The Best Burgers in New York City

Emily is a laid-back spot in New York’s Clinton Hill neighborhood that draws crowds for its inviting atmosphere. The menu includes a variety of well-liked options, and the staff creates a friendly setting for both lunch and dinner. It’s a comfortable place to relax with friends or enjoy a casual meal any day of the week.

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David P. Leja

@thegastrojourney

Emily could be considered a pizzeria, but actually they are famous for their burger! During the week they only offer 25 burgers which pretty much sell out in the first hour of opening and during the weekend brunch, they offer unlimited amounts.We went for the weekend brunch to not risk being left out without the famous Emmy Burger, and we can confirm this is in our opinion the best burger on earth!The Emmy burger looks like this: Pat LaFrieda dry-aged beef, EMMY sauce, caramelized onion, Grafton cheddar and all this on a pretzel bun!

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JG Melon has been a neighborhood staple on the Upper East Side of New York since 1972, known for its laid-back, nostalgic atmosphere. Locals and visitors alike appreciate its simple, cash-only set-up and welcoming vibe.

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Gaggan Anand

Chef

JG Melon on Upper East Side is great for very drunk midnight burgers. It’s been around since 1972 serving burgers, chili, sandwiches, fries and cocktails. Payment by cash only. When you’re drunk this is the best burger place!

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Burger Joint is a casual spot tucked behind a red curtain in Thompson Central Park New York, where graffiti-covered walls and simple seating create a relaxed vibe. It’s an unexpected find in a luxury hotel, drawing both locals and visitors with its laid-back atmosphere. Just steps from Central Park, it offers a fun break from the hustle of the city.

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Margherita Bentivogli

Foodie

Inside the lobby of the famous Thompson Central Park New York behind a red curtain there is an original old fast food restaurant that serves one of the best burgers in Manhattan. The Burger Joint is exactly the opposite of what you would expect to find in a luxury hotel: graffiti-covered wood paneling, cheap vinyl seats, easy but cool ambience. A true gem a stone's throw from Central Park.

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Katz's Delicatessen is a longtime New York institution known for its authentic deli experience and storied past. Open since 1888, it welcomes visitors with a lively atmosphere and a genuine taste of local history. Its classic charm and role in the city’s cultural fabric make it a memorable stop for both locals and travelers.

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Oliver Jansson

Food Enthusiast

Their signature dish, the colossal pastrami on rye, is often hailed as one of the city’s best.For over a century, this iconic restaurant has been serving up New York City’s quintessential Jewish comfort food. Their signature dish, the colossal pastrami on rye, is often hailed as one of the city’s best. Tourist trap or not, this is a pretty damn good sandwich. Other items on the menu include the corned beef sandwich, a rich matzo ball soup, and crunchy pickles.

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Sunday In Brooklyn is a New American restaurant in Williamsburg that offers breakfast, brunch, and dinner throughout the week. Its relaxed setting and friendly atmosphere make it a comfortable spot to enjoy a meal any day.

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Wylie Dufresne

Chef

Brunch, eggs, and legendary pancakes!Sunday in Brooklyn on Wythe Avenue serves pancakes that are legendary, with good reason. Plenty of brunch egg dishes, like omelettes and shakshuka. Cocktails, too.

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