The quintessential American hamburger has cultivated a cult-like following, and we’re not ashamed to flaunt our membership…

Few things in our society are as all-American as the classic hamburger, and perhaps even less are as well loved. Early mainstream beginnings of this timeless dietary staple start with the ever-famous McDonald’s in the 1950s, when assembly-line production made it possible for every family to have access to this nearly perfect creation. From there the stories vary, but one thing is certain: What started as an innocent infatuation has grown into a full-fledged fascination. Burgers have now carved a permanent space in every type and style of restaurant, and it’s safe to say that the contemporary diner is happy about it.

We self-proclaimed burger aficionados here at Orlando Family Magazine took it upon ourselves to scour the area in search of the finest burgers available. After careful consideration, we present our picks for the Top 10 offerings, in no particular order. We advise you to dress comfortably before tackling these mouthwatering delights.

The El Diablo Burger 
AT D-LUXE BURGER BAR IN DISNEY SPRINGS
Every so often, Walt Disney World flexes their culinary muscles and delivers nothing short of a quick-service masterpiece to the public. D-Luxe Burger is one of their latest accomplishments, and we’re feeling rather lucky to have it in our backyard. The El Diablo Burger has us saddling up; a blend of chorizo and signature beef is grilled to order and unapologetically paired with pepper jack cheese, fried banana peppers, chipotle mayonnaise and your choice of fresh fixings.

The Waffle Burger 
AT TEAK NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL IN MAITLAND
The burger names alone were enough to entice us hungry patrons to stop in at Teak’s. Our favorite in their unique lineup is the Waffle Burger because it elevates breakfast to a new level. Two thick, soft, homemade waffles surround a half pound of Angus beef, topped generously with American cheese, crispy smoked Applewood bacon, and a medium-style egg. You’ll probably have dreams about this one—we sure do.

The Black & Brie Burger 
AT COWFISH SUSHI BURGER BAR IN UNIVERSAL’S CITYWALK
Cowfish astonishes us in their proven mastery of two entirely different genres. There are plenty of high-quality choices in the canon, but we’re obsessed with the Black & Brie Burger. Premium Creekstone Farms beef is paired with rich brie cheese and made irresistible with thyme-infused honey, sharp blackberries, sake-marinated Asian pears and fresh greens. Served on a brioche bun, this burger is heaven sent.

The Pizza Burger 
AT BETH’S BURGER BAR IN EDGEWOOD
Everything, and we mean everything, is fantastic at Beth’s Burger Bar, but for purposes of this piece we were forced to pick just one beautiful creation. The Pizza Burger wins this time around, and we love the signature letter “B” on the top bun made from the basil aioli. Fresh beef paired with melted rich mozzarella, sweet marinara and spicy pepperoni left us singing Ciao Bella!

The Bayou Burger 
AT THAT ONE SPOT IN OCOEE
There is a rather odd lack of specificity at That One Spot, but don’t let their lackadaisical approach to naming confuse you; their burgers are serious business. We recommend their Bayou Burger, and order it “spiced-up.” A six-ounce beef patty, crunchy bacon and smoked brisket are piled high amidst sriracha and Cajun remoulade, and served with as much or as little veggies as you like.

The “ 55” 
AT THE RUSTY SPOON IN DOWNTOWN ORLANDO
We’re not entirely sure what the numerical significance is in the name of this burger, but we’re guessing it has nothing to do with calories–regardless, it earns our highest praises. A whopping halfpound of grass-fed Angus beef is stuffed with crispy bacon and gruyere cheese and united with smothered onions, signature Rusty aioli and house pickles before being served on a soft roll for a savory symphony we won’t soon forget.

The Kobe Burger 
AT BRICK HOUSE TAVERN & TAP ON INTERNATIONAL DRIVE
The creativity in flavors and dedication to details are what earn Brick House Tavern & Tap a spot on this list. The Kobe Burger is our pick because of the mouthwatering Wagyu beef patty. Seared to perfection and topped with sautéed onions, roasted greens, creamy brie and red pepper aioli, this is truly an international delight.

The Tzatziki Lamb Burger 
AT DEXTER’S IN THORNTON PARK
There are plenty of delicious offerings at Dexter’s, but we can’t stay away from the Tzatziki Lamb Burger. A generous eight-ounce portion of ground lamb is treated to a lemon and oregano seasoning and grilled to order; tangy feta cheese and tzatziki sauce is placed on top with lettuce, onion and tomato and served on a toasted onion roll for a harmonious balance. Send our apologies to Mary.

The Mac Daddy 
AT HAMBURGER MARY’S IN DOWNTOWN ORLANDO
We practically had to be rolled out of the establishment after conquering our favorite selection at Hamburger Mary’s. Half-pound burgers are made fresh to order every time; The Mac Daddy strikes to kill with a generous portion of beef, topped with melty American cheese, macaroni and cheese and a special cheese sauce. Did we mention the cheese?

The Bison Burger 
AT GRAFFITI JUNKTION IN LAKE NONA
Graffiti Junktion offers up an impressive variation of award-worthy burgers, but we think the Bison Burger takes the crowning title. Succulent, tender, and juicy beyond compare, their bison is a prime cut that doesn’t need many accompaniments. Paired with tangy Swiss cheese and served on a soft pretzel bun, this burger is just downright delicious.

This article originally appeared in Orlando Family Magazine’s November 2017 issue.