Best Burgers in Las Vegas: Complete Burger Guide 2025
From $8 smash burgers to $25 gourmet creations—your definitive guide to Vegas' most craveable patties, ranked by locals and burger enthusiasts
Las Vegas has transformed into an unexpected burger paradise. What started as celebrity chef showpieces on the Strip has evolved into a thriving ecosystem of gourmet patties, classic smash burgers, and innovative creations that rival any major food city. Whether you're craving a simple $8 double cheeseburger after a night out or a $25 Wagyu masterpiece paired with truffle fries, Vegas delivers.
This comprehensive guide cuts through the hype to identify the 25 genuinely exceptional burger experiences in Las Vegas. We've ranked everything from Gordon Ramsay's planet-famous burger bar to hidden locals-only joints that tourists walk past without a second glance. You'll discover which national chains actually live up to their reputation in Vegas, where to find the best late-night burger at 3 AM, and which spots offer vegetarian options that carnivores voluntarily order.
The burger landscape here moves fast—restaurants close, menus evolve, and new contenders emerge monthly. This January 2025 update reflects current operations, pricing, and quality standards based on recent visits and community feedback. Let's find your perfect Vegas burger.
Vegas Burger Rankings: The Definitive Tiers
These are the burgers people fly to Vegas specifically to eat. Exceptional execution, premium ingredients, unforgettable experiences.
- Gordon Ramsay Burger (Planet Hollywood) - Signature Hell's Kitchen burger with beef, bacon, cheddar, roasted jalapeños
- Holsteins Shakes and Buns (The Cosmopolitan) - Creative flavor combinations, house-ground beef, bourbon bacon jam
- Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes (The Venetian) - All-natural beef, pretzel buns, famous milkshakes
- Beerhaus (The Park) - Craft beer selection, house-blended patties, Strip views
Reliable quality meets creative execution. These burgers justify their price tags without demanding pilgrimage-level commitment.
- Flippin' Good Burgers & Shakes (Downtown) - Hand-pressed patties, fresh ingredients, local favorite
- Fukuburger (Chinatown & Downtown) - Japanese-fusion burgers, togarashi fries, cult following
- The Goodwich (Downtown) - Grass-fed beef, locally sourced, house-made everything
- Shake Shack (New York-New York) - Premium fast-casual, consistent quality, ShackSauce legend
- Burger Bar (Mandalay Bay) - Build-your-own concept, Wagyu options, upscale casual
Quality exceeds expectations at this price point. Perfect for casual meals without sacrificing taste.
- Five Guys (Multiple locations) - Fresh-ground beef daily, unlimited toppings, serious portions
- Slater's 50/50 (Multiple locations) - Bacon-beef blend patties, creative weekly specials
- Hash House A Go Go (Multiple locations) - Massive portions, farm-to-table ingredients
- Beer Park (Paris Las Vegas) - Rooftop views, game-day atmosphere, solid execution
- BLT Burger (Mirage) - Laurent Tourondel's bistro approach, excellent fries
- Smashburger (Multiple locations) - Classic smash technique, reliable chain quality
Iconic chains and local institutions that deliver straightforward burger satisfaction without pretension.
- In-N-Out Burger (Multiple locations) - California cult classic, Animal Style, unbeatable value
- Fatburger (Multiple locations) - Vegas-born chain, classic American, late-night hero
- White Castle (The Strip) - Slider heaven, 24/7 operations, drunk food royalty
- Culinary Dropout (Multiple locations) - Upscale-casual vibe, solid burger foundation
- Hussong's Cantina (Mandalay Bay) - Mexican-American fusion burger, unexpected gem
Off-the-beaten-path spots that tourists miss but locals swear by. Worth the detour from the Strip.
- Tackleberry (Southwest Vegas) - Craft beer selection, house-ground beef, neighborhood favorite
- The Great American Pub (Henderson) - Sports bar setting, surprisingly excellent burgers
- Paymon's Mediterranean Cafe (Multiple locations) - Veggie Mediterranean burger, local institution since 1988
- PT's Brewing Company (Multiple locations) - Nevada brewery, pub burger perfection
- Hobbit Cafe (East Vegas) - Eclectic atmosphere, house-made everything, unexpectedly fantastic
Gordon Ramsay Burger: Worth the Hype?
When a chef with 17 Michelin stars puts his name on a burger restaurant, expectations skyrocket. Gordon Ramsay Burger at Planet Hollywood delivers—but with important caveats that determine whether it's right for your Vegas visit.
