Sandra MillerThere’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a perfectly seared, juicy patty. Finding the best burger in Indianapolis is a mission we take seriously, especially when the city is packed with local spots that elevate ground beef far beyond the basics.
Instead of sticking to the usual fast-food chains, we focused on places that actually respect the craft, whether that means bold, inventive combinations or a perfectly executed classic cheeseburger.
As you move across downtown and into the surrounding suburbs, you quickly realize just how many hidden gems are worth the detour.
Bring your appetite and a stack of napkins, because these local favorites are the kind of spots that can completely change your next burger run.
How much does a burger cost in Indianapolis?
A burger in Indianapolis can cost anywhere from $7 to $15, which remains a highly affordable price point for excellent food.
| Burger Type | Average Price Range |
| Fast Food (e.g., Burger King Whopper) | ~$7.10 |
| New Limited-Time Fast Food | ~$8.15 |
| Casual Dining Base Burger | $7.50 – $9.00 |
| Premium / Gourmet Burger | $13.99 – $20.00+ |
1. BRU Burger Bar
Website: https://www.bruburgerbar.com/
Address: 410 Massachusetts Avenue
Contact: 317-635-4278
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
BRU Burger Bar stands out immediately thanks to their exclusive meat blend and their long list of regional awards. They operate as a flagship anchor in this historic downtown district, drawing massive crowds daily.
The kitchen cranks out chef-driven creations using a signature blend of sirloin, chuck, and brisket. They offer everything from gluten-free buns to incredible vegan plant-based patties for specific diets.
On top of that, you get massive customization options without sacrificing that savory beef flavor that melts in your mouth.
However, you should definitely prepare for a la carte menu pricing since sandwiches exclude side dishes entirely. Adding crispy fries or onion rings significantly increases the total meal cost.
You’ll also spend considerable time hunting for paid street parking during the busy dinner rush. The restaurant holds prestigious titles like “Best Burger in Indiana” from Reader’s Digest, so expect long wait times.
Customer Reviews
This was my first trip to Bru Burger. I was pleasantly surprised. I am not a fan of burgers, but they have other options. I had the most amazing barbecue pork nachos. The servers were very quick, and friendly. Drinks stayed full, and empty plates were removed promptly. I will definitely return.
- Renae Price Google Review
I had a bad experience once at a Bru Burger, this location and its team are a completely different story. Everyone was so welcoming and hospitable. It even came out in the other patrons as well. I met a friend here who I hadn’t seen in years. The ambience, the atmosphere, the service and the food really were 5 star. I can’t say enough about how wonderful it was. Thank you to the entire team for such a great job. It was awesome.
- justin williams Google Review
2. Kuma’s Corner
Website: http://www.kumascorner.com/
Address: 1127 Prospect St.
Contact: 317-929-1287
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Heavy metal music and thick, juicy patties create an unforgettable combination here. Kuma’s Corner operates as a self-proclaimed heavy metal mecca, serving every massive sandwich on a signature pretzel roll.
They name practically their entire menu after iconic metal bands like Black Sabbath.
We visited last Friday, and the rich, savory juices soaked perfectly into the dense pretzel bun. It’s also great that you can easily swap your protein for a house-made black bean veggie patty or fried chicken breast.
They also rotate local craft beers and small-label spirits to keep the drink menu exciting.
On top of that, they maintain an awesome community charity program that supports various local causes every single month.
Just note that the dining room plays aggressive music at very high volumes, so you might prefer a quiet Asian restaurant for a relaxing date night.
Their towering burgers are also notoriously messy and difficult to eat. You likely won’t be able to take a normal bite without dropping toppings everywhere.
Customer Reviews
We had an amazing experience here. Fast friendly service (shout out to both the host & our server- who’s name is escaping me but she had long red hair). Food was delicious (buffalo mac & cheese plus Iron Maiden burger)! Atmosphere exactly as expected. Would visit again next time in Indianapolis. Also already looking at Chicago location closer to home.
- Valerie Kaylor Google Review
I drove over an hour just to try it out. 100% did not disappoint! My burger was well crafted and super delicious. My waitress was friendly and attentive (not to mention attractive). This will be a regular spot anytime I’m in the area or even passing through. I will send anyone with a penchant for metal and good food to here.
- Andrew Horen Google Review
3. Smash’d Midwest Burgers Irvington
Website: http://smashdmidwestburgers.com/
Address: 10 Johnson Avenue
Contact: 317-419-2894
Hours: Monday – Saturday 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sourcing ingredients locally makes a massive difference in flavor. Smash’d Midwest Burgers Irvington highlights regional products, serving everything from single quarter-pounders up to wild one-and-a-half-pound beef stacks.
