18 Best Burgers in Boston: A Delicious Journey for Food Lovers
Burgers are rarely a bad idea. The humble sandwich, a patty of ground beef between buns, is a quick and satisfying meal for lunch, a gourmet delight with wine, or a comforting late-night dinner. In Boston, you can find some of the best burgers that will surely hit the spot. From classic favorites to inventive creations, these burgers are juicy and delicious. If you’re looking for more local specialties, don’t miss out on the best lobster rolls, sandwiches, and tacos in Boston.
1. Nu Burger
Located in Fenway/Kenmore, Nu Burger collaborates with local purveyors to create their mouth-watering burgers. Their Angus beef patties are sourced from the best ranches and are free of antibiotics, steroids, and hormones. Try their Artisan burger topped with boursin, roasted tomato, and pickled onion, or dare to taste their Umami Truffle burger with pecorino, truffle, fried egg, arugula, and aioli. Don’t forget to explore their spicy cauliflower burger for a veggie delight.
2. Little Donkey
Owned by Jamie Bissonnette and Ken Oringer, this global tapas restaurant in Cambridge is a blend of upscale and comfort foods. Their dry-aged beef patty is topped with foie gras, Buffalo pickles, jalapeno pickles, and a perfect smear of mayo mixed with onion soup mix. The result is an indulgent pleasure that is worth crossing the river for.
3. Lola Burger
Lola Burger, an offshoot of the popular Lola 41 in Nantucket, focuses on creating the perfect burger. Their menu offers a wide variety of options, from a 50/50 burger made with half ground beef and half bacon, to a beef burger topped with brie and mushrooms. Don’t miss their vegan version topped with dairy-free cheese. However, the classic Lola burger, an 8 oz beef patty topped with cheddar cheese and foie gras, is the ultimate choice for burger lovers.
4. Hojoko
This Japanese tavern in Fenway/Kenmore is known for its award-winning Hojoko Wagyu Cheeseburger. The umami-forward blend of chuck and wagyu short rib is slathered in American cheese and a special sauce, and finished off with red onion and dashi pickle chips for a satisfying crunch and burst of flavor.
5. The Quiet Few
A neighborhood whiskey bar in East Boston, The Quiet Few offers two delicious burger options. The Hell Yeah Burger, a 4-ounce double patty marinated in spices and whiskey, is topped with a signature sauce, American and cheddar cheese, shredduce, smoked onions, and pickles. For smaller appetites, the Simple Burger topped with cheddar, shredduce, and Grillo’s pickles is equally enjoyable.
6. Alden & Harlow
Alden & Harlow’s “secret burger” has gained a cult following. Made with Creekstone Farms ground brisket, short rib, and beef, this burger is topped with a cheddar cheese crisp, secret sauce, little gem lettuce, salted onions, and bread and butter pickles—all nestled in a homemade roll. Insider tip: Try getting it during weekend brunch service to secure a bite.
7. Shojo
The potent Shojonator at this Chinatown restaurant takes inspiration from the Wendy’s Baconator but with an Asian twist. The patty is topped with smoked bacon and kimcheese (kimchi blended with Velveeta), all served on a steamed sesame bao bun. For an extra indulgence, add an extra patty or a fried egg.
8. Bred Gourmet
This fast-casual spot in Dorchester serves up unparalleled burgers. Chef-owner Tambo Barrow seasons and smashes his grass-fed burgers right on the grill, offering creative combinations like the Maui Burger piled high with sliced pineapple, smoked ham, sweet plantains, crispy onions, habanero pepper jack cheese, and BBQ sauce. They also have old school veggie burgers and the meat-like Impossible burger for non-meat eaters.
9. Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage
Since 1960, this Harvard Square landmark has been serving celebrity-inspired burgers with creative names. While the menu changes constantly, you can expect options like the Joe Biden with American cheese, bacon, and BBQ sauce, or the Bill Burr named after the famous comedian from Canton, with cheddar cheese, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, and red onion.
10. Neptune Oyster
Neptune Oyster, a popular seafood joint in North End, surprises with its burger creation. The Neptune Oyster Burger features fried oysters, cheddar cheese, garlic mayo, and relish, staying true to its fish-centric roots. The wait may be long, but the surf-and-turf delight is worth every minute.
11. jm Curley
In Downtown, jm Curley offers a half-pound grass-fed beef burger topped with cheddar cheese, grilled onions, in-house pickles, and homemade Russian dressing. Add a fried egg, slaw, or an extra patty to take your burger experience to the next level.
12. Bistro du Midi
Located in Back Bay, Bistro du Midi is known for its gorgeously constructed Bistro Burger. The prime beef patty is served on a sesame seed bun and topped with foie gras butter, creating a luxurious and satisfying bite.
13. Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant
Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant in South Boston offers the Lincoln Burger—a blend of prime beef topped with bacon aioli, Cabot sharp cheddar, and caramelized French onions. You can choose between fries or a side salad, or go for the best of both worlds with half and half.
14. Charlie’s Kitchen
When you’re craving a juicy and straightforward burger, head to Charlie’s Kitchen in Harvard Square. This institution serves a variety of creative and traditional choices. Try the double Guinness cheeseburger or opt for the Upper Classic with double bacon and cheddar cheese for a simple yet satisfying delight.
15. Tasty Burger
With locations in Fenway/Kenmore and Cambridge, Tasty Burger is a local favorite. Their specialty burgers range from a patty melt to burgers topped with eggs. For a refreshing twist, try their house-made lime rickey, and don’t forget to indulge in a miniature pie or shake for dessert.
16. Boston Burger Company
Situated in Somerville, Boston Burger Company offers over-the-top burger varieties that will satisfy any craving. Try their unique options like the Artery Clogger, a deep-fried, beer-battered burger topped with bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce. They also have a simple Boston burger topped with lettuce and tomato, and all burgers come with a choice of coleslaw or baked beans.
17. The Publick House
Known for its extensive beer menu, The Publick House in Brookline offers a customizable burger experience. Build your own burger from a selection of toppings and sauces, and don’t forget to try their Monk’s Frites on the side for the ultimate burger-eating bliss.
18. Back Bay Social Club
Located in Back Bay, Back Bay Social Club allows the beef to shine in their BBS Burger. The grass-fed ribeye and short rib blend creates an outstanding patty. Topped with caramelized onions, Vermont cheddar, smoked bacon, and horseradish aioli, this burger is a perfect package served on a squishy sweet potato roll.
If you’re a burger lover in Boston, these 18 restaurants will take you on a flavorful journey you won’t forget. From classic combinations to innovative twists, these burgers are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So grab a friend and embark on a burger-filled adventure in the heart of Boston!