If you like your burgers fresh, juicy and colossal there are three hamburger havens in Albany, Oregon that have you in mind.
The first is a mom and pop restaurant located at 901 Pacific Blvd called Pop’s Branding Iron. They have been in business for over 50 years and know how to build a burger. All burgers start with a 1/3 lb beef and you can upgrade that to the Logger size which is over 1/2 lb of deliciousness. With over 10 burgers to choose from you are sure to find one that satisfies your hunger. For the breakfast lover I recommend the “Red Eye Burger” that boasts lettuce, bacon, tomato and an over easy egg. If spice is more your style you can’t go wrong with the “Prairie Fire.” Tomato, lettuce, cheese, Pop’s Special Sauce and green chilies will leave your taste buds begging for relief! No matter which burger you choose you will always feel like family at this down home restaurant.
Next up is First Burger located in the heart of Albany’s downtown district. The restaurant itself is pretty small, we are talking not much else is going to fit inside besides you, the waiter and your giant burger. What First Burger lacks in venue they more than make up for in the quality of food. Besides that is what take out is for, right? The beef used is Oregon raised and grown so you know where your food is coming from. Each patty is fresh, hand shaped and made to order. If your brave enough I recommend the “Samaritan General.” This is the mother of all burgers weighing in at over a pound of beef! Can you believe they can fit 3 beef pattys, ham, bacon and cheese between the buns? This is one heavy hitter that will leave you feeling pleasantly stuffed for days to come. More in the mood for cheese? Try the “Fatty Melt.” Yep, you heard right. Its a burger between two grilled cheese sandwiches. Just when you thought grilled cheese could not get any better. If your more of an onion lover try the “Onionator.” Altoids are complimentary with this one.
If you are just passing through Albany and want to grab a quick burger at a drive thru look no further than Burgerville. This hamburger joint puts all the other fast food burgers to shame. With easy access to the freeway at 2310 Santiam Hwy you will be in and out in minutes. Unlike the mystery meat of most drive thrus, Burgerville has partnered with Oregon Country Beef, a local supplier. The cattle are fed a vegetarian diet and are giving no growth hormones or antibiotics. This means your burger is fresh, tender and moist. All of the toppings you choose for your burger are from local growers as well. Burgerville is unbeatable when it comes to the taste and quality of their hamburgers. A personal favorite of mine is the Tillamook Cheesburger piled high with lettuce, tomato and special sauce.
So the next time you have a hankering for beef stop in at any of these three burger joints. You will not be disappointed.
