In the culinary landscape of Saint Paul, Minnesota, a tantalizing tale unfolds – a quest for the city’s most extraordinary burger. Amidst the vibrant tapestry of eateries that grace the streets, a select few stand out as contenders for this coveted title. Embark on a gastronomic adventure as we delve into the realm of patties, buns, and toppings, unraveling the secrets of the burgers that have captivated the hearts and palates of St. Paul’s burger enthusiasts. Brace yourself for a mouthwatering exploration that will leave your taste buds clamoring for more.
Stepping into the hallowed halls of Matt’s Bar & Grill, one is greeted by the tantalizing aroma of sizzling patties mingling with the warm, inviting ambiance. Matt’s has long been a beloved institution in St. Paul, renowned for its exceptional burgers that have garnered accolades far and wide. The signature Matt’s Burger commands attention with its perfectly seasoned patty, crafted from a blend of prime chuck and short rib. Nestled between a soft, pillowy bun, the patty is adorned with an array of classic toppings, including crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, and tangy pickles. Each bite is a harmonious symphony of flavors, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
Venturing to the vibrant confines of The Nook, one encounters a different culinary tale, yet equally captivating. The Nook has established itself as a culinary haven for burger aficionados, offering a diverse menu that caters to every taste. Among its many offerings, the Juicy Lucy reigns supreme. This iconic burger boasts a unique twist – a molten core of melted cheese that oozes out with each tantalizing bite. The Juicy Lucy is meticulously crafted using fresh, locally sourced beef, ground daily in-house. The patty is seasoned to perfection, resulting in a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with an assortment of toppings, the Juicy Lucy is an unforgettable culinary experience that will leave a lasting impression.
The Ultimate Guide to St. Paul’s Burger Paradise
The Holy Grail: Best Burger Joints in St. Paul
St. Paul, Minnesota, is a culinary gem bursting with incredible burger spots that cater to every taste bud. From classic American grills to modern gastro-pubs, the city’s burger scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Here’s our definitive guide to the top burger joints in St. Paul, where every patty is a masterpiece:
The Standard Bearer: Matt’s Bar
In the heart of downtown St. Paul, Matt’s Bar has been serving up legendary burgers for over 50 years. Their signature Matt Burger is a hefty, hand-patted patty cooked to perfection on a flat-top grill. Topped with American cheese, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomato, it’s a burger that epitomizes the classic American diner experience.
Beyond the Matt Burger, Matt’s offers a wide variety of other burgers, including the Italian Burger with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce, and the J&L Burger, a spicy twist with jalapeños and bacon. With its warm ambiance, lively atmosphere, and exceptional burgers, Matt’s Bar is the undisputed king of the St. Paul burger scene.
| Burger Joint | Signature Burger | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Matt’s Bar | Matt Burger | Classic American burger with hand-patted patty, American cheese, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomato. |
A Quest for the Perfect Patty: Discovering St. Paul’s Burger Royalty
The Blue Door Pub: A Historic Haven for Burger Perfection
Step into the cozy confines of The Blue Door Pub, a St. Paul institution renowned for its handcrafted burgers. Each patty is a masterpiece, boasting a juicy, succulent interior reminiscent of a prime cut steak. The signature Door Burger, a symphony of ground chuck, bacon, and melted cheddar, has captivated taste buds for generations. It’s a burger that transcends the ordinary, leaving you longing for more.
Customized Delights for Every Palate
But The Blue Door’s culinary prowess doesn’t stop there. With a myriad of toppings and condiments, you’re empowered to craft a burger that matches your every whim. From crispy onion rings to tangy barbecue sauce, the possibilities are endless. Their legendary Build-Your-Own Burger menu allows you to assemble a gastronomic masterpiece tailored to your unique desires. Whether you crave a classic patty or an eccentric concoction, The Blue Door delivers.
And let’s not forget the perfect pairing: hand-cut fries that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Dip them into their signature aioli for an unforgettable culinary experience.
