27 Candidates For the Best Burger in NYC (by Borough) in 2024

Finding the best burger in NYC is a fun endeavor that can lead to an incredible meal. Whether you are a tourist or a local, there are plenty of burger joints to hit in every borough across the city. Whether you're searching for the best smash burger in NYC, the best burger in NYC midtown for people who love lots of toppings or a classic top 10 best burger in NYC, there is a bit of an art to perusing all the menus and choosing the right restaurant for you or your group. 

When it comes to sampling burgers and finding your favorite, many questions come to mind. Is New York known for burgers, and which type is the most popular in the city? What is the most successful burger place in NYC? Get ready to discover the answers to these questions and more as we walk you through some of the best burgers in NYC and share where you can find them in the neighborhoods in each borough across town. 

Jump to Section 

• Best Burgers in Manhattan
• Best Burgers in Brooklyn
• Best Burgers in The Bronx
• Best Burgers in Queens
• Best Burgers in Staten Island
• Best Burger Chains in NYC

Best Burgers in Manhattan

1. Black Iron Burger

Located at 245 W. 38th St, Black Iron Burger is renowned for serving high-quality burgers with 100% natural, certified Angus beef. The restaurant offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those searching for casual date night ideas in NYC.

Guests can enjoy the best burger in NYC midtown, including the popular truffle burger with sautéed or grilled mushrooms, rich truffle sauce, caramelized onions and peppery arugula.

For a more traditional choice in a burger, try the namesake Black Iron Burger, which comes with crisp lettuce, ripe tomato and your choice of a variety of house-made sauces.

2. J.G. Melon

A classic serving some of the best burgers in the Upper East Side since 1972, J.G. Melon is famed for its no-frills, perfectly executed burgers. The burger features a thick, juicy beef patty cooked to perfection. It's served on a toasted sesame seed bun, which adds a slight crunch.

The best burger in NYC is topped with a slice of American cheese that melts beautifully over the patty. Crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, and thinly sliced onions are added for freshness and crunch.

The establishment boasts a fun saloon-like décor, a wood-lined barroom and vintage stained glass insets. Its often praised for serving the top 10 best burgers in NYC and is consistently complimented, making it a must-try for burger enthusiasts.

If you're ready to visit, you may wonder — Is J.G. Melon still cash only? The answer is yes. They do not accept debit or credit cards, so come prepared to pay for your meal with dollars and cents! For a unique New York gift idea, buy your friend tickets to the Met paired with a J.G. Melon gift card. 

3. 4 Charles Prime Rib

If you're in the mood for an upscale dining experience and some of the best burgers in West Village, try 4 Charles Prime Rib. Imagine the set, dressing and theatrics you might find at Carbone, but instead of an old-school Italian restaurant, picture a boozy steakhouse that would have been a favorite haunt of Sammy Davis Jr. back in the day.

It's an intimate, dimly lit spot, the kind of place you seek out when you're in the mood to indulge in hearty food and strong drinks. This highly coveted spot, run by the team behind Au Cheval, offers high-end dining and the best burger in NYC at a steak house.

The $38 burger features Wagyu patties seared to perfection, served in an intimate, rich setting reminiscent of an old-world cigar room. Reservations are required and often difficult to get, so plan in advance to secure your table. 

4. Corner Bistro

One of the oldest and most affordable diners serves some of the best burgers in West Village. Corner Bistro is famous for its no-frills, simple burgers. The establishment has somewhat of a cult following due to its legendary bistro.

Order this restaurant specialty topped with crispy bacon, American cheese, lettuce and tomato for an authentic burger experience. It is a must-try for any burger enthusiast searching high and low for the best burger in NYC! ​

5. 7th Street Burger

If you're looking for an amazing smash burger that's often named among the top 10 best burgers in NYC, you must try 7th Street Burger. Located in the East Village at 91 E 7th St, this spot is known for its no-frills yet delicious smash burgers.

