Best Burgers in Scottsdale: 5 Juicy Spots You Can’t Miss

Looking for the best burgers in Scottsdale? You’ve come to the right place.

The Scottsdale dining scene is exploding with burger joints claiming they serve “the best burger” in town. But between tourist traps in Old Town and mediocre chains, finding an actually great burger feels like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Here’s the deal:

I’ve spent months eating my way through Scottsdale’s burger landscape—from upscale gastropubs to hidden retro diners—to bring you this definitive guide to the best burgers in Scottsdale. You’re about to discover 5 burger spots that locals actually visit, where the beef is fresh, the buns are toasted to perfection, and every bite makes you understand why Scottsdale’s burger scene rivals any major city.

In this guide, you’ll find exactly where to go for juicy patties, creative toppings, and that perfect burger experience—whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a sit-down dinner with craft beers.

1. Rehab Burger Therapy – The Gourmet Champion

Walking into Rehab Burger Therapy feels like entering a burger lover’s paradise. This isn’t your average burger joint—it’s where gourmet meets comfort food in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale.

The star of the show? The Therapy Burger—a half-pound Angus beef patty stacked with smoked bacon, aged cheddar, caramelized onions, and their signature Therapy sauce that’ll make you rethink everything you knew about burger condiments.

What sets Rehab apart is their commitment to quality ingredients. They source locally raised beef, bake their brioche buns daily, and hand-cut their fries. The result? A burger that’s worth every calorie.

But here’s the kicker:

Their menu features over 15 creative burger combinations, from the jalapeño-loaded Wildfire to the mushroom Swiss perfection of the Forager. Vegetarians aren’t left out either—their Beyond Burger rivals the beef versions in flavor and texture.

Why locals love it: The combination of upscale ingredients with a laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for any occasion. Plus, their happy hour burger deals are legendary.

Must-Try: Therapy Burger with truffle fries
Pro Tip: Visit during happy hour (3-6 PM) for $10 burger specials and avoid weekend wait times

🍔 Visit Rehab Burger Therapy →

2. Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Craft Beer Meets Craft Burgers

If you believe that great burgers deserve great beer, Hopdoddy Burger Bar in Scottsdale Quarter is your new favorite spot. This Texas-born chain elevated the burger game when they opened their Arizona location, and Scottsdale locals quickly caught on.

The secret? Fresh-ground beef delivered daily, hand-cut Kennebec fries, and buns baked on-site every morning. You can literally watch them grinding beef in the open kitchen.

Now:

The Magic Shroom Burger is what dreams are made of—truffle aioli, aged white cheddar, and sautéed mushrooms on a perfectly seasoned patty. But don’t sleep on the Terlingua, topped with house-made green chili queso that adds just the right kick.

Their beer selection is equally impressive, featuring 20+ taps of local Arizona craft brews and rotating seasonal selections. The staff knows their pairings—ask for recommendations and they’ll match your burger with the perfect brew.

Why locals love it: The open, modern space at Scottsdale Quarter makes it ideal for groups. The burger-beer pairing expertise is unmatched in the area.

Must-Try: Magic Shroom Burger paired with a local IPA
Pro Tip: Upgrade to Parmesan truffle fries—absolutely worth the extra $2

🍺 Check Out Hopdoddy Menu →

3. Happy’s Hamburgers – Arizona’s Best Kept Secret

Tucked away in a shopping center at the corner of Shea Boulevard and Scottsdale Road sits one of Arizona’s best-kept secrets. Happy’s Hamburgers is the kind of place locals guard fiercely—a retro 50’s diner serving what Yelp voters crowned the best cheeseburger in Arizona.

This is crazy:

Owner Dave Vaughan bought Happy’s just before COVID hit and turned it into a Scottsdale institution through sheer dedication and incredible food. With a perfect 5-star Google rating and 4.5 stars on Yelp (487 reviews), this hidden gem proves that the best burgers don’t always come from the flashiest restaurants.

The signature style here is unique—Happy’s rolls their ground beef into meatballs, slices onions paper-thin, and smashes the meat directly onto those caramelized onions on a screaming-hot grill. The result? Slide-Burgers with crispy, lacey edges and flavor that penetrates every bite.

Want to know the best part?

The burgers come with shredded lettuce and pickles on the side—letting you customize exactly how you want it. The double cheeseburger (about a quarter-pounder) runs under $10, and the triple (half-pounder) is still incredibly affordable. Add their homemade sauces (five varieties, all house-made), and you’ve got burger perfection.

