I have a running list of burgers in the truck console. Maryville is small enough that you will see someone you know at nearly every one of these places, which is either a feature or a bug depending on the day.

The range here is real, from the smashed patties at Swäˈrā Brewing Company to the refined version at Raven Steakhouse and Lounge, where the crème brûlée corn outshines most entrees I’ve had in Knoxville. I ate a lot of cheeseburgers for this.

You can thank me later. Here is where to find the best burger in town.

Hot Rods 50's Diner

Highlights
Thick shakes, extra-large straws
Massive portions, enormous menu
Nostalgic decor and old commercials
Friendly, welcoming staff
Three meals, all excellent

At Hot Rods 50's Diner, the burger is a time machine. The patty is thick, juicy, and cooked exactly to order. I paired it with a hand-spun shake that required the extra-large straw they wisely provide. The menu is enormous, which can feel overwhelming, but the staff is patient and friendly. Old commercials play on screens, adding to the nostalgic vibe. I tried a classic cheeseburger, a bacon burger, and a mushroom Swiss across three visits. All three were excellent. This place is a solid bet for a no-frills, satisfying meal.

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Swäˈrā Brewing Company

Highlights
Best bar food around
Seasoned chicken and fries
Delicious smashed burgers
Excellent cheese curds
Chill, welcoming atmosphere

Swäˈrā Brewing Company serves what I consider the best bar burger in Maryville. The smashed patty has those crispy, lacy edges that are pure flavor. Seasoned well, it doesn't need much dressing. The fries are a cut above, and the chicken strips are surprisingly good too. Cheese curds are squeaky and fresh. The atmosphere is chill, with a welcoming buzz that makes you want to stay for another round. If you're after a high-quality pub burger with a local beer, this is the place.

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Foothills Milling Cafe

Highlights
Consistently amazing on repeat visits
Generous portions, fair prices
Great sandwich and soup options
Desserts worth taking home
A break from chain places

Foothills Milling Cafe has become my go-to for a consistent, great burger. I've been multiple times, and it never disappoints. The portions are generous, and the prices are fair. The burger patty is well-seasoned and cooked perfectly. They also offer a great sandwich and soup combo for a lighter day. The desserts are worth taking home; I still think about the pie. This place feels like a break from the chain restaurants, offering a homey, reliable experience. Service is always pleasant.

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Windy City Grille

Highlights
Wings and Italian beef excellent
Generous portions, very filling
Knowledgeable staff, allergy aware
Quick service, casual spot

Windy City Grille brings a Chicago touch to Maryville. The Italian beef is the star, but the burger is also excellent. It's a well-constructed, juicy burger with quality toppings. The wings are huge and flavorful. The staff is knowledgeable, especially about allergens, which I appreciate. Service is quick, and the vibe is casual and efficient. Portions are large enough for a hearty appetite. If you're in the mood for a filling, no-nonsense meal, this is a solid pick. I left satisfied.

You might also want to check out the best steakhouse in Gatlinburg.

Bella

Highlights
Exceptional service and recommendations
Fresh, fantastic pasta dishes
Outstanding dessert and drink options
Cozy, inviting atmosphere

Bella offers a more refined burger experience. The patty is thick, juicy, and clearly made with care. The service is exceptional; they made great recommendations and checked in often. The pasta dishes are fresh and fantastic, but the burger holds its own. Desserts and drinks are outstanding, making this a great spot for a special lunch. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting. It feels upscale but not stuffy. If you want a burger with a side of elegance, Bella delivers. I'll be back.

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Raven Steakhouse and Lounge

Highlights
Exceptional service, remarkable attention to detail
Handles issues with professionalism and discretion
Creative sides like crème brûlée corn
Upscale atmosphere suited for special occasions
Consistently strong cocktails and wellington

Raven Steakhouse and Lounge is where you go for a top-tier burger. The service is exceptional, with remarkable attention to detail. My burger was cooked perfectly, and the sides were creative; the crème brûlée corn is a must-try. They handle any issues with professionalism and grace, which I respect. The atmosphere is upscale, ideal for marking a special occasion. The wellington is a standout, but the burger is equally impressive. It's a quieter, more intimate setting. Worth the splurge.

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The Bird and The Book

Highlights
Huge wings, improved menu
Calm, quiet evening atmosphere
Friendly staff, attentive service
Cash or card, no tap pay

The Bird and The Book is a quirky spot with a calm vibe. The burger is solid, but the wings are the real draw; they're huge and well-seasoned. The staff is friendly and attentive without hovering. They accept cash or card, though no tap pay, so plan accordingly. The atmosphere is quiet in the evening, making it good for conversation. The menu has improved, and the burger is a dependable choice. If you like a low-key place with good wings and a decent burger, this fits the bill.

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Two Doors Down

Highlights
Friendly staff, great service
Tasty cheese tots
Cold beer, good bourbon
Solid bar food menu
Fair drink prices

Two Doors Down is a straightforward bar with a great burger. The patty is juicy, and the bun is soft. They offer tasty cheese tots, which are a nice change from fries. The beer is cold, and the bourbon selection is decent. Staff is friendly, and service is quick. The menu is solid bar food, and the burger is a highlight. Portions are fair for the price. It's a casual, comfortable place to grab a meal and a drink. No frills, but it delivers.

You might also want to check out the best burger in Gatlinburg.

The Restaurant at RT Lodge

Highlights
Exceptional cheeseburgers and fries
Cozy, sophisticated lodge atmosphere
Attentive, accommodating service
Stellar dessert program
Quiet, intimate dining rooms

The Restaurant at RT Lodge is a hidden gem for a burger. The cheeseburger and fries are exceptional, cooked with precision. The patty is beefy and seasoned well. The service is attentive and accommodating, making the experience pleasant. The lodge atmosphere is cozy and sophisticated, with quiet dining rooms. They have a stellar dessert program; don't skip the pie. It feels intimate and special. If you want a quiet, high-quality burger in a refined setting, this is it. I left impressed.

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The Walnut Kitchen

Highlights
Great for special occasions

The Walnut Kitchen is a great choice for special occasions. The burger is not the main focus, but it is excellent. Cooked perfectly, with high-quality ingredients. The setting is elegant, and the service is polished. It's a bit more upscale, so expect a higher price point, but it's worth it for the experience. The menu changes, so the burger might not always be available, but when it is, it's a winner. A memorable meal in a beautiful space. I highly recommend it for a celebration.

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Maryville Corner Market

Highlights
Friendly, unique, inviting atmosphere
Exceptional service worth returning for
Tender chicken with huge chunks
Local craft beer selection
Convenient take-home dinner options

Maryville Corner Market is more than a market; it's a lunch spot with a personality. The burger here is simple but effective, with a fresh, hand-formed patty. I ordered the chicken sandwich too, and the chunks were huge and tender. Service was exceptional, making me want to return. They also have a local craft beer selection that pairs well with the food. It's convenient to grab a meal to go, but I recommend eating in to soak up the friendly, unique atmosphere. A hidden gem for a quick, quality bite.

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Nauti K's Riverside Bar & Grill

Highlights
Fresh food, welcoming staff
Great outdoor marina seating
Fun Music Bingo nights
Attentive, friendly service

Nauti K's Riverside Bar & Grill has a prime spot by the water. The burger is fresh, cooked well, and satisfying. The staff is welcoming and attentive, even when it's busy. I enjoyed the outdoor seating with views of the marina. They also host Music Bingo nights, which adds a fun, casual energy. The portions are generous, and the service is friendly. If you want a relaxed meal with a view and a side of entertainment, this is a great choice. The fries were crispy and hot, too.

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