If you think New York City is just a concrete jungle, think again—this place is also a burger paradise. From the classic street-side patties to high-end gourmet creations, NYC has a burger to match every craving and budget. Here’s a rundown of some of the best burger spots around the city that you absolutely need to check out.
Harlem Shake
Step into Harlem Shake, and you’re instantly transported to a retro diner scene with vintage decor and the charm of old-school jukeboxes. Their burgers are smashed to perfection with a crispy sear and juicy inside. You can pile on the toppings—think bacon, cherry peppers, and more. They also have locations in Brooklyn and Long Island City, so you’re never too far from a great burger.
JG Melon
Since 1972, JG Melon on the Upper East Side has been serving up one of NYC’s quintessential bar burgers. The patty, cooked to a deep sear with a juicy pink center, is a star, and those crinkly cottage fries are the perfect sidekick. This place is a classic for a reason.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/13077721/20150731-JG_Melon_burger_DT_3.0.0.1485173014.jpg)
Petey’s Burger
Petey’s, a gem in Astoria, was one of the early players in the burger revival scene. Their burgers are the epitome of simple, delicious American fare—well-seasoned patties topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, and cheese. All this comes at a great price, making it an ideal choice for a tasty yet budget-friendly meal.
Burger Joint
Hidden behind a curtain in the Thompson Central Park Hotel lobby, Burger Joint is a legendary spot for thick, juicy burgers. Go for “the works” to get a burger loaded with lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, mayo, mustard, and ketchup. Add extras like chili crisp or sautéed mushrooms for an extra kick. They also have branches in Penn Station and Industry City.
F. Ottomanelli
In Woodside, F. Ottomanelli isn’t just a meat market—it’s also a place where you can enjoy top-notch burgers. Their double-patty cheeseburger, complete with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and Otto sauce, is a must-try and stands out as one of the best in Queens.
Smacking Burger
Located inside a Mobil gas station, Smacking Burger offers a unique experience with its smash burgers. They’re slightly less smashed than typical, keeping them juicy and flavorful. Grab a seat at a picnic table with a view of the gas pumps—it’s a one-of-a-kind burger adventure in NYC.
Little Uluh
Little Uluh, an offshoot of the East Village’s Sichuan restaurant Uluh, serves up an unexpected delight—a rich, gooey burger with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy mayo-based sauce. This burger is messy in the best possible way and definitely worth a try.
Jubilee Marketplace
Jubilee Marketplace in Greenpoint offers some of the most buzz-worthy budget burgers in town. For just a couple of bucks, you can get a flavorful, compact burger that’s reminiscent of White Mana’s legendary sliders, with a bit of local beef and a touch of garlic.
Washington Square Diner
Washington Square Diner’s burger is so unique it straddles the line between a burger and a sandwich. It’s a towering, bacon-laden creation that’s both fun and delicious. Whether you call it a sandwich or a burger, it’s a tasty, satisfying meal.
Hamburger America
Hamburger America might be a nostalgic lunch counter or a quirky burger museum—either way, it’s worth a visit. Here, you can sample the Chester, a burger and cheese on toast that harks back to an earlier burger era. Don’t miss the chance to taste a slice of burger history.
Gotham Burger Social Club
At Gotham Burger Social Club, the classic smash burger gets a makeover with bold toppings like pickles, jalapeños, and griddled onions. Pair your burger with a retro egg cream or a side of fried pickles for a complete meal. This spot on the Lower East Side has quickly become a favorite for its unique and flavorful offerings.
So, whether you’re in the mood for a classic patty or a gourmet creation, NYC has a burger spot that’s just waiting for you to discover it. Happy eating!