The 3 best burgers in Erie, according to our readers

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By Stacy Rounds

December 19, 2024

The best thing about burgers is how approachable they are. Just about anybody can eat a burger. You often find burgers on kids’ menus and in cafeterias. They’re the perfect mix of delicious tender protein, vegetables (sometimes), cheese, and flavorful fillings and toppings. And you can eat them with your hands.

Burgers have always been an essential staple food in Erie. It’s something you can enjoy any time of year: a summertime burger at Sara’s, a dreary rainy day saved by the warmth of McGarrey Oakwood Cafe, or a fireside feast at Firestone’s during a snowstorm — that is if the roads aren’t fully shut down.

Every restaurant has its own specialty burger recipe. And most of the time these specific flavor combinations and textures are trade secrets we simply cannot recreate at home — no matter how hard we try.

Each of the three best burger joints in Erie brings something unique to the table, making our little hometown a destination for burger lovers. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet bougie burger or something simple and classic, these local favorites in Erie, according to your votes, have got you covered.

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3. Firestone’s Kitchen

Firestone’s Kitchen, named one of the best overall restaurants in Erie is also a popular location for burger lovers. Here, it’s all about the meat. While this spot is also known for its creative and flavorful burger options, the quality of the house-butchered meat is what keeps people coming back.

For example, Firestone’s Smash Burger is made from 1/3lb ground brisket, prime cuts of chuck, and short rib of beef. These are premium cuts, not just toss-away ground chuck. For a place renowned for its amazing steaks, it’s not at all surprising that you can get an amazing burger here.

One of the best seasonal items on the menu is the Smoked Cooper Smash. Anyone who knows me knows I love good cheese, and this cooper cheese burger with black garlic aioli does not disappoint.

So you’re probably going to drop a few bucks for a bougie burger here, but that’s part of the experience. If you’re up at Millcreek Mall and want a burger that isn’t Wendy’s (no offense to Wendy’s) Firestone’s is a great option for burger bliss.

2. McGarrey’s Oakwood Cafe

McGarrey’s Oakwood Cafe is one of my favorite places in town, and it has been so for as long as I can remember. Even though it’s the number two place for burgers in Erie according to your votes, McGarrey’s has been hailed as the number one spot to get a Reuben in town for many years. If you know, you know.

McGarrey’s opened in 1978 and has been dishing out amazing food in a cozy atmosphere for all that time. It’s a family-owned affair, and it feels like family, too. Everyone is welcome, from kids who love their burgers with a side of fries and apple juice to gruff grandpas who love their burgers with a side of Jameson.

I’m not sure how other burger lovers roll, but I am a big fan of McGarrey’s half-pound Angus burger smothered with a big old ladle of Greek sauce. Pair that with a heaping side of homemade mashed potatoes for a filling lunch on a cold day. It’s one of my favorite affordable meals in Erie.

That’s another thing. McGarrey‘s prides itself on being an affordable place to eat. Even now with the prices of everything going up, you can still get a meal there for around ten bucks.

1. Bro Man’s Sammiches

Everyone is talking about Bro Man’s. I feel like, as a defected Erie-ite living in Pittsburgh, I’m missing out on something great. According to those who still live and eat in Erie, this is hands-down the best place to get a burger in town. I swear I’ll try one the next time I’m visiting my family. I can’t take much more of the FOMO.

It’s pretty cool that Bro Man’s started as a food truck, moved into a gas station, and is now occupying the old George’s restaurant. And the whole time, at every location, and through all the growth and challenges, it’s said that they’ve put out a killer, consistent product.

I’ve heard that one of Bro Man’s best sammiches is the Big Bro, a smashed burger topped with cheddar cheese, pickles, a crispy cheese waffle, pastrami, and chipotle honey mustard sauce. For those who prefer a more refined flavor, the Mushroom Swiss Sooner is apparently a must-try. This smash patty is smothered in grilled onions, cremini mushrooms, Swiss cheese, and “magical” umami mayo — a luxurious taste combination that feels gourmet without being pretentious.

The atmosphere at the new Bro Man’s location is perfect for laid-back quick cuisine. While the Gulf station location will remain open, the menu will become more limited. At the new spot, you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the best burgers in Erie (plus birria, tacos, and more) without a ton of fuss at comfortable tables and booths. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Erie, this burger joint is definitely worth a visit.

Author

Stacy Rounds

Stacy Rounds is a writer and growth producer for The Keystone. Prior to joining the team, Stacy has worked as a writer, editor, and engagement specialist covering topics ranging from local history, disability advocacy, recreation, and food hotspots to relationships and mental health.

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