Fast Food Restaurants Where You Can Order A True Steakburger

We've found the restaurants that have cracked the steakburger code. While the lovable restaurant chain Steak 'n Shake started it all in 1934, there are other restaurants that have taken the concept of the classic burger to new heights and embraced the challenge of creating authentic steakburgers. Some of these burgers can even rival those found in upscale steakhouses. By elevating the quality of the meat and combining it with carefully selected toppings and sauces, these restaurants have crafted a culinary experience that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning burger connoisseurs.

So what sets a steakburger apart from the crowd? It's all about the meat. While traditional hamburgers rely on cheaper cuts like chuck, round, and sirloin, steakburgers take a different approach. They incorporate one or more top-tier cuts, like t-bones or ribeyes, into the grind. These cuts, often reserved for steaks, bring a level of tenderness and flavor that takes your typical greasy burger and elevates it to something finer. Some steakburger chains also smash their patties on the griddle to create crispy, ultra-browned edges, though this isn't a universal technique. From the cooking techniques and secret cuts of meat they use to the condiments on their sandwiches, each of these restaurants puts its own twist on the authentic steakburger. Here are the fast food restaurants where you can order a true steakburger.

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is not just your ordinary burger joint; it's a place where passion for quality and flavor come together. The journey to crafting its famous steakburgers begins with the highest quality of 100% premium beef. The magic happens in Freddy's kitchen, where its skilled team smashes each crispy-edged patty with care and expertise. Whether you're savoring its classic Original Double, indulging in the tangy delight of the chain's California Style, loading up with Bacon & Cheese, or opting for the mouthwatering seasonal specials, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers guarantees an unforgettable steakburger experience. 

Freddy Simon, the man who inspired the popular chain, believed he was "the luckiest man in the world" (via Freddy's). When you eat at Freddy's, you'll feel like you're the luckiest eater in the world thanks to its countless options. The chain was co-founded in 2002 by Bill and Randy Simon, Freddy's sons. Their family values and Freddy's patriotic service became the foundation of Freddy's, inspiring a commitment to excellence and a dedication to doing things The Freddy's Way. These values are the reason why the restaurant creates fresh, made-to-order, and craveable food served with genuine hospitality.

In 2022, Arby's ventured into uncharted territory by introducing its very first burger to the menu: the Wagyu Steakhouse Burger. This momentous addition sent ripples of excitement throughout the fast-food world. Our own review deemed the burger to be excellent. The Wagyu Steakhouse Burger features a generous 6.4-ounce patty made from a blend of American Wagyu beef and ground beef, resulting in a marvelously marbled and flavorful creation. Topped with shredded lettuce, a thick-cut slice of tomato, red onions, pickles, cheese, and a delectable sauce, all encased in a soft, buttery bun, this burger is a true feast for the senses.

The Arby's Wagyu Steakhouse Burger offers a pretty good value for its quality. When it debuted, it was priced at $5.99, making it comparable to the average price of a Big Mac. Whether you choose to pair it with a side of the chain's signature curly fries or opt for some delectable crinkle fries, this burger is sure to leave you satisfied and contemplating when you can indulge in its tantalizing flavors once more. This menu item started life as a limited-time offering; you can check on Arby's website to see if it's still available at your local restaurant.

If you're an IHOP know-it-all, you probably remember the infamous IHOB campaign. While everyone around America was raising eyebrows, IHOP raked it in with a wild 400% increase in burger sales. But what kind of burgers? The IHOP menu boasted enticing options like the Big IHOP Pancake Burger, Garlic Butter Steakburger, and Loaded Philly Steakburger aimed at satisfying burger lovers' cravings. However, reviews of these steakburgers were mixed. Critics found the burgers to be somewhat lackluster in taste, and IHOP's policy of cooking them well done, unlike steak, drew some scrutiny. The pricing of these burgers was also relatively high compared to other fast food options. While the toppings provided an array of flavors, they also overwhelmed the taste of the burger patties themselves. 

