An Insider's Guide to The Olympia Region's Burger Joints
Whether you’re enjoying a cookout with friends and family or dining out at your favorite neighborhood spot, we all get a craving for burgers and fries.
Luckily our region is home to a unique collection of local burger spots in Olympia and beyond, all serving up decidedly different burgers.
Olympia's Must-Try Burgers
When you’re here and the burger craving hits, consider one of these local spots! Below is a curated list to help guide your hunger:
The Smashburger at ilk Lodge
Located in the heart of downtown Olympia, ilk Lodge is brewing some of Olympia's finest brews at their family-friendly taproom, while slinging some serious heat in the kitchen in the form of their scratch-made smash burgers (now made with grass-fed beef from Colvin Ranch in Tenino). Their hamburger buns are made in-house and you'd be a fool to skip the crispy fries. Want to look like a true pro? Go for the fried onion burger.
![The smashburger at ilk Lodge sitting next to a basket of crispy fries](https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ilk-lodge.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=5b36ace5fdeefb6d261eb4cf9d8621bc 320w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ilk-lodge.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=d137da89ad6ba7636592172eba5f397d 540w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ilk-lodge.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=310213dbf305dc016d175c8a92c6f9c2 768w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ilk-lodge.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=74d3285fc18a54dbd57d0c9cc2240fc8 1024w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ilk-lodge.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=d307902cd4d5fbcbe983024bf1140fbb 1200w)
Any Burger at State and Central
Head to this eastside Olympia neighborhood gem (conveniently located on the corners of State and Central) and enjoy a variety of specialty burgers from their ever-evolving menu. We're partial to the Oklahoma Burger with onions griddled right into the patty, but you can never go wrong with the iconic Juicy Lucy (with gooey cheese oozing from the center) or the Chorizo Burger with an egg slapped on top.
![A burger and fries in a basket with a pickle spear](https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/state-and-central.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=03cb506756a402605d29bf7180030b0a 320w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/state-and-central.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=afe963954bfa9cfb13f78e2ee50330ce 540w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/state-and-central.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=920f71e8f17eade2045eaefefdb83545 768w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/state-and-central.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=3db6c30d3ca562e046c9bac02960fbfc 1024w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/state-and-central.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=b26d2bd429d75ad077af53446ffd36f1 1080w)
The Truffle Mushroom Burger at Cove
This family-friendly sports bar and grill is home to the coveted Truffle Mushroom Burger which features two beef patties, arugula, havarti/cheddar blend, truffle aioli, and sauteed mushrooms. But you'd be remiss if you didn't also consider their two-patty Smash Burger with sharp white cheddar cheese, bacon jam, caramelized onion, and garlic aioli. With 16 beers on tap, wine, seasonal craft cocktails, and live music, the Cove doesn't disappoint.
![A cheeseburger with grilled mushrooms and crispy fries.](https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/cove-mushroom-truffle-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=c7b801d6af990eb1170ed3a295f1b018 320w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/cove-mushroom-truffle-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=49aab0fc771188e38300388bd777b23c 540w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/cove-mushroom-truffle-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=13e383585770a12eb9a20ccded5a6daa 768w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/cove-mushroom-truffle-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=e554f3edb95ff9640777208b1ea92f26 1024w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/cove-mushroom-truffle-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=33a33c13893aa8822d975a060116a055 1200w)
Cheeseburger at Row
If you're looking for somewhere to enjoy great food on a waterfront patio, look no further than Row - located right off Percival Landing. Before you dive into a cheeseburger served on a brioche bun with tartar sauce and all the fixings, start off with a charcuterie board and a cocktail.
![A customer at Ranch House BBQ & Steakhouse seasons their fries.](https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ranchhouseburger.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=15663ba1e5850ac829840ad85a3e22b1 320w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ranchhouseburger.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=19af06ec2cf3a2c4fc3d1921a30b4bdc 540w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ranchhouseburger.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=e727c1b3e27b11240e16630244ca6097 768w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ranchhouseburger.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=bad12880e23a74eb64bb57879a03853f 1024w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ranchhouseburger.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=6aafc27071985f14341f7da0bfd6ad3e 1200w)
Chili Burger at Ranch House BBQ & Steakhouse
Ranch House BBQ knows a thing or two about real BBQ! Born and raised in Olympia, pitmaster Amy Anderson has competed on the national level and taken home championship titles in Washington, California, Arizona and Nevada. For something decidedly different, try the classic, house-grilled chili burger, topped with the award-winning chili.
Beyond Burger at Well 80 Brewhouse
The Well 80 Brewhouse is one-part brewery, one-part brewpub built on the site of one of Olympia’s famous Artesian wells. In fact, the delicious well water is used in brewing their line of tasty, craft beers. When it comes to burgers, vegetarians and vegans rejoice! Well 80 customizes any of its burgers with the Beyond Burger patty (GF, V), with a delicious side of fries, tots, house salad or soup.