The checkered floors and jukebox in the corner transport you straight to the 1950s, while the food quality rivals any modern gastropub. Dave’s New York roots shine through in the chicken parmesan sliders with family-recipe marinara sauce—another customer favorite.

Why locals love it: Authentic retro vibe without the tourist markup. Owner-operated with heart. Plus, it’s the rare burger spot serving excellent all-day breakfast.

Must-Try: Double Slide-Burger with caramelized onions and a vanilla milkshake
Pro Tip: Try their homemade cheesecake for dessert—it’s made in-house and absolutely worth the splurge

🎵 Visit Happy’s Hamburgers →

4. Zinburger Wine & Burger Bar – Upscale Comfort

Wine and burgers? Before Zinburger, that pairing might have seemed odd. Now? It’s a Scottsdale staple that makes perfect sense once you experience it.

Here’s what makes Zinburger different:

They’ve taken the burger concept upscale without losing the comfort food essence. The atmosphere is polished yet relaxed, perfect for date night or a business lunch. And yes, their wine selection is curated specifically to complement their burger menu—something you won’t find at typical burger joints.

The Zinburger itself is a masterpiece—Manchego cheese, zinfandel-braised onions, and house-made ketchup on a Challah bun. The onions, slow-cooked in wine for hours, add a depth of flavor that elevates this beyond your typical burger.

But the real MVP? Their Wild Mushroom & Brie Burger—topped with truffle aioli, this is luxury in burger form. Pair it with a glass of Pinot Noir as the staff suggests, and you’ll understand why this place has become a Scottsdale institution.

The sides deserve special mention too. The Zucchini Fries with buttermilk ranch provide a lighter alternative to traditional fries, while their hand-spun milkshakes (yes, even in a wine bar) are thick, creamy perfection.

Why locals love it: The sophisticated atmosphere makes it feel special without being stuffy. Perfect for impressing out-of-town guests.

Must-Try: Zinburger with Zucchini Fries and a glass of Zinfandel
Pro Tip: Make a reservation on weekends—this place fills up fast, especially for dinner

🍷 Reserve at Zinburger →

5. Paradise Valley Burger – Where Creativity Meets Flavor

When Guy Fieri features your burgers on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, you know you’re doing something right. Paradise Valley Burger Company has been turning heads since 2011 with inventive burger creations that push boundaries while respecting tradition.

Chef and owner Bret Shapiro isn’t playing it safe. Since opening, he’s created over 500 different burger varieties, with new weekly specials constantly appearing on the whiteboard beside the main menu. This is where burger innovation happens.

Here’s where it gets interesting:

The Brûlée Burger is Shapiro’s signature creation—born from his previous career as a glassblower. He literally uses a blowtorch to caramelize the top of this burger, creating a sweet-savory combination that shouldn’t work but absolutely does. It’s featured on both Triple D and Man vs. Food for good reason.

Don’t overlook the Cinco Diablo—packed with heat and flavor that makes every bite an adventure. Or the Country Fried Burger, which features a deep-fried patty with green chili gravy and crispy onions (also a Guy Fieri favorite).

But Paradise Valley Burger isn’t just about wild creations. Their Paradise Burger—featuring pickled pink onions, cucumber slices, and a perfectly toasted brioche bun—proves they can nail the fundamentals too. Those pickled onions have become legendary among regulars.

The sides here deserve their own spotlight. Sweet Tater Tots, Cardinals Fries (a Southwestern masterpiece), and even French Toast Fries show Shapiro’s creativity extends beyond burgers. Pair everything with one of their award-winning milkshakes—the Lucky Charms Marshmallow has earned multiple accolades.

Why locals love it: Every visit brings something new to try. Fast casual service without sacrificing quality. Featured on national TV but maintains modest, approachable pricing.

Must-Try: Brûlée Burger with Sweet Tater Tots and Lucky Charms Milkshake
Pro Tip: Check the whiteboard for weekly specials—these limited-time creations often become menu favorites

🔥 Try Paradise Valley Burger →

What Makes the Best Burgers in Scottsdale Stand Out?

After sampling dozens of burgers across Scottsdale, here’s what separates the great from the mediocre:

Quality Beef: The best spots use fresh, never frozen, high-quality beef—preferably locally sourced. Many grind their beef daily or receive fresh deliveries multiple times per week. You can taste the difference in every bite.

The Bun Matters: A great burger needs a bun that can handle the job. Whether it’s brioche, pretzel, or Challah, it should be fresh, lightly toasted, and sturdy enough to hold all the toppings without falling apart.

