Must-Try Metro Detroit Smash Burgers

By: Carolyn Hall | June 25, 2025
smash burger tray with fries and dessert from Full Rack Barbecue

Photo courtesy of Full Rack Barbecue

The irresistible appeal of a perfectly seared smash burger continues to captivate Metro Detroit. With crispy edges, juicy patties, and loads of toppings, these local eateries elevate the burger experience to delicious new heights. Here’s your guide to exploring some of Metro Detroit’s standout smash burger destinations…

High Pointe Burger Jointe

369 Fisher Road, Grosse Pointe 

High Pointe Burger Jointe, a beloved spot in Grosse Pointe, offers creative fast-casual dining in its lively atmosphere complete with jukebox tunes. Owner Jennifer Bierkle shares, “High Pointe Burger Jointe has been serving locals since its December opening last year (2024). The menu features handcrafted smash burgers like the Classic with grilled onions, cheese, and pickles, the Dirty (olives, blue cheese, garlic aioli), chicken sandwiches, crisp appetizers (pickle chips, pimento cheese, cheese curds), and dessert smashers.” Other smashers like The Coney Smasher with Detroit Coney chili, yellow mustard, and onions, the adventurous Anna’s Smasher featuring peanut butter, grape jelly, bacon, and a beef patty, and the Dill Pickle Smasher provide a flavor profile for every taste. High Pointe Burger Jointe also proudly caters to gluten-free diners with dedicated fryers and grill sections, making it fully celiac-safe.

pickle smasher from High Pointe Burger Jointe
Photo courtesy of High Pointe Burger Jointe

Smash N Wings

3717 Monroe Street, Dearborn

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At Smash N Wings, guests enjoy building their ideal burger experience starting with flavorful options like the Hot Honey Burger, layered with fresh jalapeños and a drizzle of hot honey, or the Chef’s Signature featuring crispy onion rings and Umami BBQ sauce. Diners choose from single to quadruple patty options, customizing their burgers further with tasty add-ons such as beef bacon or grilled onions. Enhance your order with sides like animal fries topped with a beef patty, smash sauce, cheese, and grilled onions, crispy onion rings served with savory umami sauce, jalapeño poppers topped with crushed red pepper, or mozzarella sticks with Italian parmesan herbs.

Full Rack Barbecue

21425 Greater Mack Avenue, St. Clair Shores

Full Rack Barbecue offers an exceptional selection of smash burgers crafted from freshly ground brisket and chuck blends, along with its barbecue favorites. Owner Bryon Mowrey explains, “We believe we serve the best cookout staples because we combine our passion and experience with a dedication to consistency and quality.” Menu highlights include the PB&J burger, creatively pairing peanut butter and jalapeño jam with bacon and Swiss cheese, and the hearty xPitbeefx, topped with sliced brisket, cheddar, onion straws, and tangy BBQ sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with rich, savory flavors. 

Full Rack Barbecue smash burger
Photo courtesy of Full Rack Barbecue

Second Best

42 Watson Street, Detroit

Detroit’s Second Best is a go-to destination for late-night dining, with an excellent Smash Burger Patty Melt. Served on sourdough bread with caramelized onions, Swiss and American cheese, and a signature burger sauce, this dish perfectly exemplifies comfort food. Paired with fried cheese curds, potato wedges, or mac and cheese, you really can’t go wrong with this smash burger. The Second Best team shares that the “Kitchen’s open ‘til 11 p.m. nightly.” Open daily, Second Best delivers consistently delicious meals ideal for a casual night out.

smash burger patty melt from Second Best
Photo courtesy of Second Best

Just Smash It!

2005 East 8 Mile Road, Warren

529 East Jefferson Avenue, Detroit

Just Smash It! keeps things straightforward yet flavorful with a focused menu of smash burgers. Their beef smash burger, topped with pickles, American cheese, and Smash-It sauce, is a staple favorite. Those seeking a bit of heat will enjoy the Double Cheesy Jalapeño Smash Burger, featuring melted cheese and sliced jalapeños. Another choice is the Smash It Dog, comprised of a smashed beef patty, topped with grilled onions, American cheese, pickles, and a specialty sauce. Complement your meal with their Smash-It fries, seasoned generously and served with a special sauce, or opt for the jalapeño cheesy fries for an extra spicy kick.

Metro Detroit’s smash burger scene provides endless opportunities to savor crispy, juicy burgers crafted with passion and creativity. These local spots promise mouthwatering experiences perfect for burger aficionados everywhere.

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