It's pretty clear that Bad Daddy's Burger Bar is proud of its food. After all, the signature dish is the Bad Ass burger. This 10-ounce behemoth—a specialty blend of premium chuck and brisket—is dressed simply but thoughtfully, with housemade american cheese, buttermilk-fried bacon, horseradish mayo, and LTO.

If you're seeking a meal with that sort of combination of adventure and familiarity, Bad Daddy's has plenty of options equally full of personality. It's part of the philosophy of Frank Scibelli and Dennis Thompson, who opened the original in Charlotte, North Carolina. Their plan? To put all their culinary passion into making classic American dishes, especially burgers, as delicious as possible.

That's why you'll find a menu packed with gourmet burgers and "non-burgers" (aka sandwiches), including the Sam I Am burger, layered with rosemary ham, fresh pesto, and an over-easy egg. Massive specialty salads, a build-your-own burger option, and good ol' American appetizers—think fried pickles, chicken wings, and chili—round out the offerings. Whatever you order, be sure to pair it with a craft beer, colorful cocktail, or thick shake.