Austin takes its burgers seriously, and 2026 is no exception — from drive-thru institutions to greasy late-night legends to veggie patties that actually slap. This is our rundown of the Austin Chronicle's Best of Austin 2026 winners and finalists across the Burger and Veggie Burger categories, with our honest takes on each. Whether you want a quick local fix, a Sixth Street stomach-buster at midnight, or a meatless burger that doesn't feel like a consolation prize, the field is stacked. Here's where we'd point you, and why.
← From our complete Best of Austin 2026 guide (all 246 winners)
P. Terry’s Multiple Locations
The hometown hero takes the crown again, and honestly, who's surprised? P. Terry's is the beloved Austin fast-food institution that made the rest of the country's drive-thrus look lazy — fresh, never-frozen patties, that cult sauce, and a price that respects your wallet. It's the burger every Austinite has a soft spot for, and the win is well earned.
Casino el Camino
The legendary, dimly-lit late-night Sixth Street cave that builds burgers the size of your face — show up hungry and prepared to wait, because these things are a Texas-sized commitment.
Hopdoddy
Austin's homegrown chain that turned the 'better burger' wave into an empire — chef-y toppings, solid buns, and a lineup that's earned its loyal crowd.
Jewboy Burgers
Tex-Mex meets the classic patty with green chiles and Border-style swagger — bold, unapologetic, and one of the most fun burgers in town.
Mighty Fine
The smash-burger comfort spot from the Rudy's family — simple, juicy, and exactly what it says on the tin; a reliable Austin standby.
Arlo’s
The food-truck veggie champ whose plant-based 'Bac'n Cheezeburger' converted more meat-eaters than anyone wants to admit — late-night vegan done right.
Bouldin Creek Cafe
The South Austin veggie institution where the meatless burger has been a hippie-cool classic for ages and still holds up.
Crown & Anchor
The beloved campus-area pub where the veggie burger comes with a cold pint and zero pretension — a quintessential Austin neighborhood spot.
Mission Burger Co.
A scrappy upstart proving a veggie patty can stand toe-to-toe with the beef — worth the trip for the plant-curious.
See the whole thing — all 246 Best of Austin 2026 winners with our take on every one. Plus Austin CoffeeAustin FestivalsAustin Pads