The Signature Hell's Kitchen Burger ($24)
This is what people order 90% of the time. A custom-blend patty combining chuck, brisket, and short rib creates richness without greasiness. American cheese melts into the beef while roasted jalapeños and roasted tomatoes add depth without overwhelming heat. Avocado provides creaminess, and thick-cut bacon delivers proper crunch. The brioche bun, toasted with butter, holds everything together structurally while adding subtle sweetness.
What makes this burger exceptional isn't innovation—it's flawless execution of classic elements. The beef gets seared at precisely the right temperature for caramelization. Vegetables taste roasted, not raw or burnt. The cheese-to-beef ratio creates unified flavor rather than competing textures. Every component receives the attention fine dining demands.
The $24 price includes the burger only. Add $8 for fries or truffle Parmesan fries. Expect $35-40 per person with sides and a drink—standard for Strip dining but expensive compared to off-Strip alternatives offering 80% of the quality for 50% of the price.
Reasons to Visit
- Genuinely exceptional burger construction and flavor balance
- Premium ingredients cooked by trained kitchen staff
- Central Strip location inside Planet Hollywood casino
- Energetic atmosphere perfect for groups and celebrations
- Consistent quality—rarely disappoints when expectations align with price
Reasons to Skip
- ✕$35-40 per person makes it Vegas' most expensive burger experience
- ✕Limited seating creates waits during peak lunch and dinner hours
- ✕Tourist-heavy atmosphere lacks local authenticity
- ✕Holsteins at Cosmopolitan offers comparable quality with more creative options
- ✕Casino noise and foot traffic disrupt intimate dining experiences
Insider Tips for Gordon Ramsay Burger
- →Visit 2-4 PM weekdays to avoid peak crowds while maintaining fresh ingredient quality
- →Order medium temperature—the custom blend dries out when cooked beyond medium
- →Skip the truffle fries—standard fries are excellent and save $3
- →The American Burger ($18) provides 85% of the experience at 75% of the cost
- →Sit at the bar for faster service and entertainment from the expo kitchen
The Great Chain Debate: Shake Shack vs In-N-Out vs Five Guys
These three burger chains dominate Vegas with multiple locations and fierce customer loyalty. Each represents a distinct philosophy—and the "best" choice depends entirely on what you prioritize. Here's the unfiltered comparison after eating dozens of burgers from each location.
Shake Shack
Premium Fast-Casual Winner$12-16 for burger, fries, drink
New York-New York (Strip)
10-15 minutes typical
Shake Shack brings New York sophistication to fast-casual burgers. Their 100% Angus beef gets ground fresh daily, never frozen, creating a texture that sits between smash-burger crispness and thick-patty juiciness. The ShackSauce—their proprietary mayo-mustard-pickle blend—defines the flavor profile alongside potato buns that add subtle sweetness without dominating.
Best For:
- • Date nights or solo dining where atmosphere matters
- • Anyone who appreciates ingredient sourcing and culinary craftsmanship
- • Shake enthusiasts (their concrete custards justify the visit alone)
- • First-time Vegas visitors wanting reliable quality on the Strip
Signature Order: ShackBurger (single patty with lettuce, tomato, ShackSauce), cheese fries, Black & White Shake ($18 total)
The Verdict: Shake Shack wins on execution, consistency, and overall dining experience. You're paying for quality ingredients, trained staff, and a pleasant environment—not just sustenance. The upcharge feels justified when you want a burger that transcends fast food without requiring table service.
In-N-Out Burger
Value & Cult Following Winner$8-10 for burger, fries, drink
7 locations (none on Strip)
5-10 minutes (efficient system)
In-N-Out operates as California's burger religion, and Vegas locations maintain the same fervent quality standards. Fresh beef arrives daily and gets ground on-site. Vegetables get hand-leafed each morning. Potatoes transform into fries while you watch. The limited menu enables speed and consistency that larger chains can't match. Animal Style (with grilled onions, extra spread, pickles, mustard-grilled patty) remains the insider's choice that elevates simplicity into something memorable.
Best For:
- • Budget-conscious eaters who won't compromise on freshness
- • Late-night cravings (most locations open until 1 AM, some until 1:30 AM)
- • Anyone who values speed without sacrificing quality
- • First-time In-N-Out visitors experiencing the California cult classic
Signature Order: Double-Double Animal Style, fries well-done, Neapolitan shake ($9.50 total)
The Verdict: In-N-Out dominates value-per-dollar calculations while maintaining ingredient freshness that puts $15 competitors to shame. The simple menu means perfect execution every time. The lack of Strip locations creates inconvenience, but the quality-to-price ratio makes it worth detouring. This is where locals eat when they want a burger without overthinking it.