A Table for Legends
The Blue Door Pub is more than just a burger joint; it’s a gathering place where locals and visitors alike break bread and share stories. Its walls adorned with memorabilia and local artwork create an ambiance that is both inviting and nostalgic. As you savor every delectable bite, you can’t help but feel like part of the St. Paul burger royalty.
The Art of the Flip: Where to Find St. Paul’s Most Delectable Burgers
A Burgerholic’s Paradise: Matt’s Bar & Grill
Prepare your taste buds for a gastronomic adventure at Matt’s Bar & Grill. This iconic establishment has been the go-to spot for discerning burger enthusiasts for decades. Their signature burger is a masterpiece, crafted with hand-ground chuck and a secret blend of seasonings. The result is a symphony of flavors, juicy and flavorful with every bite. Don’t miss out on the tempting array of toppings, from classic cheddar to fiery jalapeños, to customize your burger to perfection.
The Ultimate Gourmet Experience: The Lexington
For a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary, look no further than The Lexington. Their burgers are not mere sandwiches; they are works of art. Each patty is made from carefully selected, high-quality beef and cooked to your desired doneness. The bun, a brioche masterpiece, holds the symphony of flavors together. The menu boasts a wide selection of gourmet toppings, such as braised short ribs, horseradish aioli, and grilled pineapple. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable burger journey.
An Explosion of Flavors: Red Cow
| The Jucy Lucy | The Blue Ox | The Banh Mi | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patty | Ground chuck, stuffed with molten cheese | Ground chuck, bacon, blue cheese crumbles | Marinated flank steak |
| Cheese | American, Cheddar, or Swiss | Blue cheese crumbles | None |
| Toppings | Onion, tomato, lettuce, pickle | Onion, tomato, lettuce, bacon | Pickled vegetables, cilantro, aioli |
Red Cow is a burger haven where culinary creativity knows no bounds. Their menu is a testament to the endless possibilities of burger innovation. From the classic Jucy Lucy, bursting with molten cheese, to the Blue Ox, featuring a savory blend of ground chuck and blue cheese crumbles, every burger is a culinary adventure. And for those seeking a taste of the exotic, the Banh Mi offers a fusion of Vietnamese flavors, with marinated flank steak and pickled vegetables.
Bite into Burger Bliss: Unveiling St. Paul’s Hidden Gem Burgers
The Quest for Culinary Perfection
Prepare yourself for an epicurean adventure as we delve into the realm of St. Paul’s burger masterpieces. Beyond the bustling crowds and towering landmarks, culinary treasures await, promising an unforgettable taste sensation.
The Art of the Patty
The heart of any burger lies in its patty, and St. Paul’s chefs have mastered this craft. From juicy ground chuck to expertly seasoned blends, each patty is a testament to culinary expertise. Expect rich flavors and satisfying textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
A Symphony of Toppings
The patty is merely the foundation upon which a symphony of flavors unfold. St. Paul’s burger wizards unleash a kaleidoscope of toppings, from classic cheddar cheese to tantalizing bacon and even unexpected gourmet delights. Let your imagination soar as you customize your burger with an array of options that will elevate your experience to new heights.
The Buns That Unite
The bun serves as the crown jewel, holding the burger’s symphony of flavors together. St. Paul’s bakers have crafted an array of options to suit every palate, from soft brioche rolls to hearty potato buns. Each bun adds its own unique character to the burger experience, ensuring perfect harmony in every bite.
Top Picks for St. Paul’s Burger Paradise
To guide you on this culinary journey, we present a table showcasing our top picks for the best burgers in St. Paul:
| Restaurant | Burger | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Matt’s Bar | Juicy Lucy | A legendary patty stuffed with melted cheese, wrapped in a savory bun. |
| The Happy Gnome | Green Chile Burger | A tantalizing blend of ground chuck and green chiles, topped with pepper jack cheese and hatch green chile mayo. |
| Bruegger’s Bagels | Ultimate BLT | A juicy burger paired with thick-cut bacon, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes on a toasted bagel bun. |
Constructing the Perfect Patty: A Culinary Exploration of St. Paul’s Top Burgers
Firestone, the Burger Pioneer
In the annals of St. Paul’s burger history, Firestone stands tall as a culinary innovator. Their flagship burger, the “Dirty Fire,” embodies a symphony of flavors, blending grilled onions, bacon, and a secret sauce that leaves taste buds tantalized. The experience is further elevated by the brioche bun, toasted to perfection, providing a pillowy embrace for the juicy patty.
