Jackson's Top Burger Tour
We've all been there: It's a Friday night, and you're craving a burger like nobody's business. Fast food won't suffice, and while local staples like Burger Barn always hit the spot, you're looking for something a little more unique. It begs the question: What is Jackson's best burger?
Well, in honor of the upcoming National Cheeseburger Day, we're taking you on a tour of three of Jackson's most creative and tasty burgers—but only you can decide which reigns supreme! Try them out for yourself on the holiday on Monday, September 18; take the whole fam to split a burger at each of the locations, then click here to cast your vote. Winner will be announced following the event on Tuesday, September 19. Let the battle begin!
Angus Border Burger
Coyote Blues | 4 Stonebridge Boulevard | 731.660.0603
Meat: 1/2 lb. Angus beef
Bun: Jalepeño & cheese bun
Toppings: Bacon, monterey jack, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, red onion, fresh jalepeños, guacamole, BBQ sauce, chipotle aioli
Tasting notes: Sweet, tangy, colorful
Learn more: Website | Facebook | Instagram
After a few years of serving up three burgers at their restaurant, Coyote Blues decided to put all the best things in one place with their Angus Border Burger. Ask the waiter for a few extra napkins, because this burger is one heck of a beautiful mess.
I've had a guac burger, I've had a barbecue burger, and I'll always take some chipotle aioli—but I've never had all three flavors in one dish. It turns out they combine amazingly, though, and when you take a bite into this big boy, you'll be surprised to find it more sweet than spicy. Now, we will warn you, because the jalepeños are fresh and not pickled, they sure have a kick, but if you've got a more tame palate, just get it without the jalepeños, and you'll be just fine.
According to manager Barry Nabours, the bun is what makes this burger stand out: a soft, cheesy jalepeño bread that tastes more like a sweet corn muffin than a hamburger bun. And with classic Mexican toppings like red onion, tomato, and shredded lettuce, you'll get all the Tex Mex flavors you're craving in an American package. (Fries on the side, of course.)
When you order this burger, make sure to savor its incredible texture and diverse flavors, from the toasted but pillowy bun to the salty crunch of the bacon to tang of the barbecue combining with the creamy spice of the aioli. But don't think the fixin's will get in the way of the handmade Angus patty; you won't be disappointed (or hungry for dessert).
PB&J Burger
Mulligan's | 1364 Union University Drive | 731.660.6595
Meat: 1/2 lb. beef
Bun: Mulligan's secret sweet bun
Toppings: Peanut butter, grape jelly, bacon (upon request)
Tasting notes: Creamy, sweet & salty, buttery
Learn more: Website | Facebook | Instagram
When Mary Truett bought Mulligan's in 2010, little did she know that a short seven years later they'd be reopening in a snazzy new space and expanding their menu—specifically their burger menu. As Jackson's only Irish pub/tavern, Mulligan's is proud of the flavors they spotlight from across the pond, but they aren't afraid to invent something of their own, too . . . like the PB&J Burger.
Mary is proud of all the "Mully Burgers" they offer, such as the Chili Burger, Black & Bleu, and "Green Irish" smothered in guacamole, but she always encourages customers to add toppings to their heart's delight—but I couldn't resist trying the PB&J. If you thought a simple half-pounder would fill you up, you ain't seen nothin' yet. Not only is the peanut butter thick and suggested bacon a generous serving, their secret sweet bun is nearly as big as the burger and will bring you back to Sunday afternoon dinners at Grandma's house. The grape jelly gives the perfect amount of sweet tang, and the accompanying homemade potato chips are the perfect compliment.
"I highly recommend extra napkins," Mary told me with a wink, and I have to agree. You're sure to make a mess when you take a bite, and I suggest stopping about halfway through for leftovers unless you want to take the rest of the day off just to recover from the feast. And if the peanut butter starts to get a little sticky, make sure to wash it all down at the bar.
This is a burger full of matches made in heaven: sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy, and even all three meals of breakfast, lunch, and dinner! And as crazy at it may sound, I can promise you won't be able to get enough. Make sure to stop by for one on "Burger Day;" every Monday burgers are just $8.99!
The Blues Burger
Rock'n Dough Pizza & Brew Co. | 16 Jackson Walk Plaza | 731.300.0404
Meat: Marmilu Farms blackened beef
Bun: Pretzel bun
Toppings: Bleu cheese, arugula, truffle mayo, balsamic reduction
Tasting notes: Sharp, bold, buttery
Learn more: Website | Facebook
Sure, Rock'n Dough may be better known for its pizza, but don't let them fool you; they can make a burger like nobody's business.
Manager Trevor Jones let me know that as their menu has matured, Rock'n Dough has decided to stick with a music theme when it comes to their burgers, offering "The Classic," "The Alternative," and—our personal favorite—"The Blues." And just like blues music, this burger is sophisticated and hits some innovative notes.
First to note is the blackened beef patty, giving some spice and crunch without distracting from the pure flavor of the meat. (Did we mention that you can get local beef from Marmilu Farms for just an additional $1?) Unlike your typical slice of American or cheddar, bleu cheese crumbles provide for a strong and sharp flavor, but its creaminess and the way it plays with the other toppings prevent it from being too overpowering. The hearty bed of arugula that tops the burger provides for a slightly bitter but oh-so-subtle compliment to the cheese, and the drizzle of balsamic and thin swipe of truffle aioli add just the right bit of tang and moisture to combine everything in a dramatic way.
Holding it all together is Rock'n Dough's unique pretzel bun: buttery on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and toasted in between to better keep the burger in one piece. And don't forget about the side of their famous house-cut fries that are sure to make you swoon. Plus, if you're a fan of classic burger toppings, don't worry; their served on the side for you to add as desired (including some mean house-made pickles).
Everything about this burger is classy, sharp, and ever so decadent—and is bound to go real nice with a cold beer from the brewery. Keep an eye out for some exciting events and expansions coming up in the future for this Jackson favorite.
And the winner is . . .
Coyote Blues!
Thanks for voting!
Originally from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Katie Howerton moved to Jackson in 2011 to study Graphic Design and Drawing at Union University. She discovered Our Jackson Home in January 2015 and used it as a guinea pig for her senior design project, creating the first issue of Our Jackson Home: The Magazine. After graduating she was given leadership over Our Jackson Home at theCO, where she now runs the blog, designs the magazine, and coordinates events. She and her husband Jordan live in Midtown and are active members of City Fellowship Baptist Church.
Photography by Katie Howerton.