Five Guys
Customization & Portion Winner$14-18 for burger, fries, drink
Multiple (Strip & off-Strip)
8-12 minutes average
Five Guys built their reputation on two pillars: fresh-ground beef cooked to order, and unlimited free toppings that transform burgers into personalized creations. Their patties arrive fresh (never frozen) and get pressed on a flattop griddle for caramelized edges. The Cajun fries—dusted with their signature spice blend—come in portions designed to feed two people (though labeled as one). Bags arrive overflowing with extra fries dumped on top.
Best For:
- • Picky eaters who need precise control over toppings
- • Groups sharing fries (the "regular" feeds 2-3 people easily)
- • Anyone craving serious beef flavor over culinary finesse
- • Post-gym meals or whenever maximum calories are welcomed
Signature Order: Little Cheeseburger (two patties) with grilled onions, jalapeños, A1 sauce, pickles; regular Cajun fries ($15 total)
The Verdict: Five Guys occupies the middle ground between In-N-Out's simplicity and Shake Shack's refinement. You're paying for customization freedom and truly generous portions. The fries alone justify the premium over cheaper competitors. Quality stays consistent across locations, though the greasy-bag experience won't appeal to everyone. Choose Five Guys when you want a burger exactly your way with enough fries to share.
Direct Comparison Summary
| Category | Shake Shack | In-N-Out | Five Guys |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beef Quality | 100% Angus, never frozen | Fresh, ground on-site daily | Fresh, ground daily |
| Bun Style | Potato bun (soft, sweet) | Squishy white (classic) | Sesame seed (toasted) |
| Fries | Crinkle-cut, crispy | Fresh-cut (order well-done) | Hand-cut, massive portions |
| Customization | Limited (menu items) | Secret menu options | 15+ free toppings |
| Speed | 10-15 minutes | 5-10 minutes | 8-12 minutes |
| Atmosphere | Modern, date-friendly | Casual, efficient | Sports-bar energy |
| Best Value | Quality-per-dollar solid | Unbeatable at this price | Portions justify premium |
Strip Hotels with Exceptional Burgers
Strip hotel restaurants serve thousands of visitors daily, creating intense competition that elevates burger quality beyond typical tourist fare. These venues combine convenience with legitimately impressive execution—no need to leave your hotel to find an outstanding meal.
Holsteins Shakes and Buns
Holsteins approaches burgers with genuine creativity that transcends gimmickry. Their house-ground beef blend balances fat content for maximum flavor, while inventive toppings create harmonious combinations rather than chaotic excess. The Gold Standard burger features aged white cheddar, caramelized onions, and foie gras butter—ingredients that sound excessive but integrate beautifully. Bourbon bacon jam adds sweet-savory depth to multiple burgers without overwhelming the beef.
The atmosphere strikes a balance between upscale and approachable. Located within Cosmopolitan's casino floor yet feeling distinct from the gaming chaos, Holsteins provides bar seating perfect for solo diners and booths accommodating groups. Their milkshake menu rivals the burger selection—the bourbon-spiked adult shakes pair exceptionally with richer burgers.
Order This: The Gold Standard ($22) or Truffle Burger ($20), sweet potato fries, any premium shake. Expect $30-35 per person—positioned between Gordon Ramsay's premium and mid-tier alternatives.
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes
Instagram FamousBlack Tap earned fame through over-the-top CrazyShake milkshakes adorned with entire slices of cake and cotton candy clouds. Tourists flock for Instagram content, but the burgers themselves deliver substance beyond social media appeal. All-natural Angame beef gets ground fresh and cooked on a flattop griddle for crusty edges. Their pretzel bun provides structural integrity and subtle sweetness that complements rather than competes.
The All-American burger keeps things straightforward with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and Black Tap sauce. Greg Norman burger adds brie, bacon, arugula, and truffle aioli for upscale touches without excessive complication. Portions run large—one burger plus shared fries satisfies most appetites without requiring sides for each person.
Order This: Greg Norman Burger ($19), regular fries (enough for two), skip the CrazyShake unless you genuinely want 2,000 calories of sugar. The burgers justify the visit; the shakes are optional spectacle.
Burger Bar
Build-Your-OwnBurger Bar pioneered the build-your-own-burger concept in Vegas before it became ubiquitous. Choose your protein (beef, turkey, bison, Wagyu, veggie), bun style, cheese selection, and premium toppings that range from standard vegetables to foie gras and truffle aioli. The customization creates personal ownership over your meal while avoiding decision paralysis through clear menu organization.
The upscale-casual environment works equally well for business lunches and casual dinners. Located near Mandalay Bay's convention center, it attracts conference attendees seeking quality without formality. Their beer and cocktail selection exceeds typical burger joint offerings, creating a complete dining experience rather than quick fuel.
