One Memphis burger joint has been frying its patties in the same seasoned grease since 1912. Yes, the burgers get deep-fried, and the fries swim in that same famous oil.
That single detail tells you a lot about Tennessee burger culture. Some of the best cheeseburgers in the state come from places with dim lights, picnic tables, or a drive-thru window. One menu even lists a 27-ounce burger.
I love that none of these spots try to be fancy. They focus on thin crispy edges, melty cheese, and buns that soak up the good stuff. Napkins are not optional.
The list below runs from Memphis to Knoxville, with plenty of Nashville stops along the way. Each one has its own quirk, from grilled honey buns to funnel cake fries.
1. Dyer’s Burgers, Memphis
Some kitchens change their oil weekly, but this one treats its grease like a family heirloom. Dyer’s has been famous for its distinctive grease-frying tradition since 1912, with cooking grease strained and seasoned as part of its longstanding process.
According to Dyer’s, its legendary cooking method dates back to 1912. The grease is strained and seasoned daily, although the claim that the exact same grease has survived since 1912 is part of the restaurant’s lore.
Here’s how it works. Thin steak patties get deep-fried until the edges turn crispy and lacy.
The result is juicy in the middle and crunchy around the rim. It’s messy, salty, and exactly the kind of burger that ruins a clean shirt.
Your best starting point is the Dyer’s Double Double, which comes with two patties and two slices of cheese, accompanied by the restaurant’s traditional mustard, pickle, and onion.
Feeling bolder? The menu also lists the Filthy Diablo, which sounds like a burger with a reputation.
Fries come hand-cut and take a trip through that same famous grease. A Double Bologna sandwich is also on the board for anyone craving old-school Southern flavor.
Save room if you can. Deep-fried PB&J and a deep-fried Twinkie wait on the dessert side, because why stop now?
The room itself leans into the 1950s diner look. It feels small-scale and historic, which fits a burger with more than a century of backstory.
Beale Street is one of the most famous music streets in Tennessee. Dyer’s sits right in the thick of it, so you can grab dinner between strolls.
Want a calmer meal? Weekday afternoons and Sunday daytime tend to be quieter.
2. Johnny’s Big Burger, Clarksville
A honey bun hitting a hot grill might be the best surprise in Clarksville. At Johnny’s Big Burger, that sticky dessert shares the spotlight with seriously greasy cheeseburgers.
Let’s start with the main event, though. The Double Cheeseburger and Fries is the order that keeps this redbrick spot on the map.
These burgers are not shy about grease. Expect juicy, flavorful patties that drip in the best possible way.
Pair them with crinkle fries for the full old-fashioned effect. It’s simple food done the way small-town diners have done it for ages.
There’s also a Cheeseburger Steak on the menu. Think of it as a burger that decided to skip the bun and sit down for dinner.
Now, about that honey bun. The menu offers it grilled or fried, topped with ice cream, and it may be the most talked-about dessert in town.
Warm, gooey bun plus cold ice cream is a smart combo. You’ll probably want your own instead of sharing.
The building won’t win any design awards. It’s old, a little cramped, and the lighting is on the dim side.
Honestly, that’s part of the charm. Nobody comes here for chandeliers.
Early birds have good news coming. Doors open at 7 AM Monday through Saturday, so breakfast is on the table too. Sunday is a day off, so plan around it.
Hours run until 10 PM the rest of the week.
Friday afternoons and Saturday evenings bring the biggest crowds. Late weeknights tend to feel more relaxed.
Parking usually isn’t a headache, with a free lot and free street spots nearby. That’s a nice bonus near downtown Clarksville.
Service runs fast, and the pace inside stays easygoing. It’s the kind of Tennessee burger joint where nobody rushes you out.
3. Dub’s Place, Red Bank
Retro burger stands are supposed to feel like a time machine, and Red Bank has a good one. Dub’s Place serves hearty burgers with a throwback attitude.
Just north of Chattanooga, this counter-service spot keeps things simple. Order at the window, grab your basket, and find a seat.
Outdoor seating makes nice-weather visits even better. Dogs are welcome both inside and outside, so your four-legged buddy can tag along.
Burgers headline the menu here. They’re filling, unfussy, and built for hungry people.
Fries come out crispy, and the slaw is a strong sidekick. Red garlic potatoes are another side worth trying if you want something different.
The menu stretches well beyond burgers. BBQ plates, chicken fingers, fish sandwiches, and two all-beef hot dogs are all options.
One name stands out on the board. The Chattaboogie Chicken Sandwich sounds like it should come with its own dance move.
Here’s a sleeper pick. The homemade pimento cheese sandwich has earned serious love from fans.
Pimento cheese is a Southern staple, so seeing it done from scratch is a treat. It’s creamy, tangy comfort between two slices.
Save room for dessert. Ice cream is a big part of the Dub’s identity, and it pairs nicely with a salty burger.
Wednesday evenings and weekend afternoons tend to get busy. Weekday mornings right after opening are calmer.
Kids have their own menu, which keeps family trips easy. It’s a laid-back stop that feels like a neighborhood hangout.