The Nook’s Retro Indulgence
For a nostalgic burger escape, The Nook offers a timeless classic. Their single or double patties are seasoned with a secret blend of spices and cooked to perfection. The dill pickles and onions add a refreshing crunch, while the “No Sauce” policy allows diners to customize their burger with their choice of toppings.
Hi-Lo Diner: An American Icon
At Hi-Lo Diner, burgers are an American icon elevated. Their patties are hand-formed from premium ground chuck and grilled to order, ensuring a flavorful and juicy bite. The “Hi-Lo Classic” burger features melted cheddar cheese, grilled onions, and crisp lettuce, all nestled in a buttery bun.
The Bachelor Farmer: Culinary Alchemy
The Bachelor Farmer takes burger crafting to an art form. Their “Oxtail Burger” is a culinary masterpiece, featuring a blend of ground oxtail, beef, and bone marrow. The patty is glazed with a house-made “secret sauce” and topped with smoked gouda cheese. The result is an explosion of flavors that transcends the ordinary burger experience.
The Bulldog Lowertown: A Charred Delight
The Bulldog Lowertown specializes in wood-fired burgers, imparting a tantalizing smokiness to their creations. Their signature “Bulldog Burger” is a sight to behold: a juicy patty topped with charred onions, bacon, and a robust blue cheese sauce. The flavors mingle seamlessly, creating a symphony of charred and savory sensations.
| Restaurant | Signature Burger | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Firestone | “Dirty Fire” | Grilled onions, bacon, secret sauce, brioche bun |
| The Nook | “Single” or “Double” | Secret spice blend, dill pickles, onions, no sauce |
| Hi-Lo Diner | “Hi-Lo Classic” | Melted cheddar cheese, grilled onions, crisp lettuce, buttery bun |
| The Bachelor Farmer | “Oxtail Burger” | Ground oxtail, beef, bone marrow, house-made “secret sauce,” smoked gouda cheese |
| The Bulldog Lowertown | “Bulldog Burger” | Wood-fired patty, charred onions, bacon, blue cheese sauce |
The Rare Medium Burger at The Nook
The Nook’s Rare Medium Burger is a must-try for burger enthusiasts. This expertly crafted masterpiece features a juicy, medium-rare patty made from a blend of chuck, brisket, and short rib. The patty is seasoned to perfection and cooked to a tantalizing pink center, offering a delectable balance of flavors and textures.
But what truly sets this burger apart is the toppings. It’s adorned with melted American cheese, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a tangy-sweet barbecue sauce. The combination of these ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate.
Each bite is a journey of culinary delight, from the tender patty to the crispy bacon and the sweet and savory toppings. The Rare Medium Burger is a true testament to the art of burger-making, leaving an unforgettable impression on every diner.
| Price: | $12.95 |
|---|---|
| Rating: | 4.8/5 |
The Burger Belt: St. Paul’s Champions of Culinary Creation
The Lowest Key Cheeseburger You’ve Ever Had
Marvel Bar’s cheeseburger is a minimalist masterpiece. Perfectly toasted bun. Skillfully seasoned patty. American “cheese.” Sliced raw onion (or not). A tiny smear of house-made “fancy sauce.” Done. And for that matter, don’t sleep on the bar’s regular burger, either, crowned with caramelized onions.
The Diner Burger That’ll Change Your Life
The Nook’s Diner Burger is the Platonic ideal of a diner burger. The bun is as substantial as a corn muffin, griddled in butter, and the patty’s griddled edges create a shatteringly crisp halo. Topped with cheese, grilled onions, lettuce, and mayo.