Order This: Custom burger with Wagyu beef ($24), white cheddar, caramelized onions, arugula, truffle aioli on brioche. The premium beef justifies the upcharge for anyone who appreciates marbling's impact on flavor.
Beer Park
Rooftop ViewsBeer Park excels at combining solid burger execution with Strip views and game-day atmosphere. The rooftop patio overlooks the Bellagio fountains, creating ambiance that elevates straightforward pub burgers into memorable experiences. Their beef arrives fresh and gets cooked competently without attempting culinary innovation—exactly what sports bar burgers should deliver.
The beer selection spans 100+ options from domestic lagers to craft IPAs, providing proper beverage pairings for beef-heavy meals. During football season and major sporting events, the energy peaks with watch parties and themed specials. Off-peak times offer relaxed dining with exceptional views at mid-tier prices.
Order This: Bacon Cheeseburger ($15), beer-battered onion rings, local craft beer. Arrive 90 minutes before Bellagio fountain sunset shows for optimal patio seating.
BLT Burger
Bistro QualityLaurent Tourondel's BLT Burger brings French bistro sensibilities to American comfort food. Their burgers feature custom beef blends cooked precisely to temperature, paired with house-made condiments and properly dressed greens. The fries—crispy, well-salted, served piping hot—earn standalone acclaim that motivates return visits independent of burger quality.
The restaurant maintains the BLT Steak pedigree in a casual format that welcomes jeans and sneakers. Service operates with efficiency and friendliness that casino restaurants sometimes lack. The menu extends beyond burgers to salads and sandwiches that vegetarians and lighter eaters appreciate when dining with burger enthusiasts.
Order This: The BLT Burger ($17) with Vermont cheddar, applewood bacon, house sauce. Order fries with truffle aioli on the side ($2 upcharge worth every penny).
Off-Strip Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
Venture beyond the Strip and burger prices drop 30-40% while quality often improves. These neighborhood spots survive on repeat local business rather than tourist traffic, creating accountability that manifests in consistently excellent food. Expect authentic Vegas dining culture where regulars greet staff by name and everyone knows which menu items represent the kitchen's true strengths.
Flippin' Good Burgers & Shakes
Flippin' Good occupies a converted house in the Arts District, creating neighborhood charm that Strip restaurants can't replicate. Hand-pressed patties hit the flattop griddle only after you order—no heat lamps, no pre-made inventory. Fresh ingredients arrive daily from local suppliers when possible, supporting community agriculture while ensuring peak flavor. The outdoor patio, shaded by mature trees, provides escape from summer heat and Vegas casino atmosphere.
Their signature Flippin' Good Burger layers American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and house sauce with perfect ratios that let beef flavor dominate. The bacon cheeseburger uses thick-cut applewood bacon that actually tastes like pork rather than liquid smoke. Vegetarian options extend beyond token afterthoughts—the black bean patty earns praise from carnivores who try it experimentally.
Order This: Flippin' Good Burger ($12), sweet potato fries, hand-spun milkshake. Arrive before noon or after 1:30 PM weekdays to avoid lunch rush. Weekend mornings offer breakfast burgers worth setting alarms for.
Fukuburger
Fusion MasterFukuburger bridges Japanese and American burger traditions with uncommon grace. Their signature burger combines beef patty, teriyaki sauce, wasabi mayo, lettuce, tomato, and pickles—ingredients that shouldn't work together yet create addictive harmony. The togarashi fries dust Japanese seven-spice blend over crispy potato wedges, offering heat and complexity that standard fries never achieve.
What started as a food truck earned brick-and-mortar status through cult following and consistent quality. The Chinatown location captures authentic Vegas diversity—locals speaking multiple languages, multigenerational families sharing meals, service industry workers grabbing late-night fuel. Downtown location serves the Arts District crowd with slightly different energy but identical food quality.
Order This: Fukuburger ($13), togarashi fries, sake if you're staying nearby. The Tamago Burger (with fried egg) adds richness that complements teriyaki beautifully for $1 extra.
The Goodwich
The Goodwich commits to ingredient sourcing with intensity rare for burger joints. Grass-fed Nevada beef provides the foundation, supported by locally sourced vegetables when seasonal availability permits. House-made condiments avoid high-fructose corn syrup and artificial preservatives that chain restaurants depend on. Even their buns come from small-batch bakeries that deliver daily.
The commitment to quality creates price premium over fast food—$14 feels steep until you taste the difference proper ingredients make. The beef actually tastes like beef rather than salt and fat. Tomatoes arrive vine-ripened rather than gas-ripened. Lettuce provides texture and freshness instead of filler. These details compound into burgers that nourish rather than merely satisfy immediate hunger.
