If you’ve spent any time in Milledgeville, you probably know the name Buffington’s.
Founded in 1999 by Frank Pendergrass and Mitch Brooks, Buffington’s has been a downtown staple for more than two decades. After changing hands several times over the years, the restaurant is now back in the hands of the founding families. Following a temporary closure for building repairs earlier this year, Buffington’s reopened on May 15, just in time for Burger Week.
Now, let’s talk burgers.
National Hamburger Day seemed like the perfect excuse to stop by. Not that I really needed one.
One of the first things I noticed was the menu. It’s smaller than many longtime Buffington’s customers may remember, but that’s not a bad thing. Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, the new Buffington’s has put the focus squarely on smash burgers, chicken, melts, and a few longtime favorites.
I ordered the Double Smash Burger
You can choose from several signature topping combinations or build your own creation from a long list of cheeses, toppings, and add-ons.
But I went Classic…Simple
Two seasoned beef patties smashed onto a hot flat top, American cheese melted between them, all piled onto a toasted bun.
The first bite told me everything I needed to know.
Those thin patties had the crispy, lacy edges that make smash burgers special. The beef was juicy, the cheese was perfectly melted, and every bite had that balance of crust, salt, and beef that keeps you coming back for another.
The crinkle-cut fries were exactly what fries should be: hot, crispy, and the perfect sidekick to a burger.
What impressed me most wasn’t some over-the-top topping combination or gimmick. It was the confidence. Buffington’s knows exactly what it wants to be. The menu is focused, the burgers are the star, and the kitchen isn’t trying to distract you from that.
Around here, they say it’s “Better in the Buff.”
After a double smash burger and a basket of fries, I’d say they’re making a pretty convincing argument.
Hello Eaters Verdict: A solid downtown burger that’s worth the stop.
From My Kitchen to yours,
-D