If you’ve been craving a proper burger in Asheboro, the search ends here. But if you’re new to town, it’s time to discover where locals go for that perfect patty, melted cheese, and crispy fries. The burger joint is a classic American experience that promises the juiciest bites and most satisfying meals you’ll find this side of the state. Where to start? Right here with this list of Asheboro’s finest.
Route 64 Diner
$ | (336) 628-0094 | WEBSITE
Some mighty fine bacon cheeseburgers are waiting for you at Route 64 Diner. They’re perfectly assembled and shockingly delicious considering how difficult it is to nail a classic diner burger. To get them, you’ll need to prepare accordingly: bring about $12 cash, show up any day before 9pm, and find a place to enjoy your feast, because this cozy roadside diner has limited counter seating. A picnic table outside will work in a pinch—yes, we’re speaking from experience.
The crispy onion rings are nicely golden-brown, while the BLT and fries is simple to a point that’s almost nostalgic, but we kind of don’t mind. Both should make it onto your rotation of sides.
Cook Out
$ | (866) 547-0011 | WEBSITE
If you’re cruising through Asheboro, Cook Out is absolutely worth a quick detour for a drive-thru meal. While there’s seating inside the fairly clean space (keep your expectations in check as the atmosphere is somewhat lacking), you won’t find many people lingering long. This fast-food spot does know its way around a good burger and some tasty chicken strips, though. The barbecue with coleslaw should make its way into your order, right along with the fresh hush puppies.
Pancakes House
$ | (336) 628-4488 | WEBSITE
Timing, as the saying goes, is everything. Just ask Pancakes House, a breakfast haven in Asheboro that’s only open until mid-afternoon. You’ll have to plan accordingly to eat here, but your morning management skills will be rewarded with fluffy Mickey Mouse pancakes, crispy potatoes, and the obligatory Nutella crepe that comes with your breakfast order—technically, it’s not a “pancake,” but we’ll let it slide. The French toast is a surprising hit that’s worth making some room on your plate for.
Paw-Paw’s Place
$ | (336) 672-7577 | WEBSITE
The simple storefront with its faded awning and straightforward lettering might not turn heads, but the grill inside is firing on all cylinders. Paw-Paw’s Place has been serving Asheboro with hot dogs, hamburgers, and a standout Philly cheesesteak for years. The Hamburger Steak dinner is a quiet champion—a juicy, flavorful beef patty smothered with peppers, onions, and mushrooms, served with a side of fantastic coleslaw and well-liked fries.
You’ll get your food in about eight minutes, thanks to the friendly, efficient staff. Grab a generous portion, find easy parking, and settle into the welcoming atmosphere for the full Paw-Paw’s experience.
Señor Sazón Mexican Antojitos
$ | (336) 662-2208 | WEBSITE
Señor Sazón is the rising star of Mexican antojitos in Asheboro—it’s been serving authentic flavors with generous portions since opening. It’s the kind of place where you can still find hand-made tortillas and perfectly seasoned rice and beans. Everyone from local families to workers on lunch break settle into the casual seating for plates of carne asada, ACP, or one of the daily specials. On the side: your choice of delicious cheese dip and salsa that even those who avoid spicy foods will love.
And leaving without trying the especially satisfying carnitas is downright criminal.
Burger King
$ | (336) 629-7733 | WEBSITE
When it comes to burgers in Asheboro, Burger King is the reliable standard. After recent renovations, it reopened with the same friendly staff and hot burgers that hit the spot for a quick but satisfying meal. Our go-to picks are the classic Whopper, the surprisingly good chicken sandwich, the hearty breakfast crescent, and a side of crispy fries. And no visit is complete without letting the kids enjoy the clean, fenced-in playground outside.
Dixie Express
$ | (336) 626-5885 | WEBSITE
The promise of great prices only tells part of Dixie Express’s story. This Asheboro burger spot serves up delicious burgers, fries, and potato wedges that keep customers coming back despite the wait. And after all these visits, this local favorite isn’t resting on its reputation. You’ve got the typical fast-casual setup here with booths for tucking into the satisfying meals. Both the classic cheeseburger and Hawaiian burger are solid choices, though the pineapple can be sparse on the latter.
Throw in some crispy fries as your side, and for the love of all things beef, do not skip the potato wedges.
Dairi-O of Asheboro
$ | (336) 521-9102 | WEBSITE
Stepping into Dairi-O of Asheboro’s spacious indoor area with those clean, industrial high ceilings feels, for just a moment, like you’ve entered a classic American roadside diner that’s been perfectly preserved. Not a whole lot seems to have changed in the 8 years it’s been around, including the consistently tasty menu of juicy burgers, chicken souvlaki, and awesome ice cream and milkshakes.
The options are varied, but you can’t go wrong with the souvlaki combo with sweet potato waffle fries as your main and the tomato soup and grilled cheese as your vegetarian alternative. Always order some black berry ice cream or one of their legendary shakes for dessert.