The Best NYC Burger
Now that we have covered sandwiches, I would like to tackle something that is nearer and dearer to my heart (and stomach)… burgers. Everyone has different opinions on the best burger in NY. The one that gets a LOT of play is Corner Bistro in the West Village. I think their burgers are average, nothing more. It makes no sense to me that everyone loves them so much… What is so great?
I love Shake Shack in Madison Park and Old Town Tavern on 18th between Park and Broadway, but last week, I had what I believe to be the best burger I have had in NY. It was at Great Jones Cafe, a little hole in the wall style place on Great Jones St. between Bowery and Lafayette. This place was unbelievable! I got pepper jack, and it was melted very nicely on a bun that was not too small, not too big, not too hard, not too soft. I also got a cup of chili. Now, I am a big chili fan, but often you get chili that is either watery or all beans and veggies, while I like a real thick meat chili with little or no beans at all. This chili was done perfectly. Another great burger is at Paul’s on 2nd ave and St. Marks. Very tasty, and cheap too. Plus, you can go next door and grab some Pommes Frites.
So, I have heard great things about The Burger Joint at Le Parker Meridien, so I would like to try that at some point. But, below are my top 5 most overrated burger places:
- Corner Bistro: As I mentioned earlier, this burger is sooo average! I don’t get it. Maybe it is the charm that makes people love it so much. The beers are great, I will say that. Gotta love McSorley’s.
- Rare Bar and Grill: For a place that “specializes” in burgers, this place is a let-down. Burgers are good, but not great. Also, the two times I have been there, they have way way undercooked my burger and I had to send it back, which I NEVER do with food unless it is really bad.
- Jackson Hole: This has no business on any “Best Burger” list. The burger is huge and their topping selection is great, but the flavor is non-existent.
- Blue9: Another one that is average… I lived two blocks from this place, and thought their burger was nothing special from the first bite. The sauce they use on it is interesting, but I am fairly certain it is just Thousand Island.
- Blue Smoke: Now, I love this place. I love the chips and dip, the ribs, and the beer selections… And their brisket sandwich is incredible! But, their burger has nothing special about it. Another good burger, but overrated.
My “Burgers To Try” List:
- Peter Lugers
- The Burger Joint
- J.G. Mellon
- Pop Burger
- Union Square Cafe
Who do you think has the best burger in NY???
Can’t say I’m much of a Burger Afficinado, but Blue 9 does make for a happy belly with me. Though I’m curious to see the results of the “Burgers To Try” list.
Nothing can beat the Fudd. Fuddruckers that is. Although you’ll have to go to Jersey.
Show of hands for every idiot who’s suddenly very sad they went vegetarian.
Just me? Ok, then.
Yes, Fuddruckers is great! But, what makes Fudd great is the fixings bar…
Eric, that sucks that you are veggie (at least as it pertains to this conversation). I couldn’t live without a good burger.
For a quick but delicious burger in Midtown, I’ve been going at least once a week to Zip Burger on 52nd, just east of 2nd Ave. Lots of extra $ for fixin’s but under $5 plain. Great fries and milk shake too. And even with all the recent attention, Donovan’s on Roosevelt and 58th Street in Woodside is still the very best (try it with smothered onions)
I have much more burger shopping to do, but to date I really enjoy Fanelli’s in SoHo on the corner of Prince and Mercer. I’m salivating right now.
I have much more burger shopping to do, but to date I really enjoy Fanelli’s in SoHo on the corner of Prince and Mercer. I’m salivating right now.
Yeah, it sure is a shame that you can’t get that yummy Fuddruckers chain restaurant food in New York. Darn it, all the best food is served in malls in Jersey.
@Peter: I don’t get up to midtown much, but if I get to the area, I will def try out Zip Burger.
@Ron: That isn’t far from me! I will definitely try it out.
@Annulla: Yes, Fudd is one of the few admirable things about Jersey.