There’s something magical about a perfectly crafted burger. Whether it’s the sizzle of the patty, the softness of the bun, or that secret sauce that keeps you coming back for more, burgers have a universal appeal. But some burger joints? They’re not just good—they’re legendary. From iconic recipes to jaw-dropping creations, these 30 spots have made history one bite at a time.
1) Au Cheval – Chicago, USA
Founded: 2012
Burgers They Prepare: Cheeseburgers, Double Cheeseburgers, with egg or bacon options
Most Iconic Burger: Double Cheeseburger (actually a triple patty!)
Instagram: @aucheval
Website: auchevalchicago.com
Chef: Brendan Sodikoff
Au Cheval doesn’t just make burgers—it crafts edible masterpieces. The Double Cheeseburger, which mischievously hides a third patty, is a juicy, melty dream layered with sharp cheddar, tangy Dijonnaise, and pickles. Brendan Sodikoff created this spot to blend fine-dining quality with diner charm. The dimly lit, bustling atmosphere makes the wait (often hours long) feel like part of the experience. Pro tip: Add the thick-cut bacon and a fried egg for an unforgettable upgrade.
2) Fergburger – Queenstown, New Zealand
Founded: 2001
Address: 42 Shotover St, Queenstown
Cost for a Meal: $20–$30
Burgers They Prepare: Gourmet beef, chicken, lamb, venison, and veggie options
Most Iconic Burger: The Big Al
Instagram: @fergburger
Website: fergburger.com
Fergburger isn’t just a burger joint; it’s a tourist attraction. The Big Al, their pièce de résistance, is a towering beast loaded with two beef patties, bacon, egg, cheese, beetroot, and more. It’s like New Zealand in burger form—bold, generous, and slightly intimidating. Open nearly 24/7, this spot is the go-to for midnight feasts or post-adventure refuels in the adrenaline capital of the world.
3) Burger Joint – New York City, USA
Founded: 2002
Address: 119 W 56th St, NYC
Cost for a Meal: $15–$25
Burgers They Prepare: Classic cheeseburgers with customizable toppings
Most Iconic Burger: Cheeseburger with “The Works”
Instagram: @burgerjointnyc
Website: burgerjointny.com
Hidden behind a velvet curtain in a posh Manhattan hotel lies this graffiti-covered burger haven. The no-frills menu focuses on nailing the basics, and they do it oh-so-right. Their Cheeseburger with “The Works” (lettuce, tomato, pickles, mustard, and ketchup) is pure, unadulterated joy. The quirky vibe and stellar flavors make it feel like you’ve uncovered NYC’s best-kept secret.
4) Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer – Dubai, UAE
Founded: 2015 (originally in NYC)
Address: Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel, Dubai
Cost for a Meal: $35–$50
Burgers They Prepare: Wagyu beef burgers, vegan options, extravagant milkshake pairings
Most Iconic Burger: The Greg Norman Burger
Instagram: @blacktapdubai
Website: blacktap.com
Known for its over-the-top milkshakes and Insta-worthy aesthetics, Black Tap also excels in crafting epic burgers. The Greg Norman Burger, featuring Wagyu beef, blue cheese, and arugula, is a decadent affair. The Dubai location takes things up a notch with its glitzy decor and prime beachside view. Whether you’re here for the food or the ’gram, it’s a bite worth every dirham.
5) In-N-Out Burger – California, USA
Founded: 1948
Address: Multiple locations on the West Coast
Cost for a Meal: $10–$15
Burgers They Prepare: Cheeseburgers, Double-Doubles, Animal Style options
Most Iconic Burger: Double-Double Animal Style
Instagram: @innout
Website: in-n-out.com
The West Coast’s golden child, In-N-Out Burger, remains a classic for a reason. Their Double-Double Animal Style, with caramelized onions, secret spread, and perfectly grilled patties, is a taste of burger heaven. Add crispy fries (also Animal Style) and a thick shake for the quintessential California experience. Fun fact: their “secret menu” isn’t so secret anymore—thankfully, it lives up to the hype.
6) PNY (Paris New York) – Paris, France
Founded: 2012
Address: Multiple locations in Paris, including 50 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis
Cost for a Meal: €15–€25
Burgers They Prepare: Beef, chicken, and vegan options with gourmet toppings
Most Iconic Burger: The Return of the Cowboy
Instagram: @pnyburgers
Website: pnyburger.com
PNY brings a slice of Americana to the City of Light, blending Parisian sophistication with bold burger flavors. The Return of the Cowboy, featuring beef, crispy bacon, cheddar, and barbecue sauce, is a smoky, savory delight. Pair it with a side of truffle fries and their decadent milkshake, and you’ll forget you’re in a city famous for croissants.