Creative but Balanced Toppings: The best Scottsdale burger restaurants know how to layer flavors. Toppings should complement, not overwhelm, the beef. Every ingredient serves a purpose.

Proper Cooking: Whether you prefer medium-rare or well-done, your burger should be cooked to your specifications. The best spots respect your preferences without judgment.

The Total Experience: Great burgers come with great fries (or alternative sides), a solid drink menu, and an atmosphere that matches the food quality. Scottsdale’s top spots excel in all these areas.

Best Burger Styles You’ll Find in Scottsdale

Scottsdale’s burger scene offers variety for every craving:

Gourmet/Upscale Burgers: Think truffle aioli, aged cheeses, wine-braised onions, and artisanal buns. Perfect for date nights or when you want to treat yourself. Expect to pay $15-$20. Rehab Burger Therapy and Zinburger excel here.

Classic Retro Diners: Authentic 50’s-style burgers with checkered floors and jukebox vibes. These spots focus on perfecting the fundamentals—quality beef, simple toppings, and nostalgic atmosphere. Happy’s Hamburgers is your go-to. Usually $8-$13.

Craft Beer Focused: Burgers designed to pair with craft beers, often with bolder flavors and creative toppings. The atmosphere is casual but elevated. Hopdoddy leads this category. Typically $12-$16.

Creative/Innovative: Burgers that push boundaries with unexpected combinations. Think blowtorched crème brûlée burgers or deep-fried patties with green chili gravy. Paradise Valley Burger dominates this space. Prices vary $13-$18.

Scottsdale Burger Pricing: What to Expect

Understanding Scottsdale burger pricing helps you choose the right spot for your budget and occasion:

Budget-Friendly ($8-$13): You’ll find exceptional quality at this price point, especially at spots like Happy’s Hamburgers. Perfect for casual weekday lunches without compromising on taste or freshness.

Mid-Range ($12-$16): The sweet spot where you get excellent quality without breaking the bank. Most of Scottsdale’s burger spots fall here, offering creative options with quality ingredients. Hopdoddy exemplifies this range.

Premium ($16-$20+): Upscale burger experiences with premium ingredients, extensive drink menus, and polished atmospheres. Worth it for special occasions or when you want the full experience. Rehab and Zinburger occupy this tier.

Hidden Costs: Add $3-$5 for fries or alternative sides. Craft beers run $6-$9. Specialty cocktails $10-$14. Milkshakes $5-$8. Most places offer happy hour deals that can significantly reduce your total bill.

Tips for Finding the Best Burgers in Scottsdale

Visit During Happy Hour: Many Scottsdale burger spots offer incredible happy hour deals—sometimes up to 40% off regular prices. Rehab’s $10 burger specials (Mon-Fri 3-6 PM) are legendary.

Don’t Skip the Sides: The fries, onion rings, or specialty sides at these spots are crafted with the same care as the burgers. Happy’s homemade chips and Paradise Valley’s Sweet Tater Tots are worth the extra few dollars.

Try Local Beers: Arizona’s craft beer scene is thriving. Ask your server for local brewery recommendations at Hopdoddy—they pair perfectly with burgers and support local businesses.

Check for Weekly Specials: Paradise Valley Burger updates their whiteboard weekly with new creations. Happy’s also features daily specials. These limited-time offerings are often the most creative items.

Embrace the Hidden Gems: Some of Scottsdale’s best burgers come from unassuming locations. Happy’s is tucked in a strip mall, and Paradise Valley Burger sits in a modest space—but both deliver world-class burgers.

Make Reservations When Possible: Upscale spots like Zinburger fill up quickly on weekends. A quick reservation saves wait time and guarantees your table.

Scottsdale Hamburger Restaurants: Local vs. Chain

One thing that sets Scottsdale’s burger scene apart is the balance between innovative local joints and quality regional chains:

Local Originals: Happy’s Hamburgers and Paradise Valley Burger are true Scottsdale/Phoenix originals. These owner-operated spots bring personality, creativity, and authentic local flavor. You’re supporting small businesses while getting unique burger experiences you won’t find elsewhere.

Quality Regional Chains: Spots like Hopdoddy and Zinburger started elsewhere but have elevated their game specifically for the Arizona market. They bring consistency and proven concepts while adapting to local tastes with Arizona craft beers and regional ingredients.

The best strategy? Try them all. Each brings something unique to Scottsdale’s burger landscape, and none feel like typical chain restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best burger spot in Old Town Scottsdale?

Rehab Burger Therapy is the top choice in Old Town, offering gourmet burgers with locally-sourced ingredients in a laid-back atmosphere. Their Therapy Burger with caramelized onions consistently earns rave reviews, and the happy hour deals make it even more appealing. The location is walkable to other Old Town attractions.

