The Ultimate Guide to Gourmet Burgers

Gourmet burgers are highlighted as one of the key trends in the hamburger market – a market that is currently worth over $80 billion and expected to almost double in value over the next decade, according to Metatech Insights. Consequently, gourmet burgers are emerging not only at fine dining locations but also on the menus at fast casual restaurants like Freddy’s. So, what factors are contributing to the popularity of this type of burger? What trends influence the gourmet burgers that are offered? In this guide to gourmet burgers, explore how gourmet burgers are evolving and the trends that impact their flavor, preparation and service.

Breaking Down Gourmet Burgers

Admittedly, gourmet burgers defy strict definition. Typically, the uniqueness or expense of their ingredients, as well as the degree of indulgence they offer, often distinguish this kind of burger from its more classic hamburger counterpart. While the influences impacting gourmet burgers may experience some shifts from year to year, evidence of these changes may be seen in individual components of the burger, not to mention the process of its preparation or acquisition, as discussed by Fairway Foodservice’s Chef Insider. Here, we explore how gourmet burgers may be distinguished from the more traditional hamburger composition.

Color, Flavor and Texture with Gourmet Burger Buns

While toasting the bun generally remains the preferred method of bun preparation, options for ingredients to serve as burger buns continue to expand. From health-conscious choices to more flavorful, freshly-baked bread, a sesame-seeded top bun no longer identifies an upscale burger (or burger bun), as HuffPost explains that it once did. While seeded and un-seeded buns are available in many stores, gourmet burgers often feature specialty buns such as pretzel, potato or brioche buns or other handmade alternatives. In terms of unique extravagance, Tastemade notes that choices like donuts and grilled cheese may replace typical offerings.

The Possibilities of Premium Patties for Gourmet Burgers

Consumers may be more likely to experience some commonality in buns used on gourmet burgers versus the patties. Why? Given the multitude of ingredients that can be used for patties, there is already a vast flavor spectrum to experience, as evident in the nuances of a bean-based gourmet burger versus a beef patty. Additionally, the flavors of gourmet beef burgers, for example, may be impacted by the cut of beef, type of grind and lean-to-fat ratio, not to mention seasoning, additional mix-ins and cooking method. In terms of beef burgers, Gordon Food Service emphasizes a current focus on the quality of meat, such as grass-fed beef, and using custom grinds for burgers. Regarding other trending types of burger patties, Datassential shares that interest in plant-based burgers may have plateaued in their 2024 report. However, the projections from Grand View Research suggest that the plant-based meat market may actually grow by more than 18% in the next 5 years, and plant-based burgers currently lead this particular market.

Adventures in Toppings and Condiments

Instead of the classic slice of American cheese, gourmet burgers often feature more luxurious cheeses like brie, gouda, stilton or customized cheese sauces. Other familiar toppings like onions may be caramelized, fried or pickled or swapped entirely, just as condiments like ketchup or mustard may be infused with other distinctive flavors or exchanged for specialty sauces like a truffle aioli. In Forbes’ survey of chefs and their restaurant trend predictions for this year, global flavors, healthy choices, and an emphasis on local and quality ingredients were highlighted, as well as using ingredients with greater intentionality not simply for the sake of aesthetic. Consequently, while shaved truffles may remain as an elevated topping for gourmet burgers, gold leaf may be exchanged for more functional extravagance that lends both a vibrant pop of color and a punch of flavor. Additionally, while the use of “fancier” ingredients as toppings has been a hallmark of gourmet burgers at fine dining restaurants, it is also becoming more prominent at fast casual restaurants, according to the market research professionals at Mintel.

From Ordering to Arrival: The Latest Trends in Gourmet Burgers

As one year shifts into the next, consumer preferences and other food industry trends further influence the gourmet burger experience. In some instances, these changes align with the intention of a gourmet burger, such as the desire to experience something new or especially luxurious if choosing to dine out. Other considerations like the increasing popularity of customization options may impact not only the ingredients but also the very process of gourmet burger ordering, preparation and retrieval. According to Toast, many of the familiar hallmarks of gourmet burgers continue into 2025, such as creativity in toppings and use of unique ingredients. In addition to Toast’s note regarding the growing desire for breakfast burgers and burgers with substantially spicy elements, there are a variety of other trends emerging. Accordingly, this year may bring transformation in the ways in which gourmet burgers are crafted and in the related dining experience.

Ingredients and Inspirations for Gourmet Burgers

Trends often guide decisions around ingredients, specifically which ingredients, the sourcing or regional uses of those ingredients and how the ingredients may be integrated, transformed or prepared. Since burgers are often designated as gourmet due to how they reimagine or reinvent their foundational components, evolving trends may inform upcoming menu refreshes or daily specials. Importantly, changes from one year to the next may be subtle, as with the singular addition of a new burger or more topping options, or more extensive in terms of the spectrum of patty preparations, buns or sauces. Industry experts have a lot to say about potential food trends for the new year.

