Hillsboro loves burgers. Juicy patties, melty cheese, and crispy fries are what come to mind when you think of a classic American meal here. But for those seeking something beyond the standard fast-food fare, you should know this city boasts some truly exceptional burger joints. Some focus on gourmet creations, while others serve up perfect classics alongside inventive specials. Either way, they deliver satisfaction that a basic drive-thru burger just can’t match.
Little Big Burger
$ | (503) 893-2097 | WEBSITE
Strolling through Orenco Station involves a lot of people-watching—it’s somewhere that families and foodies alike come for a satisfying meal, and this includes a delicious burger experience from Little Big Burger. They have everything from Bacon cheeseburgers packed with fresh, tasty components to staples like truffle fries and root beer floats that will make you wonder why everything isn’t made with that unreasonable taste.
Plus, since it’s a burger joint, you can also order generous fry portions with that flavorful fry sauce that adds a slight spice. Stop by for a quick burger or float, park it at a table by the big bay windows, and dive into a meal worth braving the sun.
IHOP
$ | (503) 648-3226 | WEBSITE
The menu at IHOP is almost 70/30 breakfast to everything else. Only one of their standout dishes has real kick to it, the burgers are mostly (decent) classics, and you can happily skip the pancakes for the standout jalapeno burger. Since everything here is good, you’ll have to be strategic after ordering a coffee or late-night soda—will it be the consistently delicious pancakes, or the perfect burger with friendly service? Trust us, and just order everything where efficiency is the main event.
It’s all reliable, ideally balanced with flavor and consistency, and although you’ll leave full, you’ll feel as satisfied as when you walked in.
The Meating Place Cafe
$ | (503) 533-0624 | WEBSITE
This Hillsboro counter-service cafe is exactly what you’d hope for, and just what you want: a straightforward menu of hearty sandwiches and generous burritos, French dips, and Reuben platters. Our favorites are the loaded meat-and-vegetable sandwich and, naturally, the perfectly balanced, lean-cut Reuben.
Everything is under $18 and comes with easy parking right out front, so you can get a satisfying, consistently delicious, meat-focused meal without the hassle—even if you wait the worthwhile 30 minutes.
Carl’s Jr.
$ | (503) 649-3722 | WEBSITE
Carl’s Jr. is the best place in Hillsboro to get burgers, including those made with fresh ingredients. There are only a few things on the burger menu—meaning the same classic options—but one thing that stands out is the quality service from the attentive and friendly staff. It’s a pretty popular spot with both locals and visitors, and they’re open daily, so show up during off-peak hours if you don’t want to wait for a table in the shared parking lot with Fred Meyer.
Ali’s Hot Chicken And Smash Burger
$ | (971) 444-9775 | WEBSITE
Ali’s Hot Chicken And Smash Burger, a popular spot at the Hillsboro food court, has a lot of different tasty options. Your best bet, though, is the Smash Burger, which features a good mix of cheese, onions, bun, and meat with crispy edges that add to its appeal—all served fresh and hot.
You can probably split one burger between two people because the servings are so satisfying, or just get one for yourself and pair it with their crinkle cut fries topped with that tasty sauce that makes ketchup unnecessary.
Burger King
$ | (971) 384-6489 | WEBSITE
Burger King near Top Golf is our favorite burger spot in Hillsboro. This visually appealing location with cool art and signage also has a reliably satisfying menu. You can grab a quick meal and it will feel like a proper fast-food experience—and that goes for the vegetarian option, too. It works for a light bite of the delicious flame-grilled double-cheeseburger, freshly made with everything constructed correctly, or a budget-friendly choice like the Impossible Whopper.
You’ll need extra napkins to handle the last bite.
Five Guys
$ | (503) 213-4217 | WEBSITE
You could make this Hillsboro spot your regular burger joint and you’d be covered when it comes to classic American fare—the straightforward menu is a go-to for lunch, dinner, and post-game cravings. And since they’re really good at everything they do, keto-friendly options and those generous, crispy fries are no exception. FYI—almost every burger on the menu and all those fantastic milkshakes like salted caramel and peanut butter can satisfy any appetite.
Shake Shack Reeds Crossing
$ | (503) 446-9315 | WEBSITE
Shake Shack Reeds Crossing has some of the best burgers in Hillsboro. But this is a review of the whole experience, so we’ll tell you about everything else instead. The double cheese with lettuce, tomato, and pickle burger is tasty and very good, cooked the way requested, fresh and great quality. And the onion rings they have are very good when you want something crispy. But the fries were meh, average, ok and might be good in store.
The place is clean and the great staff greet you at the front door and always check in, but the price is far too expensive, so a visit again would not.
Wendy’s
$ | (503) 693-6525 | WEBSITE
Wendy’s, a reliable fast food spot in Hillsboro, has a lot of options. For your burger-loving friends, there’s the classic Dave’s Single and a spicy chicken sandwich to satisfy those cravings. But for those looking for something lighter, there’s even better stuff, like the tasty chicken wrap or a fresh side salad, and some of the best Frosty desserts we’ve ever had. Plus, if you don’t want to take it to go, the inside is nice and clean where you can hang out and enjoy your meal.
Mr. Bento Burger
$ | (503) 746-7325 | WEBSITE
Finding a satisfying meal after exploring Hillsboro’s parks is essential. Mr. Bento Burger delivers consistently delicious burgers that hit the spot every time. One standout, perfect for any occasion (but especially on busy days), is their signature Black Swan Burger. This impressive Wagyu creation with its thick, juicy patty will satisfy your cravings better than any ordinary burger ever could.