NYC burger REVIEWS

What I really think, in 200 words or less. Mostly fact, some opinion. 

Last update: August 2024

Contents

7th Street Burger

7th Street Burger has taken the NYC smash burger scene by storm - so much so that they’ve not just outgrown their original location on 7th Street, they've outgrown their name! Now boasting over 10 locations, they serve up the perfect grab-and-go or late night burger fix all over town.

• The Burger: Double Cheeseburger (Tier 2). Double patty, American cheese, grilled onions, pickles, and house sauce on a Martin's potato roll. Every element harmonizes perfectly, creating a delightful medley of flavors. The roll is expertly griddled on both sides, achieving a satisfying sear on the top. As you unveil these delectable burgers from the white paper bag wrapped in checkered parchment paper, it's an instant confirmation that you came to the right place.

• Pro Tip: Order the burger as is and pair it with a Mexican Coke and their loaded chopped beef fries to get yourself right. And beware, the house sauce is addicting!

• The Occasion & Vibe: Quick / Casual. Eat in-store, take it to-go, or get it delivered. 7th Street locations are often small; some offer counter-like seating options.  

• The Location: Multiple locations.

Black Iron Burger

Black Iron Burger has made a name for itself with its creative twists on classic flavors. 

• The Burger: The Black Iron (Tier 2). This one's for horseradish lovers. With two 4oz patties, stout carmelized grilled onions, horseradish cheddar, and horseradish mayo sandwiched between a hearty brioche bun, this burger brings you on a comforting and intriguing journey.

• Pro Tip: No substitutions are allowed on their signature burgers. Enjoy their awesome sides and house-made sauces also on the menu. 

• The Occasion & Vibe: Groups. A casual setting that welcomes both solo diners and groups looking for a satisfying meal. Black Iron Burger features a full bar and also hosts private events. 

• The Location: Multiple locations. Midtown, Theater District.

Burgerhead

Burgerhead’s motto, “We don’t smash. We cook!” perfectly encapsulates their unique burger concept centered around charburgers cooked over an open flame and classic American burger joint favorites. In today’s burger world dominated by flattops, smash burgers, and potato rolls, Burgerhead evokes nostalgia by reminding us of the beloved outdoor grill experience many grew up with, while also paying homage to the golden era of fast food.

• The Burger: Charburger (Tier 2). A 4oz patty, American cheese, tomato, onion, pickle, shredded lettuce, and house sauce on a toasted sesame seed bun. Putting a modern twist on the essence of a backyard BBQ and the nostalgic flavors of Burger King's Whopper,, Burgerhead's signature burger is a delight. The burger's char-grilled preparation lets the meat flavor shine, and when wrapped, everything steams together nicely, enhancing every bite with a satisfying smokiness and a welcome absence of grease.

• Pro Tip: The double is just as delicious and balanced. Must-try items include the beef tallow fries, reminiscent of McDonald’s classic days, and the onion rings served with a side of house sauce.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Quick / Casual. A welcoming and bright storefront offering cozy indoor seating.

• The Location: Greenwich Village, 6th Avenue  & West 4th Street.

Cafe Chelsea

Cafe Chelsea provides an elegant French Bistro setting serving up an expertly crafted dining experience.

• The Burger: Chelsea Cheeseburger (Tier 2). Dry aged beef, mornay sauce, and raw onion between a bun that’s loaded with sesame seeds. The beef comes medium rare with a superb char outside and an incredible juiciness inside. The smooth Mornay sauce, infused with Gruyère cheese and a hint of nutmeg, gracefully drapes over the patty, adding a subtle warmth and depth; its tanginess is pronounced yet pleasant. A delicate sprinkling of razor-thin raw onions adds a crisp, clean flavor. This burger is luxurious and elegant with an edge; it’s thick but approachable; simple yet one-of-a-kind. Frites are included, served with ketchup and dijonnaise for dipping. 

• Pro Tip: You’ve surely seen the viral Ravioles du Dauphiné by now, and they’re good, but I expected more. Still, it's worth it. The Ile Flottante dessert is creamy bliss. 

