10 Burger Chains That Are Better Than McDonald’s

McDonald’s may be the most recognizable burger chain in the world, but it’s far from the only option when you’re craving a great burger. While the Big Mac and classic cheeseburgers are staples for many families, plenty of other chains are known for fresher ingredients, bigger portions, and more flavorful menus.

Most parents know that fast food isn't typically the healthiest option. But when you're rushing from one extracurricular activity to the next or trying to get dinner on the table after a long day of work, fast food can sometimes be the best option. If you are going to spend the money on burgers for the family, you want it to be from a chain everyone can enjoy.

From fast-casual favorites to regional spots people swear by, these burger chains offer alternatives that many diners prefer over the Golden Arches. If your family is ready to switch things up for your next meal out, these are some of the best burger spots to try instead.

This post was updated in June 2026 to include new images and additional editorial enhancements.

Wendy's is quickly becoming our go-to burger spot, and it's the same for many others. Wendy's just seems to take more pride in their food than many other popular burger restaurants. Plus, they have a nice variety. Many people also believe that their fries are better than McDonald's and many other burger joints.

While just about everything is good at Wendy's, if it's your first time going, try the Baconator. Critics and customers agree that this sandwich has an incredible flavor profile. Most people also like that it's actually covered with a generous amount of bacon. This burger is one of the main reasons to ever go to Wendy's.

According to QSR Magazine, Burger King continues to be the third most popular go-to burger spot in America. Burger King is slowly taking McDonald's spot on our all-time favorite list. First of all, the fries just might be the best of any fast food restaurant. They also have a great variety, with more items being added all the time.

If you're coming here for the first time, start with what makes the restaurant famous. Try a Whopper. The beef patty has a good amount of smokiness, the toppings are delicious, and the buns are just right. Get it with extra pickles and you're in for a real treat.

This is another amazing burger restaurant that seems to fly under the radar, but they have some good options. The menu is very large and has something for everyone. Many of their burgers are simple, but they pack a lot of flavor. They also have great drinks, with a wide selection of slushes, lemonades, and soft drinks.

In our opinion, the best burger at Sonic is the Hickory BBQ Cheeseburger. The burger has a perfect combination of meat, mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, and pickles. Even if you're not a huge BBQ fan, it's still worth trying.

Another go-to burger spot to try when you want a lot of variety is Jack in the Box. The menu is relatively inexpensive, and there's something for everyone. They're always adding something new, and the meals are always consistently good.

In the past, the best sandwich at Jack in the Box was the Deli Trio, but they don't make that anymore. However, the Sourdough Jack is quickly replacing it. The sourdough buns are perfectly toasted. There are also tasty slices of bacon and tomatoes. You'll also get a topping of ketchup and mayo. It makes for a perfect burger.

It's a sad fact that Whataburger restaurants aren't in every state. However, if you're near one, you may find that they have your new favorite burgers. The menu here isn't huge, but almost everything is worth ordering at least once. Many people also love their fries.

For our money, the best burger at Whataburger is the Bacon Blaze Jalapeño Double. This burger isn't available all of the time, but try it if you get the chance. It has the perfect amount of bacon, jalapeños, and jalapeño ranch dressing. It's hot but not so hot that it's not enjoyable. Add a side of fries for the perfect lunch.

There are several tasty burgers at Culver's restaurants, including the Butter Burger, which put the restaurant on the map. However, they also have other dishes and ice cream. This is another restaurant that isn't found everywhere, but it's worth a try if you find it.

If you go to Culver's, start by getting the Butter Burger. It is made from never-frozen meat, so it's as fresh as you'll get. It also comes with a buttered bun that you won't get anywhere else. Some people consider the Butter Burger to be the best burger ever made. There's also the Culver's Deluxe, which has tasty toppings and is worth a try. 

This is another go-to burger spot that often falls under the radar. They offer burgers, hot dogs, fries, milkshakes, and more. They specialize in hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and bacon. The hot dogs are also pretty good. Try it once, and it may become your new favorite.

There aren't many different burgers at Five Guys, but they're all worth a try. If you can choose only one, go for the Bacon Cheeseburger. Many restaurants have cheeseburgers, but this one has the best cheese of them all, and it's perfectly placed on the sandwich. There's also crispy bacon, perfect pickles, and tasty buns.

Hardee's is a great burger joint that has many great options. It's more than just burgers. They also have chicken platters, biscuits, breakfast platters, and more. It's more like good home cooking in a restaurant, and it's worth a try. The fries are great as well, without the need for condiments.

Of the options at Hardee's, our favorite is the Bacon Cheeseburger. This burger has some of the best bacon of any sandwich on this list. It's perfectly crisp. The cheese is especially gooey, and the beef is top-notch. Get it with a side of fries.

In-N-Out Burger is often in the discussion of the best burger restaurants of all time. In fact, they were responsible for introducing the first two-way speaker system for drive-through ordering in California in 1948. They also have one of the best menus on the planet. There are only a few menu options, but they're all amazing. Stop by one if you're lucky enough to have the restaurant in your state.

You really only have three options at In-N-Out. If you can only choose one, go with the standard Double-Double. It has two beef patties, two slices of cheese, and perfectly browned buns. Best of all, this and all the other burgers here are made fresh. You can even see them cut the fries from potatoes while you wait.

Shake Shack is a great place to go if you want a delicious milkshake and a great atmosphere. It's also one of the best go-to burger spots in town. There's also a big menu of tasty treats, from burgers to chicken sandwiches and glorious French fries. You could eat there every day, and it would never get old.

There are countless tasty burgers to try at Shake Shack. However, our very favorite is the Shack Stack. This one is different than many others on this list because, in addition to a juicy beef patty, it also has a huge, fried portobello mushroom on it. Even if you don't love mushrooms, this one is worth a try.