Old-School Burger: Robertson’s Sandwich Shop
When my girlfriend recently discovered I’d never had “the Robertson’s experience,” she insisted we go there for lunch. Located in the Eutaw Shopping Center, this charming spot has an old-school diner feel to it, and the lunchtime crowd proved to me how popular it is with the locals. Whenever I try a new burger joint, I usually start with the Classic Cheeseburger, and this time, I went big with a double. Made fresh to order, their burgers are old-school in the best way possible, with nothing fancy distracting from the juicy patties. As Michael confirmed, the Bacon Cheeseburger is what Robertson’s claims to be their best seller. Rumor has it that their Chicken Salad Sandwich is hard to beat, as well.
Niche Burger: Will’s Grill
More than one of our locals voted for this hole-in-the-wall spot. Apparently, what sets Will’s Grill apart is its signature gourmet Pretzel Bun. According to Rick and others, the Farmer’s Daughter Burger—made with egg, bacon and chili—is a customer favorite. Being a spice lover myself, I’d be tempted to order either the Chuck Norris or the Bruce Lee, rated #4 and #5 on their Spicy Burger menu. Will’s Grill is going on my foodie bucket list, for sure.
Brewery Burger: Gaston Brewing Company
Three of our breweries also feature restaurants, and in response to my poll, the locals specifically named one. That’d be Gaston Brewing Company (GBC), located in the heart of Downtown Fayetteville. You simply have to start with the Gaston Burger, topped with their signature Boondocker IPA BBQ sauce. They've recently added a Southern Jam Burger to the menu, and all I'm going to say about that is bacon jalapeno jam is the not-so-secret secret to this winner. Regardless which one you order, I must suggest you try a side of the spicy, fried Cauliflower Bites—my biggest obsession at GBC.
New-to-the-Block Burger: Deep Creek Grill
In 2018, a new eatery opened its doors at Fayetteville’s historic Campbellton Landing, a popular fishing destination on the Cape Fear River. Deep Creek Outfitters is outfitting fishermen with gear and bait and feeding their visitors well at the Deep Creek Grill. You’ll find Southern-inspired daily specials, burgers, and hot dogs on their menu. On my recent visit, I went with the Classic Cheeseburger, and it was so big, I could have gotten away with a single. Fans of the Carolina Burger just need to ask for their burger to be made “all the way,” and you’ll get a generous portion of chili and slaw on that bun. Afterward, make sure you pop next door for a hand-scooped ice cream cone.
People’s Choice Burger: R Burger
And now we come to the best of the best. Exactly half of our voters named this specific food truck over and over. I’m one of their super-fans, but even I was surprised to realize how passionate people are when it comes to “ouR burger.” Even Alton Brown, of Food Network fame, made a point to grab several bags of their burgers for his crew when he came into town. The locals have spoken now, so without further ado, I hereby unofficially-officially name R Burger the “People’s Choice Burger” for Cumberland County.
Small-Town Burger
I’d be remiss here if I neglected to mention a few of Cumberland County’s small towns and the burger joints our locals love to frequent there. After all, hometown eateries are the true gems!
Eastover: The Corner Grill
If you’re craving a “nasty good” burger, look no further than this treasure of a mom-and-pop grill on "the corner" (don’t forget those chili fries!).
Hope Mills: Robin’s on Main
Whether you order the Little Mama Burger or the Big Papa Burger, the giant onion rings are a must at this charming Americana diner!
Spring Lake: Cedar Point Restaurant
In addition to their popular breakfast menu, this small-town mainstay “is known as an all-time hamburger restaurant,” dishing up specialty burgers.
Stedman: Stedman Soda Shop
Step back in time at this old-fashioned soda shop, where the burgers are sloppy in the best way possible.
For all our burger joints and more options, be sure to check out the Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Dining, featuring 630+ restaurants, eateries, food trucks, and more.