• The Occasion & Vibe: Date Night / Reservations Recommended. Cafe Chelsea offers multiple, uniquely exquisite Art Deco-esque dining spaces that involve grandeur and drama, while the intimate seating area creates a warm and lively atmosphere. The service is equally impressive, striking a perfect balance between fancy and friendly.

• The Location: Chelsea, West 23rd between 7th and 8th Avenues.

Carriage House NYC

Carriage House offers a beautiful upscale yet casual setting tucked away on a quiet West Village street. The burger is one of the biggest sellers on their menu, and for good reason. 

• The Burger: The CH Burger (Tier 2). Double smashed Wagyu, dijon aioli, bread and butter pickles, and American cheese served on a custom-made Milk brioche sesame seed bun. This carefully crafted bun provides a sturdy foundation with a soft, pillowy interior that perfectly contains this hearty burger. These generously proportioned patties (I estimate 4oz each) are paired with onion just before they’re flipped, providing a unique balance of raw and caramelized flavors. The aioli’s blend of mustard and lemon undertones adds a tangy and creamy element, while the sweetness from the bread and butter pickles completes this distinctive flavor profile. 

• Pro Tip: The burger is only available at the bar or during brunch. Fries are not included, but their Everything Bagel Fries with a side of Caviar aioli are a worthwhile addition.

• The Occasion & Vibe: At The Counter. Beyond its stunning bar and exceptional burger, come here for a date night, drinks, or a fun night out with friends in a chic, modern setting.

• The Location: West Village, West 10th Street between Waverly Place & Greenwich Avenue.

The Dram Shop Bar

The Dram Shop Bar is a neighborhood favorite that’s sure to please both regulars and newcomers.  It’s a sports bar with tons of TVs and a pool table, but that's not all - their amazing menu features all the classics along with some Tex-Mex. 

• The Burger: The Dram Burger (Tier 2). Double patty, American cheese, pickles, lettuce, tomato, diced onion, mustard, and mayo on a sesame seed bun. A handful of comfort, this is a double cheeseburger done right.

• Pro Tip: Come for the burger, but stay for everything else. Enjoy their vast beer, wine, and cocktail selection and come with your appetite, because their menu has it all. 

• The Occasion & Vibe: At The Counter. A laid-back and welcoming atmosphere with a long bar, booth seating, and more that will fit any occasion. 

• The Location: Park Slope, 339 9th Street.

Emily West Village

Emily's commitment to culinary excellence extends to their burger creations, offering a delightful journey of flavors.

• The Burger: Emmy Double Stack Burger (Tier 2). Indulge in a burger that's a work of art, with dry-aged patties that ooze with flavor. Featuring two dry-aged grass fed patties, EMMY sauce, caramelized onion, American cheese, and pickle on a pretzel bun. Served with waffle fries. The succulent EMMY sauce drips from this burger and will want you savoring every drop - don’t wear a white shirt and keep your napkin at the ready!

• Pro Tip: Bring your appetite. This burger is a belly buster, but you need to save space for their deep dish pizzas.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Date Night / Reservations Recommended. This is a fun and casual spot fit for a date or to catch up with friends. Lunch or dinner, it doesn’t matter. 

• The Location: West Village, Downing Street & Bedford Street. Also in Clinton Hill with a slightly different burger.

Flex Mussels

Known for its seafood, Flex Mussels surprises with a burger that's a testament to its dedication to culinary innovation.

• The Burger: Burger (Tier 2). An 8oz ground prime strip with lettuce, American cheese, special sauce, and pickles.. It’s a thick patty akin to a traditional NYC pub burger, but it’s structured and cooked perfectly to set itself apart. Amid their seafood offerings, this burger stands out. 

• Pro Tip: Available only for brunch and lunch, not dinner. This burger is right as it is, so don’t make any substitutions - remember, this is a seafood place, so don’t make it complicated. The Filet O’ Flex and Deviled Eggs are other great menu options outside their traditional mussels. 

• The Occasion & Vibe: Lunch Only. Meet an old friend or start your marathon day in their upscale but casual atmosphere. 