7) Shake Shack – New York City, USA
Founded: 2004
Address: Madison Square Park, NYC (flagship location)
Cost for a Meal: $15–$20
Burgers They Prepare: Cheeseburgers, Shack Stacks, vegan options
Most Iconic Burger: ShackBurger
Instagram: @shakeshack
Website: shakeshack.com
Shake Shack’s humble beginnings as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park turned into a global sensation. Their ShackBurger, with Angus beef, gooey cheese, and a buttery potato bun, epitomizes burger perfection. Add crinkle-cut fries and frozen custard, and you’ve got a fast-food feast fit for royalty.
8) Meat Liquor – London, UK
Founded: 2011
Address: 74 Welbeck St, London
Cost for a Meal: £20–£35
Burgers They Prepare: Juicy beef, chicken, and veggie burgers with creative toppings
Most Iconic Burger: Dead Hippie
Instagram: @meatgram
Website: meatliquor.com
Grungy, edgy, and unapologetically indulgent, Meat Liquor is a carnivore’s dream. Their Dead Hippie burger, with mustard-fried patties, secret sauce, and pickles, is a flavor explosion. The neon-lit vibe and killer cocktails make this joint a must-visit for burger lovers and night owls alike.
9) The Bird – Berlin, Germany
Founded: 2009
Address: Am Falkplatz 5, Berlin
Cost for a Meal: €15–€30
Burgers They Prepare: American-style burgers with prime beef
Most Iconic Burger: The Big Crack
Instagram: @thebirdberlin
Website: thebirdinberlin.com
This NYC-inspired eatery brings American burger culture to Berlin. The Big Crack, loaded with two beef patties, melted cheese, and special sauce, is a messy, meaty masterpiece. Known for its no-frills approach and hearty portions, The Bird is where you go to get your hands (and face) deliciously dirty.
10) Betty’s Burgers – Brisbane, Australia
Founded: 2014
Address: Multiple locations, including 184 Edward St, Brisbane
Cost for a Meal: AUD $15–$25
Burgers They Prepare: Classic beef, chicken, and vegan burgers
Most Iconic Burger: Betty’s Classic
Instagram: @bettys_burgers
Website: bettysburgers.com.au
This Aussie gem serves up coastal vibes with every burger. The Betty’s Classic is a nostalgic yet elevated creation featuring Angus beef, lettuce, tomato, and Betty’s secret sauce. Pair it with their famous frozen custard, and you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into burger heaven Down Under.
11) Five Guys – Arlington, USA
Founded: 1986
Address: Multiple locations worldwide
Cost for a Meal: $15–$25
Burgers They Prepare: Fully customizable beef burgers
Most Iconic Burger: Bacon Cheeseburger
Instagram: @fiveguys
Website: fiveguys.com
Five Guys is the ultimate build-your-own burger destination. With endless topping combinations, their Bacon Cheeseburger remains a fan favorite. Add a bag of their Cajun fries and revel in the magic of simplicity done right. Bonus: the free peanuts while you wait!
12) Grill’d – Melbourne, Australia
Founded: 2004
Address: Multiple locations, including 211 La Trobe St, Melbourne
Cost for a Meal: AUD $20–$35
Burgers They Prepare: Grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, and veggie burgers
Most Iconic Burger: Simply Grill’d
Instagram: @grilldburgers
Website: grilld.com.au
Grill’d takes a healthier approach to burgers without sacrificing flavor. The Simply Grill’d, with grass-fed beef, salad, and herbed mayo, is a guilt-free treat. Their commitment to sustainability and fresh ingredients makes this an ethical yet delicious choice.
13) Umami Burger – Los Angeles, USA
Founded: 2009
Address: Multiple locations, including 1520 N Cahuenga Blvd, LA
Cost for a Meal: $20–$30
Burgers They Prepare: Gourmet creations with umami-packed flavors
Most Iconic Burger: The Umami Burger
Instagram: @umamiburger
Website: umamiburger.com
The Umami Burger doesn’t just taste good—it redefines burger artistry. Topped with shiitake mushrooms, caramelized onions, and a Parmesan crisp, this burger is a bold, savory journey. Umami Burger is proof that burgers can be both refined and ridiculously good.
