We never would have known, if not for McDonald’s Restaurants pinging our inbox yesterday, but September 18 is apparently National Cheeseburger Day.
It’s one of those “food holidays” that started as marketing and then went viral. The big burger chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, along with local diners, often run deals that reinforce the date every year. In fact, McDonald’s told us they’re offering 50-cent Double Cheeseburgers all day through their McDonald’s App, at participating locations. They’re also bringing back Extra Value Meals, which include the $5 Sausage McMuffin with Egg, and the $8 Big Mac meals.
But if fast food isn’t your thing, here are ten of the best-rated cheeseburgers (or burger joints known for great cheeseburgers) in Central Florida, with what makes each one special. Taste is subjective, but these keep coming up in reviews, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and local guides.
Top Cheeseburgers in Central Florida
- The Hideaway – Orlando
A longtime local favorite, The Hideaway serves up a burger known as the Hideaway Special with American cheese, bacon, grilled onions, lettuce, tomato. The bun is buttery, the patty juicy, and it’s one of those reliably satisfying cheeseburgers when you want classic over fancy. - Teak Neighborhood Grill – Orlando
Teak is praised for its atmosphere and its burgers. The Waffle Burger gets attention, but their cheeseburger options, cooked well, great toppings, fresh ingredients, earn them regular mention on plenty of the “best burger” lists. - Johnny’s Other Side – Orlando
This spot gets praise for no-frills, high-quality burgers. Their Ultimate Cheeseburger is often the go-to, with a perfectly cooked patty, good melting cheese, solid bun, and great flavor. It’s not trying to be over the top; it just nails what people expect from a delicious cheeseburger. - The Whiskey – Orlando
For those looking for gourmet cheeseburgers in a polished setting, The Whiskey delivers. They pair high‐quality beef with interesting toppings, often house-made sauces, and a strong attention to how everything fits together. Plus, they know how to make a good drink to wash it down with. - Cow & Cheese
This spot specializes in smash burgers, that’s burgers made by smashing the patties thin on a hot griddle, which gives them crispy edges and strong beefy flavor. They use premium ingredients: toasted brioche buns, fresh cheese (American) and sauces made in-house.
