The Best Burgers in New York City
New York City is known for its iconic foods like pizza, bagels, and pastrami sandwiches. But the Big Apple also has an incredible burger scene that should not be overlooked. From classic diners slinging greasy burgers to upscale restaurants putting unique twists on the humble patty, New York has something for every burger lover.
In this chapter, we will explore 10 of the top spots to get a truly great burger in New York City. For each restaurant, we will discuss its history and ambiance as well as the standout burgers on its menu. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive guide to sinking your teeth into the city's juiciest, most mouthwatering burgers.
Katz's Delicatessen
No list of New York's iconic burgers is complete without Katz's Delicatessen. This old-school Jewish deli has been serving up huge sandwiches since 1888. While it rose to fame for its pastrami, Katz's also slings some of the city's essential burgers. The burgers here are simple but done to perfection-hand-formed patties of freshly ground beef fried on a flat-top grill until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Opt for the classic cheeseburger with American cheese or go all out for the pastrami burger, topped with melted Swiss and rich pastrami that adds the perfect salty, peppery contrast. Just don't forget the pickles! As busy as Katz's dining room tends to get, the burgers here are worth the wait.
Shake Shack
When Danny Meyer opened the first Shake Shack in Madison Square Park in 2004, he just wanted to create a modern version of a roadside burger stand. Little did he know it would spark a fast-casual revolution and expand to become an international brand. The burgers at Shake Shack remain some of the city's hottest, drawing long lines at multiple locations. So what makes them so special? It starts with custom beef blends made completely from Angus. The burgers are then griddled until crispy and served on squishy potato rolls. Opt for classics like the ShackBurger with American cheese or sinks your teeth into limited-time specials like the Hot Chick'n with fiery fried chicken and slaw. Whatever you choose, you can't go wrong, but be prepared to wait for that first sweet, greasy bite. Part of the fun is people-watching in the park or the Theater District as the aroma of sizzling ShackBurgers fills the air.
The Mark Restaurant
For a decidedly more upscale burger experience in New York, head to The Mark Restaurant by renowned French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Situated in the lobby of one of Manhattan's poshest hotels, this contemporary American restaurant offers stellar service and refined dishes featuring the best seasonal ingredients. While the menu options range from pastas to fish, the highlight for many diners is the signature hamburger. This is no drive-thru patty-the dry-aged beef is formed into a towering eight-ounce tower and cooked at high heat for that ideal crispy crust. It's then topped with Nueske's thick-cut bacon, melty French Comté cheese, and black truffle sauce for an ultra-luxe combination. The perfectly cooked meat remains incredibly moist and juicy despite its size. Served on a toasted brioche bun with crispy fries, it's a refined take on a classic that's worth every penny of the $38 price tag. Just come hungry if you want to attempt it!
Emily
For a quirky, chef-driven take on burgers in New York, look no further than Emily. Situated in Brooklyn's trendy Clinton Hill neighborhood, this cozy pizzeria and restaurant seems an unlikely spot for memorable burgers. But chef Matt Hyland puts the same care into his burger creations as he does his critically acclaimed wood-fired pizzas. The burger selection at Emily changes frequently based on market availability and inspiration, always keeping diners excited for each visit. Past hits have included the "Em Burger" with two beef patties, American cheese, shredded lettuce, onions, pickle