The Big Pete Double Burger at Van's Burgers
Van's Burger, a local favorite in Olympia, WA, is a classic burger stand known for its simple yet delicious menu and the Big Pete Double Burger. Their burgers are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooked to order, resulting in juicy patties with just the right amount of char. With a focus on quality and friendly service, Van's Burger consistently draws crowds and is a must-try for burger enthusiasts. Pro-tip: don't skip the fry sauce
![A cheeseburger from Van's Burgers with melting cheese oozing down it's sides.](https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/vans-burgers.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=500c3455f4ed7184a4e509f9e755eaa9 320w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/vans-burgers.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=d6489fd3c3890e722e4ee6d988f685b2 540w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/vans-burgers.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=af83f4509a8f080049ac05bbee00149d 768w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/vans-burgers.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=e2a2a86405f497a2375c2e186c693701 960w)
Happy Hour 80/20 Burger at Ricardo's Kitchen + Bar
Located in Lacey, Ricardo’s Kitchen + Bar is a romantic, family-owned steakhouse that celebrates Italian-inspired cuisine. The restaurant utilizes top-grade ingredients from local vendors and rotates its menu seasonally. For an elevated burger experience, order the 80/20 burger on their Happy Hour Menu and you will not be disappointed.
![A cheeseburger and sauce on a wooden serving platter.](https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ricardos-8020-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=43680cfb1e53b7ba6626c079fae84569 320w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ricardos-8020-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=8cf9dbbbe0f603c6526bb85a308b3e4d 540w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ricardos-8020-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=2635d5b0124b153f220019c663949d84 768w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ricardos-8020-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=60ccb5d8905324985849e570f80d1342 1024w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/ricardos-8020-burger.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=1a3fb3f18a6075876e326b2a423a3766 1200w)
Expedition Elk Burger at McMenamins Spar Café
Olympia’s beloved Spar Café began as a blue collar joint for dockworkers and loggers, and continues today as a modern gathering spot for students, legislators and locals alike. The menu offers celebrated burgers including the decidedly different Expedition Elk Burger, served with coffee-bacon jam, black garlic aioli, white cheddar, lettuce, tomato, red onion and pickles on a sesame brioche bun.
Burger Bowl at Uptown Lounge
Uptown Lounge is a beloved restaurant and dining experience in the heart of Yelm, WA, about 20 minutes away from Olympia. The restaurant offers freshly prepared dishes with homemade ingredients, from burgers and salads to sandwiches and wraps. For a unique burger experience, order the “Burger Bowl.” No bun, no fries and no mess! Order any of the five specialty burgers, and have it served on a bed of romaine lettuce and your choice of dressing.
The Big (or Little) Tom at Eastside Big Tom
Hailed as the first drive-thru in Washington, this burger joint is the funnest and funniest family-friendly burger joint in town. We highly recommend the Big or Little Tom burgers which come with double meat and cheese, and Big Tom's iconic “goop” sauce. It doesn’t matter what’s in goop. It only matters that you need goop in your life. Goop is an institution, and that’s all you need to know. If you’re not a fan of beef there are chicken and fish options, and the hot dog with goop, pickles, onions, and ketchup is a solid choice as well. Crinkle fries, tater tots, onion rings - all three are ready to round out your meal. Do not miss out on their epic monthly special shakes and ice cream.
![An Eastside Big Tom burger with goop sauce and tater tots](https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/eastside-big-tom-burger-blog.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=eb28cc300dfb7a4c5b062fe5d5a5c595 320w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/eastside-big-tom-burger-blog.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=e87f3ba85aef261abb10d0e996ad8585 540w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/eastside-big-tom-burger-blog.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=4fa4ad682dd4fa8402827aaf17b49f9e 768w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/eastside-big-tom-burger-blog.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=6683c7765cede4042a84107d2495c532 1024w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/eastside-big-tom-burger-blog.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=490fd252da8e3af63161103a48521956 1200w, https://experience-olympia.imgix.net/images/blog-photos/eastside-big-tom-burger-blog.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=bde497222169045831ce0791560702c9 1263w)
Barge Burger at Tugboat Annie’s
Located on the Olympia waterfront, Tugboat Annie’s has been a beloved Northwest destination for more than 20 years. One-part restaurant, one-part kayak rental, Tugboat Annie’s embrace its maritime theme and serves up an eclectic menu of steaks, burgers and seafood. Bring the whole family down and order the Barge Burger, a massive, 10” diameter burger made from five of their regular hamburgers served on a Wagner’s Bakery bun.
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Related Content:
ilk Lodge
515 Jefferson St SE Olympia, Washington 98501
State and Central
1415 State Ave NE Olympia, Washington 98506 (360) 489-0824
The Cove
311 Capitol Way N Olympia, Washington 98501 (360) 915-9793
Row
208 State Ave NW, Olympia Olympia, Washington 98501 (360) 742-3975
Ranch House BBQ & Steakhouse
10841 Kennedy Creek Rd SW Olympia, Washington 98512 (360) 866-8704
Well 80 Brewhouse
514 4th Avenue E Olympia, Washington 98501 (360) 915-6653
Eastside Big Tom
2023 4th Avenue E Olympia, Washington 98506 (360) 357-4852
Ricardo’s Kitchen & Bar
676 Woodland Square Loop SE #B, Ste 130 Lacey, Washington 98503 (360) 413-9995
McMenamins Spar Café
114 4th Ave E Olympia, Washington 98501 (360) 357-6444
Uptown Lounge
201 Prairie Park Lane SE Yelm, Washington 98597 (360) 400-3457
Tugboat Annie’s
2100 W Bay Dr NW Olympia, Washington 98502 (360) 943-1850