While burgers may often seem like the safe option on a menu, Madison County’s restaurants are here to prove that they can be the best option. Burger connoisseurs and everyday diners can all agree that those select few on the Indiana Foodways Alliance “Between the Buns Burger Trail™” have burgers to beat!
Dortee’s Drive-In (Seasonal)
1101 N Harrison St. Alexandria, IN
If you’re looking for a small-town vibe where you can enjoy good ice cream and a burger with the gooiest cheese, this is the place! Have a big appetite? Order a triple!
“Dortee’s is a drive-in (remember those?) in Middle America. It seems to embrace that and everything that goes along with it. Ice cream, burgers, fries, and picnic tables to sit on while eating. This is the type of place that you went to after little league games when you were a kid.” – Yelper Eric W.
Frazier’s Dairy Maid (Seasonal)
3311 Main St. Anderson, IN
Without a doubt, the best way to eat a burger is with a side of ice cream. This old-fashioned drive-in, which opened in 1954, serves your classic array of fried fair stand foods, including a delicious burger.
“Curiosity pulled us here because they always seem to be popping with business. We now know why, great food and a wide variety of ice cream options. I can see how they’ve been in business for 70 years. The customer service was exceptional, and we got our order quickly. They definitely know how to make a real malt. It took me back to when I was a kid, very nostalgic atmosphere. We will definitely be back.” – Yelper Mallory P.
Gene’s Root Beer & Hot Dogs (Seasonal)
640 S Scatterfield Rd. Anderson, IN
For more nostalgia, drive up to Gene’s and put your flashers on when you’re ready to place your order. This classic drive-in may be named for its frosty mugs of root beer and delicious Spanish dogs, but the hamburger is a must-add for your order.
“I’ve been to this restaurant a few times and it’s really tasty. You wait in your car to be served your food 1950s style. When it arrives you are treated to a delicious hot dog or a mouthwatering cheeseburger and fries. Plus the root beer is sooo good!” – Yelper Alex D.
The Lemon Drop
1701 Mounds Rd. Anderson, IN
No one can forget the highest-rated restaurant on Yelp and TripAdvisor: The Lemon Drop. With an onion burger that people travel across states for, this is a must-visit for those who love burgers!
“I certainly understand why it is the number one rated restaurant in Anderson, and it isn’t just because of the wonderfully greasy onion burger (which is off the charts btw). The vibe in this place is awesome! Super old school and incredibly friendly.” – Yelper Kaleb M.
Moran’s Bar and Grill
1320 E 23rd St, Anderson, IN
Moran’s Bar & Grill offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels like the neighborhood gathering spot where everyone knows your name. Stop in for a juicy burger, pair it with your favorite drink, and enjoy the laid-back charm that keeps locals coming back.
“Absolutely the best burger I have ever had. You can’t go wrong with Moran’s signature burger. Great job to the entire staff. – Yelper David C.
Sulky’s Restaurant and Bar
4500 Dan Patch Circle, Anderson, IN
Care for a burger with your horse betting? Enjoy the great views of the horse racing track at Harrah’s Hoosier Park while savoring one of these high-quality burgers, grilled to perfection.
Sulky’s Restaurant & Bar recently opened; it has not been around long enough to build up reviews on sites like Yelp yet.
The Grill-A
4 W Main St, Markleville
The Grill-A may be a small-town hole-in-the-wall, but it has built a statewide reputation for its famous tenderloin. While that dish gets most of the attention, the burgers more than hold their own and are worth the trip as well.
“They have the best tenderloin in the state, hands down. The fries are amazing too. Everyone I know says the same thing about this place. It’s a gem and worth the road trip. Seating is somewhat limited, but they are expanding. They are also known for their pizza and burgers, although I’ve heard everything is great. I have had the tenderloin twice now, and it’s consistently perfect.” – Yelper Craig K.
The Tin Plate – Fine Food & Spirits
2233 South J St. Elwood, IN
From breaded pork tenderloins to beef manhattans, the Tin Plate does it well. And with burgers, the story remains the same. Want to add some flair? Add some shaved prime rib or pulled pork on top!
“Pleasant experience! We were visiting from Noblesville, and was looking for a place to eat a late lunch. We were referred here, and was a nice discovery for us! The staff were quite friendly, and attentive! Atmosphere was intimate and comfortable. The food was delicious and plentiful!!” – Yelper Marvin H.
