The 5 Best Hamburgers

A great hamburger starts with a flavorful patty, but the possibilities extend far beyond beef, cheese and a bun. From inventive toppings and specialty meats to gourmet sauces and freshly baked bread, Steamboat Springs restaurants bring plenty of personality to this American classic. Whether enjoyed after a day on the slopes or during a relaxed downtown dinner, burgers remain a local favorite. The Best of the Boat 2026 explores some of the area's distinctive takes on this satisfying staple.

Back Door Grill

Creative combinations and a lively atmosphere define the burger experience at Back Door Grill on Oak Street in downtown Steamboat Springs. The independent restaurant specializes in hand-pressed burgers with more than 20 topping combinations, including adventurous choices such as peanut butter, fried eggs, bacon and green chili. Diners can select beef, bison, turkey or vegetarian patties, with options ranging from traditional buns to glazed donuts. Hand-cut fries, onion rings and draft beers complete the experience in a casual setting known for its dollar-bill-covered walls and outdoor patio.

Big House Burgers

Colorado-sourced ingredients and a wide variety of specialty patties distinguish Big House Burgers in Steamboat Springs' Curve Plaza area. The family-friendly restaurant serves all-natural beef burgers alongside alternatives featuring bison, elk, lamb, free-range chicken and house-made vegetarian patties. Specialty creations incorporate bacon, artisanal cheeses, caramelized onions and signature sauces, allowing customers to explore combinations beyond the traditional cheeseburger. Hand-spun milkshakes, malted floats and a full-service bar complement the menu, while spacious booths and sports televisions create a relaxed dining environment.

Primrose

An upscale approach to a familiar favorite makes the Primrose Burger a distinctive offering at Primrose along the Yampa River in downtown Steamboat Springs. Executive Chef Collin Kelley prepares the burger using a custom blend of prime beef cuts, topped with aged cheddar, caramelized onions, house-made pickles and special sauce on a toasted brioche bun. Served with house-made fries, the burger fits naturally alongside the restaurant's craft cocktails and international wines. Guests can enjoy it at the bar, in the contemporary dining room or on the outdoor riverfront deck.

Apres Burger Bistro

Gourmet burgers and mountain hospitality come together at Apres Burger Bistro near the base of Steamboat Ski Resort. The restaurant offers burgers made with Colorado beef, wagyu and bison, along with plant-based alternatives for diners seeking something different. Locally baked buns, house-made spreads and creative toppings elevate the menu, while truffle fries, sweet potato fries and fried pickles provide flavorful accompaniments. With craft beers, cocktails and a modern bistro atmosphere, Apres Burger Bistro offers a comfortable destination for après-ski gatherings, casual lunches and family dinners.

Aurum Food & Wine

A carefully crafted burger brings a casual dining option to the contemporary American menu at Aurum Food & Wine in downtown Steamboat Springs. The Aurum Burger features a custom blend of prime Colorado beef topped with white cheddar, caramelized onion jam and garlic aioli, served on a brioche bun with crispy fries. Available during happy hour and dinner service, it offers an approachable choice alongside the restaurant's extensive beverage selections. Diners can enjoy their burgers indoors or on the scenic Yampa River patio, where fire pits add to the waterfront atmosphere.

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