Meridian’s best burgers of 2025 aren’t fussy. No truffle aioli drizzled with precision, gold-leaf brioche buns, or anything requiring the term “gastrique.” Instead, this year’s standout patties are just well-executed takes on the classics. Think smashed, grilled, and stacked—no validation needed beyond the first juicy bite. Save the fancy for another town.
Burnin’ Mouth Nashville Hot Chicken
$ | (986) 213-4083 | WEBSITE
This Nashville hot chicken spot in Meridian has had folks lining up for its fiery offerings. But the standout here is the Coo Coo Sando sandwich with its perfectly crispy chicken, juicy center, and that signature Nashville heat. It serves as a delicious reminder that, yes, everything tastes better when paired with those addictive fries coated in their tasty seasoning.
The cozy, inviting space with its playful crane game adds to the charm, making it a hidden gem worth discovering for around $15 a meal.
Carl’s Jr.
$ | (208) 884-2149 | WEBSITE
You could treat Carl’s Jr. exclusively as a burger joint, with the Famous Star Hamburger dominating the menu. But we have to give an edge to the breakfast versions. They have the same quality ingredients as the rest, but the loaded breakfast burrito’s generous size, juicy fillings, and affordable price point amp things up in a way regular old lunch simply can’t.
Five Guys
$ | (208) 288-2797 | WEBSITE
Five Guys specializes in burgers and fries, but one sip of these creamy marvels and our focus shifts. The shakes have perfectly smooth texture and rich flavor with a generous swirl of vanilla bean that brings fresh delight. No need to opt for the bacon cheeseburger option, either. These shakes taste better in their pure form.
Applebee’s Grill + Bar
$ | (208) 855-0343 | WEBSITE
Appetizer menus can feel predictable, but the nachos served at this casual American grill break the mold. The impressive mountain of chips is piled high with toppings like a game-day stadium snack. And each bite is layered with flavors that give it a satisfying crunch. Order a plate for the table, and as you dig into the shareable not-too-heavy starter, don’t forget a generous dip of the house salsa.
Biscuit & Hogs
$ | (208) 888-1506 | WEBSITE
In the heart of Meridian is a breakfast spot that also flings out happy hour bites, and the short rib Benedict occupies our thoughts way more than brunch dishes should. This thing has savory undertones and all of the comforting richness of a slow-cooked meal sans heaviness. And it’s so tender you could eat it with a spoon. The s’mores coffee is a smoky-sweet companion that lingers like dessert, while the Farmhouse meal arrives in generous portions that feel like a steal at under $15.
The cozy, rustic décor with warm lighting and wooden accents makes the wait during busy hours almost pleasant, especially with Leggette’s friendly service and the staff’s cheerful banter filling the air. Even the strawberry jam on the table has a homemade charm that ties everything together.
Sid’s Garage
$ | (208) 519-3092 | WEBSITE
This juicy burger has hidden layers of melted cheese and crispy bacon, smokiness, a bit of spice, and a savory umami bringing satisfaction and indulgence. Take full advantage of the golden, crispy local fries as a vehicle to get all the good stuff in your mouth as fast as possible.
Broken Yolk Cafe
$ | (208) 858-1501 | WEBSITE
If we could only eat one dish from this welcoming Meridian breakfast spot, it would be the Caprese Eggs Benedict—the morning’s greatest. The fresh mozzarella, pesto drizzle, and perfectly poached eggs just all come together so beautifully in each delicious bite. Give us a plate of these and a strong coffee, and we’re absolutely satisfied.
Fanci Freez Burgers and Shakes
$ | (208) 813-6226 | WEBSITE
Fanci Freez is a temple of fast food—and yet the best bite is a fried strip of tender beef. A crisp golden batter holds in a filler-free cut of steak, and then they go and serve each piece with an unlikely pairing of crispy onion rings and creamy ranch. Sounds all over the place, but the stuff just works.
IHOP
$ | (208) 888-1216 | WEBSITE
Here you have a stack of fluffy biscuits that embody the heartiness of country gravy, with a golden-brown crust that adds a nice crisp. Yet all that savory richness doesn’t get in the way of the buttery layers and warm, comforting texture. It’s the main draw of this Meridian breakfast spot’s menu, and it has everything you want—and nothing you don’t.
Voodoo Brewing-Meridian
$ | (208) 888-2321 | WEBSITE
Here’s a burger joint that earned its master’s in craft. Crispy on the outside and juicy in the center, the upgraded wings at this Meridian brewery are already stellar—and the house-made cheese sauce for the soft pretzel cuts through the hoppy bitterness. If you’re with someone who has the audacity to skip appetizers on behalf of the entire group, prevent them from speaking at all costs. Dive-tackle if you have to.
The friendly staff keeps things moving even when the patio fills up, and while those bar stools might test your patience, the overall vibe—complete with available games—makes it worth sticking around. This is the kind of place where great service meets delicious food, saving nights even when the weather turns.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
$ | (208) 888-9029 | WEBSITE
Within the sturdy walls of a chicken strip basket, moist meat and just-right breading become a duo as iconic as a classic Blizzard on a summer day. The strips are wonderfully flavorful, the basket locks them in well without weighing it down, and a side of dipping sauce brightens up all that crispy goodness. Ice cream machines, don’t take it personally.
Culver’s
$ | (208) 895-2753 | WEBSITE
This is the second time a butter burger has been inducted into our Best Burgers hall of fame, which is an achievement for Midwestern comfort food everywhere. The ones at Culver’s feature perfectly seasoned beef, which defies the laws of fast-casual physics—just enough juiciness yet a satisfying char that holds its own against a soft toasted bun. The combination of gooey Wisconsin cheese and melted butter is a genius move, too, and extra-crispy fries cool it all down.