Purists: hold off on turning your nose up at Grind Modern Burger. There are certainly plenty of wild toppings at Grind, but the beef comes first. For those looking to shower themselves in burger decadence, try the Stockyard, a blend of 30 day dry aged ribeye brushed with bourbon barrel aged Worcestershire sauce and mushroom garlic butter. The sides at Grind are rich as well — try the orange glazed sweet potato tots and a sauce flight.
Grind Modern Burger, 705 W Fulton St, Boise, ID 83702 (208) 342-0944
Fries | © Alpha/Flickr
Boise Fry Company technically serves two things, burgers and fries, but in actuality the menu is pretty complex. You must choose from seven potato varieties and six different fry preparations before you even get to the burger. Once you do, you have the option of beef, bison, and vegan with several topping choices. Go classic with a bacon cheeseburger, or mix it up with blueberry salsa and spicy ketchup.
Boise Fry Company, 204 N Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702 (208) 949-7523
Three milkshakes | © Kurman Communications/Flickr
Zimm’s Burger Stache is a departure from Grind and Boise Fry Company in that it has a much more classic vibe. Zimm’s serves its burgers in a variety of styles, but the signature burger at Zimm’s is a cheeseburger topped with bacon and ham. If you can handle it, order it and make sure to add some potato gems and a classic Zimm’s shake.
Zimm’s Burger Stache, 10889 W Fairview Ave, Boise, ID 83713 (208) 514-3800
The burgers don’t get quite bigger than at Big Jud’s. Big Jud’s burger challenges were recently featured on Man Vs. Food. The challenge? Consume a Double Big Jud Special, a 2 lb. Burger, large fries, and a drink. (We’d recommend water, to give your arteries a break.) If you aren’t looking to explode, Big Jud’s has several reasonably sized burgers that you’ll love.
Big Jud’s, 1289 S Protest Rd, Boise, ID 83706 (208) 343-4439
By Ross Walker