Kansas City, MO
For Burgers in Kansas City, the local food press points to Hayes Hamburger and Chili, Jess and Jim's Steak House, and Westport Flea Market. Picks from Kansas City Magazine, updated June 2026.
Editor’s picks
Press picks, until locals rank their own Top 5s. Sourced from the local food press. As seen in Kansas City Magazine. Updated June 2026.
Hayes Hamburger and Chili · Northland
KC Magazine's #1 ranked burger. The single chili cheeseburger stacks a smashed patty caramelized into onions over a chili recipe dating to 1906. 1955 Valentine diner, cash only.
Jess and Jim's Steak House · Martin City
KC Magazine's #2 ranked burger. The Steakburger is ground from the premium trimmings of Jess & Jim's hand-cut steaks, served on a buttered brioche.
Westport Flea Market · Westport
A 10-oz McGonigle's Market ground-chuck patty with a precisely seared crust. Cash-only dive featured on Food Network's 'Meat and Potatoes.'
Town Topic Hamburgers Broadway · Crossroads
KC Magazine honorable mention and Best of KC 2024 Best Diner winner. Smashing burgers on a flat-top since 1937, open 24/7, onions-on-immediately with a lidded-bun steam finish.
Cosmo Burger · Waldo
KC Magazine's featured smash-burger pick. Jacob Kruger's single/double on a buttered potato bun with griddled onions, house-brined pickles and secret sauce.
What’s your #1 Burgers in Kansas City?
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