Why Artisanal Burgers Are the New Fast Food Favorite
The classic burger has long been a symbol of American fast food—quick, satisfying, and affordable. But over the past decade, a new category has emerged: artisanal burgers. These elevated versions of the traditional burger swap out processed ingredients for chef-inspired components, like grass-fed beef, aged cheeses, and house-made sauces, served on toasted brioche or potato rolls.
The result? A gourmet burger experience, often served just as fast as a drive-thru combo meal—but with a focus on quality, creativity, and flavor. Here’s why artisanal burgers are gaining ground in fast food chains, what sets them apart, and how they compare in price and value.
What Makes a Burger “Artisanal”?
The term “artisanal” implies craft, quality, and attention to detail. In the burger world, that translates into:
• High-quality proteins such as grass-fed beef, bison, or plant-based patties
• Fresh, local toppings like arugula, heirloom tomatoes, caramelized onions, and pickled vegetables
• Premium cheeses like blue cheese, gruyere, aged cheddar, or brie
• House-made sauces including garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or fig jam
• Handcrafted buns such as brioche, pretzel rolls, or gluten-free alternatives
• Thoughtful preparation, often cooked to order and assembled with precision
This gourmet approach adds flavor depth and texture not typically found in traditional fast food burgers.
Fast-Casual Chains Leading the Artisanal Burger Movement
1. BurgerFi
BurgerFi emphasizes all-natural Angus beef that is never exposed to steroids, antibiotics, or growth hormones. Their menu includes gourmet options like the CEO Burger, made with Wagyu beef, truffle aioli, and Swiss cheese.
• Why it’s artisanal: Grass-fed beef, truffle sauce, and branded potato buns
• Price range: $9 to $12 per burger
• Sustainability: Uses eco-friendly packaging and cage-free eggs
• Fluz merchant: Earn cashback at BurgerFi by purchasing a gift card through Fluz before ordering.
2. Umami Burger
Umami Burger has built its brand around umami-rich flavor combinations. Menu favorites include the Truffle Burger and the Manly Burger, featuring beer-cheddar cheese, bacon lardons, and house ketchup.
• Why it’s artisanal: Uses umami flavor layering, specialty meats, and complex sauces
• Price range: $10 to $15 depending on location
• Presentation: Known for visually appealing burgers served in elevated casual dining environments
3. Shake Shack
Though widely available, Shake Shack continues to lead the fast-casual gourmet burger space with signature items like the ShackBurger and limited-time truffle-infused offerings.
• Why it’s artisanal: Hormone- and antibiotic-free beef, proprietary ShackSauce, and Martin’s potato rolls
• Price range: $7 to $10
• Fluz merchant: Shake Shack gift cards are available through Fluz, with cashback rewards on every purchase.
4. Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Hopdoddy combines a modern casual setting with ingredients like Akaushi beef, brie, and truffle fries. Their menu leans heavily on scratch-made sauces and creative burger builds.
• Why it’s artisanal: Focus on local sourcing, creative toppings, and handmade buns
• Price range: $9 to $13
• Sourcing: Many ingredients are regionally sourced to support local economies
5. Bareburger
Bareburger is a clean-label brand that offers organic, non-GMO ingredients and a wide range of proteins—including elk, bison, and plant-based patties from Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods.
• Why it’s artisanal: Unique meat options, organic ingredients, and sustainable practices
• Price range: $10 to $14
• Health-forward: Great for keto, vegan, or paleo diets
Why It’s Worth the Upgrade
Artisanal burgers in fast food chains are more than just a passing trend—they represent a broader shift in consumer expectations. Today’s diners, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are willing to spend a few extra dollars for:
• Higher-quality meat with transparent sourcing
• Better nutritional profiles with fewer additives
• Eco-friendly practices and sustainable packaging
• Unique, chef-driven flavor profiles
• Visually appealing meals worth sharingWith the help of cashback apps like Fluz, even premium fast-casual meals become more accessible. Customers can earn rewards every time they order from gourmet burger chains like Shake Shack and BurgerFi, helping offset the price difference while still enjoying a better meal.