14) Fergburger – Queenstown, New Zealand
Founded: 2001
Address: 42 Shotover St, Queenstown, New Zealand
Cost for a Meal: NZD $15–$25
Burgers They Prepare: Gourmet beef, lamb, chicken, and vegetarian options
Most Iconic Burger: The Fergburger
Instagram: @fergburger
Website: fergburger.com
Fergburger isn’t just a burger joint; it’s a Queenstown institution. Open 21 hours a day, it serves locals and jet-lagged tourists alike. The Fergburger, featuring prime New Zealand beef, tomato relish, and a dollop of aioli, is a towering delight. The lines might be long, but this is one wait you’ll never regret.
15) Burger Joint – New York City, USA
Founded: 2002
Address: 119 W 56th St, New York, NY
Cost for a Meal: $10–$20
Burgers They Prepare: Classic beef and cheeseburgers
Most Iconic Burger: Cheeseburger
Instagram: @burgerjointny
Website: burgerjointny.com
Hidden behind a velvet curtain in a swanky Manhattan hotel lies this divey burger haven. The Cheeseburger, cooked to perfection and served on a squishy bun, keeps it simple but unforgettable. It’s proof that the best things in life are often unassuming.
16) Bleecker Burger – London, UK
Founded: 2012
Address: Multiple locations, including 16 Bloomberg Arcade, London
Cost for a Meal: £15–£25
Burgers They Prepare: Grass-fed beef with minimal toppings for maximum taste
Most Iconic Burger: Double Cheeseburger
Instagram: @bleeckerburger
Website: bleecker.co.uk
Bleecker Burger strips burgers down to their essence: juicy patties and molten cheese on a golden bun. Their Double Cheeseburger is a juicy, cheesy masterpiece, complemented by a side of house fries and indulgent milkshakes.
17) Big Boy – Tokyo, Japan
Founded: 1956 (originally in the US)
Address: Various locations across Japan
Cost for a Meal: ¥1,000–¥2,000
Burgers They Prepare: Classic American-style burgers with Japanese flair
Most Iconic Burger: Teriyaki Big Boy
Instagram: @bigboyjapan
Website: bigboyjapan.co.jp
Big Boy’s Japanese outposts blend the best of American burgers with local flavors. The Teriyaki Big Boy, dripping with sweet-savory teriyaki sauce, is a perfect fusion of East meets West. Add a trip to the salad bar for the full Big Boy experience.
18) Honest Burgers – London, UK
Founded: 2011
Address: Multiple locations, including 4 Meard St, Soho, London
Cost for a Meal: £15–£25
Burgers They Prepare: Beef, chicken, and vegan options
Most Iconic Burger: Honest Burger
Instagram: @honestburgers
Website: honestburgers.co.uk
The Honest Burger stays true to its name with high-quality ingredients and no gimmicks. Featuring dry-aged British beef, red onion relish, and rosemary-salted chips, it’s simplicity done right. The cozy vibes and friendly service make this place a UK favorite.
19) Black Tap – New York City, USA
Founded: 2015
Address: 529 Broome St, New York, NY
Cost for a Meal: $20–$35
Burgers They Prepare: Classic and creative burgers with over-the-top shakes
Most Iconic Burger: The Greg Norman
Instagram: @blacktapnyc
Website: blacktap.com
Known for its outrageous milkshakes, Black Tap also crafts stunning burgers. The Greg Norman, with Wagyu beef, blue cheese, and arugula, is rich, savory, and unforgettable. Pair it with a CrazyShake for an Insta-worthy feast.
20) The Spotted Pig – New York City, USA
Founded: 2004
Address: 314 W 11th St, New York, NY
Cost for a Meal: $30–$50
Burgers They Prepare: Gourmet beef burgers with unique toppings
Most Iconic Burger: Chargrilled Burger with Roquefort Cheese
Instagram: @thespottedpig
Website: thespottedpig.com
This gastropub elevates the humble burger to fine dining status. The Chargrilled Burger, topped with sharp Roquefort cheese and nestled in a toasted brioche bun, is a revelation. The cozy yet upscale ambiance seals the deal.
21) Patty & Bun – London, UK
Founded: 2012
Address: 54 James St, Marylebone, London
Cost for a Meal: £15–£25
Burgers They Prepare: Innovative creations with bold flavors
Most Iconic Burger: Ari Gold Cheeseburger
Instagram: @pattyandbun
Website: pattyandbun.co.uk
With cheeky names and bold flavors, Patty & Bun is where Londoners go for a burger fix. The Ari Gold Cheeseburger, with caramelized onions and smokey mayo, is a fan favorite. It’s messy, indulgent, and worth every calorie.
