Top Three Burger Joints in Mobile, Alabama

**Note: the following information and reviews come from the writer's personal experience living in Mobile, Alabama for the past ten years.

Ask any longtime Alabamian what type of cuisine the beautiful Gulf Coast City of Mobile is known for and most will say "seafood." And while this is true, few people know that the city is also home to some of the most appetizing, enjoyable and famous burger joint franchises in the world. If you're ever in Mobile and have a craving for a one-of-a-kind, thick, juicy burger, be sure to check out these three stops:

1. Backyard Burgers

930 Schillinger Rd. South
Mobile, AL 36695-8913
Phone: (251) 631-3967
www.backyardburgers.com

As a longtime fan of classic American fare, hamburgers in particular, I can honestly say I have never been disappointed with Backyard. Made from 100% domestic Black Angus beef, these burgers are as mouthwatering as they come. Try their famous Mushroom Swiss Burger, topped with "creamy Swiss cheese, melted over sautéed mushrooms," along with a fresh piece of lettuce and two tomato slices.

Or, if you're in the mood for something a little more substantial, try the man-sized 1/3 or 2/3 lb. Back Yard burger on for size. Outfitted with fresh lettuce, lush tomatoes and a classic dill pickle, you can't wrong here. Not enough meat? No problem. You're ready to graduate to the 2/3 Back Yard, same toppings, double the meat. You won't be saying, "I'm still hungry" after sitting down with these beasts. For the creative burger-lovers, jazz things up with some of Backyard's signature add-ons. From Pepper Jack cheese, bacon, chili and Cole slaw to jalapeños, red onions and dill pickles, you're in no danger of burger boredom here.

And, of course, all of Backyard's burgers come standard with French fries and a soft drink, sizeable at your request and discretion.

2. Five Guys Burgers and Fries

4663 Airport Blvd.

Mobile, AL 36608
Phone: (251) 300-8425

4401 Old Shell Rd.
Mobile, AL 36608
Phone: (251) 447-2394
www.fiveguys.com

A relatively new addition to the Mobile area, this 1950's retro diner-style burger joint has been around since 1986, when the first location opened its doors in Arlington, Virginia. Since that time, Five Guys, as it has affectionately become known, has expanded to over 550 locations in over 35 states.

For burger lovers who love options, this is your spot. Did you know there are over 250,000 possible ways to order a burger at Five Guys? That's right. And you won't find frozen burgers being reheated here. Five Guys uses only the freshest ground beef, cooks all their burgers in pure, cholesterol-free Peanut oil and only stores their food in coolers.

Choose from their classic hamburger, cheeseburger, bacon burger, bacon cheeseburger or, for those with smaller appetites, the "little" hamburger or cheeseburger. Worried about paying extra for additional toppings? Not a problem at Five Guys. All toppings are on the house, including mayo, relish, onions, jalapeño peppers, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, A-1 steak sauce, grilled mushrooms and dozens more. And in the true burger joint tradition, all meals are served with a side of regular or Cajun-style fries and a classic Coca-Cola product of your choice.

3. Steak 'N Shake

655 Schillinger Rd. South
Mobile, AL
Phone: (251) 633-9900

3125 Government Blvd.
Mobile, AL
Phone: (251) 476-2668
www.steaknshake.com

Another classic forties and fifties-style diner, this unique burger joint has been serving up their nationally famous, one-of-a-kind steak burgers since 1934, when the first Steak 'N Shake was founded in Normal, Illinois.

Made from only the finest steaks and ground into pucks, a Steak 'N Shake steak burger is truly a delectable treat. Choose from countless varieties of this classic, including the Original Double with cheese, the Single, the Bacon 'n Cheese steak burger or the Triple. Not adventurous enough for you? Then try braving the world of their specialty steak burgers, such as the Wisconsin Buttery, Spicy Chipotle, Grilled Portobello 'n Swiss, Western BBQ 'n Bacon, or even the Guacamole steak burger.

As always, all Steak 'n Shake steak burgers come standard with a side of classic French fries and a cold Coca-Cola soft drink. While you're there, be sure to try one of their signature hand-dipped milkshakes. Choose from an endless variety of flavors and flavor combinations, including the traditional vanilla, strawberry and chocolate or even banana. Or blend two of these together in a side-by-side milkshake. Specialty milkshakes include the delightfully sinful Cookies 'n Cream, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Turtle Caramel Nut, Banana Split, or even a shake filled with bits of Nestle Butterfinger Bars®.

But it's not just the menu or the fifties retro style atmosphere that make Steak 'N Shake restaurants so popular. Select locations across the U.S. host monthly classic car shows. If you own a restored antique, vintage or classic car, considering cruising on down to your local Steak 'N Shake for the feel of a traditional fifties-style drive-in restaurant.

So if you find yourself in the Mobile area with a hankering for a deliciously delightful hamburger, look no further than the three aforementioned locations. I personally guarantee you will walk away with a new appreciation for this classic piece of American fare.