• The Location: Upper East Side, 3rd Avenue & 81st Street.

Gramercy Tavern

At Gramercy Tavern, simplicity reigns with their single burger offering. Their classic masterpiece epitomizes straightforward elegance - this burger deserves your attention.

• The Burger: The Tavern Burger (Tier 2). A dry-aged chuck and short rib blend, ground in-house and grilled over hardwood flames is topped with cheddar and bacon. It’s served on a sourdough starter whole-wheat sesame seed bun, baked fresh daily. The cheddar’s uniquely melted and poured onto the burger, creating a smooth layer that melds into shape. This combination offers a perfect balance of salty, buttery, and juicy flavors without any greasiness, while the bun’s pillowy and airy pockets, saturated with savory juices, make every bite a delight. Served cut in half and with sides of Duck Fat Potato Chips and Smoked Onion Aoli.

• Pro Tip: There are two areas - the “dining room” and “tavern”, with the burger exclusively available in the latter. Chef recommends medium rare. Don’t use aioli on the burger. Ordering it without bacon accentuates the cheese.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Date Night / Reservations Recommended. The rustic yet sophisticated tavern setting provides a cozy, warm, and well-lit atmosphere. Tables offer a spacious experience, with ~20 bar seats available for walk-ins.

•  The Location: Gramercy, 20th Street & Park Avenue.

Handcraft Burgers and Brew

Handcraft Burgers and Brew lives up to its name with a burger experience that's sure to please.

• The Burger: OG / The Oklahoma (Tier 2). Smash burgers with Certified Angus Meat on brioche buns done right…so good I couldn’t pick just one! The OG features double patties, sharp American cheddar, Handcraft sauce, shredded romaine lettuce, and tomato. The Oklahoma adds shaved onions to their single smashed patty with mayo, mustard, and pickles.

• Pro Tip: You can’t go wrong with any of their burger options, so don’t think twice about exploring outside of my favorites. Check out their special Burger of the Month, and don’t forget their wide selection of craft beers to pair perfectly with your chosen burger.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Quick / Casual. Order at their kiosks and seat yourself in their friendly setting.

• The Location: Theater District, 40th Street between Broadway & 6th Avenue.

Harlem Shake

Do the Harlem Shake and enjoy one of the best burgers around. A 1950’s diner feel that captures the spirit of the neighborhood with multiple unique burgers. You might even be lucky enough to see a familiar face dining next to you, as their “Wall of Fame” features the many celebrities who have enjoyed a meal at Harlem Shake. 

• The Burger: Harlem Classic (Tier 2). Two smashed patties of their proprietary burger blend, homemade pickles, white onion, special sauce, and one slice of American cheese on a buttered and toasted Martin’s potato roll. These patties are seared to perfection, so much so that their picture should be the official definition of a smash burger. 

• Pro Tip: You may be tempted, but don’t add an extra slice of cheese; they do one slice right!  In addition to the Harlem Classic, a visit is incomplete without trying their Harlem Jerk or Hot Mess burgers. The Hot Mess took home the 2018 Time Out New York Battle of the Burger Judge’s Choice Award. 

• The Occasion & Vibe: Groups. Harlem Shake is built on community, so bring your friends and enjoy!

• The Location: Multiple Locations. Harlem, Park Slope.

Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery

Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery delivers a burger and dining experience uniquely curated with the distinctive flair that only a French restaurant can offer.

• The Burger: Brisket Burger Dijonaise (Tier 2). Their brisket blend with caramelized onion and comté cheese between a perfectly structured bun. Taking Inspiration from classic French flavors, this creation combines a juicy patty with delightful toppings for a familiar and intriguing taste.

• Pro Tip: This burger speaks for itself; enjoy it as it comes with the pommes frites included.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Date Night / Reservations recommended. A refined yet approachable setting perfect to enjoy with that special someone. They also feature a beautiful, one-of-a-kind bar, so show up early before your reservation or pop in unannounced for bar seating. 

• The Location: NoHo, Lafayette Street & Great Jones Street.

