In New York City, the burger is more than just a staple – it’s practically a religion. The city’s denizens are burger devotees, who regularly trawl its restaurants on an endless quest to find the perfect bun-and-patty staple. We’ve rounded up eight of the city’s most reliable burger bars, and while New Yorkers will never agree on a single favourite, we can guarantee you’ll have a delicious bite at any one of these establishments.
1. Shake Shack
Shake Shack may be making global moves, with new outposts in London and Dubai, but the beloved burger chain was born in a small outdoor eatery in Madison Square Park.
The original location is its most popular, with long lines wending around the park’s paths. Nestled in a Martin’s potato bread bun, this burger is a must-try.
2. Umami Burger
While Umami Burger arrived from the West Coast, its New York branch (opened in July), has garnered a reputation as one of the city’s best burger bars.
As its name suggests, the restaurant’s burgers are all about the pursuit of the elusive fifth taste.
From parmesan crisps and umami ketchup to truffle glaze and “umami dust,” these burgers are a new New York essential.
3. Burger Joint
Though its original branch is not-so-secretly tucked behind a curtain in Le Parker Meridien, Burger Joint has a new West Village outpost that will help visitors beat the once-legendary lines.
A favourite of New York foodies like Anthony Bourdain, the restaurant does classic burgers that evoke old-school Americana.
4. JG Melon
This is the place to go for a classic New York burger. JG Melon has been serving up its famously thick and juicy patties since 1972.
The kitschy, old-school environment is like a trip back in time.
5. The Spotted Pig
Chef April Bloomfield’s celebration of all things meat, The Spotted Pig unsurprisingly makes a great burger.
The chargrilled specimen, slathered in blue cheese sauce, is an incredibly hearty option, and the tangle of shoestring fries a welcome bonus.
6. Five Napkin Burger
Five napkins? More like 25. This burger is so ridiculously juicy, so gorgeously messy, that you’ll practically have rivulets running down your arms with each bite.
It’s a good thing: the Gruyere, rosemary aioli, and caramelised onion combo is killer.
7. Minetta Tavern
A jewel in restaurateur Keith McNally’s crown, the sceney Minetta Tavern charges a premium for its Black Label Burger (it’s $26, about £16).
It’s worth the price tag: the dry-aged beef, served simply with sweet, caramelised onions, makes for a delicious end result.
8. Mile End
Half-Jewish deli and half-Montreal eatery, the hybrid Mile End celebrates Burger Night every Wednesday at its Brooklyn location. Where else in New York can you order a lusciously smoked meat burger with a side of poutine?
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose New York guide covers all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas in the city