22) Burger & Lobster – London, UK
Founded: 2011
Address: 36 Dean St, Soho, London
Cost for a Meal: £25–£40
Burgers They Prepare: Gourmet beef burgers with lobster-inspired pairings
Most Iconic Burger: The Original Lobster Burger
Instagram: @burgerandlobster
Website: burgerandlobster.com
Why settle for just a burger when you can have lobster, too? Burger & Lobster’s Original Lobster Burger pairs premium beef with succulent lobster meat, slathered in lemon butter and sandwiched between a brioche bun. It’s decadence on a plate and a Soho staple.
23) The Counter – Santa Monica, USA
Founded: 2003
Address: 2901 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, CA
Cost for a Meal: $15–$30
Burgers They Prepare: Customizable burgers with endless toppings
Most Iconic Burger: The Counter Signature Burger
Instagram: @thecounterburger
Website: thecounter.com
The Counter revolutionized burgers with its build-your-own approach. With over 85 ingredients to choose from, you can craft the burger of your dreams—or nightmares. Their Signature Burger, however, nails the perfect balance with Angus beef, provolone, and a sun-dried tomato vinaigrette.
24) Umami Burger – Los Angeles, USA
Founded: 2009
Address: 500 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA
Cost for a Meal: $15–$30
Burgers They Prepare: Gourmet burgers with a focus on umami flavors
Most Iconic Burger: Umami Burger
Instagram: @umamiburger
Website: umamiburger.com
This LA-born brand is all about maximizing the “fifth taste.” The Umami Burger combines a parmesan crisp, shiitake mushrooms, and truffle aioli for a savory explosion that will make your taste buds sing.
25) Huxtaburger – Melbourne, Australia
Founded: 2011
Address: 357 Collins St, Melbourne, VIC
Cost for a Meal: AUD $15–$25
Burgers They Prepare: Simple, high-quality burgers
Most Iconic Burger: The Huxtaburger
Instagram: @huxtaburger
Website: huxtaburger.com.au
In a city obsessed with good food, Huxtaburger keeps it simple and delicious. The namesake burger features a juicy beef patty, cheese, mustard, and pickles—all elevated by their perfectly toasted buns.
26) Bar Luca – Sydney, Australia
Founded: 2012
Address: 52 Phillip St, Sydney, NSW
Cost for a Meal: AUD $20–$35
Burgers They Prepare: Creative gourmet burgers
Most Iconic Burger: The Blame Canada
Instagram: @barlucasydney
Website: barluca.com.au
Bar Luca’s Blame Canada burger is a cult favorite, blending beef, maple bacon, poutine, and aioli. It’s unapologetically messy, unforgettably delicious, and has put Sydney firmly on the global burger map.
27) Plan Check Kitchen + Bar – Los Angeles, USA
Founded: 2012
Address: 1800 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Cost for a Meal: $20–$40
Burgers They Prepare: Elevated American classics
Most Iconic Burger: PCB (Plan Check Burger)
Instagram: @plancheck
Website: plancheck.com
Plan Check Kitchen takes burgers to the next level with ingredients like ketchup leather (yes, it’s a thing) and dashi cheese. The PCB is a rich, umami-packed masterpiece that will make you rethink everything you know about burgers.
28) Betty’s Burgers & Concrete Co. – Australia
Founded: 2014
Address: 7/50 Hastings St, Noosa Heads, QLD
Cost for a Meal: AUD $15–$25
Burgers They Prepare: Classic burgers and frozen custard concretes
Most Iconic Burger: Betty’s Classic
Instagram: @bettysburgers
Website: bettysburgers.com.au
Betty’s pairs juicy burgers with thick, frozen custard concretes for the ultimate comfort meal. The Betty’s Classic, with Angus beef, lettuce, tomato, and special sauce, is nostalgia in every bite.
29) Shake Shack – New York City, USA
Founded: 2004
Address: Madison Square Park, New York, NY
Cost for a Meal: $10–$20
Burgers They Prepare: Fresh, fast-casual classics
Most Iconic Burger: ShackBurger
Instagram: @shakeshack
Website: shakeshack.com
What began as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park has grown into a global phenomenon. The ShackBurger, with its juicy patty, melted cheese, and ShackSauce, is proof that simple can still be spectacular.
30) MEATliquor – London, UK
Founded: 2011
Address: 74 Welbeck St, London, UK
Cost for a Meal: £20–£35
Burgers They Prepare: Hearty, no-nonsense burgers
Most Iconic Burger: Dead Hippie
Instagram: @meatgram
Website: meatliquor.com
MEATliquor is where you go for a burger that doesn’t hold back. The Dead Hippie, with mustard-fried beef patties, pickles, and tangy sauce, is a messy, greasy masterpiece best enjoyed with a cold pint.
Indulge in delicious harmony.