They boldly use Swayzee’s breaded pork tenderloins and Indiana Kitchen bacon.
The brand distinguishes itself with unconventional burger toppings. They craft amazing combinations like the Peanut Butter Outlaw, which features creamy peanut butter and crispy jalapeños.
They finish off meals with rare treats like Dole Whip and locally produced ice cream.
What we love most about this place is that you can easily scale your beef portion to match your exact hunger level.
They also offer a high degree of dietary flexibility, providing Beyond Beef plant-based patties. Gluten-free bun options allow everyone to enjoy these delicious smashed patties.
Unfortunately, the indoor dining room gets incredibly loud. Sound bounces off the hard walls, making casual conversations somewhat difficult.
The massive premium meat stacks will also push your bill past twenty dollars very quickly.
Customer Reviews
One of the best smash burgers I’ve had full of flavor. I had the triple sleepy hollow didn’t disappoint and the sweet potato fries are good as well. I’ll definitely be back to try the other options available so if you’re in the area stop in and try them out.
- Richard Valentine Google Review
Great food that’s fairly priced, friendly staff thats greets you as you enter while keeping everything clean and ready for your visit. Looking for a twist, get the salmon smashed burger which will not disappoint! Parking is in a lot behind the building but not discouraging.
- Sean Mullally Google Review
4. 317 Burger
Website: http://317burger.com/
Address: 915 E. Westfield Blvd.
Contact: 317-251-1317
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM; Friday & Saturday: 11:30 AM – 830 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
317 Burger strictly uses fresh Black Angus beef and pairs it with an award-winning proprietary sauce. We tried their espresso-rubbed bison patty recently, and the meat was incredibly tender.
On top of that, they hand-cut their fries daily to guarantee the perfect crispy texture.
If you want something to drink, they offer 16 local craft beers on tap. It feels more like a relaxed taproom setup, so it’s easy to pair food with whatever beer fits your taste.
The menu leans a bit experimental. You’ll see combinations like chicken patties with pico de gallo and chorizo, or even toppings like spicy strawberry compote on certain sandwiches.
Just keep in mind that the kitchen shuts down quite early compared to other local restaurants. You can’t satisfy a late-night craving here since they close at eight during the week.
They also enforce a mandatory gratuity for large parties.
Customer Reviews
We celebrated my son’s 19th birthday with a bunch of his friends from college. Our server accommodated music requests, took group pictures for us, and even gave my son a gift card for his birthday. The food was great and timely… highly recommend 317 burger for large parties! They knocked it out of the park.
- Anna Copp Google Review
My husband and I went on an impromptu lunch date. He said wanted a burger. We decided to try 317 Burger in Broad Ripple. We were served by Cameron in the bar. We had Naptown Turkey and the Blueberry Hill burger. They were amazing. We would recommend this place again and be returning. ❤️❤️❤️
- Shon Wills Google Review
5. Indy’s Burger Joint
Website: https://www.indysburgerjoint.com/
Address: 5015 E Stop 11 Rd
Contact: 317-893-4600
Hours: Monday to Sunday 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
A freshly prepared meal always feels different from typical fast food. Indy’s Burger Joint is a family-owned spot built around made-to-order burgers and flexible options for different diets.
If you’re cutting carbs, they’ll even wrap your burger in lettuce instead of a bun.
They focus on using premium, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes more creative builds too, including beef blended with chorizo. There are also vegan options, so there’s something for most dietary preferences.
The space itself is designed with groups in mind. It’s roomy enough for families or business meetups, which makes it more comfortable than smaller, cramped diners.
That said, it’s not a budget-friendly burger stop. Prices run higher than your typical diner-style burger place.
The drink menu is also fairly simple, with mostly standard domestic beers instead of a wide craft selection.
Customer Reviews
Now this is a hidden gem where a 15$ burger combo is well spent! The staff was polite, he could have pulled his pants up! But the family ran feel was all there. Great food fast and hot,so glad I stopped and now I see why uber eats was running constantly. Quality product and freshness you can count on. Every order made to order and just damn GOOD! Oh and ice cold beer,quality brands also!
- Don Dunn Google Review
Burgers and fries are delicious. This place is local, family run and family owned. Always great food and great service. The cantina burger was delicious and i added chorizo. Give this place your time and money.
- Jessica Armendariz Google Review