Its burgers feature a juicy patty, perfectly melted cheese and a soft bun. Order yours with a side of crispy fries for an authentic taste experience. The straightforward menu and reasonable prices make it popular among locals and visitors.

Best Burgers in Brooklyn

6. Gotham Burger Social Club

During the pandemic, Gotham Burger Social Club started as a pop-up, and it has established quite a reputation ever since. Known for serving the best burger in NYC that's smashed, this restaurant prides itself on crafting the ideal smash burger: the perfect consistency of bun, meat and onion.

The vibe is fast-casual. You order at the counter and pick up the best burger in NYC once they're ready to enjoy. 

7. Five Leaves

This Australian-American establishment serves great food, a seasonal menu, fun drinks and incredible coffee. Five Leaves has been a hipster hangout since its doors opened in 2008, and it remains ever-popular, even though there are now endless nearby restaurant options.

On the menu, you can find the best burger in NYC with unique toppings like a fried egg, pineapple, pickled beats, harissa mayo and a unique combination of cheese and garden-fresh veggies. Pair your pick of the best burger in NYC with a fresh frozen watermelon margarita for a refreshing summertime meal! 

8. Emily

For a real burger treat in NYC, visit Emily. While the restaurant might be best known for its pizza, its ever-famous Emmy Burger is not to be missed. Many have proclaimed it the best burger in NYC. It's delivered to your table on an aluminum tray lined with parchment paper, with crispy, thin fries in their own individual boat.

The burger consists of fresh meat cooked medium-rare and toppings loaded onto a beautiful, brown pretzel bun. The burger drips with melted cheese, caramelized onions and savory Emmy Sauce.

Pro tip: If you want to enjoy the best burger in NYC at this restaurant, visit during lunch. They get very busy at dinnertime; sometimes, waits are as long as four hours. 

9. Peter Luger Steak House

Peter Luger Steak House is arguably the best steakhouse in the country. In addition to freshly prepared steaks and seafood, it serves some of the best burgers in NYC.

The quality of the meat is unparalleled, and each burger is served charred on a bakery-fresh bun and topped with fresh onion and your choice of cheese. The dry aging of the meat is the secret behind its incredible flavor, and the restaurant has dry-aging facilities on site. The simplicity of this meal is what makes it part of our best burger in NYC list. 

10. Brooklyn Burgers & Beer

Don't eat meat, but still looking for the best burger in NYC? Then head on down to Brooklyn Burgers & Beer because it serves delicious vegan burgers with a 4oz Beyond Burger patty or an 8oz black bean patty.

Meat lovers can also join the fun as you can choose to either build your own burger or select one from its Signature Series. There are so many patty options from turkey to lamb and bison to chicken — you'll probably need to come back more than once to experience the entire menu.

And as the name suggests, there is a range of craft beer on tap, with featured rotating taps of the week. 

Best Burgers in The Bronx

11. Bronx Burger House

Located in the Riverdale neighborhood, Bronx Burger House is known for serving the best burgers in NYC and the Bronx. From classic cheeseburgers to unique options like the Bronx Bomb, which features blue cheese and bacon.

Or maybe you prefer a customized best burger in NYC topped with avocado, fried eggs and jalapeños? This cozy spot offers something for every burger lover. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it great for casual dining with family or friends.

12. Charlie’s Bar and Kitchen

Nestled in the trendy Mott Haven area, Charlie’s Bar and Kitchen is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy the best burgers in NYC. Its burgers are made with high-quality meat and fresh produce that are perfectly cooked.

The classic Charlie's Burger, with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato and a secret sauce, is a must-try for a special birthday dinner in NYC. The chic and comfortable setting adds to the cozy dining experience for everything from a quick solo meal to an extravagant party with a small group of friends.

A private back room is available for fun team building activities in NYC, graduation celebrations, milestone birthdays or other larger gatherings with family, friends or colleagues.

