Best Burgers in New York

The best burgers in New York, in my opinion, can be found on this page. These are places I love to visit for a burger in NYC. And I can assure you that I have tried many. From a cosy restaurant where you can have lunch or dinner to a tasty and quick burger on the go, here are my favourite hamburgers in New York.

Au Cheval (33 Cortlandt Alley)

This restaurant sits in an alley like the ones you see in films and series. The location may look rough, but Au Cheval is hip and atmospheric inside. It is a popular hangout for New Yorkers and is ideal for lunch or dinner. Order their famous burger, add bacon and a fried egg, pair it with a drink, and enjoy! Reservations are required.
Hamburger America (51 MacDougal Street)

If you are craving a quick bite in an American diner, Hamburger America is an excellent choice! The diner was founded by George Motz, who is also known as the US burger expert. He has written books on burgers in the United States and even had a TV show on them. Who can create a better burger than someone who knows all about it?

At Hamburger America, you can get a smash burger, which is a burger flattened on the griddle. My favourite here is the classic burger, however there are other options available on the menu. You can eat the burger on the go or dine inside.
Corner Bistro (331 West 4th Street)

This burger bar is actually a bar where New Yorkers stop for a quick bite before heading out to a club. Don’t expect fancy cutlery, plates or glasses, but despite that, the burger is delicious. Corner Bistro is known for the Bistro Burger, which comes with cheddar cheese and bacon. The burger is not heavy on the stomach but is filling. Order a portion of fries if you want, and you have a nice lunch. If you are not hungry, it’s also a nice place to enjoy a drink at the bar. Note, however, that this bar only accepts cash. An ATM is located near the restrooms.
Peak Restaurant & Bar (30 Hudson Yards, 101st floor)

Peak NYC is a restaurant located on the 101st floor of 30 Hudson Yards. This is one floor above Edge Observation Deck. In addition to a beautiful view, you can enjoy a delicious burger here. The Black Hawk Brisket Burger is a double burger with smoked bacon and cheese. The burger is only served at lunchtime and can be a little on the pricey side, but along with the breathtaking view, it’s totally worth it.
Burger Joint (119 West 56th Street, Thompson Central Park)

In the luxe hotel Thompson Central Park is a hidden gem. Walk through the lobby and turn into the narrow corridor at reception. You won’t know what hit you! You walk straight into a ‘student’ burger joint. Burger Joint has an ‘underground’ atmosphere and you feel like you’ve walked into a den, but the burgers are oh so good.

The best burger, in my opinion, is the Cheeseburger with ‘The Works’. Again, this is definitely an experience and incredibly nice as a surprise. Burger Joint is good for lunch or a snack, not for a romantic night out.
5 Napkin Burger (630 9th Avenue)

Tastes differ, yet this restaurant is loved by all New Yorkers. Besides burgers, 5 Napkin Burger also serves other dishes, such as loaded fries, salads and seafood. In my opinion, the tastiest burger on the menu is the 5 Napkin Burger. This burger is topped with special cheese and sauce. It is a heavy burger, but I enjoy battling it.

5 Napkin Burger is located in Hell’s Kitchen, making it a great restaurant to visit before going to your Broadway musical.
Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)

Not only is Shake Shack known for its amazing milkshakes, but also for its tasty burgers. Shake Shack has several branches in New York, but my favourite one is in Madison Square Park. After all, this is the very first branch and I think it to be the ultimate Shake Shack experience. Be prepared for a queue. Preferably, go for the Shack Burger and order fries on the side if necessary. Then enjoy the burger while admiring the Flatiron Building.