The 5 Best Burgers Around Truckee/North Lake Tahoe Region

A well-made burger is the culinary equivalent of a handshake — simple, satisfying and surprisingly personal. Whether it’s the smoky char from the grill, the sharp tang of pickles or the perfect crunch of lettuce against a toasted bun, everyone has a favorite variation. The local burger scene is as diverse as the people who flock to these mountain towns, with flavors that range from classic Americana to modern twists. The Best of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee highlights a few local burger joints that don’t just serve patties — they serve personality.

Bridgetender Tavern and Grill

At Bridgetender Tavern and Grill, the burger is more than just a menu item — it’s practically a rite of passage for anyone hungry after a day on the lake or trail. Since 1977, this Tahoe City institution has been flipping burgers with purpose and pairing them with one of the area’s best beer selections. The vibe is unfussy and all about substance: wooden booths, patio seating along the Truckee River, and friendly staff who know their way around both the grill and the tap. The menu features a full lineup of beef, turkey and veggie burgers, with customization encouraged. Add jalapeños, bacon or even house-made BBQ sauce and you've got a burger built for your appetite and your mood. For locals and visitors alike, the Bridgetender keeps it real — one juicy bite at a time.

Inclined Burgers and Brews

Inclined Burgers and Brews brings a modern craft approach to a timeless comfort food. Located in Incline Village and independently owned, this counter-service spot was born from a love of simple, high-quality ingredients. They focus on never-frozen beef, freshly baked buns and sauces made in-house — down to the garlic aioli. The result is a burger that tastes clean but indulgent, refined but unfussy. The menu doesn’t overwhelm; instead, it sticks to a few crowd-pleasing staples done well. Their beer list highlights local and regional brewers, creating an easy pairing for every patty. Inclined Burgers may be young compared to some Tahoe legends, but it’s already carved out a loyal following by doing the fundamentals right and with care.

Burger Me

Burger Me in Truckee is the kind of place that takes its meat seriously — so seriously, in fact, that it sources local, all-natural beef and offers elk, turkey, veggie and even ahi options. The business started in 2007 and quickly gained traction for thinking outside the burger box. With a laid-back interior and a come-as-you-are vibe, Burger Me combines fast-casual convenience with food that’s anything but generic. They grind their own meat in-house and cook it to order, giving diners a fresher, richer flavor profile. The menu features inventive takes like the Dirty Bird (a fried chicken sandwich with chipotle mayo) and a Western Burger crowned with onion rings. Burger Me doesn’t try to be fancy. It just tries to be really, really good. And it succeeds.

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