 886-1445. "This Bluegrass original is a local favorite," states Associate Travel Editor Wanda McKinney. "The folks at Fort Campbell are frequent visitors here. The burgers are cooked right in front of you on a griddle. Get at least two."

Huey's Midtown, Memphis, TN; (901) 726-4372. "The great flavor of the World-Famous Huey Burger, heightened by fresh lettuce, tomato, and Cheddar, left me with room for only a few fries," says Wanda about her Tennessee pick. So she plans a return visit to order the lemon pie.

Litton's Market and Restaurant, Fountain City,TN; (865) 688-0429. "The famous burgers are thick, juicy, and flavorful," according to Associate Travel Editor Cassandra Vanhooser. "Third-generation owner Barry Litton and his crew grind their own beef and bake their own buns. Pair the burger with hand-cut fries or thick onion rings; it's a marriage made in heaven."

Scott's Hamburgers, Bixby, OK; (918) 366-6283. Assistant Travel Editor Tanner Latham urges us to request silverware at this small-town joint nearTulsa. He says, "You'll need a knife and fork to take on the Big Hoss. The bun barely holds the two monstrous patties. The burger spills onto the plate before you touch it."

Second Street Grill, Lewes, DE; (302) 644-4121. Travel Photographer Gary Clark asks, "Why isn't the 8-ounce chargrilled Black Angus at this fancy restaurant served up as a 16 ouncer? It's that good."

Spinnaker's Paradise Grill, Panama City Beach, FL; (850) 234-7882. Travel Editor Morgan Murphy says, "Theirs is the best I've ever tasted-off of someone else's grill, that is. It has the perfect ratio of bun to burger to condiments."

Stamps Superburgers, Jackson, MS; (601) 713-3020. "It's a religious experience to eat here," says Assistant Travel Editor Farrah Austin about the McWillie Drive locale. "After all, a Methodist minister created it. The Superburger has 15 ounces of meat."

Storm's Drive-ln, Lampasas.TX; (512) 556-6269. "Even Elvis once ate at Storm's, and you should too," says Travel Editor Les Thomas. Nowadays, Les goes for the generous threepatty "Storm Special" that won't leave you feeling all shook up.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Mid-Apr 2005
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