The Midwest's Best Burgers

Pirogue Grille, Bismarck, North Dakota It's the best-kept secret in town. You have to sit in the bar at North Dakota's finest restaurant to order the $9 Minted Lamb Burger, made with locally raised meat and served on homemade focaccia topped with hummus and feta. One bite, and you'll become a believer. See Midwest Living's review. (701) 223-3770; piroguegrille.com

Redamak's, New Buffalo, Michigan The Hamburgers are cut, ground and pattied on-site then pan-fried, blanketed in Velveeta and wrapped in waxed paper ($5). They're not organic or artisanal, and the only toppings are ketchup, mustard, pickles and onion. We're addicted, and we're not alone. Along Lake Michigan, seasonal Redamak's seats 400; you'll still have to wait for a table. See Midwest Living's review. (269) 469-4522; redamaks.com

Pictured: The lamb burger at Pirogue Grille.