Where can I find the best burgers in Scottsdale under $10?

Happy’s Hamburgers offers exceptional burgers starting at $8-$13, making it the best value in Scottsdale. Despite the affordable prices, quality doesn’t suffer—they’ve earned a 5-star Google rating and were voted best cheeseburger in Arizona by Yelp users. Their signature Slide-Burgers with caramelized onions rival spots charging twice as much.

Are there good vegetarian burger options in Scottsdale?

Yes! Rehab Burger Therapy offers an excellent Beyond Burger that even meat-eaters enjoy. Hopdoddy also features plant-based options with all their gourmet toppings. Most spots on this list can accommodate vegetarian requests with quality alternatives that don’t feel like an afterthought.

Which Scottsdale burger restaurant is best for craft beer lovers?

Hopdoddy Burger Bar specializes in burger-beer pairings with 20+ craft taps featuring local Arizona breweries. Their staff is trained to recommend perfect pairings for each burger, and the modern space at Scottsdale Quarter makes it ideal for groups who want to sample multiple beers alongside their burgers.

Which burger spots have been featured on TV food shows?

Paradise Valley Burger has appeared on multiple national shows including Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, Man vs. Food, and Check Please Arizona. Their Brûlée Burger and Country Fried Burger earned spots on Guy Fieri’s show, while the creative weekly specials keep food critics coming back.

Do these burger restaurants take reservations?

Zinburger accepts reservations and I highly recommend making them for weekend dinners. Hopdoddy, Rehab, Happy’s Hamburgers, and Paradise Valley Burger operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Wait times are usually manageable except during peak weekend hours (6-8 PM).

What’s the best burger for someone who wants to try something unique?

The Brûlée Burger at Paradise Valley Burger offers the most unique experience—Chef Bret Shapiro uses a blowtorch to caramelize the top, creating an unexpected sweet-savory combination. For creative gourmet toppings, try Rehab’s seasonal specials or Zinburger’s Wild Mushroom & Brie Burger with truffle aioli.

Are these burger restaurants family-friendly?

Yes, all five spots welcome families. Happy’s Hamburgers is particularly great for kids with its retro diner atmosphere, simple menu options, and affordable prices. Hopdoddy offers kids’ menus, and Paradise Valley Burger’s creative options appeal to adventurous young eaters. Even the more upscale spots like Zinburger accommodate families during lunch and early dinner hours.

Can I find vegan burgers at these Scottsdale restaurants?

Absolutely! Rehab Burger Therapy serves an exceptional Beyond Burger that rivals their beef options in taste and texture—even meat-eaters rave about it. Hopdoddy also offers plant-based patties with all their gourmet toppings. Happy’s and Paradise Valley Burger can accommodate vegan requests with Impossible or Beyond patties. Just inform your server about any dietary restrictions.

Do any of these spots offer gluten-free burger options?

Yes, most restaurants on this list accommodate gluten-free diets. Rehab Burger Therapy, Hopdoddy, and Zinburger all offer gluten-free buns as substitutes. Happy’s Hamburgers can prepare burgers with lettuce wraps or served on a plate with sides. Always inform your server about gluten sensitivities—these kitchens are experienced with dietary modifications and take cross-contamination seriously.

Your Next Great Burger Awaits

Scottsdale’s burger scene proves that this desert city takes its comfort food seriously. From gourmet creations with wine pairings to retro diners serving award-winning classics, you now have a roadmap to the five best burger experiences in town.

Here’s the bottom line:

You can’t go wrong with any spot on this list. Each offers something unique—whether you’re craving upscale ingredients at Rehab, craft beer pairings at Hopdoddy, authentic retro vibes at Happy’s, sophisticated dining at Zinburger, or creative innovation at Paradise Valley Burger.

The best burger in Scottsdale is the one that matches your mood, budget, and occasion. Use this guide to make an informed choice, and prepare for a burger experience that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve finished your first bite.

Ready to bite into Scottsdale’s best burgers? Pick your spot, check if they take reservations, and get ready for some serious burger satisfaction. Your taste buds will thank you.

Ready to Experience Scottsdale’s Best Burgers?

Don’t wait—Scottsdale’s top burger spots fill up fast, especially on weekends. From retro diners to upscale gastropubs, your perfect burger is waiting.

Planning your Scottsdale food adventure? Don’t miss our guides to the Best Mexican Restaurants in Scottsdale and Best Steakhouses in Scottsdale for more dining inspiration.

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