The Tavern Burger for When You Need a Hug
There’s a reason The Bulldog Lowertown’s Juicy Lucy is so beloved. The half-pound patty wraps around a luxurious core of molten cheddar, the bun is soft and sturdy, and the burger comes with a complimentary side of crispy onion strings.
The Burger That Would Make Guy Fieri Cry
If your burger could attain nirvana, it would taste like Matt’s Bar’s signature creation. The massive patty is cooked in duck fat, topped with braised short rib, bacon, choice of cheese, and horseradish mayo, and sandwiched in a toasted brioche bun.
The Burger That Will Set Your Mouth on Fire… in a Good Way
If you’re looking for a burger with a kick, look no further than The Nook’s southwest burger. The patty is seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and cayenne, and topped with pepper jack cheese, pico de gallo, and a spicy ranch sauce. The heat is real, but it’s balanced out by the cool, creamy ranch sauce.
The Burger That’s Worth the Drive
Amazing Thailand may not be known for its burgers, but their Thai burger is a hidden gem. The patty is made with a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with lemongrass, garlic, and ginger, and topped with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce, pickled vegetables, and cilantro.
The Burger That’s the Perfect Way to End a Night Out
If you’re looking for a burger to soak up all the alcohol you’ve been drinking, head to Cecil’s Deli for their sloppy Joe. The ground beef is simmered in a tangy tomato sauce, and served on a soft, squishy bun. It’s the perfect way to end a night of revelry.
| Burger | Patty | Toppings | Bun |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marvel Bar | Beef | American cheese, raw onion, fancy sauce | Toasted bun |
| The Nook | Beef | Grilled onions, lettuce, mayo | Griddled bun |
| The Bulldog Lowertown | Beef | Molten cheddar | Soft bun |
| Matt’s Bar | Beef | Braised short rib, bacon, horseradish mayo | Toasted brioche bun |
| The Nook | Beef | Pepper jack cheese, pico de gallo, spicy ranch sauce | Plain bun |
| Amazing Thailand | Beef and pork | Sweet and spicy peanut sauce, pickled vegetables, cilantro | Plain bun |
| Cecil’s Deli | Beef | Tangy tomato sauce | Soft bun |
Deconstructing the Burger: An Insider’s Look at St. Paul’s Best Bites
1. The Patty
The patty is the heart of the burger, and in St. Paul, it’s all about the grind. Look for burgers made with freshly ground beef, chuck, or short rib for maximum flavor and juiciness.
2. The Bun
The bun is the canvas for your burger masterpiece. It should be soft and fluffy, yet sturdy enough to hold up to the weight of the patty and toppings. Local favorites include potato buns, brioche, and pretzel buns.
3. The Sauce
Sauce is the glue that brings the burger together. Whether it’s a classic ketchup, tangy barbecue sauce, or creamy aioli, choose a sauce that complements the other flavors without overpowering them.
4. The Cheese
Cheese is an essential part of any great burger. From classic American to sharp cheddar, there are countless options to suit your taste. Look for cheese that melts well and adds a touch of richness to the burger.
5. The Veggies
Veggies add freshness and crunch to your burger. Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles are all popular choices. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your veggie toppings, such as roasted peppers, mushrooms, or avocado.
6. The Sides
Sides are the perfect way to round out your burger meal. Fries, onion rings, and coleslaw are all classic options. But if you’re looking for something a little different, try poutine, fried pickles, or mac and cheese bites.
7. The Atmosphere
The atmosphere of the restaurant is an important part of the burger experience. Look for places that are cozy and inviting, with a friendly staff and a sense of community. Great burger joints often have a loyal following, so be prepared to make new friends while you’re there.
8. The Price
Price is always a factor when choosing a burger. In St. Paul, you can find great burgers at a variety of price points. From budget-friendly options to upscale dining experiences, there’s something to fit every budget.
| Price Range | Examples |
|---|---|
| $5-$10 | Matt’s Bar, The Nook |
| $10-$15 | Blue Door Pub, Saint Dinette |
| $15+ | The Buttered Tin, The Lexington |
Beyond the Bun: Exploring St. Paul’s Unique Burger Creations
St. Paul’s burger scene is more than just patties on bread. It’s a culinary canvas where chefs showcase their creativity and innovation, resulting in boundary-pushing burgers that redefine the classic.
