You don’t have to look far in Delco to find a fantastic burger. When it comes to no-nonsense, fast-food-style smash burgers, you’re in good hands, with standbys like Charlie’s and Zac’s (for a more complete round-up, head here).
But — especially if you know where to look — the sky’s the limit when it comes to unexpected and gourmet burgers, piled with tasty toppings. From delis to gastro pubs to vegan cafes, you’ll find unique and creative burgers around every corner in Delco!
Here are seven to get you going:
In the former home of the beloved Wimpy’s Original (RIP), find LP’s Burgers, which carries on the tradition of providing great burgers, fries, milkshakes and more to Media and the surrounding area. With over a dozen types of burgers, as well as turkey and veggie burger substitutions available, there is a lot to choose from! But, to march to the beat of a different drum, try the salmon burger, a slightly lighter option with a ground salmon patty topped with lettuce, tomato, onions and LP sauce.
LP’s Burgers was open at the time this piece was written. However, they have temporarily closed. Visit Delco encourages current and potential customers to check their website for reopening updates.
1015 N. Providence Rd, Media, (610) 565-3910.
Photo courtesy of Cheezy Vegan
This fully plant-based spot, helmed by Chef Tyrik Ryant AKA Chef Reeky, may specialize in vegan food, but its offerings are anything but bland! Everything, from the pineapple upside-down pancakes at brunch, to the sweet Thai chili seitan wings, to the tahini chocolate swirl milkshakes, is absolutely dripping with unapologetically bold flavors. Take, for instance, the Early ‘Burg, a tower of a sandwich, with a vegan patty, plant-based bacon, cheese and eggs, spinach, onions and a crispy hash brown on a brioche bun. Can you think of anything more decadent?
Cheezy Vegan’s Delco location closed in November 2024. They have relocated to South Philadelphia.
If you love a Tex-Mex-inspired burger, try the Southwest Chorizo burger at this comfy, family-friendly neighborhood restaurant. A spicy chorizo patty is layered with all the best parts of a burrito: avocado, corn salsa and pepper jack cheese, plus lettuce and tomato, all on a pillowy soft roll. Pair it with a side of sweet potato fries and a house margarita for the ultimate treat.
Christopher’s is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to midnight, Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
108 N. Wayne Ave., Wayne, (610) 687-6558.
It’s no secret that Delco loves pizza, and thanks to the pizza burger at Gatsby’s, you never have to choose between a cheesy slice and a juicy burger again! An angus beef patty is smothered with marinara, cheese and pepperoni on a Le Bus Roll — it’s the best of both worlds in one delectable dish. Stop in during happy hour (Monday through Saturday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.) to enjoy your pizza burger with great drink specials.
Gatsby’s Bar & Grill is open seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. to midnight.
4936 Pennell Rd., Aston, (610) 494-4500.
Photo courtesy of the Dairy Cottage
This homestyle family restaurant has been serving Springfield since the 1940s! The Dairy Cottage may be best known for its ample breakfast offerings, pizza and ice cream sundaes, but it also makes a mean burger. If you like a little more flair, go for the Hot Louisiana burger (regulars call it “the Hot Louie”) with strips of bacon, melted pepper jack and a generous amount of BBQ sauce.
The Dairy Cottage is open Sunday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
328 W. Woodland Ave., Springfield, (610) 328-4875.
For many of us, a burger is synonymous with a beef patty. But of course, rules are made to be broken! In addition to turkey, veggie and seafood burgers, there are some less traditional options out there, too. Case in point: The Game Day Burger at Ashley’s, a blend of bison and elk meats topped with Buffalo sauce, cheddar cheese, house made onion straws, lettuce and tomato. Adventurous eaters, this one’s for you!
Ashley’s Restaurant and Bar is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
68 Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills, 9610)-572-2323.
Photo courtesy of The Fainting Goat
The Mac Attack Burger at The Fainting Goat
For anyone who’s ever subscribed to the phrase “more is more” the Mac Attack burger is a must-try. This juicy beef patty is topped with a gooey scoop of house made mac-and-cheese and thick slices of bacon for a real umami-bomb. Burgers at this modern gastro pub come with fries, but we suggest paying the small upcharge to dig into their addictive tots or extra-crispy onion rings.
The Fainting Goat is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., and weekends from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
105 S MacDade Blvd., Glenolden, (484) 497-8609.
• • •
Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Find us at 1501 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA, 19063; (610) 565-3679 or online.
— Emily Kovach
Featured photo: Pexels