13. Hudson Garden Grill

Nestled in the New York Botanical Garden, Hudson Garden Grill offers a refined dining experience focusing on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Its menu includes some of the best burgers in NYC, with options like the Hudson burger featuring grass-fed beef, aged cheddar, and caramelized onions.

Its garden burger is created using fresh grains and topped with a house-made aioli dressing. The restaurant is ideal for those who prefer to avoid meat and might typically opt for vegetarian or vegan restaurants in NYC. The elegant setting and beautiful surroundings make Hudson Garden Grill a unique culinary destination.

14. Milk Burger

Located in the South Bronx, Milk Burger is a consistently highly-rated joint making it the best burger in NYC for locally sourced fresh ingredients.

Its hand-crafted certified black Angus Beef burgers are juicy and will satisfy your cravings. If you're not in the mood for meat, you can opt for the falafel burger, fish sandwich or deep-fried chicken wings. Pair this best burger in NYC with the frozen Margarita or Henny Colada, as they make for great thirst quenchers.

Best Burgers in Queens

15. Black Label Burgers

Black Label Burgers, located in Queens, NY, is renowned for its high-quality, gourmet burgers. It specializes in using prime, dry-aged beef that's expertly cooked to perfection. Guests often proclaim that this restaurant serves the best burger in NYC.

The burgers are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations that cater to both classic and adventurous palates. The restaurant's ambiance is casual yet refined, making it a perfect spot for enjoying the best burger in NYC with the family and leisurely meals with coworkers.

16. KX Burger and Beyond 

Established in 2020, KX Burger and Beyond serves the best burgers in NYC for something different, made with fresh ingredients and including your favorite toppings. The Mac Attack burger is a popular choice, with gooey sharp cheddar, applewood-smoked bacon, crispy lettuce and juicy tomato.

Order it with a side of fries and a strawberry milkshake for a filling meal that is also delicious. While dining there, enjoy the adorable outdoor seating area when the weather is favorable. 

17. The Local Eatery and Craft Beer

Sometimes, you just want a basic, high-quality best burger in NYC paired with a classic ice-cold brew, and The Local Eatery and Craft Beer is the place in Queens to find it.

With more than 200 beers on tap, you're certain to find your favorite beer or perhaps something new to tempt your tastebuds. Pair your beverage of choice with the best burger in NYC. It includes two juicy patties, a bakery fresh bun and a wide variety of toppings and available sauces. 

18. Jackson Hole

For the best burger in NYC served diner-style, visit Jackson Hole in Astoria. Its massive burgers are served with a range of toppings in a 60s-feel atmosphere. Movie buffs might remember it from a pivotal scene in the classic Scorsese flick, Goodfellas. 

Thick steak fries are served with every burger, and the menu includes a wide range of choices that are sure to please every member of your party. The meal is filling, the atmosphere is fun, and the service can't be beaten.

Best Burgers in Staten Island

19. Craft House

Craft House in Stapleton is known for its craft beers and the best burger in NYC filled with juicy brisket. Its secret to crafting the perfect burger includes blending brisket, short rib and chuck, resulting in a flavorful and juicy patty.

Toppings range from classic to creative and include options like pepperoncini peppers and savory craft sauce. 

20. The Kova

From breakfast to brunch to lunch, The Kova serves amazing food, including the best burger in NYC. Its freshly prepared burgers include high-quality, grade-A meat and are served on a fluffy and fresh brioche bun.

Add a side of crispy sweet potato fries to complete your meal. Enjoy your burger in a cozy atmosphere with comfortable seating and natural light. The simplicity of the space makes it ideal for a leisurely weekday lunch, especially for digital nomads who need a place to sit and put in a bit of work.

Grab a cup of Joe, sit, sip and relax while you enjoy the best burgers in NYC. 

21. Duffy’s Tavern

A Staten Island Irish pub staple for over 30 years, Duffy’s Tavern is known for serving great food in a friendly atmosphere that includes cozy indoor and outdoor dining.

It offers the best burger in NYC served fresh on English muffins instead of traditional buns. Try the provolone and bacon burger cooked medium-rare and pair it with an ice-cold beer for an unforgettable lunchtime meal. 