Order This: The Goodwich Burger ($14) with everything, hand-cut fries. Their seasonal specials showcase chef creativity—order whatever features local ingredients you won't find elsewhere.
Tackleberry
Hidden GemTackleberry flies under tourist radar despite serving some of Vegas' best neighborhood burgers. House-ground beef gets formed into thick patties that retain juice through proper cooking technique. The craft beer selection rivals dedicated beer bars—40+ taps featuring local breweries alongside respected national options. Knowledgeable staff offer pairing suggestions that enhance both burger and beer.
The space captures authentic neighborhood bar atmosphere without manufactured nostalgia or corporate theming. Regulars watch games on multiple TVs while first-timers discover why Yelp ratings stay consistently high. Service moves efficiently without rushing diners, creating the relaxed pace locals prefer over Strip restaurants' table-turning pressure.
Order This: Tackleberry Burger ($13) with your choice of craft beer. Visit during happy hour (3-6 PM daily) for $2 off burgers and discounted beer.
Slater's 50/50
Bacon-Beef InnovatorSlater's 50/50 built their concept around patties blending 50% ground beef with 50% ground bacon—exactly as decadent as it sounds. The bacon integration provides richness and flavor that regular beef patties achieve only through extensive aging or premium cuts. Beyond their signature blend, they offer turkey, vegetarian, and traditional beef options that prevent bacon fatigue.
Weekly burger specials showcase chef creativity with limited-time combinations that push boundaries. Past creations included peanut butter and jalapeño jam, Thanksgiving-inspired versions with stuffing and cranberry, and collaborations with local breweries. The permanent menu provides reliable favorites while specials reward adventurous repeat customers.
Order This: Original 50/50 Burger ($15) with sunny-side egg, avocado, pepper jack. The bacon-beef blend needs minimal enhancement—simple toppings let the meat shine. Sweet potato fries balance the richness better than regular fries.
Late-Night Burgers and Budget Champions
Vegas operates 24/7, creating demand for quality burgers at 3 AM when most cities offer only fast food drive-throughs. These spots serve late-night crowds and budget-conscious diners without compromising on freshness or flavor. You're not settling—you're discovering how good "cheap" can taste when restaurants execute fundamentals properly.
Fatburger
Vegas ClassicFatburger originated in Los Angeles but found permanent home in Las Vegas, where multiple locations serve round-the-clock. Their beef arrives fresh and gets cooked to order, maintaining quality standards that late-night operations often abandon. The build-your-own approach provides control over toppings without overwhelming choices—pickles, lettuce, tomato, onions, mayo, mustard, ketchup, relish cover the classics.
The XXXL Fatburger (24 ounces of beef) exists primarily for social media content and food challenges, but the Original Fatburger delivers proper proportions that don't require jaw dislocation. At 3 AM after shows or clubs, Fatburger provides exactly what the moment demands—hot, fresh, substantial fuel without requiring decision-making beyond "cheese or no cheese."
Order This: Original Fatburger with cheese ($9.50), seasoned fries, fountain drink. The chili-cheese fries at 2 AM after drinking make poor health decisions feel absolutely correct.
White Castle
Slider HeavenWhite Castle occupies a unique position in burger culture—beloved by devotees, dismissed by skeptics, universally recognized as late-night drunk food royalty. Their steam-grilled sliders feature beef patties with holes that allow steam penetration, creating texture unlike traditional burgers. The sweet onion-studded buns add flavor that complements without overwhelming.
Vegas' Strip location operates 24/7 and sees peak traffic between midnight and 4 AM when club-goers and casino wanderers seek affordable sustenance. Ten sliders cost $20—enough food to satisfy multiple people or one person making regrettable yet satisfying choices. The Impossible Slider provides vegetarian option that tastes surprisingly similar to the beef version.
Order This: Cheese Slider Crave Case (10 for $20), onion chips if you're sharing. Order at the counter rather than delivery to avoid markup and lukewarm sliders. Eat immediately for optimal texture.
In-N-Out Burger
Budget KingIn-N-Out deserves second mention in the budget category because no competitor offers comparable quality at this price point. A Double-Double with fries and drink costs $8.50—the same price White Castle charges for four sliders. The difference: In-N-Out uses fresh beef ground daily, potatoes cut in-house, and produce delivered multiple times daily versus frozen, processed alternatives.
Most Vegas locations close at 1 or 1:30 AM, serving late-night crowds without the 24/7 operations Fatburger maintains. The drive-throughs maintain legendary efficiency even with 20-car lines, moving orders faster than most fast food restaurants serve five customers. Dining room seating provides refuge from casino chaos for locals treating In-N-Out as their regular spot.