It appears that IHOP's Ultimate Steakburgers might not be the go-to choice for those seeking an extraordinary burger experience. Despite the mixed reviews, it's worth noting that IHOP's Ultimate Steakburgers still have their own distinct appeal. The current menu is quite different than it was during the IHOB push and caters to those seeking a burger with a twist with tempting options like Bourbon Bacon Jam, the Big Brunch, and Jalapeño Kick. For adventurous eaters willing to explore unconventional burger options, IHOP's steakburgers may offer an interesting and unexpected alternative to your typical pancake if you're craving something different the next time you're at IHOP. 

Since 1948, Kirk's Steakburgers has maintained its tradition of charring patties over an open charcoal flame. This timeless cooking method sets Kirk's apart, offering customers a taste of history with each bite. One of the key things contributing to Kirk's Steakburgers' consistency and authenticity is its longstanding relationship with the trusted butcher it's had since the early days. Beyond its culinary prowess, Kirk's Steakburgers prides itself on being a family establishment. The restaurant has employed multiple generations of workers, with second and even third-generation employees working behind the scenes to uphold the restaurant's reputation for delectable food and exceptional service. This familial atmosphere creates a sense of warmth and dedication that extends to the customers, making them feel like part of the Kirk's family.

While family and tradition are pretty important for this California born-and-raised restaurant, its steakburgers are something special too. Kirk's Steakburgers goes beyond traditional expectations with its innovative and delectable steakburgers. From the classic steakburger to the heartier double steakburger and Big Kirk, the offerings cater to diverse preferences. Premium toppings such as avocado, bacon, and grilled pineapple elevate the flavors. A variety of sauces, including its signature Grillsauce and tangy Pub Sauce, enhance the experience. Sides like classic fries, Onion Strings, and Loaded Fork Fries complete the meal. With a commitment to quality and unique combinations, Kirk's Steakburgers offers a remarkable culinary adventure for burger enthusiasts, making it a must-visit destination.

Born in 2010 in Austin, Texas, Hopdoddy Burger Bar emerged as a relative newcomer in the burger game. Founded by four friends with a shared vision for redefining the traditional burger experience, Hopdoddy quickly gained attention and acclaim. Since its inception, this burger haven has outgrown its humble beginnings and expanded its reach beyond Texas. With locations now spanning across California, Florida, Arizona, Colorado, and beyond, Hopdoddy continues to make its mark in the burger industry. While it doesn't only serve steakburgers, there's one burger on the menu that qualifies as a "steak" burger and it's quite the patty.

The Primetime Burger is the main "steak" burger that stands out amongst its burger offerings because of its half-pound Cadillac Wagyu Patty and HD1 steak sauce. Featuring a perfectly cooked beef patty, this mouthwatering burger guarantees juiciness and flavor in every bite. Served on a toasted bun, the Primetime Burger is generously topped with Gruyère and Emmental cheese, caramelized onions, and a delectable truffle aioli. The rich and creamy cheese, the sweetness of the caramelized onions, and the tantalizing aroma of the truffle aioli create a symphony of flavors that harmonize perfectly. It's an indulgence that satisfies the cravings of discerning palates and leaves a lasting impression.

Matty G's Steakburgers & Spirits is a restaurant in Arizona that embodies the perfect blend of sports, family, and delicious food. Inspired by the owner's love for sports and cherished memories with loved ones, the concept of Matty G's came to life in 2016. With a sports-themed ambiance and a collection of sports memorabilia, Matty G's is a haven for sports enthusiasts and families alike.

When it comes to the menu, Matty G's takes pride in offering high-quality food and exceptional service. Caramelized onions, cheese, and hearty offerings take center stage as toppings for the burgers. Under the toppings, the steakburgers themselves are a true highlight, crafted with care and expertise. From classic combinations like the Classic Steakburger with single, double, triple, or even "Home Run" four-patty options to innovative creations such as the All-Star, Triple Crown, Alley Ooop, and Hail Mary, Matty G's menu offers a diverse range of steakburgers to cater to every taste. Whether you prefer a traditional approach or want to venture into bold and unique flavors, these steakburgers are the perfect indulgence. Combined with the range of delectable sides and refreshing beverages, Matty G's ensures a memorable dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.