The Piglet from Borough
A playful take on the classic cheeseburger, The Piglet features a pork belly patty topped with Gruyere cheese, crispy onions, and a house-made mustard aioli. Its sweet and savory flavors dance harmoniously on the palate, making it a memorable burger experience.
The Elvis from The Nook
The Elvis is an homage to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Its peanut butter-slathered patty is paired with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and banana slices. The unexpected combination of flavors surprisingly coalesces into a sweet and savory masterpiece.
The Juicy Lucy from Matt’s Bar
The Juicy Lucy is a St. Paul institution known for its molten cheese core. The beef patty is stuffed with American cheese, creating an oozy, flavorful explosion with every bite. It’s a messy but undeniably satisfying experience.
The Cowboy Up from Hi-Lo Diner
This hearty burger is topped with a giant onion ring, bacon, and American cheese. The patty is seasoned with a blend of spices, giving it a savory kick. The Cowboy Up is a carnivore’s delight, packed with flavor and satisfying crunch.
The Impossible Burger from The Herbivorous Butcher
For vegetarians and vegans, The Impossible Burger is a game-changer. Made from plant-based protein, it offers a realistic meat-like texture and savory flavor. Topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, and vegan cheese, it’s a satisfying alternative to traditional burgers.
The Sicilian from Cecil’s Deli
A tribute to Italian cuisine, The Sicilian features a beef patty seasoned with Italian herbs and spices. It’s topped with provolone cheese, roasted red peppers, and aioli. The vibrant flavors and tender patty create a Mediterranean-inspired burger experience.
The Fig and Pig from Red Cow
This sophisticated burger combines sweet and savory flavors. A fig and goat cheese patty is topped with arugula, bacon, and a balsamic reduction. The juicy patty paired with the tangy cheese and sweet fig creates a complex and alluring taste sensation.
The Royale with Cheese from Psycho Suzi’s
Inspired by Pulp Fiction, The Royale with Cheese is a classic burger done right. A juicy beef patty is topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Its simplicity and execution embodies the essence of a perfect cheeseburger.
The Pho Burger from Hai Hai
A fusion of Vietnamese and American flavors, The Pho Burger features a beef patty seasoned with pho spices. It’s topped with pickled daikon and carrots, bean sprouts, and a pho-infused aioli. The rich and aromatic flavors of pho are perfectly balanced with the savory burger, creating a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
These are just a few of the many unique and innovative burgers that St. Paul has to offer. With its culinary creativity and attention to detail, St. Paul’s burger scene is a true destination for burger enthusiasts.
Grill Masters and Meat Marvels: Meet the Burger Artisans of St. Paul
The Rouge Burger Bloody Marvel
Indulge in the Rouge Burger’s Bloody Marvel, a culinary masterpiece that will leave your taste buds begging for more. This behemoth of a burger boasts three juicy patties, each seasoned to perfection and cooked to a delectable medium-rare. The patties are then adorned with bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tantalizing bloody Mary sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your senses.
The St. Paul Burger
Embark on a journey to burger paradise with the St. Paul Burger, an icon in the Twin Cities culinary scene. This classic creation features a half-pound of house-ground chuck topped with American cheese, bacon, and grilled onions. Be prepared to savor every bite of this timeless treasure.
The Blue Door Pub Burger
Venture into the heart of the Midway neighborhood and discover the Blue Door Pub Burger, a legend in its own right. This mouthwatering burger flaunts a juicy patty nestled between two slices of griddled rye bread. Complementing the patty are a generous helping of melted Swiss cheese, thinly sliced ham, and a secret-recipe Thousand Island dressing.
