Restaurants in Cambridge and Ocean City have made Thrillists’ ‘The 20 Best Burgers in All of Maryland.’ Thrillist Media Group is a digital media company consisting of three brands: food, drink and travel property. This list gives you a look at the finest Maryland-born burgers around, from the mom-and-pops and dives to the farm-to-tables and bistros that’re cooking up juicy and satisfying beef masterpieces.
The High Spot in Cambridge has made the number one spot. Here’s what Thrillist has to say about the spot:
Cambridge is a town usually reserved for a stopover on the way to the beach, but The High Spot will make you want to stick around. This cozy gastro-pub is in a bustling part of town near coffee shops and museums — and only a couple of blocks from the water. When the weather agrees, the outside tables are filled with locals drinking beer with their dogs at their feet. Naturally, seafood is king here (try the Buffalo fried oysters), but be sure to try the duck fat burger. Ground beef from nearby Simmons Center Market is seared in duck fat, then topped with exotic mushrooms, smoked bacon, Gruyère cheese, and a fried duck egg. The mammoth creation is served open-face on a grilled bun with lettuce, tomato, and red onion. A fork and knife would be a wise idea.
The High Spot, Cambridge, Md. (Photo: Facebook)
In a close second, comes an Ocean City local favorite restaurant, Abbey Burger Bistro. Abbey Burger only opened up a few years ago uptown Ocean City, but the town has grown to love it. Here’s what Thrillist thinks:
This burger haven has two locations, in Downtown Baltimore and Ocean City, but we like the more laid-back beach spot, which still has the make-your-own burger options (with exotic choices like elk, bison, and kangaroo). But, sometimes decisions are too difficult, and that’s when we order the SimplyAJ10, which pays homage to the food-heavy Instagram account of Orioles center fielder Adam Jones. A mound of Kobe beef sits on an English muffin with pepper jack cheese, avocado, jalapeños, bacon, chili-pepper mayo, lettuce, and tomato. The spicy burger comes with a side of tater tots and nacho cheese. While you’re digesting all of that, it’s comforting to know that $1 from each burger sold goes to Jones’ charity, working with Baltimore youth.
Abbey Burger Bistro, Ocean City, Md. (Photo: Thrillist)
The last Ocean City restaurant on this list I’m sure will not come as a surprise. Hooked Restaurant on 80th St. has been winning over hearts– and tastebuds. Hooked has a few other restaurants in the beach area. Off The Hook is located in Bethany Beach, Del. as well as Just Hooked in Fenwick Island, Del. Although Hooked is recognized for their burgers, if you’re in the mood for fresh seafood or delicious meat, this place is your go to. Thrillist says:
Ocean City and fine-dining aren’t exactly synonymous, but Hooked is the exception. Located on the bay side of 80th St, this seafood restaurant ticks all the boxes: great crabs, extensive wine list, and excellent service. One other major plus is the Truffle Burger with shiitake mushrooms, bacon, chopped leeks, and creamy Gruyère sauce all on a brioche bun. The burger comes with delicious (and unique) fries sprinkled with pesto. This is surely one of the most indulgent burgers we’ve ever had — and probably the messiest, so be sure to have plenty of napkins. But the effort is worth it to taste the sweet, smoky, and earthy flavors of this sandwich.
Hooked Restaurant, Ocean City, Md. (Photo: Thrillist)
These three restaurants are not only recognized locally, they have officially been recognized nationally. In the mood for a good burger? Check them out!