Order This: Double-Double Animal Style ($5.50), fries well-done ($2.25), Neapolitan shake ($2.75) equals $10.50 total. You cannot find better burger value in Las Vegas.
Culinary Dropout
Upscale CasualCulinary Dropout straddles the line between casual dining and bar food, creating atmosphere that welcomes everyone from business lunches to late-night dates. Their 36-hour sous vide short rib burger requires advance planning by the kitchen but delivers fork-tender beef that contrasts beautifully with crispy bun edges. Standard burgers utilize quality beef cooked competently if unremarkably.
The cocktail and beer programs elevate the experience beyond typical burger joints. Live music on weekends adds energy without overwhelming conversation. Happy hour pricing (daily 3-6 PM) drops burger costs to $10-12, positioning them as budget-friendly options when timing aligns. Late-night kitchen service extends past midnight most nights.
Order This: The Dropout Burger ($14) or 36-hour short rib burger ($16) during happy hour with discounted craft beer. Arrive 30 minutes before happy hour ends to order at reduced prices.
Vegetarian and Vegan Burger Options
Vegas' burger scene has evolved beyond token veggie options to include plant-based creations that carnivores voluntarily order. Whether you're fully committed to plant-based eating or simply reducing meat intake, these burgers deliver satisfaction without requiring dietary compromise.
Top Vegetarian & Vegan Burgers in Vegas
Holsteins - Impossible Burger ($18)
Holsteins treats their Impossible Burger with the same respect as beef options, topping it with creative ingredients that complement the plant-based patty's flavor profile. The bourbon bacon jam (using tempeh bacon for vegan version) adds sweet-savory complexity that basic veggie burgers never achieve. Available as fully vegan when you omit cheese and request vegan bun.
Location: The Cosmopolitan | Vegan-Friendly: Yes with modifications
Veggie House - Traditional Chinese Veggie Burger ($12)
This Chinatown gem creates veggie burgers using traditional Chinese ingredients and techniques. Their house-made patty combines mushrooms, water chestnuts, and Chinese spices for umami depth that standard bean-based burgers lack. Fully vegan, created by cooks who understand plant-based cuisine culturally rather than as dietary restriction accommodation.
Location: Chinatown | Vegan-Friendly: Fully vegan restaurant
Flippin' Good - Black Bean Burger ($11)
Their house-made black bean patty earns carnivore praise through proper seasoning and texture that holds together without requiring binders that create mushy mouthfeel. Topped with fresh vegetables, house-made guacamole, and chipotle mayo (or vegan mayo upon request), this burger satisfies as comfort food rather than health-food substitute.
Location: Downtown Arts District | Vegan-Friendly: Yes with vegan mayo
Shake Shack - 'Shroom Burger ($10)
Instead of attempting plant-based beef substitution, Shake Shack's 'Shroom Burger features a crispy-fried portobello mushroom cap filled with melted cheese. The vegetarian (not vegan) option provides umami richness and satisfying texture that stands independently rather than imitating beef. Many regular customers order this instead of beef burgers by preference rather than dietary necessity.
Location: New York-New York | Vegan-Friendly: No (contains cheese)
Burger Bar - Build-Your-Own Veggie ($14)
The build-your-own format allows complete control over ingredients, ensuring your burger contains exactly what you want without picking through unwanted toppings. Their veggie patty gets made in-house daily using seasonal vegetables and legumes. Choose from dairy-free cheese alternatives and vegan spreads for fully plant-based burgers.
Location: Mandalay Bay | Vegan-Friendly: Yes with vegan modifications
White Castle - Impossible Slider ($2.50)
White Castle's Impossible Slider provides late-night vegan option at budget prices. The plant-based patty gets the same steam-grilled treatment as beef sliders, creating similar texture and onion-infused flavor. Order four sliders for $10—enough food to satisfy late-night cravings without breaking budgets or dietary commitments.
Location: The Strip (24/7) | Vegan-Friendly: Yes (no cheese, check bun)
Tips for Ordering Vegetarian/Vegan Burgers in Vegas
- Always specify "vegan" rather than "vegetarian" if you avoid dairy—Vegas restaurants default to cheese
- Ask about bun ingredients—some contain eggs, butter, or milk despite appearing plant-based
- Request separate cooking surface if cross-contamination concerns you—most restaurants accommodate
- Chinatown offers superior vegan variety beyond burger spots—explore when seeking plant-based meals
- Happy Cow app identifies nearby vegan options when burger spots don't satisfy
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegas Burgers
What is the best burger on the Las Vegas Strip?