The Burger Dive “The Twin Cities” Burger
Dive into the world of premium burgers at the Burger Dive, where the “Twin Cities” Burger reigns supreme. This burger showcases two patties made from a blend of chuck, brisket, and short rib, resulting in a symphony of flavors. The patties are adorned with cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and onion, offering a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
The Red Cow “The Citizen Kane” Burger
Step into the culinary realm of the Red Cow and prepare to be captivated by “The Citizen Kane” Burger. This burger masterpiece features a grass-fed beef patty topped with a tantalizing combination of bacon, cheddar cheese, and a secret “Cow Sauce” that adds a touch of magic to every bite.
The Bulldog “The Lowertown” Burger
Journey to the heart of Lowertown and relish the iconic “The Lowertown” Burger from the Bulldog. This burger masterpiece boasts a half-pound of fresh ground chuck seasoned to perfection and cooked to your desired doneness. The patty is then layered with bacon, cheddar cheese, grilled onions, and pickles, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
The Nook “The Juicy Lucy” Burger
Embark on a culinary pilgrimage to the Nook and witness the legendary “Juicy Lucy” Burger in all its glory. This burger features a juicy patty filled with molten cheese, creating a flavor explosion with every bite. The patty is then grilled to perfection and adorned with your choice of toppings, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.
The Blue Plate Diner “The Classic” Burger
Step back in time at the Blue Plate Diner and savor the timeless flavors of “The Classic” Burger. This burger embodies simplicity at its finest, featuring a juicy beef patty grilled to perfection and topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Each bite transports you to the golden age of diners, where comfort food reigns supreme.
The Town Hall Tap “The TH Burger” Burger
Venture into the heart of downtown Minneapolis and discover the savory delight of “The TH Burger” at the Town Hall Tap. This burger showcase a house-ground beef patty seasoned with a special blend of spices and grilled to perfection. The patty is then adorned with bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
The Red Rabbit “The Bison Burger” Burger
Embark on a culinary adventure at the Red Rabbit and indulge in the tantalizing “The Bison Burger” Burger. This burger features a juicy and lean bison patty seasoned with a zesty blend of spices and grilled to perfection. The patty is then topped with roasted red peppers, goat cheese, arugula, and a balsamic reduction, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
The Best Burger in St. Paul, Minnesota
The Juicy Lucy is a Minnesota original, and St. Paul has some of the best in the state. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Matt’s Bar: Matt’s has been serving up Juicy Lucys since the 1950s, and they’re still one of the best in town. The burgers are made with fresh, locally sourced beef, and they’re cooked to perfection. The Juicy Lucy is served on a soft, buttered bun, and it’s topped with your choice of cheese.
- The Nook: The Nook is another St. Paul institution, and their Juicy Lucy is a work of art. The burger is made with a blend of chuck and sirloin, and it’s cooked to a perfect medium-rare. The Juicy Lucy is served on a toasted bun, and it’s topped with American cheese, grilled onions, and pickles.
- The Blue Door Pub: The Blue Door Pub is a great place to get a Juicy Lucy, and their version is a bit different than the others on this list. The burger is made with a blend of beef and pork, and it’s cooked to a medium-well. The Juicy Lucy is served on a Kaiser roll, and it’s topped with Swiss cheese, bacon, and a fried egg.
People Also Ask About Best Burger in St. Paul, Minnesota
What is a Juicy Lucy?
A Juicy Lucy is a hamburger that is made with a patty of ground beef that is filled with cheese. The cheese is typically American cheese, but other types of cheese can be used. The patty is then cooked in a pan until the cheese is melted and the beef is cooked through.
Where can I find the best Juicy Lucy in St. Paul?
There are many great places to get a Juicy Lucy in St. Paul. Some of our favorites include Matt’s Bar, The Nook, and The Blue Door Pub.
What are the different types of Juicy Lucys?
There are many different variations of the Juicy Lucy. Some of the most popular include the classic Juicy Lucy, which is made with a patty of ground beef and American cheese, and the Juicy Lucy with bacon, which is made with a patty of ground beef, bacon, and American cheese.
