Here are U.S. burger chains that reliably offer healthier menu options, what those options are, and quick ordering tips to keep calories/nutrients better:
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Bareburger
- Why: Organic, pasture-raised, grass-fed and plant-based patties; wide selection of bun (gluten-free) and lettuce-wrap options.
- Tip: Choose a veggie/vegan patty or grass‑fed beef on a lettuce wrap or whole‑grain bun.
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BurgerFi
- Why: Offers 100% all-natural Angus, turkey, and plant-based (Beyond) burgers; often provides smaller “little” sizes and side salads.
- Tip: Pick the turkey or Beyond burger, skip mayo, and swap fries for a side salad.
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Elevation Burger
- Why: Focus on organic, grass‑fed beef and a range of turkey/veggie options; smaller portion choices.
- Tip: Order a single patty or turkey/veggie option and choose salad or sweet potato fries in moderation.
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Shake Shack
- Why: Has chicken sandwiches, a veggie-based “Shroom or vegetarian options (depending on location), and salads.
- Tip: Go for grilled or chicken options when available, and choose the single ShackBurger or a salad instead of double patties.
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The Habit Burger Grill
- Why: Charbroiled burgers with grilled chicken, turkey burgers in some locations, and salads/lettuce wraps.
- Tip: Opt for the grilled chicken or Veggie Burger and a side salad.
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Hopdoddy Burger Bar
- Why: Uses better-quality proteins (grass-fed or hormone‑free options in many locations) and offers vegetarian/vegan patties.
- Tip: Choose a turkey or plant-based patty and skip heavy sauces; many locations let you substitute grilled veggies or salad.
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Smashburger
- Why: Customizable burgers with grilled chicken, black bean patties (in some markets), and meaningful substitution options.
- Tip: Choose a single patty, whole-grain bun if available, and swap fries for a side salad or Brussels sprouts.
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Red Robin
- Why: “Better for You” menu, Impossible/plant-based burger options, and many side choices beyond fries.
- Tip: Choose the lighter menu items or an Impossible burger with a salad and request no butter on the bun.
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B.GOOD
- Why: A smaller fast-casual chain that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients; offers turkey, bison, and veggie burgers plus grain bowls and salads.
- Tip: Try a burger bowl (burger protein over greens/grains) or choose a turkey/bison patty.
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Bare Bones / Local organic burger restaurants (chains vary regionally)
- Why: Many regional chains focus on organic/pasture‑raised meats and plant-based alternatives.
- Tip: Look for “grass‑fed,” “organic,” or “plant-based” menu cues and smaller-portion options.
General ordering tips to make any burger meal healthier
- Choose single patties instead of doubles; prefer grilled or charbroiled over fried.
- Pick turkey, chicken, bison, or plant-based patties instead of higher‑fat beef; grass‑fed beef is leaner and often higher in omega‑3s.
- Swap a bun for a lettuce wrap or ask for a whole‑grain bun.
- Skip or limit high‑calorie sauces and cheeses; ask for sauces on the side.
- Replace fries with a side salad, steamed veggies, or a baked/sweet potato where available.
- Watch portion sizes (children’s/smaller sandwiches can save 300–500 calories).
If you tell me your city or whether you prefer plant‑based vs. meat, I can give nearby specific locations or menu items.