Little Owl

To think, the many tourists who stop by Befdord and Grove just to get a pic with the infamous “Friends Building” have no idea that one of the city’s best burgers lies at their fingertips. If only they read my reviews…

• The Burger: 8oz Bacon Cheeseburger & Fries (Tier 2). Juicy, peppery, cheesy, bacon-y…this one hits all the marks. The bacon is uniquely tucked in between the patty and melted American Cheese. 

• Pro Tip: Some may think, “I’ll skip the bacon”. Don’t; to do without would be blasphemy. It’s juicy enough not to need any condiments. Served with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle, you can put ‘em all on or do without…dealer’s choice.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Date Night / Reservations Recommended. A charming and intimate atmosphere perfect for enjoying a memorable Mediterranean meal with friends or loved ones.

• The Location: West Village, Bedford Street & Grove Street.

Lord’s

Nestled in Greenwich Village, Lords is a proper English bistro serving up comfort food and a wide array of spirits. The crown jewel of their menu is their burger, served to only 12 lucky patrons each evening. What sets Lords apart is their commitment to quality - their cheese is crafted in-house, a detail contributing to the exclusivity of this gastronomic gem. 

• The Burger: Welsh Rarebit Burger (Tier 2). A thick, juicy 7oz prime beef patty topped with house-made Welsh rarebit cheese and raw white onion on a squishy pretzel bun. A melody of flavors that includes mustard, Worcestershire, and brown butter - a meal fit for a king.

• Pro Tip: The burger is first come, first served. They open at 5:30pm and sell out around 6:30pm. They also offer many traditional options beyond the burger.

• The Occasion & Vibe: At The Counter. Lords offers a homey and beautiful ambiance, right for any occasion. While a great dining room is available, the true star is the bar. Exposed brick walls and open shelving create a charming backdrop for their impressive liquor selection, and the bar countertop provides a true dining experience. 

• The Location: Greenwich Village, Laguardia Place between Houston & Bleecker Streets.

Lure Fishbar

A seafood restaurant…with a burger? Yes, two on the menu to be precise, with one of them taking home accolades from The NYC Wine & Food Festival’s Burger Bash.

• The Burger: Bash Burger (Tier 2). Bacon onion jam, thinly shaved pickles, American cheese. The soft sesame seed bun molds to your fingers and soaks up all the burger juices. Bacon is chopped and blended nicely into the jam; super flavorful but not overpowering. Plated cut in half, held together by wooden skewers and onion rings, and served with a side of fries, ketchup, and mayo. The Lure Style Burger is also on the menu - also very good and on the traditional side, but the Bash Burger is the star of the show.

• Pro Tip: Burgers are only on the menu from 5pm. Very greasy (in the right way), so keep your napkin at the ready! They have a large bar to accommodate walk-ins.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Date Night / Reservations Recommended. A place to see and be seen with nautical touches throughout - it feels like you’re in an upscale ship in the middle of SoHo. 

• The Location: SoHo, Mercer & Prince.

Oxford Smash

Meet Olivia and Max, the dynamic duo behind Oxford Smash, a smash burger pop-up that's taking Brooklyn by storm. Look for their trademark pink and white checkered tent and tablecloths, and follow the pink road to a game-changing burger. 

• The Burger: Double (Tier 2). Two 2.7oz patties, white American cheese, pickles, house-made pink sauce, and house-made carmelized onions on a toasted Martin’s potato roll. These patties are sized perfectly for doubling up and smashed to perfection with lacey edges, uniquely layered with onions tucked between the patty and cheese. The onions provide a sweet richness while the pink sauce adds a velvety tang. Everything melds perfectly together, but if you have a preference they’ll make it however you like. This tiny operation packs a punch and delivers a solid burger experience. 

• Pro Tip: Get the Crack Cookies - seriously, they’re that good. Bring your dog and treat them to Puppatty (unseasoned ground beef patties). Be prepared for a well worth it 15-minute wait.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Pop Up. No frills and super casual. You can usually find them at Fort Greene Park or partnering with a bar in Park Slope. 

• The Location: Follow @oxfordsmash to find out where and when.

