Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — National Burger Day is here, and while the Alabama Gulf Coast is known for its world-class seafood, locals and visitors alike know there’s no shortage of incredible burger joints to satisfy any craving. Be sure to cast your vote for the best burger in the area at BestBurgersGulfShores.com and help us crown a local favorite!

Although the burger’s roots trace back to Germany, it quickly gained popularity in America thanks to immigration and innovation. In the 1800s, raw minced beef was often prescribed for digestive issues. That changed in 1867 when New York physician James H. Salisbury proposed cooking the patties—a move that inspired the now-famous “Salisbury Steak.” Around that time, meat grinders became household staples, and ground beef became more widely available.

Soon after, burgers as we know them began to take shape. Many credit Wisconsin with putting the burger on a bun, and of course, McDonald’s helped launch it into global stardom.

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.

🍔 Want more burger options?
Explore even more delicious spots and VOTE for your favorite at BestBurgersGulfShores.com. Happy National Burger Day from all of us here on the coast!