The humble burger, especially its sibling the cheeseburger, is about as close to perfect summer food as you can get.

It's a full meal in one neat package – veggies, meat and dairy (back to the cheeseburger) squeezed into a bun. Here are a few spots to satisfy that ground beef (or turkey or buffalo) craving.

Ian McCann

CHIP'S OLD FASHIONED HAMBURGERS

JASON JANIK/Special Contributor

Chip's sides in an old-school atmosphere.

Where: 4501 Cole Ave., Dallas. 214-526-1092; 4350 Lovers Lane, Dallas. 214-691-2447.

Atmosphere: Old-school burger joint, complete with bottles of beer on ice, Cowboys banners and signs such as "We Cheat Drunks." We much prefer the Uptown location, where it's easier to find parking.

The burger: Simple and straightforward, and Chip's follows the "if cops eat there, it's going to be good and cheap" rule. When they ask you if you want lettuce, tomato, pickles, mustard and mayo, just say yes. You can also request how the burger is cooked. And if you can't decide between fried shoestring onions or fries, pick the combo.

Where: 2615 Commerce St., Dallas. 214-741-7668. twistedrootburgerco.com.

Atmosphere: Deep Ellum cool. A shaded patio is nice in late spring, but there's ample seating indoors. Even picking up your order is fun: You're assigned a current or classic pop culture figure instead of a number. Bobby Boucher, your order is ready.

The burger: A moist patty with a thick layer of perfectly melted cheddar. They're served open-faced, so you can add one or more of the house-made sauces – horseradish Dijon, an addicting ancho-chipotle ketchup or an amazing barbecue sauce. Perfect on the burger or for dipping twisted french fries or sweet potato chips. You can also choose burgers made from other seasonal meats, including venison, buffalo and ostrich.

Where: 321 N. Bishop Ave., Dallas. 214-941-3322; 4000 Cedar Springs Road. 214-522-1212. hunkys.com.

Atmosphere: Unless we're in the gayborhood, we prefer the newer Bishop Arts District location. Total 1950s diner look and feel – you almost expect to see girls in poodle skirts sipping on handmade shakes.

The burger: Griddle-fried and sometimes a little on the salty side, but they're quick and cheap. There are dozens of burger options, and there's always a daily combo special on the whiteboard. And the slightly sweet onion rings are spectacular.

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