There’s something magical happening at a small burger joint tucked into downtown Billings that has transformed from a simple local eatery into a nationwide sensation.
The Burger Dive doesn’t just serve food—it crafts legendary experiences that have earned recognition from food critics, competition judges, and devoted customers across the country.
This unassuming restaurant has become the beating heart of Billings’ dining scene, proving that extraordinary flavors can emerge from the most authentic places.
How Burger Dive won local’s hearts 🏆
The path to local stardom began when Brad and Andi Halsten opened The Burger Dive in 2010, bringing fresh ideas and an unwavering commitment to quality that immediately caught Billings’ attention.
The husband-and-wife team’s dedication to using never-frozen, premium Angus beef and partnering with local suppliers like Grains of Montana for custom buns created a foundation of trust with the community.
Their innovative approach to burger creation, featuring unique flavor combinations and house-made barbecue sauces, quickly distinguished them from typical chain restaurants.
The restaurant’s reputation exploded when Brad’s competitive spirit led him to burger competitions across the country.
After winning the Best of the Bash award at the 2014 Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival, The Burger Dive gained national attention and was featured by Red Robin.
The ultimate validation came in 2016 when Brad claimed the World Burger Championship title, cementing The Burger Dive’s status as creators of the world’s best burger.
Local recognition followed suit with the Billings Gazette naming them the city’s best burger winner in 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018.
The combination of championship-level creativity, genuine hospitality, and commitment to supporting local businesses created an unshakeable bond with Billings residents who proudly claim this gem as their own.
Food Highlights 🍔
- “I’m Your Huckleberry” Burger: World Championship winner featuring Brad’s signature huckleberry Hatch chili barbecue sauce, bacon, goat cheese, roasted red pepper mayo, and arugula – a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors
- “Date with Jim Beam and Coke” Burger: Championship creation with bourbon date and Coke barbecue sauce, roasted garlic, smoked Gouda, and garlic basil mayo – an innovative blend that showcases the restaurant’s creative genius
- Juicy Lucy Burger: A ½ pound patty with molten American cheese sealed inside, creating an explosion of cheesy goodness with every bite that keeps customers coming back
- “Best of the Bash” Burger: Food Network award winner featuring blackened seasoning, goat cheese, bacon, onion ring, arugula, and Sriracha garlic basil mayo – a masterclass in layered flavors and textures
- Fresh-Cut Garlic Parmesan Fries: Hand-cut daily and perfectly seasoned, these fries have earned legendary status among locals who often say they’re worth the trip alone
- Beer-Battered Onion Rings: Made with Angry Hanks beer batter and cut fresh daily, these rings feature a thick, crispy coating that customers consistently rate as the best they’ve ever tasted
Atmosphere 🎸
The Burger Dive embraces its name with authentic dive bar charm that feels both nostalgic and welcoming.
The interior features a casual, retro diner aesthetic with comfortable seating and “wacky tacky” decorations that create a fun, relaxed environment.
Despite the humble appearance, the atmosphere buzzes with energy as the friendly, attentive staff creates a genuinely hospitable experience that makes both first-time visitors and regulars feel like family.
The open kitchen concept allows diners to watch the culinary magic happen, while the compact space fosters a community-centered vibe where conversations flow easily and the passion for exceptional food is palpable.
Bottom Line ✨
Visit for world-championship quality burgers served in an authentic dive setting, innovative flavor combinations that can’t be found anywhere else, fresh-cut fries and beer-battered onion rings made daily, legendary milkshakes that perfectly complement the meal, and the genuine hospitality of a family-owned restaurant that truly cares about every customer’s experience.
Address: 114 N 27th St, Billings, MT 59101
📞 (406) 281-8292
🕐 Mon-Fri 10:30 AM–8:00 PM, Sat 11:00 AM–8:00 PM (closed Sun)