I love a good burger, and Bend, Oregon has some amazing options. This charming city in Central Oregon is known for its outdoor activities, craft beer, and food scene. But let’s focus on one of my favorite topics – burgers!
Bend has a variety of burger joints that cater to different tastes and budgets. From classic drive-ins to gourmet restaurants, you can find the perfect burger to satisfy your craving in Bend. I’ve tried many burgers in this city, and I’m excited to share my top picks with you.
Let’s dive into the best places to grab a juicy, mouthwatering burger in Bend, Oregon.
1. Bend Burger Company
I recently visited Bend Burger Company and was blown away by their delicious burgers. The family-owned restaurant has been serving up mouthwatering patties since 2008.
What stood out to me was their commitment to quality ingredients. They use 100% Northwest natural beef and form each patty by hand. I loved that all their sauces are made in-house and the buns are baked fresh daily.
The wood-fired grill gives their steaks and chicken a wonderful smoky flavor. And those hand-cut fries? Perfectly crispy! It’s clear why locals have been flocking here for over 15 years.
I chatted with the friendly staff and learned the Hayes family also opened a location in Redmond. Their passion for great food really shines through in every bite.
Rating: 4.5 (1900 reviews)
Location: 1939 NE 3rd St, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 382-1914
Website: Visit Website
2. Bogey’s Burgers (Bend)
I recently visited Bogey’s Burgers in Bend, and I was impressed by their tasty burgers. The place has a cozy, casual vibe that made me feel right at home. As soon as I walked in, the smell of grilled patties filled the air.
The menu offers a variety of burger options, from classic cheeseburgers to more unique creations. I tried their signature Bogey Burger, and it was juicy and flavorful. The beef patty was cooked perfectly, and the toppings were fresh and crisp.
What stood out to me was the friendly service. The staff was attentive and made sure I had everything I needed. They were happy to answer my questions about the menu and even gave me some local recommendations for things to do in Bend.
If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal in Bend, I think Bogey’s Burgers is a great choice. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. It’s a spot I’ll definitely return to next time I’m in town.
Rating: 4.3 (445 reviews)
Location: 2115 NE Hwy 20, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 241-2890
Website: Visit Website
3. Hardy’s Hotwings, Burgers & Ice Cream
I recently stopped by Hardy’s Hotwings, Burgers & Ice Cream and was blown away by their menu. The place has a cozy, welcoming vibe that made me feel right at home.
Their burgers are the real deal. I tried the classic cheeseburger, and it was juicy and flavorful. The patty was cooked perfectly, and the toppings were fresh and crisp.
But what really caught my eye was their selection of hot wings. They offer a range of heat levels, from mild to super spicy. I went for the medium heat, and they had just the right kick.
To top it off, I couldn’t resist trying their ice cream. It was creamy and delicious – the perfect way to cool down after those wings. I’m already planning my next visit to try more of their menu items.
Rating: 4.4 (592 reviews)
Location: 3081 N Hwy 97 #100, Bend, OR 97703
Contact: (541) 382-6962
4. Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries
I recently stopped by Blue Eyes Burgers & Fries in Bend, and I was blown away by their delicious burgers. The menu features tasty options that showcase the best of Central Oregon’s local ingredients.
The atmosphere at Blue Eyes is casual and welcoming. I loved the friendly staff and laid-back vibe. It’s a great spot to grab a quick lunch or enjoy a relaxed dinner with friends.
Their fries are crispy and perfectly seasoned. I couldn’t resist ordering an extra side to share. The portion sizes are generous, so come hungry!
If you’re looking for a fun twist, check out their food truck at Boss Rambler. It’s a great option for grabbing a burger while enjoying the outdoor scene in Bend.
Rating: 4.4 (381 reviews)
Location: 706 NE Greenwood Ave #100, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 287-4377
Website: Visit Website
5. WillieBurger
I stumbled upon WillieBurger on SW Simpson Avenue, and boy, was I in for a treat! This cozy spot has quickly become my go-to for mouthwatering burgers in Bend.
The moment I bit into their juicy patty, I knew I’d found something special. The meat was perfectly cooked, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. I couldn’t help but savor every bite.
