Tucked inside an old gas station with a bright blue facade sits a burger joint that locals swear makes the best patties in Maryland. 🍔
Sunshine General Store operates from the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Damascus Road in tiny Brookeville, where customers flood in daily for what many call the FAMOUS Sunshine Burger.
This no-frills spot serves up thick, juicy burgers alongside breakfast and sandwiches in a space that barely fits a grill, three counter stools, and two tables.
How They Won Local’s Hearts 💕
The secret to their success lies in their unwavering commitment to simplicity and quality. Established in 1940, this family-owned operation has changed hands a few times over the decades, but the formula remains unchanged: *exceptional burgers cooked fresh to order*.
The Washington Post even took notice, with food critic Tim Carman visiting after readers insisted he check out their burgers. 📰
What truly captures hearts is the authentic small-town atmosphere that makes every visitor feel like a regular.
The restaurant creates such buzz that two dozen people regularly stream in during lunch just to pick up call-ahead orders, while walk-ins happily wait 20-30 minutes for their turn.
Reviewers describe the vibe as reminiscent of a scene from Stranger Things, giving off that nostalgic 1981 country kitchen feeling. The friendly staff treats everyone like family, and the affordable prices keep customers coming back week after week.
*This place doesn’t just serve food—it serves memories.*
Food Highlights 🍽️
- Sunshine Burger: The restaurant’s signature creation features 1/2 lb patties cooked to perfection that customers rave about. This is the burger that earned the spot its reputation as home of the FAMOUS burger, with thick, juicy beef that’s worth the wait.
- Bacon Cheeseburger: A customer favorite that showcases perfectly cooked bacon and fresh veggies adding satisfying crunch to every bite. The combination of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and quality ingredients makes this a must-try.
- Burgers with “Everything”: Loaded with lettuce, tomatoes, raw onions, cheese, and bacon, these fully-dressed burgers come with a dill pickle spear and deliver maximum flavor in every messy, delicious bite.
- Steak and Cheese Sub: Beyond burgers, the steak and cheese offers another hearty option for sandwich lovers seeking that same quality and generous portions.
Atmosphere 🏪
Sunshine General Store delivers pure dive-bar charm in the best possible way.
The intimate space features minimal seating—just a grill area with counter stools and a couple of tables—creating an authentic mom-and-pop experience.
Walls adorned with memorabilia and quirky decorations transport visitors back decades, while the attached convenience store stocks regional Utz chips, cold drinks, and snacks since the restaurant doesn’t serve sides or beverages.
The bustling energy of constant takeout orders mixed with the sizzle of burgers on the grill creates an exciting, lived-in atmosphere that feels genuinely American. 🇺🇸
Bottom Line ✨
Visit Sunshine General Store for genuinely outstanding burgers that locals consider the best in Maryland, authentic small-town charm you won’t find in chain restaurants, affordable prices that won’t break the bank, and a nostalgic atmosphere that transports you back in time. It’s worth every minute of the wait!
Address: 22300 Georgia Ave, Brookeville, MD 20833
📞 (301) 774-7428
🕔 Hours vary – Call ahead to confirm