In 2023, The Washington Post named Steeze Burger the #1 burger in the DMV—a distinction that took burger lovers by surprise and quickly turned the pop-up sensation into a local legend. But for Hunter Karametos, the Laytonsville-based founder of Steeze Burger, the honor was years in the making.
Before launching Steeze Burger in 2022, Hunter spent nearly a year traveling the region and sampling over 150 burgers—a passion project turned business idea that combined research, nostalgia, and a love for simple, honest food. Now, during National Burger Month, he’s continuing his tradition of trying a different burger each day, and has shared three of his personal favorite burgers across the DMV area.
1. Sunshine General Store — A Burger with History and Heart
Location: 22300 Georgia Ave., Brookeville, MD
Nestled inside a humble gas station you’ve probably driven by without noticing sits what Hunter calls one of the best burgers in Montgomery County. The Sunshine General Store has been part of the Brookeville community since 1947, first opening as a classic gas station and general store before adding a small kitchen nearly a decade later. From that little backroom, a legendary cheeseburger was born.
According to Hunter, this burger is steeped in nostalgia. The preparation is simple but thoughtful: an 8-ounce, loosely formed patty is seasoned and seared on a flattop grill, then placed between a toasted bun. The top bun is layered with mayo, mustard, and ketchup, while the bottom carries fresh lettuce and tomato. A slice of melted cheese finishes it off, and the burger is neatly cut in half before serving.
But the real charm of Sunshine General Store isn’t just the burger—it’s the atmosphere. The store is a living time capsule of Montgomery County’s past. Inside, you’ll find shelves lined with both vintage relics and modern snacks, including rare flavors of Doritos and Mountain Dew. For Hunter, Sunshine General isn’t just about great food; it’s about the feeling of connection it offers to a slower, simpler time.
“This burger absolutely screams nostalgia,” he says. “It’s not just a meal—it’s a bite of local history.”
2. Quarry House Tavern — A Silver Spring Classic
Location: 8401 Georgia Ave., Unit B, Silver Spring, MD
Another favorite on Hunter’s list is the Quarry House Tavern, a cozy and character-filled pub located beneath the streets of downtown Silver Spring. Established in the 1930s, the Quarry House began as a barbershop during Prohibition and later transformed into a tavern after the 18th Amendment was repealed. It even holds Montgomery County’s second-ever liquor license.
Today, Quarry House is known for its laid-back atmosphere, extensive craft beer list, and, of course, its burgers. Among its most popular menu items is the QH Burger—a classic yet flavorful creation made with a 7-ounce Angus beef patty, topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, and their signature QH sauce.
Hunter says his ideal order includes the burger paired with cheese tots and a local cold brew.
“It’s the kind of place that reminds you why the neighborhood pub still matters. It’s not just the burger—it’s the legacy and the comfort that keeps people coming back.”
The Quarry House isn’t just serving food—it’s preserving a piece of Silver Spring’s cultural heritage with every meal.
3. White’s Ferry Grill — A Taste of the Past
Location: 24801 White’s Ferry Rd., Dickerson, MD
Last but not least is a gem tucked beside one of Maryland’s most historic landmarks. Though White’s Ferry—which has connected Montgomery County to Loudoun County across the Potomac River for generations—is currently not in service, the area remains rich in history and charm.
Next to the ferry site sits the White’s Ferry Store, home to a humble take-out window that Hunter says is responsible for one of his most consistently craved burgers. Known for its juicy, well-seasoned patty and soft, squishy bun, this burger strikes the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity.
“Whether you’re a history buff stopping by to take in the sights or a traveler looking for a hearty meal, the White’s Ferry burger delivers both satisfaction and a sense of place.”
While the ferry itself is now a relic of the past, the burger here feels like a living tribute to the legacy of the land—a place where history and flavor meet on a paper plate.
The Burger Journey Continues
For Hunter Karametos, burgers aren’t just about meat and bread—they’re about community, storytelling, and the joy of discovering something special in unexpected places. Whether it’s a roadside general store or a historic tavern, these places offer more than just good food; they offer a window into local culture.
So, as he celebrates National Burger Month one burger at a time, he reminds us that some of the best bites in the DMV are also the most meaningful.
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