What really stood out to me was the friendly staff. They made me feel right at home and were happy to answer all my questions about their menu. It’s clear they take pride in serving up delicious food with a smile.
I’ve tried a few different burgers here, and each one has been a winner. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cheeseburger or something more adventurous, WillieBurger has got you covered. I can’t wait to go back and try more!
Rating: 4.9 (97 reviews)
Location: 901 SW Simpson Ave, Bend, OR 97702
Website: Visit Website
History of Burgers in Bend
Burgers have been a big part of Bend’s food scene for a long time. I’ve seen them change and grow over the years. Let’s take a look at how burgers became so popular here.
Origins of Local Burger Culture
Burgers came to Bend in the early 1900s. Settlers from the East Coast brought them here. One of the first places to serve burgers was Pilot Butte Drive-In. It’s still around today!
Back then, burgers were pretty simple. They had beef, cheese, and basic toppings. People loved them because they were cheap and filling. Families would go out for burgers as a treat.
Local ranchers provided the beef. This helped make Bend’s burgers taste great. The meat was always fresh and high-quality.
Evolution Over the Years
Bend’s burger scene has really grown up. We’ve gone from basic burgers to fancy creations. Now we have gourmet burgers with local ingredients.
Food trucks started popping up, offering unique burger options. They brought new flavors and styles to town. Some even use things like bison or veggie patties.
Restaurants began to focus on using local, farm-to-table ingredients. This made the burgers tastier and more eco-friendly. You can find burgers with local cheese, veggies, and even buns from nearby bakeries.
The newest trend is smash burgers. These thin, crispy patties are super popular. I’ve noticed more places offering them lately.
What Sets Bend’s Burger Scene Apart
Bend’s burger scene is unique and exciting. I’ve found some amazing burgers here that you won’t find anywhere else. The local ingredients and creative styles really make Bend’s burgers stand out.
Local Ingredients and Sourcing
I love how Bend’s burger joints use local ingredients. Many places get their beef from nearby farms. The meat is fresh and flavorful. Some restaurants even use grass-fed beef from Central Oregon ranches.
But it’s not just the meat that’s local. I’ve seen places use:
- Locally baked buns
- Cheese from Oregon creameries
- Veggies from Bend area farms
This farm-to-table approach makes the burgers taste amazing. It also supports the local economy. I think it’s cool how Bend’s burger spots connect diners to local food producers.
Unique Burger Styles and Influences
Bend’s burger scene has something for everyone. I’ve tried classic diner-style burgers and fancy gourmet creations. Some places put a Northwestern spin on their burgers with toppings like:
- Huckleberry sauce
- Hazelnut spread
- Local wild mushrooms
I’ve also noticed global influences. There are burgers with Asian-inspired sauces or Mexican-style toppings. Some spots offer vegetarian and vegan options too.
What I really like is how creative the chefs get. I’ve seen burgers served on donuts or topped with mac and cheese. It’s fun to try these unique combos you can’t get elsewhere.
Eating Out in Bend
Bend has a great food scene with lots of tasty options. I’ve discovered some insider tips for getting the most out of dining here.
Best Times to Visit Restaurants
I’ve found that eating out in Bend can be really enjoyable if you time it right. Weekdays from 2-5 PM are often less busy at popular spots. Many restaurants offer happy hour deals during this time too.
For dinner, I like to go early (around 5:30 PM) or later (after 8 PM) to avoid the busiest times. Weekends get crowded fast, so I always try to make reservations if I’m going out on Friday or Saturday night.
Some places have great lunch specials that are worth checking out. I’ve noticed that Sunday brunch is super popular here, so be prepared for a wait if you don’t book ahead.
Dining Etiquette and Tips
When eating out in Bend, I always bring a light jacket. Even in summer, evenings can get chilly, especially if I’m sitting outside.
I’ve learned that many restaurants here use local ingredients. It’s fun to ask servers about where the food comes from.
They’re usually happy to share info about local farms and producers.
Tipping is expected, typically 15-20% of the bill. Some places add a automatic gratuity for large groups.
I always check a restaurant’s website or social media before going. Many spots have daily specials or events that aren’t advertised elsewhere.
Lastly, I’ve found that being friendly and patient goes a long way. Bend has a laid-back vibe, and the service reflects that.
