For the hungry traveller, discovering a great burger joint is an invigorating way to refuel after experiencing Melbourne’s many charms. And for the local burger enthusiast, it is a place of sanctuary when in need of one of life’s ultimate comfort foods.
Burgers are a universal favourite. Familiar, reassuring and yet capable of delighting the taste buds when delivered with panache. The ingredients may be ubiquitous and common, but the best burger can delight even the sternest of gourmet critics.
In a deeply enjoyable exercise, we have revisited our favourite burger joints in Melbourne and have listed what we consider to be the best exponents of burger splendour in the city. Never run the risk of ordering a sub-standard burger again!
Editor’s Update: As Melbourne is blessed with so many great burger joints, we’ve got more than 15 places on this list. I’m sure you’ll forgive us!
Location: 46 Lygon Street, Brunswick East, VIC 3057 Ph: (03) 9381 5492 See Website For Further Locations, But…
Also located at: Malvern (210 Glenferrie Rd, 3144 Ph: (03) 9069 1969), Moonee Ponds (491 Mt Alexander Rd, 3039 Ph: (03) 9372 8679), Footscray (2/56 Nicholson St Ph: 0477 109 273), Sunshine (Sunshine Plaza, 324-328 Hampshire Rd, 3020 Ph: (03) 9310 1537) and the CBD (170 Flinders St 3000 Ph: (03) 4050 7441).
With a number of burger joints all over the city, New York Minute (NYM) has done an impressive job in carving out its niche in the Melbourne market, particularly so, when you consider how competitive the burger food scene is.
A NYM outlet is well worth checking out as the gourmet burger range is both well-priced and well-made . From 100% Wagyu and Angus Beef, to free range chicken, rare-breed Berkshire pork, or freshly prepared springtime veggie burgers – there’s something for everyone at New York Minute.
The food philosophy is simple: fresh, local produce is best. The franchise has teamed up with Victorian farmers to source the best quality beef, pork, chicken, vegetables and buns. The recipes might come from the bustling streets of Manhattan Island, but the Victorian produce comes from just around the corner!
NYM bestselling gourmet burgers all come with names that reflect their stateside recipe origins and the ‘city that never sleeps’ – the New York, the Rockefeller Wagyu, the NYC Deli Brisket, the Broadway Grill, the Manhattan Island and the Philly Cheese Steak.
So although they might sound very NYC, these folks make our list of the top 15 burger restaurants in Melbourne.
This chain originated in Queensland but has since opened up in Melbourne (and Sydney) to an awaiting, adoring public. The burgers here are not overdone or overly embellished and this makes them massively appealing to the consumer.
They are crafted from a vast array of different ingredients. The menu includes delicious patties ranging from the class Angus-beef burger to the drool-inspiring crispy pork belly burger.
This burger joint is particularly renowned for it’s fried chicken burger that will have you salivating. And no wonder – the Crispy Chicken Burger really is crispy!
And if you prefer to eat gluten free or paleo, they do the cheekily named Bare Betty. This burger features all the best bits of their Classic Burger, bundled up in lettuce rather than a bun. Smart, hey?
Location: 344 Chapel St, Prahan, VIC 3181 Ph: 0413 112 295 See Website for Further Locations
If you are yet to try a Burgertory burger, we reckon it won’t be long until you have. This chain is slowly creeping across the city and gaining a loyal following as it does so. In fact, we reckon they are already one of the top 15 burger restaurants in Melbourne.
Their winning formula is a menu of tasty burgers themed around Saints and Sinners in the form of their 7 Deadly Sins and Archangel creations. Plus some tempting sides. Seriously, why don’t more places cook up Zucchini Wedges ($8) and Salt and Vinegar Fries ($6)?
But back to the burgers. From the Archangel selection, the Michael ($10) features a Smashed Beef Patty, American Cheese, Red Onion, Purity Mayo and Pickles in a Milk Bun. It might not be the prettiest burger we’ve ever eaten, but it has a good meaty flavour. Over on the 7 Deadly Sins side of the board, the Envy is vegan-friendly from its Plant-Based Patty, Lettuce, Tomato, and Relishes etc through to its Vegan Cheese. It’s also a fabulous lurid green, just to ram home the point.
Also at Lonsdale St, Melbourne Ph: (03) 9639 6726 & Melbourne Quarter & Brunswick Ph: (03) 9383 7554 & MoorabbinSee Website for Further Locations
This restaurant was founded by Dani Zeini and boasts American-style burgers. Royal Stacks is inspired by the American restaurant chain, Shake Shack. However, the beef served here is 100% pasture-fed Australian beef and is totally hormone free. What’s more, the patties are prepared fresh each day.
