Staff Reporter
The Proper Burger from Duke’s Grocery has once again claimed the crown as “Best Burger in DC,” marking a full decade of triumph in Washington City Paper’s Best of DC awards. Crafted with Creekstone Angus patties, melting Gouda, crisp pickles, and bold sauces, this signature burger continues to rule plates and win hearts. With Duke’s Grocery expanding into Maryland and also securing titles for Best Brunch and Kid-Friendly Dining, the Proper Burger’s legacy now reads like a menu of irresistible victories, cooked to perfection and served with enduring charm.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
-
Duke’s Grocery’s Proper Burger voted Best Burger in DC for the 10th consecutive year by Washington City Paper
-
Burger features: two Creekstone Angus beef patties, Gouda, charred red onion, house pickles, sweet chili sauce, aioli, and brioche bun
-
Duke’s Grocery operates across 5 locations in DC and one in Potomac, Maryland
-
Also received Best Brunch award
-
Sister restaurant Duke’s Counter won Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant
-
Duke’s extends open invitation to try the iconic burger
In a city known for its politics, monuments, and bustling food scene, one thing has remained remarkably constant over the past decade — the dominance of the Proper Burger from Duke’s Grocery. For the tenth consecutive year, the Washington City Paper has crowned it the “Best Burger in DC,” a title that now feels less like a trend and more like a tradition.
Duke’s Grocery, a gastropub-style eatery rooted in British-American fusion, has cultivated a loyal following since its early days in Dupont Circle. While its full menu offers a variety of comfort food staples with elevated twists, it’s the Proper Burger that has cemented the brand’s identity — and its staying power. Over the years, as new culinary trends have come and gone across the District, the Proper Burger has remained a consistent crowd favorite.
The signature item is anything but ordinary. Composed of two Angus beef patties, typically sourced from Creekstone Farms — a name known for its premium, never-frozen beef — the burger is built to impress. Layers of melted Gouda, peppery arugula, charred red onions, house pickles, sweet chili sauce, and a rich garlic aioli combine to create a complex flavor profile. All of this is sandwiched inside a soft brioche bun, often locally sourced, lending the burger both familiarity and finesse.
“We’re honored, and beyond grateful for every single vote, every bite, and every cheers along the way,” the team at Duke’s Grocery shared in a statement following the award announcement. “None of this would be possible without YOU‼️”
The accolade is part of Washington City Paper’s Best of DC readers’ poll, which annually invites locals to vote for their favorite dining spots, entertainment venues, and service providers. For Duke’s Grocery to earn the top burger spot for ten years in a row speaks volumes about both the consistency of its product and the devotion of its patrons.
But it’s not just burgers that are drawing crowds. Duke’s Grocery also earned the title of Best Brunch in the same poll — a nod to its diverse menu and popularity among weekend diners. Meanwhile, Duke’s Counter, a sister concept under the same ownership, was recognized as Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant, highlighting the brand’s broad appeal across demographics.
The milestone year has been made even more notable by Duke’s expansion. In April, the brand opened its first Maryland location in Potomac, bringing its Proper Burger across the state line and into new territory. The move reflects both the growing demand for the product and the ambition behind the brand.
“To everyone who’s been with us from the beginning and to those who just had their first bite — thank you,” the statement continued. “If you haven’t had the Proper Burger yet… consider this your official invitation.”
Duke’s Locations:
📍 Dupont Circle
📍 Woodley Park/Zoo
📍 Foggy Bottom
📍 Potomac, MD
📍 [Other DC spots as per availability]
As Duke’s Grocery celebrates a decade-long reign with its award-winning Proper Burger, its seamless expansion into Maryland signals more than just culinary growth — it reflects a brand that understands both consistency and innovation. With loyal patrons in D.C. and an enthusiastic new audience in Potomac, the Proper Burger continues to satisfy cravings across borders. Recognized not only for its signature creation but also for its family-friendly and brunch offerings, Duke’s proves that quality, when well-seasoned with vision, knows no boundaries. The journey of this celebrated burger is far from over — and the appetite only grows.
Appreciating your time:
We appreciate you taking the time to read our most recent article! We appreciate your opinions and would be delighted to hear them. We value your opinions as we work hard to make improvements and deliver material that you find interesting.
Post a Comment:
In the space provided for comments below, please share your ideas, opinions, and suggestions. We can better understand your interests thanks to your input, which also guarantees that the material we offer will appeal to you. Get in Direct Contact with Us: Please use our “Contact Us” form if you would like to speak with us or if you have any special questions. We are open to questions, collaborations, and, of course, criticism. To fill out our contact form, click this link.
Stay Connected:
Don’t miss out on future updates and articles.
