Yes, Burger Bar on the Turnpike is legendary and deserves a spot on your Oak Ridge burger tour. But you’d be overlooking so many juicy patties, crispy fries, and creative toppings if you ended your quest there. Here are our other favorite burger joints in town; some excel at classic American cheeseburgers, while others bring a bit of gourmet flair to Tennessee.
Applebee’s Grill + Bar
$$ | (865) 483-1234 | WEBSITE
There are several Applebee’s locations in Oak Ridge, but the cozy, historical spot on the main drag is the best one for grabbing a bite after work or before catching a movie. They do excellent (and generous) Cajun salmon plates, plus perfectly grilled chicken dishes. If you’re visiting during the holidays, definitely order one of their tall brewtus and ask for Christine—she’ll make sure you have a wonderful time.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
$ | (865) 272-5177 | WEBSITE
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers has been a family favorite in Oak Ridge for years, and not much has changed since it opened. It can get packed around dinner time or weekends, when families fill the bright, clean dining area for smash style burgers and crispy tots. Head here for a classic burger with keto options or a kid-friendly meal, but don’t plan on lingering too long—the parking lot is spacious but shared with other buildings, making spots a bit tight.
They don’t serve alcohol, but you can get a delicious fruit concrete with coconut and strawberry next door at the custard counter.
Woody’s Bar & Grill
$ | (833) 699-6639 | WEBSITE
Woody’s does smoked dishes, and does them really well. While you can close your eyes and point to pretty much anything on the menu and walk away satisfied, the Rueben and Lil Woody cheeseburger are musts—they’re generous and flavorful, cooked exactly how you want. They focus on smoked items without a fryer, featuring the pulled pork, Cuban, and sloppy tater, and they’re one of the few spots in Oak Ridge that offer unique BBQ sauces.
There’s cornhole outside, but if the space is packed, take your massive portions to enjoy elsewhere. The Mac n cheese is delicious, and for those looking to try more, the Sausage Party and Nachos are good starters. Despite the deceiving exterior, inside you’re greeted with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere. Many recommend the collard greens as the best in the world, and dessert is top-notch.
Billy’s Time Out Deli
$ | (865) 483-6784 | WEBSITE
There are only a handful of cozy indoor tables at this consistently popular deli in Oak Ridge, so try to come by during the off hours (either right when they open or before/after the lunch rush) to snag a seat if you want a sit-down meal. The Ham and Cheese hoagie is always terrific, as is the steak in a sack that’s stacked with heaps of meat and has the perfect ratio of savory steak, fried mushrooms, and fresh toppings.
On your way out, grab at least one extra order of those fried mushrooms for the road.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
$ | (865) 617-0836 | WEBSITE
What began as a simple ice cream stop has become an unexpected haven for drive-thru enthusiasts. To get your fix, pull into the lane, wait for the cheerful voice, then cruise up to the bright, clean window where the staff offers Blizzards, burgers, and hot meals. Zero in on the Reese’s Cup Blizzard, the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, with peanut butter cups and chocolate adding extra magic.
Or the not overly sweet vanilla cone—the smooth soft-serve hits all the right notes and is rich without being overwhelming. The cheerful staff, like manager Keagan and Blizzard-maker Leif, provide that dedicated service that keeps you coming back, even if you occasionally face a wait after being asked to pull forward. It’s a spot where the freshly cooked food and fantastic atmosphere make the slightly higher prices worth it for that quick snack or full meal.
Jefferson Fountain
$ | (865) 482-1141 | WEBSITE
Jefferson Fountain is a hidden gem in Oak Ridge, known for its exceptional service that makes each customer feel special. This family-owned and operated establishment is a must-try for anyone visiting, especially for breakfast or lunch. The menu offers delicious options like the best patty melt and homemade spun milkshakes, along with tasty homemade gravy. The restaurant is busy on most Saturdays, making it a great spot to chill for a hearty first meal of the day.
With limited daytime hours, planning a visit is essential. The pricing is unbeatable, with most items under $12, and the quality of food is top-notch, making it a fantastic choice for families and those with mobility issues. If you want a more leisurely experience, try visiting on a weekday morning when the cozy vinyl booths are more available.
Otherwise, plan to grab your patty melt to go, bring whatever you got home, or stash one of those milkshakes in your car for an afternoon treat while exploring Oak Ridge.
Hole In The Wall Cafe, LLC
$ | (865) 294-4143 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving a burger in Oak Ridge, head to Hole In The Wall Cafe first. And if you’re not in the mood for a burger, come to Hole In The Wall anyway—they serve breakfast and lunch, with seating both at the counter and in cozy booths. Go with any burger-heavy dish, like the classic cheeseburger topped with a generous pile of crisp lettuce or the bacon burger with a perfect smear of tangy sauce. The onion rings are great, too, and on-par with what you’ll find at any classic American diner.