TSM Verdict
The Verdict
Burger Master Drive In in Townsend, TN is a classic seasonal drive-in known for its Black Angus burgers, specialty sandwiches, and Mayfield soft-serve ice cream, serving locals and Smokies travelers since 1967. The menu focuses on hearty burgers, fried sides, and nostalgic desserts in a casual, family-friendly setting near the Cades Cove entrance. It's a go-to for those seeking a traditional roadside burger-and-ice-cream experience.
Before You Drive
Check current hours
Public hours currently show Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday closed. Verify before making a longer drive.
Last checked January 22, 2026
Worth it?
Yes, especially if you are near Townsend.
Best order
Classic Burger, Veggie Burger, Frisco Patty Melt, “The Wye” Bologna Sandwich
Best time
Lunch or early dinner
Verify
Verify hours before driving.
Go For
- Classic Burger
- Frisco Patty Melt
- Veggie Burger
- Chili Cheese Fries
- Soft-Serve Ice Cream (cones/shakes/flurries)
Skip If
- You want upscale or formal dining
- You require extensive vegetarian or vegan options beyond a veggie burger
- You prefer year-round indoor seating (it's a seasonal drive-in)
- You need detailed allergen or dietary labeling
Before You Go
Verify hours before driving.
Decision Guide
Decision Guide
Is it worth visiting?
Burger Master Drive In is ideal for families, road-trippers, and anyone craving classic burgers, fries, and soft-serve in a nostalgic drive-in setting near Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Best first order?
Classic Burger, Frisco Patty Melt, Veggie Burger, Chili Cheese Fries, Soft-Serve Ice Cream (cones/shakes/flurries)
Worth driving from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
If you're looking for a traditional drive-in experience with Black Angus burgers and Mayfield soft-serve near the Smokies, Burger Master is a distinctive stop worth considering, especially if you're already exploring the Townsend or Cades Cove area.
Planner Snapshot
At a Glance
Location
Townsend, Tennessee
Cuisine
Hamburger restaurant
Price
$
Best meal
Lunch or early dinner
Families
Confirm fit before going
Planning fit
Best as part of a Townsend stop
Hours warning
Public hours currently show Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday closed. Verify before making a longer drive.
Duration
30-60 minutes (longer during peak summer weekends)
Price
$8-12 per person for burger meal, ice cream $3-6
Best For
Families heading to Cades Cove • Tubing groups needing a quick meal • Anyone craving classic drive-in nostalgia
Website
burgermaster.netMenu
View menuPro tip: Order ice cream online using their QR code if the walk-up line looks long - you'll skip straight to pickup and save 15+ minutes during busy times.
About Burger Master Drive In
Burger Master Drive In delivers quality food, quick service, and an authentic mountain atmosphere in Townsend, TN. A local favorite since 1967, this classic roadside hamburger restaurant features Braveheart Black Angus burgers and Mayfield soft-serve ice cream, attracting both tourists and locals season after season.
Amenities & Features
- Perfectly cooked burgers that visitors call delicious and worth seeking out
- Crispy, well-seasoned french fries that complement the burgers
- Excellent soft-serve ice cream described as "the best"
- Plenty of outdoor seating with a classic drive-in atmosphere
Insider Tips for Burger Master Drive In
Insider tips
Visitors most often point to Braveheart Black Angus Burgers, Mayfield Soft-Serve Ice Cream, and Mountain View Seating. Arrive early (before 11am) or use online ordering for ice cream to avoid peak crowds.
Bring sun protection and light jacket for shoulder seasons - all seating is outdoors. They accept credit cards but have cash ready for tips.
Before you go
Plan around 30-60 minutes (longer during peak summer weekends) unless you are only stopping in briefly. Current price guidance on this page is $8-12 per person for burger meal, ice cream $3-6.
A website is linked here for direct confirmation of current details.
Menu Guide
What to Order at Burger Master Drive In
Main
Classic Burger
A 6 oz Braveheart Black Angus beef patty topped with white American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion, with options for add-ons like bacon, chili, grilled onions, extra cheese, or an extra patty.
Main
Veggie Burger
A plant-based patty served with white American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion, offering a non-meat option that mirrors their signature burger build.
Main
Frisco Patty Melt
A 6 oz Angus patty with Frisco sauce, white American cheese, and grilled onions on Texas toast, described as a long-standing favorite.
Main
“The Wye” Bologna Sandwich
A thick slice of fried bologna topped with pub sauce, white American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion, served as a specialty sandwich.
Main
BLT on Texas Toast
Hardwood-smoked, thick-cut bacon with lettuce and tomato on Texas toast, described as crispy and packed to the brim with flavor.
Side
French Fries
Standard fries that reviewers describe as especially well-cooked and seasoned, served as a classic side.
Side
Chili Cheese Fries
French fries topped with chili and cheese, available as a side or upgraded option.
Dessert
Soft-Serve Ice Cream (cones/shakes/flurries)
Mayfield soft-serve ice cream served as swirled or dipped cones, classic shakes, flurries with mix-ins, banana splits, and more, with a variety of toppings.
Best For
- Families heading to Cades Cove
- Tubing groups needing a quick meal
- Anyone craving classic drive-in nostalgia
Know Before You Go(6 tips)
- Arrive early (before 11am) or use online ordering for ice cream to avoid peak crowds
- Bring sun protection and light jacket for shoulder seasons - all seating is outdoors
- They accept credit cards but have cash ready for tips
- Outdoor seating only with picnic tables - accessible but no indoor option
- Check the weather before visiting, as outdoor seating is the only option.
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Burger Master Drive In
Check the restaurant's current seating policy before weekend evenings; popular spots can have waits.
Tags
Traveler Questions
What are the hours for Burger Master Drive-In?
Public sources conflict on this listing's hours. Verify hours before driving.
How much does Burger Master Drive-In cost?
Burgers and meals typically run $8-12, which is reasonable for the area. Ice cream portions are generous and well-priced. They accept credit cards and prices are comparable to other tourist spots in Townsend.
Do I need reservations for Burger Master Drive-In?
No reservations needed - it's walk-up ordering only. However, you can order ice cream online to skip the line during busy times. Just scan their QR code when you arrive.
How long should I spend at Burger Master Drive-In?
Plan 30-60 minutes depending on crowds. Lines move quickly but can stretch longer on summer weekends. If you order online for ice cream, you'll be in and out in 15 minutes.
Is Burger Master Drive-In good for kids?
Absolutely - it's very family-friendly with picnic table seating and classic burger/ice cream menu. Kids love the soft-serve and the casual outdoor atmosphere. Just bring something to occupy them if there's a line.
Is there parking at Burger Master Drive-In?
Yes, they have on-site parking right by the building plus adjacent lot space. It's typical drive-in style parking, so you'll be close to your table.
Do they have indoor seating?
No, it's outdoor seating only under covered picnic areas. The seating has mountain views but you'll be outside, so dress for weather and bring sun protection in summer.
Is Burger Master Drive-In open year-round?
Public sources conflict on this listing's hours. Verify hours before driving.
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