Bonus Thought: I appreciate the white American cheese, a refreshing departure from the usual yellow, and the caramelized onions, which are truly one-of-a-kind. Their thoughtful layering approach maintains the burger's structural integrity while showcasing all flavors and texture.

Paper Plate

Paper Plate brings its own spin to the world of burgers. With pop up roots, they’ve since made their mark on the NYC burger scene. 

• The Burger: Double Cheeseburger (Tier 2). A burger that's a celebration of layers and flavors, featuring their house sauce, American cheese, and griddled onions. Each bite will leave your taste buds satisfied.

• Pro Tip: You can get it with lettuce, tomato, and pickles, but this one shines without. Whatever you prefer, go for it! Their plated fries and milkshakes are also must-tries. 

• The Occasion & Vibe: Quick / Casual. You can enjoy Paper Plate at multiple locations, each bringing its own vibe. Their LIC location within the JACX&CO Food Hall is the perfect spot to hang with friends in a laid-back setting, while their food truck at Hudson Yards and setup during Smorgasburg are made for walking around. Note, their food truck has a limited menu but features all the staples. 

• The Location: Multiple locations. JACX&CO Food Hall in LICl, The Vessel at Hudson Yards.

Pastis

Located in one of the trendiest neighborhoods in town, this French brasserie is a place to see and be seen - all while enjoying an incredible burger! 

• The Burger: Cheeseburger à l’Américaine (Tier 2). Two beefy patties topped with American cheese, pickles, thinly sliced raw red onion, and special sauce on a seeded bun. It looks beautiful and tastes even better. Served with a generous pile of crispy french fries, this is a MEAL. 

• Pro Tip: While the indoor ambiance is unmatched, Pastis provides excellent outdoor dining options on a tranquil street. This is a compelling alternative if you can’t score a table inside. Everything on the menu is a can’t miss, but the filet mignon is melt in your mouth good, one of the best I’ve ever had. 

• The Occasion & Vibe: Date Night / Reservations Recommended. A sophisticated and vibrant atmosphere perfect for enjoying a delightful meal with a touch of French elegance.

• The Location: Meatpacking District, Gansevoort Street & 9th Avenue.

Pig Beach

Known for their barbecue expertise, Pig Beach brings the same dedication to their burger. This award-winner (in NYC and beyond) took home accolades from the New York City Wine & Food Festival’s Burger Bash both in 2016 and 2019. 

• The Burger: Pig Beach Burger, Double (Tier 2). Their brisket and short rib blend, American cheese, house pickles, & secret sauce on a Martin’s potato roll. That's it, simplicity - a testament to the mastery of flavors with a blend of ingredients that complement each other.

• Pro Tip: Double is the way to go, but you can also do a single or triple. Add-ons include bacon and pulled pork, but they aren’t needed. Be sure to explore their barbecue offerings to create a dining experience that combines the best of both worlds.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Groups. A lively and welcoming atmosphere that;s perfect for enjoying a great meal in a vibrant setting.

• The Location: Astoria, 35-37 36th Street.

Ruby’s Cafe

Ruby's Cafe is a welcoming neighborhood spot that captures the spirit of its surroundings with Australian inspiration.

• The Burger: Classic Cheeseburger (Tier 2). Two 3oz beef patties, shredded lettuce, tomato, onions., pickles, American cheese, and special sauce on a potato roll. A timeless creation that captures the essence of comfort food served with the crispiest fries and their addictive truffle aoli. 

• Pro Tip: The Bronte is another non-traditional burger option on toasted ciabatta. 

• The Occasion & Vibe: With Drinks. A warm atmosphere with a neighborhood feel, perfect for unwinding with friends over great food and drinks. Ruby’s does not take reservations…first-come, first-served. 

• The Location: Multiple locations. SoHo, Murray Hill, East Village, West Village.

Smacking Burger

Tucked away inside a Mobil gas station, Smacking Burger serves up mouth-watering masterpieces that will have you rethinking gas station food.