On the National Restaurant Association’s What’s Hot 2025 Culinary Forecast, global inspiration specifically from Southeast Asia and use of fermented or pickled foods are some of the key trends driving the culinary industry this year. Consequently, gourmet burger experiences may be informed by these influences. For example, in addition to fresh watermelon juice or a watermelon salad, the watermelon rind may be pickled. Such an approach reduces food waste while simultaneously providing guests with a different pickled element to add tang to their chosen burger. The choice of fermented element may also be informed by the global inspiration for the dish, such as the addition of kimchi on a burger in place of the usual leafy green.

Datassential’s report on 2025 food and beverage trends emphasizes new interpretations of luxury and value, as well as the desire for both indulgence and food transparency. As Food and Drink Resources emphasizes regarding the continued popularity of the smashburger into 2025, a classic like this burger with its roots in reducing costs and diner settings now also frequents menus of more upscale restaurants. However, this resource also notes that the “bistro burger,” characterized by patty thickness and known for use of premium ingredients may be on the rise. Contributing what they anticipate as the threads weaving through this year’s food and beverage experiences, the professional diners at the Michelin Guide add further expansion into plant-based offerings and more flame-focused cooking in addition to atypical toppings and ingredient swaps.

Rebellion may be at the heart of this year’s dining experience, as anticipated by The New York Times. From diverse sauces to unfamiliar produce, experimentation and discovery may drive food and beverage creation and guest experience. How might these predictions influence gourmet burgers? Food and Drink Resources shares some insight. Their trend discussion highlights the use of pickling but with different flavor nuances and fruit and vegetable choices, as well as garnishes focused on flavor not simply appearance, such as the bright color and caramelized notes of grilled pineapple. Additionally, as the saying goes, what is old may become new again with reimaginings of food experiences, such as “fork and knife burgers” or additional bun variations.

Approaches to Purchase Patterns and Trends

In addition to the ingredients and inspirations, how guests access and experience their food and beverages are other key industry considerations. Based on research and predictions for this new year, consumers may have multiple and potentially conflicting priorities for which restaurants need to account. Given the wide reach of gourmet burgers from fast-casual settings to upscale dining establishments, several trends may inform adjustments to guest experience and engagement.

In addition to its assessment of ingredients and dish influences, the National Restaurant Association’s What’s Hot 2025 Culinary Forecast also highlights value deals and limited-time only menus as pivotal for consumer engagement. In a similar fashion to what defines gourmet as applied to burgers, what is considered a value deal may vary substantially from one consumer or restaurant to the next. Plus, limited-time offers or specialty menus with a set duration offer a level of excitement with their sense of a somewhat exclusive experience. Given their existing intention to exceed the typical burger experience, gourmet burgers may be particularly suited to this trend in guest preference, due to their versatility.

In its assessment of this year’s dining trends, QSR Magazine references data from Mintel to determine how to keep guests returning to restaurants. For example, one survey mentioned highlights that approximately half of diners are looking for new dishes to try or experiences that feel like a treat. Interestingly, as noted via reference to another study, the desire for new flavors as may be anticipated with gourmet burgers is applicable to any type of restaurant and dining experience. This trend exploration further reiterates differentiations into what constitutes value. While some survey results note premium ingredients and healthy menu options as important, other data points to loyalty programs as the driving factor for over 60% of survey respondents.

How then might chefs and restaurants adapt to the diverse trends in consumer choices as shared by QSR Magazine? Two potential pathways include increasing promotional opportunities, especially using social media and mobile apps to do so, and offering catering services. Fortunately, these strategies can be mutually beneficial. For example, a catered lunch can expand brand awareness to guests with no prior experience with that particular restaurant. Additionally, given the importance of loyalty programs, amping up the limited time offerings and reward opportunities offers new and exclusive appeal and helps further reinforce brand commitment. Whether guests are seated at a fine dining restaurant or awaiting their carry-out order at Freddy’s, Dataessential emphasizes that guest customization continues to be a desirable feature and notes that this aspect of the dining process further contributes to perceptions of value.

Regarding increased use of technology in the restaurant franchise industry, Business Wire highlights that over 75% of restaurant operators and financial experts surveyed noted mobile ordering as the most important contributor to revenue for the coming year. Additionally, almost 60% of participants emphasized mobile apps as essential for an easy and convenient experience for guests and an impactful tool for restaurants. Metatech further reinforces that digital ordering and delivery services are critical growth opportunities in the hamburger market. In addition to increasing the convenience of gourmet burgers from ordering to pick-up, technology further extends brand reach and also facilitates opportunities for customization that ensure guests are aware of their options but can be precise in their order preferences.

The Freddy’s Forecast for This Year’s Gourmet Burger Trends

Without question, each new year carries guest preferences from previous years and unique innovations to explore. As Food & Wine notes in joking about their own predictions over the years, proposed trends may be right on…or very, very off-base. Given that reality, the impact of anticipated trends on restaurants may vary. At Freddy’s, our guests are our top priority, so we aim to tailor our offerings to their specifications and let them equally share in opportunities to customize their Freddy’s experiences. Find out how Freddy’s is embracing 8 trends guiding food and guest experience this year.