Gordon Ramsay Burger (Planet Hollywood) and Holsteins (Cosmopolitan) tie for best Strip burger overall, though they serve different audiences. Gordon Ramsay delivers precise execution of classic elements with premium ingredients, while Holsteins offers creative flavor combinations and house-ground beef. Choose Gordon Ramsay for traditional excellence, Holsteins for innovation. Both justify their $20+ price tags through genuinely superior quality compared to mid-tier alternatives.
Where can I find cheap burgers in Las Vegas?
In-N-Out Burger provides unbeatable value with Double-Double combos under $9 featuring fresh-ground beef and produce delivered multiple times daily. Fatburger offers quality burgers in the $8-11 range with 24/7 service at multiple locations. White Castle sliders start at $2.50 each for late-night budget options. For off-Strip value, Flippin' Good (Downtown) serves $11-14 burgers rivaling $18 Strip competitors in quality.
Is Gordon Ramsay Burger worth the money?
Yes, if your expectations align with the $35-40 per-person cost including sides and drinks. The Hell's Kitchen Burger ($24) delivers flawless execution with custom beef blend, quality toppings, and trained kitchen staff that maintains Michelin-level standards. However, Holsteins at Cosmopolitan offers comparable quality with more creative options. Budget travelers should skip Gordon Ramsay in favor of In-N-Out or Flippin' Good, which provide 75% of the experience at 30% of the cost.
Which chain makes better burgers: Shake Shack or In-N-Out?
Shake Shack wins on execution, atmosphere, and overall dining experience with premium Angus beef, potato buns, and ShackSauce creating sophisticated flavor. In-N-Out dominates value with fresh-ground beef and Double-Double combos under $9 that taste better than most $15 competitors. Choose Shake Shack for date nights or when ambiance matters; choose In-N-Out for maximum quality-per-dollar and late-night convenience. Five Guys occupies middle ground with customization and massive portions.
Where can I get a burger at 3 AM in Vegas?
White Castle on the Strip operates 24/7 with sliders starting at $2.50. Fatburger maintains multiple 24-hour locations throughout Vegas serving fresh-cooked burgers until dawn. Most In-N-Out locations close at 1 or 1:30 AM, but the ones near the Strip see heavy late-night traffic. Many casino food courts keep burger counters open 24/7, though quality varies significantly—ask locals or check recent reviews before ordering.
What are the best gourmet burger options in Las Vegas?
Elite gourmet options include Holsteins (Cosmopolitan) with house-ground beef and bourbon bacon jam, Gordon Ramsay Burger (Planet Hollywood) with custom beef blends and roasted jalapeños, and Black Tap (Venetian) with all-natural Angame beef on pretzel buns. Burger Bar at Mandalay Bay offers build-your-own with Wagyu upgrade ($24) and truffle aioli. BLT Burger (Mirage) brings French bistro sensibility to American burgers with Laurent Tourondel pedigree.
Are there good vegetarian burger options in Vegas?
Yes—Vegas vegetarian burgers have evolved beyond basic bean patties. Holsteins' Impossible Burger ($18) receives creative toppings matching beef burger quality. Shake Shack's 'Shroom Burger ($10) features cheese-stuffed fried portobello earning carnivore praise. Flippin' Good (Downtown) makes house-made black bean burgers that locals order by preference. Veggie House in Chinatown creates traditional Chinese veggie burgers with mushroom-based patties. Most gourmet burger spots now offer Impossible or Beyond options.
What local burger spots do Las Vegas residents actually eat at?
Locals favor In-N-Out (7 locations) for value and consistency, Flippin' Good (Downtown Arts District) for neighborhood atmosphere and fresh ingredients, Fukuburger (Chinatown & Downtown) for Japanese fusion creativity, and Tackleberry (Southwest) for craft beer selection and house-ground beef. The Goodwich (Downtown) attracts health-conscious locals with grass-fed beef and locally sourced vegetables. Slater's 50/50 earns repeat business through bacon-beef blend innovation and weekly specials.
Do I need reservations for burger restaurants in Las Vegas?
Most burger spots operate as casual walk-in establishments without reservations. Exceptions include Gordon Ramsay Burger and Holsteins during peak hours (6-9 PM), where 30-60 minute waits occur Friday-Sunday without reservations. Book through OpenTable for guaranteed seating. Counter-service spots like Shake Shack, In-N-Out, and Five Guys never take reservations—arrive early or during off-peak hours to minimize waits. Downtown locals spots rarely require reservations except Friday-Saturday evenings.
What's the difference between smash burgers and regular burgers?
Smash burgers use loosely packed beef balls smashed thin on a flattop griddle, creating maximum surface contact for caramelized crust while maintaining juicy interior. Regular burgers use thicker, pre-formed patties cooked with less surface area contact, emphasizing beef flavor and texture over crust development. In-N-Out and Shake Shack use smash technique; Gordon Ramsay and Holsteins favor thicker patties. Neither is objectively superior—smash burgers deliver crispy edges and griddled flavor, thick burgers showcase beef quality and char.
