The start of summer can spark memories and smells of hamburgers on the grill. The ground steak sandwich became popular in the U.S. after it was introduced at the 1904 Worlds Fair in St. Louis. Afterwards, a business named White Castle took it around the country in 1916 and we all know how McDonalds expanded with the burger in the 1950s.

Todays there are many more varieties of the 'made to order' custom hamburgers. It is estimated that there are over 84,000 burger restaurants in the U.S.. Many of those are fast service chains which may limit your choice of toppings and quality.

In the Gulf Shores area there are several locations for 'gourmet' style hamburgers. Each has a unique list of toppings and some have amazing waterfront views. Local residents have told visitors of their favorites for many years. Typically if you ask 3 people you will 3 different responses about which hamburger is the best. You can help settle this question by taking a quick poll below:

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Here are a few Gulf Coast burger spots worth checking out:

BLEU’S BURGERS
This craft burger kitchen features a whopping 16 beef burgers and 3 chicken options. A few highlights include: The Reuben Burger: Half-pound beef patty, Swiss, pork belly pastrami, and spicy garlic slaw on marble rye. The Beer Cheeseburger: Smoked cheddar, beer-pickled jalapeños, grilled and crispy onions, and house beer cheese on brioche. The Easy Rider: Caramelized onions, arugula, smoked Gouda, and spicy aioli. Each month, one burger becomes a “Donation Burger,” where 25% of its sales go to charity. All come with fries or a side salad.

TACKY JACK’S
With three coastal locations, Tacky Jack’s has long been known for its burgers. The TJ Burger includes two quarter-pound burger balls, smashed and seared for maximum flavor. Served on a toasted buttered bun with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, fries, and chips. Customize it with add-ons to “Jack It Up.”

SUNLINER DINER
Located in the heart of Gulf Shores, Sunliner is famous for its photogenic plates. The Jukebox Burger is a showstopper—three beef patties stacked with Swiss, cheddar, and American cheeses, bacon, fried green tomato, onion ring, fried egg, and fried pickles—all drizzled with Creole hollandaise on a brioche bun.

FLORA-BAMA YACHT CLUB & OLE RIVER GRILL
At these waterside locations, you can build your own burger, starting with a char-grilled patty on a brioche bun. Add lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, mushrooms, bacon, jalapeños, and both Swiss and cheddar cheeses. Served open-faced with a side of fries.

THE GULF
The Gulf Burger keeps things simple and delicious with 100% natural beef cooked to juicy perfection. It’s topped with a flavorful garlic aioli that adds a rich, savory finish. Enjoy this coastal classic with a waterfront view and a side of laid-back vibes.

LULU’S GULF SHORES
LuLu’s burgers come seasoned with their signature Salty Peppa blend. Choose from the “Pa-menna” with bacon and fried green tomato, or the Crazy Sista Burger with traditional toppings and your choice of cheese. Extras like sautéed onions or jalapeños cost $1, while bacon or guac run $2.

COSMO’S RESTAURANT & GTS ON THE BAY
Both spots offer a premium burger made from Angus chuck, short rib, and brisket. It’s grilled to order and served on toasted sourdough with lettuce, tomato, and red onion. Cheese costs an extra dollar; bacon, $1.50.

COASTAL ORANGE BEACH
The Signature COASTAL Burger is a flavor-packed creation featuring aged white cheddar, cherrywood smoked bacon, and caramelized sweet onions. It’s topped with tomato, dill pickle chips, green leaf lettuce, wild mushroom demi-glace, and a rich bacon aioli. Served with your choice of house fries, pasta salad, or a fresh fruit medley, this burger is a must-try on the beachside menu.

THE HANGOUT
Right on the beach, The Hangout delivers six burger options. Try the classic Hang 10, the Mushroom-Swiss, or the towering Lifeguard Burger with two half-pound patties, bacon, egg, onion straws, and three cheeses. Other standouts include the Alabama Wagyu Burger, the Shaka Burger with fried shrimp, and the Bama BBQ Burger with slaw, cheddar, and smoky sauce.