Many in Montgomery County are already well aware of the burgers coming out of Sunshine General Store in Brookeville. Now, that local favorite is getting statewide recognition. This past summer, Tasting Table named the Sunshine Burger the “Absolute Best Burger” in Maryland, putting a spotlight on the longtime staple along Georgia Avenue (video of the burger below).
In its write-up, Tasting Table highlighted the burger’s simplicity and classic approach, noting that the general store “may look a little rough around the edges on the outside,” but delivers a standout sandwich stacked with tender beef, thick-cut pickles, tomato, raw onion, American cheese, and optional bacon. With limited seating that includes a diner-style counter and small table, the focus is clearly on the food itself.
Locally, the Sunshine Burger has built a loyal following over the years. Many consider it not just one of the best in Montgomery County, but the best in the entire state. The half-pound burger typically comes topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise, offering a straightforward build that relies on quality and execution.
Part of what keeps people talking, though, goes beyond the food. The setting inside Sunshine General Store is famously… authentic. In a previous feature, we described it as resembling “a truck stop diner scene from an ’80s movie,” complete with a handful of tables and a small counter area. One commenter summed up the experience bluntly: “Best burger in Maryland, just don’t look at the walls.”
Despite the appearance, loyal customers continue to swear by it. Online reviews echo the same sentiment. One Yelp reviewer wrote, “Don’t let it fool you because they serve the best burger in DMV,” while another added, “Hands down the best burger you will ever eat… just don’t scrutinize the inside.”
The burger continues to spark conversation well beyond Brookeville. A recent post in the Frederick-based foodie group “The Frederick Fatty” drew thousands of reactions and hundreds of comments in a couple days, with many chiming in to defend its reputation as a must-try destination.
Even food critics have taken notice. After releasing its “10 Best Burgers in the D.C. Area” list in 2023, The Washington Post later acknowledged that the Sunshine Burger may have been overlooked. Writer Tim Carman noted that it “checks all the boxes,” praising its straightforward approach and reliance on the fundamentals of a great burger.
Still, not everyone is convinced. Over the years, some potential customers have admitted they couldn’t get past the store’s appearance, with one person saying they “walked in and walked right out.” It’s a divide that has only added to the burger’s mystique.
Love it or question it, the Sunshine Burger continues to hold its place as one of Maryland’s most iconic bites, now backed by national recognition. Sunshine General Store is located at 22300 Georgia Ave in Brookeville. Hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 5am to 5pm, Friday and Saturday from 6am to 5pm, Sunday from 6am to 3:30pm, and closed on Mondays. Contrary to the lore you may have heard, credit cards have been accepted for years now.
View this post on Instagram
