If you're like most Americans, you crave a delicious, decadent, juicy cheeseburger when the going gets rough because its among the top comfort foods. There's just something so satisfying about a crusty, flame-grilled hunk of meat having a party in your mouth with its best friends bacon, lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Don't deny yourself while you're in the area: hit up one of Sarasota's best burger joints and get what you need!
Centrally located on University Town Center Drive, the Burger & Beer Joint has exactly what you want to satisfy that deep-down burger craving. Feeling a little New Age today? Try the Hotel California burger made with a half pound of grilled premium beef topped with cheddar, grilled onions, guacamole, a fried egg, and fresh cilantro sour cream. Or get fancy with the Stairway to Heaven, which is a half pound of the best wagyu beef, foie gras, and black truffle aioli served on a brioche bun. Ooh la la!
The burger-centric younger sibling of Gecko's Grill and Pub, Smacks features fresh, finger-licking eats with only the highest quality ingredients. Try the Bison Burger guilt-free because its ethically sourced from Three Suns Ranch in Punta Gorda. If you've never had bison before, it's lower in fat than beef but has a delectable, rich flavor that your taste buds will never forget.
Patrick's is a Sarasota landmark and really has it all. The eclectic dining room pays homage to Sarasota's vibrant arts scene while the bar and patio area are perfect for both watching the big game and a quiet bite with your bae. This writer's personal favorite is Patrick's Roundabout Burger, which has roasted red peppers, fat portobello mushrooms, and rich, melted mozzarella cheese draped over a chargrilled premium beef patty. It's mouth-watering for both veggie lovers and meat lovers!
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Sarasota
Freddy's is a longtime family favorite, featuring gigantic, sloppy steakburgers, patty melts, and Chicago-style dogs served on a Texas toast bun. You simply MUST try Freddy's ridiculous A.1. Chop House Steakburger, a double cheeseburger topped with grilled onions, sauteed mushrooms, and a tantalizing garlic and A.1. sauce.
Popular Sarasota nightspot Libby's Cafe + Bar recently opened a new speakeasy-style sidebar and gastropub called LBar, and their Brisket Shortrib Burger is beyond amazing smothered in bacon jam and served with a side of truffle fries. You'll wish you had room for a second order!
Skinny's Place may look like an unassuming Old Florida shack, but it's home to one of Sarasota area's best burgers! Skinny's has been serving up some of Sarasota's best eats since 1952 and is a family restaurant in its third generation. Go ahead and enjoy the popular Fatty Double Cheeseburger or Grandma Skinny's chili cheese dog recipe with an order of what some argue are the very best onion rings in Florida.
It seems as though diet season is always looming, but it's important to remember to treat yourself, so why not occasionally indulge in a sinfully-great burger? Keep checking 941area for more restaurants in Sarasota to score your comfort food must-haves!
Cover photo courtesy of Haseeb Jamil on Unsplash.com
