Haunted Hamburger

The Haunted Hamburger sits at 410 Clark Street in Jerome, Arizona, perched on Cleopatra Hill above and behind the historic Clinkscale Building, with views that stretch across the Verde Valley. Owners Eric and Michelle Jurisin fell for the town and the view on a road trip and bought the dilapidated Jerome Palace building, renovated it themselves and opened on May 3, 1994, with Michelle as the only cook.

The ghost stories

Staff say the building has spirits, possibly frustrated tradesmen from long ago who liked to take tools. During the restoration, hammers kept disappearing: one, then two, then three, and they later reappeared in conspicuous places. The owner has also said a door slammed shut in front of him for no apparent reason. The stories give the restaurant its name and its reputation.

What to eat

The namesake Haunted Burger comes topped with mushrooms, bacon, cheese, green chilies, grilled onion and guacamole, and there is a Southwest sourdough burger as well. The menu also serves steaks, fajitas and barbecued ribs, so it is not just a burger stop.

The patio

The large outdoor patio is the place to sit, because the view from the hill is a main reason people stay. Hours and phone numbers can change seasonally, so confirm before you drive up the hill.

Common Questions

When did it open?
May 3, 1994.

Who owns it?
Eric and Michelle Jurisin.

What is the Haunted Burger?
A burger with mushrooms, bacon, cheese, green chilies, grilled onion and guacamole.

Is the building haunted?
Staff report odd occurrences, such as disappearing hammers and a door that slammed on its own.

What is the view like?
Wide views over the Verde Valley from a large outdoor patio.