Wichita has a significant legacy when it comes to hamburgers. In 1921, the first burger chain, White Castle, opened its doors. But as of 1938, there are no White Castles in Kansas. What happened? The corporation relocated its headquarters to Columbus, OH in the early 1930s, losing Kansas as its focus as well as its foothold in the growing burger industry.
Given its history, Wichita is still considered a burger town. An ongoing debate among Wichitans is over which restaurant serves the best burger, and to most, it comes down to two: Bomber Burger and TJ’s Burger House. Bomber Burger is located in a modest, low-slung building, and it accepts cash only. Yelpers call the burgers thick (they’re ¾ lb.) and well-seasoned and the staffers “colorful” — they’ve been known to give some good-natured ribbing to diners who can’t finish their burgers. On the other hand, TJ’s is known as an upbeat spot with a 1950s diner vibe, fresh and juicy burgers, and friendly staffers. Why not try both and see which one you like best?
Bomber Burger
4860 S. Clifton Ave.
Wichita, KS 67216
(316) 522-6291
www.bomberburger.net
www.yelp.com/biz/bomber-burger-wichita
TJ’s Burger House
1003 W. Douglas Ave.
Wichita, KS 67213
(316) 269-3770
www.facebook.com/tjsburgerhouse
www.yelp.com/biz/tjs-burger-house-wichita