Having a place to find first-class burgers, good conversation, and friendly company is a staple in any community. Fortunately, Port Huron has multiple options for the various tastes and preferences in the area. Whether you’re looking a classic cheeseburger served in a vintage diner atmosphere, or a bacon burger loaded with the works surrounded by a festive ambiance, you have your choice.
We’ve listened to the local buzz and gathered a short list of some of the most beloved burger joints in Port Huron. All you have to do is practically look around the corner to find your preference. Be ready with your appetite!
CJ’s Bar and Grill
https://www.facebook.com/pages/C-Js-Bar-Grill/121045957910743
Established in 2007, CJ’s has made a name for itself as a spot for great food and a friendly game of pool. Tucked away on the western outskirts of Port Huron on Griswold near Michigan Road, CJ's offers an inviting bar and a kitchen that is open until 2 a.m. Patrons rave about their fresh cut fries, which is the perfect companion to their handmade burgers, including the popular mushroom swiss burger. Their Rodeo burger, loaded with bacon, cheese, and onion rings is also a favorite with their customers. Find them at 3860 Griswold.
Palm’s Krystal Bar & Grill/Chicken in the Rough
https://www.facebook.com/PalmsKrystalBarChickenintheRough/
Long before the plethora of fast food franchises we know today, there was Chicken in the Rough. Started in 1936 by Beverly and Ruby Osborne soon after losing their savings in the Great Depression, Beverly worked hard to make his new business known for their quality and great chicken. He satisfied the local need for affordable food at a time when many folks’ income was sparse. Fast forward to today, and they are a well-known staple in Port Huron featuring a fun, retro bar and diner feel.
While famous for their chicken, they also get rave reviews for their burger selection, including their Ultimate Bacon Burger. This dish feature ground certified angus beef topped with smoked bacon, cheese, onion rings, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and pickle served on a toasted brioche bun.
Find them at 1535 Pine Grove.
Chef’s Shell’s Restaurant and Catering
https://www.facebook.com/ChefShells/
Initially getting their start with their Roadkill Roy BBQ sauce line, Chef Shell’s is located on Superior Mall, right around the corner from Sperry’s. Shell and Mark Wrubel have turned their operation into a full-service restaurant, bakery, and catering service, and have a strong passion for being involved in the community. While they are known for their homemade, award-winning doughnuts, they also serve a variety of delicious burgers that have fans raving.
For those interested in a burger with a twist, try their “RKR Burger,” loaded with pulled pork and their famous Roadkill Roy BBQ sauce. Visit Chef Shell's at 324 Superior Mall
Conner Street Pub
https://www.facebook.com/ConnerStreetPub/
Co-owned by Dino Tata and Clyde Moss, the Conner Street Pub is a newer addition to the Port Huron area and has a passion for being known for their homemade, high quality food. Located in the old Sportsman’s Bar and Grill on Conner Street between Electric and Military, it is a great spot for popular comfort food with a gourmet spin.
Their delicious Conner Street Classic features an angus patty accompanied with American cheese, thick cut applewood bacon, lettuce, tomato, and red onion jam. In addition, a great companion to their burgers are their Michigan craft beers, served at a bar whose structure dates back over 100 years from a St Clair speakeasy. Find them at 2623 Conner St.
Power’s Diner
https://www.facebook.com/PowersDiner/
Recently purchased by John Liango and Albert Wojtala in 2015, local landmark Power’s Diner has had a facelift, and yet has preserved much of its previous classic ambiance. They are known as the classic hamburger joint with the hometown diner feel. Quite fittingly, their classic cheeseburger is a crowd pleaser. Their affordable menu also includes other tasty options, such as their Scrap Yard burger for those who have a craving for bacon, ham, cheese, and egg to accompany their beef patty. Visit them at 1209 Military St. Port Huron
Cavis Grill
https://www.facebook.com/Cavis-Grill-111614218876170/
Owned by Nick Cavis, the Cavis Grill is a “must visit” according to Port Huron locals. First opened in 1960, they have received recognition for their tasty hamburgers, and take pride in their fresh ingredients. Folks also mention their generous portions. Customers’ raves range from their Classic Burger to their Jalapeno Cheddar Burger, which is topped with sautéed jalapeños and melted cheese. Visit 401 Quay St.
Zebra Lounge and Bowl–O-Drome
https://www.facebook.com/thezebralounge/
Known for their half-pound Zebra Burger, the Zebra Lounge features a full restaurant and bar, along with a recently renovated 18-lane bowling alley and a boat dock area. Their prime location on the Black River and waterfront location makes them a popular choice among boaters. As of January 2017, their kitchen has also been updated.
Visit them at 522 Quay St., Port Huron