Which burger shack makes the best burger in Pierce County? Vote here

Why are there so many burger stands around Tacoma?

It was a question I asked myself as Frisko Freeze, perhaps the most iconic of the bunch, was sold in 2023 to new owners outside the founding family for the first time in its now-75-year history.

I asked a few trusted sources — both long-time Tacomans and relative newcomers — and their responses mostly circled around the irrefutable fact that burgers are delicious and also relatively inexpensive. One astute burger consumer posited that Route 99, better known today as South Tacoma Way, drew car traffic and thus a need for stop-offs. That theory works for Frisko and its midcentury bedfellow Pick Quick Drive-In, followed by Jubilee and the late Burger Ranch in the Lincoln District and what became Don’s Drive-In in Puyallup, but it doesn’t necessarily explain why others have cropped up in recent years to, it seems, much success. Some also noted the region’s working-class history and the port.

At the very least, it feels like the ratio of burger shacks to people is unusually high, even by American standards. And by burger shack, I mean a relatively modest restaurant — could be in a shopping plaza, a retro shack, a trailer, whatever — with a menu that almost exclusively offers burgers. Not a restaurant that also sells burgers or that’s full-service: counter service, paper napkins, paper bags, usually milkshakes, maybe a few tables inside or only outside.

Locals definitely have their allegiances. I have been doing some research (don’t tell my doctor). I think single patties of the old-school style can be too small for the bun, so my order usually adheres to a “make it a double” cheeseburger mantra. There are exceptions — if the base patty is already one-third of a pound, for instance — but before I reveal the results of that long and winding adventure, I want to hear from you. I know you have thoughts!

Which burger restaurant makes the best burger, or your favorite burger? Cast your vote below. (Note that places not currently open are not included on this list, such as Ooh La La Burgers and Don’s.)

There’s a form (also below) to add extra feedback, should you care to elaborate on said burger or perhaps the fries, the milkshakes, etc. You can also email me directly. Your comments might be included in a future story.

This story was originally published September 21, 2025 at 5:15 AM.