From roadside general stores to trendy gastropubs, Montgomery County offers a burger for every taste. With National Cheeseburger Day on September 18, here are a few can’t-miss picks.
Sunshine Burger – 22300 Georgia Ave, Brookeville: Many consider the Sunshine Burger from the Sunshine General Store in Brookeville, MD (often referred to as Sunshine, between Olney and Damascus) the best burger in Maryland. The burger boasts a ½ pound of ground beef topped with lettuce, tomato, onions, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. However, part of the burger’s charm lies in the unique atmosphere of the General Store itself. A MoCoShow commenter once wrote “Best burger in Maryland, just don’t look at the walls.” Seven years ago, we provided a step-by-step look at the Sunshine General Store where the famous burger is made. In our 2018 piece, we wrote, “The inside looks like a truck stop diner scene from an ’80s movie. After passing the register, you’ll see a few tables and four stools at the counter of the dining area.”
Steeze Burger – Pop-Ups Across MoCo
Named the #1 burger in the DMV by The Washington Post, Steeze Burger delivers a smashburger topped with steamed onions, pickles, and American cheese. Founded by Laytonsville’s Hunter Karametos, Steeze pops up at breweries and festivals around the county. He’ll be at UnCorked Beer/Wine Market & Bar (8525 Chevy Chase Lake Terrace, Suite 301) on Thursday September 18 at 5pm and at West Side Shady Grove (Tribeca St. & Columbus Ave. Derwood) on Friday September 19 at 5pm.
Duke’s Grocery – 10128 River Rd, Potomac
This London-inspired gastropub brought its award-winning Proper Burger to Montgomery County in 2024. A multiple-time “Best Burger in DC” winner, the signature burger typically features two Angus beef patties (often sourced from Creekstone Farms, known for their premium, never-frozen beef), and topped with melted Gouda cheese. Adding to its distinct profile are peppery arugula, tangy pickled red onions, and a duo of sauces– a sweet and spicy chili sauce alongside a rich garlic aioli. All these components are placed within a soft, often locally sourced, brioche or ciabatta bun. The result is a juicy, flavorful burger that delivers a truly “proper” gastropub experience.
The Crossvines – 16601 W Willard Rd, Poolesville: At the Farmhouse Bistro, the burger, which features creamy cheddar cheese, baconm and onion jam, has earned praise as one of the best in the county. The scenic vineyard setting and farm-to-table menu elevate the dining experience beyond the burger.
Quarry House Tavern (8401 Georgia Ave. Unit B Silver Spring, MD): The Quarry House Tavern, located in Silver Spring, Maryland, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 1930s. Originally established as a barbershop during the Prohibition era, the establishment transformed into a tavern after the repeal of the 18th Amendment in 1933 holding Montgomery County’s second liquor license.
Over the years, the Quarry House Tavern has evolved into a beloved neighborhood institution, renowned for its cozy atmosphere and extensive selection of craft beers. One of the standout features of the Quarry House Tavern is its legendary burgers.
The tavern’s menu is revered for its mouthwatering creations, with the burgers often stealing the spotlight. My personal favorite is the QH burger, it consists of a juicy 7oz angus beef patty, lettuce, tomato, onion and QH sauce. I like to pair mine with cheese tots and an ice cold local beer. The combination of its historical significance, delectable burgers and the pioneering liquor license Make Quarry House Tavern an enduring symbol of Silver Springs vibrant cultural heritage.
White’s Ferry Grill (24801 White’s Ferry Rd. Dickerson, MD): The ferry may have ceased operations, but the grill is definitely not. In 2019, Devin Ramazon and his father saw the White’s Ferry Store & Grill building up for lease. Neither had been involved in the restaurant business before, but they knew how to make a good burger and decided to take a chance.
