Housed inside a repurposed mid-century barber shop on 8th Street, Oakwood Proper Burgers has become Traverse City’s favorite smashburger destination. 🍔
This couple-owned spot builds every burger through farm-to-table practices, sourcing Michigan craft beef, produce, and buns from local farms and bakers.
Since opening, it’s earned a loyal following for its bold flavor combinations and commitment to quality over shortcuts.
It’s the kind of place where a quick lunch run turns into a full-blown smashburger obsession. 🧀
How Oakwood Proper Burgers won Traverse City’s hearts
The story behind Oakwood Proper Burgers starts with its dedication to tool-to-table sourcing, working directly with Michigan farms, bakers, and craftsmen to build every burger from the ground up.
That commitment to local ingredients, paired with an ecologically conscientious approach, has made this Traverse City burger joint stand apart from typical fast-casual spots.
One reviewer described the experience as an “epic smash burger experience” that left them wanting more, specifically praising the soft-baked buns and creative topping combinations found across the menu. 🌱
What really cements the loyalty, though, is the balance of comfort and creativity in every bite.
Diners rave about the garlic parmesan hand-cut fries, calling them “very addictive,” and consistently highlight the restaurant’s signature “Proper Sauce,” a house-made take on Thousand Island dressing.
That attention to detail extends to the burgers themselves, with reviewers praising perfectly cooked patties, crispy bacon, and fresh-cut jalapeños that never feel like an afterthought.
Add in a cozy patio with a fire pit for colder months, and it’s easy to see why this Michigan craft beef burger spot has become a can’t-miss stop for locals and visitors alike. ❤️
Food Highlights
- Oakwood: A signature smashburger loaded with smoked bacon, white cheddar, lettuce, and house ranch dressing.
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Proper: Michigan craft beef topped with American cheese, lettuce, pickles, grilled onions, and the house-made Proper Sauce.
- Oliver Twist: White cheddar and a tangy creole olive salad with Valentina hot sauce, finished with diced jalapeños and garlic mayo.
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El Padre: A bold combination of candied bacon, pepper jack, grilled poblanos, and chipotle BBQ sauce.
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La Montana: Beef paired with cream cheese, grilled jalapeños, lettuce, grilled onions, and chipotle mayo.
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Papas Fritas: A chorizo patty topped with pepper jack cheese and crispy French fries, finished with spicy ketchup and spicy mayo.
- Chili Queen: Beef topped with white queso, grilled poblanos, lettuce, grilled onions, and spicy ketchup.
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Terlingua: Beef with pepper jack cheese, chipotle peppers, grilled onions, and chipotle mayo.
Atmosphere
Set inside a converted mid-century modern barber shop, Oakwood Proper Burgers has a retro, laid-back charm that feels distinctly Traverse City. 🔥
The cozy patio with a fire pit makes it a year-round favorite, extending the outdoor dining season well into the cooler months.
It’s a counter-service setup, casual and quick, but the quality of the food makes it feel like a destination rather than a quick bite. Families, friends, and solo diners all fit right in among the relaxed, community-driven vibe.
Bottom Line
Michigan craft beef, creative smashburger combinations like the La Montana, and addictive garlic parmesan fries make Oakwood Proper Burgers a Traverse City favorite. It’s a must-visit for anyone craving a quality, locally sourced burger. 🍔
Address:
1108 E Eighth St, Traverse City, MI 49686
📞 (231) 253-1513
🕔 Open Tue-Sun, 11:00 AM–7:00 PM (closed Mon)