22. The Hop Shoppe

The Hop Shoppe is a fun dive bar, hangout spot and small arcade with a lively atmosphere and some of the best burgers in NYC. The quirky interior includes fun small accents like superheroes for the draft heads and a Beer Wars display screen.

The caramelized onions and the brioche bun make the burgers a tasty, popular and enjoyable meal. 

Best Burger Chains in NYC

23. Smashburger

Who has the best burger in the United States and the best burger in NYC? Some would say Smashburger. This is a go-to spot for some of the best smash burgers in NYC and nationwide.

Its menu features the Double Classic Smash Burger, a fan favorite. Burger patties are smashed on a hot griddle to create a crispy edge and juicy interior. Smashburger is known for its high-quality, never-frozen, 100% Certified Angus Beef patties that are smashed ultra-thin on a hot grill.

This cooking process creates a unique caramelized sear, locking in all the juices and flavors​ for a delicious taste in every tender bite of possibly the best burger in NYC. 

24. Shake Shack

Located in multiple spots across the city that never sleeps, Shake Shack is a popular destination for its signature ShackBurger — and what many customers rate the best burger in NYC from a chain — when you want a quick, no-frills meal.

Known for its high-quality ingredients and consistent flavor, Shake Shack offers burgers with plenty of toppings and popular sides like crispy fries and battered onion rings. The prices are also affordable, making this an ideal stop between indoor activities in NYC when the entire family is tagging along. 

25. Bareburger

This popular burger chain focuses on organic, all-natural and sustainable ingredients. Bareburger offers a variety of the best burgers in NYC, including beef, turkey and vegetarian patties.

It also offers creative toppings and sides, including honey Brussels sprouts, gourmet breaded onion rings and buttermilk-brined pickle chips. Its children’s menu makes this an affordable choice if you are dining with the whole family. 

26. Umami Burger

An article on Martha Stewart’s website describes umami as an almost intangible savoriness that makes you want to keep eating. It enhances the flavors of other ingredients in the dish. With an emphasis on umami, translated from Japanese to mean “essence of flavor,” Umami Burger offers the best burgers in NYC if you are searching for high-quality ingredients and a unique flavor profile.

It bills its burgers as craveable, and all Umami burgers are crafted with freshly ground beef and served medium rare. The classic Umami Burger features Parmesan frico, shiitake mushrooms, roasted tomatoes, caramelized onions and house-made Umami ketchup.

For a truly decadent treat, the truffle burger is smothered in truffled aioli, house truffle cheese and a truffle glaze. 

27. BurgerFi

BurgerFi is known for its high-quality ingredients, including all-natural Angus beef in the best burger in NYC. Each location also aspires to maintain environmentally friendly practices. The menu includes a variety of burgers, hot dogs and custard-based desserts.

With convenient locations across New York, this restaurant serves some of the best burgers in the Upper East Side, the West Village and Midtown. Its counter service is easy to navigate and family-friendly, which makes this restaurant a great choice when you want a delicious meal and are limited on time.  

Finding the best burger in NYC is pretty easy, but with so many amazing options in every borough, narrowing down your choice can be difficult. From smash burgers to classic dive bar burgers and trendy gourmet choices, it's easy to find a wide range of burgers that appeal to everyone.

If your party includes folks who are less enthusiastic about enjoying one of the best burgers in NYC, the menus at many of these restaurants have an array of other options to please them. 

Are you struggling to choose just one of these fantastic establishments serving the single best burger in NYC? We suggest avoiding the dilemma by sampling them all! Some are easy to drop into, and others require advanced planning and a reservation.

This list includes a little of both and is a great place to start, so be sure to check out a few of these best burgers in NYC hotspots as you walk through the streets and enjoy your time in New York City, the city that never sleeps. We highly recommend taking a few photography classes in NYC so enhance your experience of the city. 

For even more NYC foodie ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!