Rival Burger — Restaurant in Edmonton

Best Burger of My Life!

This was, hands down, the best burger I’ve ever had! However, I do need to warn potential customers about the location setup—it’s very confusing. When we arrived, we almost left because we couldn’t find a way to order. The food isn’t served from the trailer parked out front—it’s actually inside the Flea Market building on the very east side, near Entrance 1 by the large red barriers. You have to call them to place an order, and they’ll bring it out.

We watched several cars pull in, look around the trailer, and then drive away. Even delivery drivers were circling the parking lot, clearly trying to figure out where to go. I’d estimate they’re losing at least 50% of their business because people don’t realize they need to call. My strong recommendation is to put up a clear sign at the trailer directing people to call and order, along with instructions to go to Entrance 1 on the east side of the building.

Now, onto the food—absolute perfection. My wife got the O.G., which I’d say is more for kids, but I went for the PB&J burger, and it was next-level. I’ve had 1ST RND’s PB&J burger before, and it doesn’t even come close. This one reminded me of the legendary PB&J burger from The Village Idiot in Revelstoke.

The burger features two perfectly cooked thin patties with crispy edges, and the bacon pieces add an amazing texture to every bite. What truly blew me away was how well the peanut butter was contained—it didn't leak all over my hands, yet it was still warm and melted on top of the meat, perfectly held together by a soft brioche bun. That’s some serious burger craftsmanship.

For context, here’s my personal burger ranking (coming from someone who hasn’t been to Next Act yet): 1️⃣ Rival Burger 2️⃣ Jack’s (St. Albert) 3️⃣ Leopold’s Tavern (The Orchards) 4️⃣ Fox Burgers 5️⃣ Woodshed Burgers 6️⃣ The Burger Joint (love their Jerk Chicken & fries with dip) 7️⃣ Wayback Burgers 8️⃣ 1ST RND Downtown

Honestly, after Rival Burger, the rankings could go in any order depending on whether you prefer a smash-style burger or a thicker patty. I personally prefer double smash for the ideal bun-to-burger ratio.

The only downside is the location—it’s quite far from Sherwood Park, so we won’t be able to visit often. But this burger was so outstanding that I had to leave a review. If a place like this opened in Sherwood Park, it would be nationally recognized.

Thank you for the amazing food—you truly deserve the...

I’ve tried these guys when they were a food truck outside Queen Mary Market…they now have a restaurant inside the market. Decided to try the Rival burger this time off the owners recommendation. Although it tasted great, it was very greasy and salty…but I don’t mind a dirty burger once in awhile! The bun was very dense and held well together and the meat was cooked to a nice thin crisp! I think some groceries would have off set the greasiness and saltiness of the food and that’s why I will be back to try the O.G. Burger next time! Although I didn’t have the fries or hotdogs, they looked amazing and will give them a go as well! Overall, I recommend checking out the market and stopping...

It's a food truck, not a sit-down restaurant, so set your expectations accordingly when it comes to atmosphere and service.

However, and this is a very big however, this will be one of the best burgers you've ever had. It's not everyday that someone can beat out 5 Guys, but Rival does!

I had the Oklahoma and they absolutely nailed this legendary 1926 southern recipe. If you're wondering why someone would still be using a 99 year-old recipe try it and you'll find out!

My only caution is that you're getting a restaurant quality burger at restaurant prices so expect to pay double what you would pay at McDonalds. In my mind, it's totally worth it, but you'll have to judge...