• The Burger: The Big Smack (Tier 2). Double smashed patty with carmaelized onions, pickles, shredduce (shredded lettuce), and American cheese topped with their signature SMACK sauce on a Martin’s sesame seed bun. This combination is a winner, with the unique blend of flavors and textures expertly balanced. The shredduce provides a nice crisp and the perfect bed for the crispy yet greasy patties. The bread and butter pickles offer a tangy contrast, cutting through the richness. With tons of cheese and meaty patties, this burger is a hearty 

• Pro Tip: All of their sauces are house-made and crazy good, a must-add to any order.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Quick / Casual. Seriously, eating outside of this gas station isn’t so bad - in fact, it's quite enjoyable! Smacking Burger provides a surprisingly charming setting with a character all its own. The picnic tables on turf make for a pleasant dining area and provide great people watching. They fill up quickly, but nearby Jackson Square Park provides a convenient alternative. Don't let this unconventional location deter you.

• The Location: West Village, 8th Avenue & West 13th Street.

Bonus Thought: Shout out to Raphael, a regular I met who's there often and tells me he’s had every burger on the menu!

Smashed

Smashed takes the art of burger-making to new heights, offering creations that are a symphony of flavors. They quickly outgrew their original walk-up storefront location in the LES and now boast two dine-in spots. 

• The Burger: Classic Smashed Double (Tier 2). Two patties, American cheese, griddled onions, pickles, and their house SMASHED Sauce on a Potato Roll. The crispy, lacy edges on these smash burgers are insane! It's a burger that's all about layers and textures.

• Pro Tip: Pick your favorite with over ten burgers on their menu!

• The Occasion & Vibe: Quick / Casual. A friendly ambiance perfect for enjoying an excellent smash burger in a laid-back setting.

• The Location: West Village, Hudson Street & West 10th Street.

Steve’s Burgers (NJ)

Steve's Burgers is worth the journey crossing state lines into North Jersey. With tons of options for burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, sides, and dessert, Steve’s Burgers delivers.

• The Burger: Steve’s Burger (Tier 2). American cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and special sauce with an onion ring on top! Quality ingredients offer a satisfying and flavorful bite.

• Pro Tip: Wash your burger down with one of Steve’s name-brand sodas and a milkshake. If you’re still hungry, order the "Y. D. K. J" Burger, as no trip to Jersey is complete without some Taylor Ham.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Dive. With three locations, each one's a little different, but Steve’s Burgers consistently boasts a simple, no-frills atmosphere. Their Rt. 46 location is primarily outdoor seating along the highway - the ultimate North Jersey experience. 

• The Location: NJ, multiple locations. North Bergen, Garfield Rt. 46, Garfield Passaic St.

The Spaniard

The Spaniard infuses their own flair into the world of burgers, resulting in a creation that's a blend of tradition and innovation.

• The Burger: Smash Burger (Tier 2). A Double-Double with American cheese, lettuce, pickles, and homemade burger sauce on a sesame seed bun. A simple burger with a special place in my burger heart.

• Pro Tip: Like whiskey? They’ve got it…bottoms up!

• The Occasion & Vibe: With Drinks. A stylish and inviting setting perfect for enjoying a burger and whiskey in a chic atmosphere. Featuring a beautiful wraparound bar, booths, tables, and a lovely outdoor dining area, they really optimize their space. 

• The Location: West Village, West 4th Street & Barrow Street.

Tierney’s Tavern (NJ)

An Irish bar’s bar, Tierney's Tavern pours a creamy pint and serves up a great burger. The best burger in the east? That’s what their regulars say, and this burger backs it up. Tierney’s is the perfect spot to eat, drink, and have a day with your friends.

• The Burger: Cheeseburger (Tier 2). Meat, cheese, and your choice of toppings on a soft white bun. A juicy patty that's not thick like a traditional pub burger and portioned just right. 

• Pro Tip: Order their off-menu Buddy Burger - named after their late co-owner Edward “Buddy” Tierney - with bacon, fried onions, and American cheese.

• The Occasion & Vibe: Dive. Head there on the weekends, where they feature live music upstairs. As I said, it's an Irish bar’s bar. What more is there to say?

• The Location: NJ, Montclair.