New York is known for many great foods, but its burger scene stands out. With so many options, it can be hard to find the best spots that serve quality burgers worth trying.
I put together a list of the 5 best burger restaurants in New York to help you find places with tasty, well-made burgers. Whether you like simple classics or something with more flavor, these places offer a range of choices that satisfy different tastes.
1) 5 Napkin Burger
I recently visited 5 Napkin Burger, located in the heart of Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen. The place has a casual yet modern vibe, perfect for a relaxed meal. They serve both meat and veggie burgers, and each one feels carefully made with fresh ingredients.
The 5 Napkin Burger, their signature item, caught my attention. The patty was thick and juicy, topped with melted Gruyère cheese that added a rich flavor. The buns are soft, and the combination works well without being too greasy.
I also tried one of their hand-spun milkshakes. It was thick, creamy, and a nice touch to balance the savory burger. The service was friendly and the staff seemed knowledgeable about the menu, which made my visit smooth and enjoyable.
Reservations are encouraged here but not required, which made it easy for me to stop by without planning too far ahead. The atmosphere fits both families and casual groups, with a bar setting that feels welcoming.
Rating: 4.5 (6569 reviews)
Location: 630 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 757-2277
Website: Visit Website
2) Au Cheval
I found Au Cheval tucked away in a narrow alley in New York City. The place has a cozy feel with leather booths and a zinc bar, which gives it a classic diner vibe but with a modern twist. The menu focuses on American dishes that are simple but carefully prepared.
Their cheeseburger stood out to me. It was thick, juicy, and cooked just right on a griddle. The flavors were balanced, and the toppings didn’t overpower the beef. It’s clear they put a lot of care into making this burger a memorable meal.
Au Cheval also offers more than just burgers. They serve things like roasted bone marrow and fresh salads, which I found interesting. The drink menu is strong, with classic cocktails, wines from around the world, and several beers on tap, making it easy to find something to pair with your meal.
The spot can get busy, but it’s worth the wait. The atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for a casual night out. If you’re in the area and craving a solid burger, this place should definitely be on your list.
Rating: 4.6 (3662 reviews)
Location: 33 Cortlandt Alley, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (646) 350-2429
Website: Visit Website
3) Bill’s Bar & Burger
I visited Bill’s Bar & Burger in Downtown New York, and the place felt like a classic diner with a cozy vibe. The gingham tablecloths and simple decor made it comfortable and relaxed. It’s the kind of spot where you can enjoy a burger without any fuss.
The burger menu is solid and straightforward. They serve juicy, well-cooked burgers with fresh toppings. I appreciated the variety of beers on tap, which paired well with the meal. It’s a good choice if you want a casual meal with friends or family.
I noticed the place stayed busy while I was there, which says a lot about their popularity. The staff was attentive, making the experience smooth. If you’re in the area and craving a no-frills burger with a good drink list, Bill’s Bar & Burger is worth a stop.
Rating: 4.2 (3457 reviews)
Location: 85 West St, New York, NY 10006
Contact: (212) 894-3800
Website: Visit Website
4) Burger By Day
I stopped by Burger By Day in the Lower East Side for a casual lunch. The place has a simple setup, focusing on good burgers made fresh. Their signature BBD Smash Burger stood out with its smashed beef patty, grilled onions, and a special sauce that gave it a nice balance of flavors.
The menu offers a mix of beef and chicken options, including spicy versions and a veggie burger. I tried the Sweet n’ Spicy Chick, which had a fried chicken thigh with honey sriracha sauce. It was flavorful without being too hot, and the toppings were fresh.
Meals come with choices of sides like crispy fries or tater tots and drinks or even ice cream. I appreciated that they had unique sides too, like bacon cheese fries and onion rings. The prices are reasonable for New York City, making this a solid spot for a tasty burger without the fuss.
Ordering online for pickup or delivery is easy, which makes it convenient if you want to skip dining in. The vibe is straightforward, focusing on good food more than fancy decor.
Rating: 4.5 (326 reviews)
Location: 242 Grand St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (646) 964-5871
Website: Visit Website
5) Minetta Tavern
I went to Minetta Tavern looking for a good burger experience in a classic setting. The place has a vintage feel but the menu is more refined than what you might expect from a typical burger spot. It mixes French bistro style with a bar and brunch vibe.
The burger here is thick, juicy, and cooked just right. The meat quality stands out and the toppings don’t overpower the taste. I liked how the flavors were balanced, making it a solid choice if you want something a little fancier than a regular burger joint.
The restaurant feels lively but not too busy when I went, which made it easy to enjoy my meal. It tends to attract a range of people, including locals and visitors who appreciate both the food and the atmosphere.
It’s in a great location in Greenwich Village, convenient if you’re exploring New York. The staff was attentive without being intrusive, helping make the meal comfortable and straightforward.
Rating: 4.5 (2484 reviews)
Location: 113 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 475-3850
Website: Visit Website
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve found that people often want to know which burger spots stand out in New York, where to find specific styles like smash burgers, and which places have been recently recognized. Many also ask about great options in Midtown and hidden gems loved by locals. Chain restaurants with a strong New York presence come up, too.
What are the top-rated burger joints in New York City?
The best burger restaurants I recommend include 5 Napkin Burger, Au Cheval, Bill’s Bar & Burger, Burger By Day, and Minetta Tavern. These spots offer a mix of classic and unique burger styles that consistently get high ratings.
Where can I find the best smash burger in NYC?
If you’re looking for the best smash burger, Bill’s Bar & Burger is a great choice. They are known for a juicy, well-seared patty with crispy edges, embodying the smash burger style well.
Which burger restaurant in NYC was recently awarded for having the best burger?
Bill’s Bar & Burger has received recent recognition for having one of the best burgers in the city, noted for quality and flavor by locals and critics alike.
Can you recommend some must-try burger places in Midtown Manhattan?
For Midtown options, 5 Napkin Burger is a top pick. It’s popular for its flavorful patties and fresh ingredients, making it a convenient and tasty choice if you’re in the area.
What burger places are considered hidden gems in NYC by local foodies?
Minetta Tavern is often mentioned as a hidden gem. It’s famous for thick, well-prepared burgers that offer a rich taste experience and consistency that foodies appreciate.
Which burger chains are popular in the US and have a notable presence in New York?
Popular burger chains like Shake Shack have a strong presence in New York, but independent restaurants like Au Cheval and Bill’s Bar & Burger often get higher praise for quality and craft. Chains are good for convenience, but many prefer local spots for taste.
