Michigan’s burger scene is packed with character, flavor, and local love. If you ask Michiganders where they go for a real burger, most will skip the national chains for places with a story, a following, and a recipe that hasn’t changed in decades.
I’ve set out to highlight nine burger joints across Michigan that locals pick time and again, and for good reason. Each spot brings something unique, whether it’s a legendary olive burger, a no-nonsense slider shack, or a cozy tavern with a burger you’ll want to tell your friends about. Here are nine burger destinations that prove Michigan’s homegrown flavor is second to none.
1. Schlenker’s Sandwich Shop, Jackson
Every town has that one burger joint where stories stick to the walls like family photos, and in Jackson, Schlenker’s is it. This spot isn’t about wild toppings or trendy twists. Instead, Schlenker’s keeps it straightforward by grinding fresh ground beef daily, shaping patties by hand, and cooking them on a seasoned flat top.
Their burgers come unadorned by expectation, just perfectly cooked beef, a soft bun, and the option to pile on classic toppings like pickles, lettuce, and onions. You won’t find baskets overflowing with fries or a menu bursting at the seams; what they do, they do with pride and consistency…