1. Catering: In line with the desire for convenience and customizable experiences, catering is an anticipated trend of this year. Fortunately, current and future Freddy’s fans have access to catering services featuring a variety of menu favorites. Combine the current desire for new experiences while honoring personal preferences with catering selections, such as our Deluxe Burger Bar or Create Your Own Sundae Bar. With options for both carry-out and delivery, take delicious food and treats off of your family gathering or party planning checklist by ordering catering ahead of time from your local Freddy’s.

2. Gourmet burger bun variety: Exploring different options for burger buns continues in popularity this year. As in the past, specialty burgers may feature unique bun options, as with the soft pretzel bun used in the Pretzel Bacon BBQ Steakburger. Given the increasing emphasis on health and nutritional awareness, lettuce wraps are available to swap for standard buns on both Freddy’s steakburgers and other sandwiches. Additionally, we understand that people are interested in the nutritional content or potential allergens of their meal choices, whether they are looking at gourmet burgers or delicious frozen custard treats. Consequently, we make this dietary information easily accessible for our entrées, condiments and toppings, sides and other menu items.

3. Indulgence: As evident on the Freddy’s menu, we appreciate the comfort of classic burger combinations made with quality ingredients but also offer elevated indulgences for guests to enjoy. Once limited-time offers, gourmet burgers like the Grilled Cheese Steakburger and the Prime Rib Steakburger offer guests a new burger experience with elevated variations on traditional components like buns and meat. Since frozen custard treats are a complementary indulgence to a delicious steakburger, our guests can customize their choice of combo meals with a variety of frozen custard options in addition to the more familiar fountain drink.

4. Variety in sauces and toppings: When it comes to flavor, we understand the importance of seasoning and sauces. Consequently, we even created our own custom blends such as Freddy’s Famous Steakburger & Fry Seasoning® and Freddy’s Famous Fry Sauce® (also available in jalapeño and smoky varieties!). In creating new gourmet burgers, specialty sauces and toppings are designed and prepared just for those items, such as the garlic aioli for the Prime Rib Steakburger or the French Onion sauce and grilled and crispy onions for our French Onion Steakburger. Additionally, guests can choose to try out our curated burgers as they are, such as the Jalapeño Pepper Jack Double, or further select from our extensive collection of sauces and toppings, including selections such as ranch, cheese sauce, chili and sauerkraut.

5. Customization: According to Modern Restaurant Management, the majority of diners value the option for personalized ordering. At Freddy’s, there are multiple ways that we aim to serve this preference:

● Guests have the ability to choose, omit or exchange multiple components in a dish, such as the bun or toppings, or components of a combo meal. 

● Guests often have the option to size orders to their specifications from the number of toppings or steakburger patties to sides and drinks. 

● Additionally, there are multiple order types to choose from, such as dine-in, carry-out and delivery in addition to mobile ordering from the Freddy’s near you. 

● For members of Freddy’s Rewards, we offer various options for loyalty point redemption.

6. Mobile app: A platform for both convenience and specialty rewards, Freddy’s mobile app combines delivery and order-ahead capabilities with the Freddy’s loyalty program – Freddy’s Rewards. Available for Android or Apple devices, the app is designed to be easy to use so that guests can submit their cooked-to-order preferences for their steakburgers as well as their frozen custard treats. They can even save past orders that include their favorite Freddy’s items to make upcoming mealtime orders even easier. To accommodate the busy schedules of individuals and families, the mobile app also offers the option to select a convenient pickup time.

7. Loyalty program: While neither our mobile app nor our loyalty program are new this year, Freddy’s continues to focus on how these offerings can improve the guest experience. For example, Freddy’s Rewards can be used in-app, online or in-store. Guests are also given options in terms of how they want to redeem the points that they earn with each order, whether they are looking to enjoy a shake with one of the new gourmet steakburgers or a delicious side. To further emphasize how important our guests are to us and our intention to earn their loyalty, a choice of free items is available simply by signing up for our loyalty program. We also send a special birthday reward each year, so you can treat yourself accordingly!

8. Limited-Time Offers: Don’t miss out! Catch it while it’s here! Make the most of the season! All of these sentiments and many more contribute to the unique joy associated with enjoying gourmet burgers or any other dish that’s only available for a certain amount of time. In terms of food, absence can make the heart grow fonder, so when the peppermint shakes finally return, they are a treat to experience while they last. Like birthdays, holidays and other special occasions, the temporary nature of these times brings a certain energy to them and the excitement of new burgers to try before they are gone is similar. At Freddy’s, we often offer steakburgers and frozen custard creations that are only available for a limited time. While some items only appear seasonally, we also attend to our guests’ feedback, so beloved special features sometimes become a more permanent menu addition.

For innovative gourmet burgers and familiar steakburger flavor combinations, Freddy’s has you covered. From cooked-to-order steakburgers to customizable frozen custard creations, it’s easy for guests to customize meals to their specifications at Freddy’s. With a variety of ordering and delivery options and a program designed to reward the loyalty of our guests with each order and on special occasions, the guest experience is clearly a priority when dining at your local Freddy’s or enjoying gourmet burgers with your friends and family at home. Since the beginning, Freddy’s has focused on your happiness, and we look forward to continuing our trend of providing you with quality meals and outstanding customer service this year and beyond.