Every college needs a place right next door where you can get a good burger and fries. Preferably milkshakes also. For UNC, that’s Buns. It opened my sophomore year and I’ve never gone anywhere else for burgers on Franklin Street!
It’s right off the intersection of Franklin and Columbia, so an easy walk from campus. It’s also open late and quickly became my preferred late night grease-stop as a student.
Their burgers are super customizable. You can choose from one of their specials, chalked out on the wall and changed regularly, or build your own. Plus, they have the advantage of several good “burger” options. Beef is my favorite here, but I’ve tried the tuna and love it too! Pick your meat, bun, cheese, and toppings: there’s enough options to never get the same thing twice!
The real star of Buns isn’t their buns, however. It’s the sweet potato fries. Naturally sweet but without sugar sprinkled over it, just the way I like it. It’s my single favorite place to get sweet potato fries. I’ve even been known to occasionally skip the burger in favor of just fries for lunch, because I heart them so much.
Another area where Buns shines is their sauces. They’ve got about 8 options, ranging from ranch and BBQ to dragon sauce and curry mustard. My two favorites are the thai sesame and dragon sauce, a mix of condensed milk and Sriracha and something else delicious.
Also worth noting: their staff has always been phenomenal. Every time I’ve been in the they’re super friendly and quick with a smile or a to-go box. Bonus: good advice for sauce choices!
If you need a burger on Franklin Street, head to Buns! You won’t be disappointed.
The links above contain affiliate links, which means I get a few cents (at no extra cost to you) if you book or buy something via that link. This helps me keep costs down and posts up! All images copyright Teaspoon of Nose.