New York City is a gourmet’s paradise, with a culinary landscape that encompasses an array of flavors and styles. Among the myriad of options, burgers remain a quintessential staple that every food lover savors. While street carts and fine dining provide unique experiences, it’s the humble burger that often captures the heart (and stomach) of New Yorkers. Here’s a roundup of ten killer burgers in various neighborhoods across the city, each offering its own unique twist and flavor profile.
1. Shake Shack
Neighborhood: Madison Square Park
Address: 1 Old Madison Square Park, New York, NY 10010
Contact: (646) 747-3035
Website: shakeshack.com
Shake Shack started as a humble hot dog cart and has now burgeoned into an empire synonymous with American burgers. The ShackBurger features a beautifully seared beef patty topped with lettuce, tomato, and their special ShackSauce. The blend of flavors is masterfully balanced and leaves patrons craving more. Fresh, never frozen beef combined with a soft, squishy bun creates a burger experience that is nothing short of iconic.
2. J.G. Melon
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
Address: 1291 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10128
Contact: (212) 744-0585
Website: jgmelon.com
This classic tavern presents a burger with a no-frills approach but offers an explosion of flavor. J.G. Melon’s cheeseburger comes with a juicy ground beef patty served on a toasted bun. With minimal condiments—a simple slice of cheese, lettuce, and tomato—this burger emphasizes the essence of quality ingredients. It’s a favorite for its nostalgic setting and consistently delectable offerings.
3. Minetta Tavern
Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Address: 113 Macdougal St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 475-3850
Website: minettatavernnyc.com
Hailed for its ambiance and history, Minetta Tavern is a venerable institution that serves the renowned Black Label Burger. Crafted from a blend of prime cuts of beef, this patty is liberally seasoned and grilled to perfection. The addition of caramelized onions and homemade pickles accentuates the robust flavor profile, making it a worthy contender in any burger lover’s repertoire.
4. Burger Joint
Neighborhood: Midtown
Address: 119 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 691-0555
Website: N/A
Hidden behind a velvet curtain in the Parker New York hotel, Burger Joint provides an element of surprise for its patrons. The menu is straightforward: burgers, fries, and shakes. The quintessential cheeseburger here is savory and juicy, served with classic toppings. The informal atmosphere, coupled with the smell of sizzling beef, provides a distinctly authentic New York burger experience.
5. Westville
Neighborhood: West Village
Address: 210 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 643-3000
Website: westvillenyc.com
Known for its fresh and healthy foods, Westville also excels in crafting a delightful burger. The Westville Burger is a customizable delight, allowing diners to choose unique toppings like grilled jalapeños or chimichurri. The quality of the meat is paramount, ensuring that each burger is tender and flavorful. This is an excellent choice for those seeking healthier accompaniments alongside their juicy burger.
6. The Spotted Pig
Neighborhood: West Village
Address: 314 W 11th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 620-0461
Website: thespottedpig.com
This gastropub is recognized for its upscale, yet rustic take on the burger. The burger at The Spotted Pig features Roquefort cheese and a unique hand-formed patty, which introduces an interesting punctuation of flavors. The blend of rich cheeses and herbs offers a sophisticated twist on the traditional American classic, complemented by the bustling atmosphere of the venue.
7. Red Rooster Harlem
Neighborhood: Harlem
Address: 310 Lenox Ave, New York, NY 10027
Contact: (212) 792-9000
Website: redroosterharlem.com
At Red Rooster Harlem, culinary diversity takes the spotlight. The restaurant’s burger is a celebration of local ingredients and flavors, featuring a delectable blend of beef and pork with a touch of spice. Accompanied by crispy fries, the burger encapsulates the vibrant culture of Harlem, enveloping patrons in an inviting and spirited atmosphere.
8. Emily
Neighborhood: Brooklyn
Address: 919 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: (718) 600-0482
Website: emilybrooklyn.com
A modern pizzeria known for its unique offerings, Emily has garnered acclaim for its Emmy Burger. The blend of dry-aged beef and its signature sauce creates a flavor explosion that elevates the burger to remarkable heights. Topped with melty cheese and presented in a refined manner, it’s a must-try for both burger enthusiasts and pizza aficionados.
9. Five Guys
Neighborhood: Multiple Locations
Address: 848 6th Ave, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (212) 675-3300
Website: fiveguys.com
Five Guys has gained a cult following for its fresh ingredients and customized orders. This fast-casual chain allows patrons to select from a vast array of toppings. The burgers are generously proportioned and made to order, featuring perfectly cooked beef patties nestled in a sesame seed bun. The crunchy fries are the perfect accompaniment, making this a go-to destination for burger lovers on the move.
10. Harlem Shake
Neighborhood: Harlem
Address: 100% Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10026
Contact: (646) 688-2444
Website: harlemshake.com
Harlem Shake offers a vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere. Their “Harlem Classic” burger showcases a simple, yet satisfying combination of a grilled beef patty, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato. Add a side of their hand-cut fries, and you’ve got yourself a joyful meal that embodies the spirit of the neighborhood.
Each of these establishments places its own distinctive stamp on the classic burger, whether through the use of high-quality meats, innovative toppings, or simply the welcoming environments they create. New York City, with its dynamic neighborhoods and culinary diversity, ensures that every burger adventure can yield a myriad of tantalizing flavors.