Can I find burgers with a view in Las Vegas?
Beer Park (Paris Las Vegas) offers rooftop Strip views overlooking Bellagio fountains with solid pub burgers ($14-16). Beerhaus (The Park) provides ground-level Strip views with house-blended patties and craft beer selection. Most casino burger spots sacrifice views for interior locations, though some counter-service options near casino perimeters offer glimpses of the action. For views prioritized over burger excellence, Beer Park delivers; for burger-first experiences with incidental ambiance, choose Holsteins or Gordon Ramsay.
How much should I expect to spend on a burger in Las Vegas?
Budget options range $8-12 (In-N-Out, Fatburger, White Castle sliders). Mid-tier quality runs $12-18 (Shake Shack, Five Guys, Flippin' Good, Fukuburger). Premium Strip burgers cost $18-25 (Gordon Ramsay, Holsteins, Black Tap). Add $4-8 for fries, $3-6 for drinks. Expect $15-20 total for budget meals, $20-30 for mid-tier dining, $35-45 for premium Strip experiences. Off-Strip locations typically cost 30-40% less than Strip equivalents while maintaining comparable quality.
What makes a burger "gourmet" versus regular fast food?
Gourmet burgers use premium beef (Wagyu, grass-fed, custom blends of chuck/brisket/short rib), house-made condiments, artisan buns, and creative toppings like bourbon bacon jam or truffle aioli. Preparation involves precise temperature control and trained kitchen staff. Fast food uses commodity beef, pre-packaged condiments, standardized buns, and assembly-line production. The distinction shows in flavor depth, texture complexity, and ingredient sourcing—though excellent fast-casual spots like Shake Shack blur the line with premium ingredients at accessible prices.
Are burgers at casino restaurants overpriced?
Strip casino burgers typically cost 40-60% more than off-Strip equivalents, but not all represent poor value. Gordon Ramsay and Holsteins deliver quality justifying premium pricing through exceptional ingredients and execution. Generic casino food court burgers at $15-18 offer poor value compared to $12 In-N-Out or Shake Shack. Off-Strip casino burgers (Red Rock, Green Valley Ranch, locals casinos) often provide better pricing with quality matching Strip competitors. Evaluate each venue individually rather than dismissing all casino burgers as tourist traps.
Which burger spot has the best fries in Las Vegas?
BLT Burger (Mirage) earns top fries honors with perfectly crispy, well-salted cuts served piping hot—the truffle aioli upgrade ($2) provides transformative pairing. Five Guys' hand-cut fries come in overwhelming portions that feed multiple people. Shake Shack's crinkle-cuts deliver consistent quality with ideal crisp-to-fluffy ratio. In-N-Out fries improve dramatically when ordered "well-done" for proper crispness. For alternatives, try Fukuburger's togarashi fries (Japanese seven-spice) or Holsteins' sweet potato fries with vanilla salt.
Your Vegas Burger Journey Starts Here
Las Vegas offers burger diversity that rivals any major food city—from $2.50 White Castle sliders to $25 Wagyu creations, from Japanese fusion experiments to classic American perfection. The "best" burger depends entirely on your priorities: budget constraints, location convenience, dietary requirements, atmosphere preferences, and whether you value innovation or traditional execution.
First-time visitors should experience at least one premium Strip burger (Gordon Ramsay or Holsteins) to understand what Vegas burger culture offers at its peak. Balance that splurge with In-N-Out for the value comparison that provides context. Adventurous eaters should venture off-Strip to Flippin' Good or Fukuburger where locals actually eat. Late-night partiers will eventually discover Fatburger or White Castle through necessity and grateful hunger.
The burger landscape evolves constantly—restaurants close, new concepts emerge, and quality fluctuates as ownership and staff change. This guide reflects January 2025 conditions based on recent visits and community feedback. Follow local food media, check recent reviews, and ask Vegas residents for current recommendations when your travel dates approach.
Whether you're seeking Instagram-worthy gourmet creations, authentic neighborhood experiences, or simply the best burger value your budget allows, Vegas delivers. The city's 24/7 operations, intense competition, and diverse population create burger excellence across every price point and style. Your perfect burger exists somewhere in this guide—now go find it.
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Table of Contents
Quick Stats
Insider Tips
- Off-Strip burgers cost 30-40% less with equal quality
- Visit Gordon Ramsay 2-4 PM weekdays to skip crowds
- In-N-Out fries ordered "well-done" taste infinitely better
- Happy hour pricing drops burger costs 20-30%
- Order medium temp for optimal juice retention