4. Grillshack Fries and Burgers, Nashville
Dinner on a screened-in porch sounds like a backyard cookout. At this East Nashville roadside shack, that’s exactly where you’ll eat.
Grillshack keeps the setup basic. You order at the counter, then head to the detached porch with its picnic tables.
No table service, no fuss. Just you, a tray, and a burger that needs both hands.
The beef is locally sourced, which is a nice touch for a hole-in-the-wall joint. The Grillshack Burger and Fries is the obvious first order.
Fries come thick-cut, so they hold up to dipping. Speaking of dipping, the sauces here get plenty of attention.
Wings and tenders round out the menu for anyone who wants more than a burger. Grilled cheese is also available for simpler cravings.
Vegetarians get a real shot here too. The shack offers a full vegetarian menu, which is rare at a burger stand.
Fans have been known to drive hours just for a burger here. That’s a strong sign this little shack punches above its size.
Food can take a few minutes during rushes. Most folks agree the wait pays off.
Hours are easy to remember. It’s open daily from 11 AM to 8 PM. Tuesday evenings and Friday afternoons see the biggest crowds.
Late mornings tend to be quieter if you want an easy lunch.
Plan ahead on one detail. There’s no restroom on site, so stop somewhere before you come.
Kids get their own menu too. It’s a relaxed, welcoming stop with a laid-back Nashville neighborhood feel.
5. Brown’s Diner, Nashville
Back in 1927, this little Nashville diner started flipping burgers. It’s still family-run and still keeping things delightfully no-frills.
Brown’s Diner is the kind of spot people call crusty, and they mean it kindly. The space is small, worn, and full of character.
Nearly a century of history shows in the walls. You’re eating inside a true Nashville institution.
The burgers are the reason to come. Try the Smash Burger if you love crispy, pressed edges.
Want a Southern twist? Lynn’s Pimento Burger piles on pimento cheese for a rich, gooey bite.
Onion rings make a solid side. Hush puppies also show up on the menu, adding a little cornmeal crunch.
Breakfast is served too. Doors open at 7:30 AM most weekdays, 8 AM Saturday, and 9 AM Sunday.
Live music adds to the fun on some nights. In Music City, a burger with a soundtrack just makes sense.
It’s also a handy place to catch a game. Free Wi-Fi is available if you need to check messages between bites.
Sundays get busy from morning to evening. Weeknight evenings can also draw a crowd.
The quietest stretches tend to come later on weeknights. Reservations aren’t taken, so walk right in.
Outdoor seating is available, and dogs are welcome outside. That’s a nice option on pleasant Tennessee days.
Parking is usually manageable, with lots and street spots nearby. The diner sits near the Hillsboro Village and Green Hills areas.
Kids have a menu of their own here. Staff are known for friendly, quick service that matches the easygoing mood.
6. Inskip Grill, Knoxville
A burger named after a famous Appalachian moonshiner tells you this place has a sense of humor. Inskip Grill brings big personality to North Knoxville.
The Popcorn Sutton Burger is just one of the playful names here. You’ll also spot the Elvis Burger Cloned and the Happy Holler Burger.
Each specialty burger leans on creative flavor combos. Portions are large, so arrive hungry.
Sides get just as wild. Waffle Ranch Fries and Grilla Poutine Fries take the humble potato to new places.
Then there are funnel cake fries. Yes, fair food made it onto a burger menu, and that’s great news.
Grilla Balls and onion rings are other fun starters. Ice cream and milkshakes handle dessert duty.
The walls are covered with interesting art. There’s even a small arcade, which helps kids stay busy before the food lands.
Families will find plenty of support here. High chairs and a kids’ menu are both available.
Staff are known for friendly, attentive service. Food also tends to come out quickly.
Sunday afternoons and weekend evenings bring the biggest crowds. Weekday openings are calmer.
Can’t make it in? Delivery and takeout are available, including no-contact delivery.
Knoxville has plenty of burger options, but few with this much flair. It’s a fun, slightly goofy spot that still takes its burgers seriously.
7. Fat Mo’s, Nashville
More than 27 ounces of burger is less a meal and more a personal challenge. Fat Mo’s offers the Super Deluxe, an oversized burger loaded with grilled mushrooms, onions, bacon, BBQ sauce, and jalapeños.
This casual Nashville stop runs on a drive-thru and walk-up style. There’s no indoor table service, just big burgers made fresh.
If 27 ounces feels like too much, there’s a friendlier pick. The Double Mo’s Burger offers another hearty option for anyone who wants something smaller than the Super Deluxe.
Spicy fries are available as an option, and they’re a great match for a cold chocolate shake.
That shake has a loyal fan club of its own. Thick, chocolatey, and ideal for cooling down after spicy fries.
The menu keeps going from there. Hot dogs, chicken nuggets, and both grilled and fried chicken sandwiches are available.
Fried mushrooms and cheese sticks make good sides. A veggie burger is also on hand for anyone skipping beef.
Staff are known for being kind and helpful. Prices stay friendly too, which matters when you’re feeding a hungry crew.
Outdoor seating lets you eat right away. Dogs are allowed outside, so your pup can join the picnic.
Tennessee has its share of burger legends, and this one earns a spot. It’s old-school, no-frills, and very generous with the beef.
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