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With plenty of chicken options as well as chickpea patties for those preferring a plant-based diet, the burgers here are definitely a cut above average.
The cool, laid-back American vibe coupled with the awesome selection of milkshakes and desserts makes for a fun, family-friendly venue that will definitely convert you into an all-American fan.
We really couldn’t write a piece about the 15 best burger restaurants in Melbourne and not have this 24hr Burger Diner make the cut.
Yep, the kitchen do an ace Blood Sausage & Devilled Egg Roll ($17) and a superb Daily Butchers Cut Steak (MP), but its the Burgers that keep us coming back.
Now it may be refreshingly simple, we adore the Butchers Diner Cheeseburger ($19.50). A fluffy Bun, 160g chunky Beef Patty, Aged Cheddar, Pickles, Tomato, Lettuce, Onion, Sauce & Mayo. A great Cheeseburger is a classic for a reason and thankfully, the folks here know not to mess with meaty perfection.
As for the Sides, yes, the Hand Cut Chips are very good ($7.50/11.50). However, we have a big soft spot for the Poutine ($16). This Canadian creation tops Chips with Cheese Curds & Pepper Gravy. And if you visit this joint late at night, as many fans do, it’s the perfect beer absorber.
Nope. We haven’t totally lost the plot. And yes. We mean the exalted Andrew O’Connell-helmed fine dining restaurant, Gimlet. Melbourne.
You see on Friday and Saturday nights, the kitchen at Gimlet serves a Supper Menu from 10pm. Small, but perfectly conceived, it runs to only a few items. And one of those dishes is arguably the best Cheeseburger ($28) you’ll ever eat.
What makes it so good? And worth that rather hefty price tag? Well, the Beef Patty atty itself is both generously thick and seriously juicy and clearly freshly made. And there’s no mass-produced sauces and pickles on this baby. Instead, there’s a Dill-Based House-Made Burger Sauce that’s totally addictive. Add to this Lettuce, Onions, American Cheese and a cloud-like Potato Bun and you have a Cheeseburger that all subsequent Cheeseburgers will be measured by.
Whilst we’re sure that pretty much anything you order at Gimlet Melbourne will be top-notch, for us it’s also one of the 15 top burger restaurants in Melbourne.
Of course, Gimlet Melbourne isn’t the only fine diner in town with a superior Burger on its menu.
Over at the swish, Chris Lucas owned, Maison Batard, with its chic interpretation of a French Brasserie, there is another ‘Burger to try. Head downstairs to the intimate charms of Le Club, slip into a quiet corner, and order Le Cheeseburger ($29.50).
With a fluffy Bun and a bloody Patty that melts into umami heaven, it’s proof that even something as simple as a Cheeseburger can be really, really fine. And to follow, why not treat yourself to a Champagne & Raspberry Macaron?
Location: 245 Main Street, Lilydale, VIC 3140 Ph: (03) 9735 1455 See Website For Further Locations
Although this award-winning burger bar originated in Maroochydore’s Queen Street and has other locations across South Australia and Queensland, they also have this outlet in Melbourne. And when a patty merchant calls themselves Hello Harry The Burger Joint, you have to take notice.
Why are they so successful? Well, Hello Harry uses the finest cooking techniques and reputable expertise to craft distinctive burgers at a reasonable price.
The menu offers loads of unique options such as pulled pork burgers and Tijuana chicken which includes jalapeños and baked peppers. The ice-cold beers are a luxurious addition to your burger and ensure that you don’t leave thirsty.
No wonder Hello Harry makes our look at the top 15 burger restaurants in Melbourne.
Location: Emblem, 1/862 Glenferrie Rd, Hawthorn, VIC 3122 Ph: (03) 9818 814 See Website For Further Locations
Already with a decent toehold in the NSW market, it was only a matter of time before Ribs & Burgers made inroads into Melbourne. And we’re very glad that they have. After all, anywhere that claims to make ‘The Best Burgers In Australia’ deserves serious consideration.
The team here promise their products are 100% natural and that their Patties are made from hormone-free, grass-fed Beef. But as ever, the real test is the taste one.
For us, the yardstick of a good Burger joint is their Cheeseburger. At Ribs & Burgers, the Old School Cheese ($13.90) has everything a great Cheeseburger should with plenty of flavour. There’s a Beef Patty, American Cheese, Red Onion, Aioli, BBQ Sauce, Pickles & Mustard. All fresh and zinging.
Incidentally, the kitchen also does a banging Original Cheese ($15.90), with Lettuce, Tomato & Pink Sauce rather than Aioli and Mustard. And there’s a Bacon & Cheese ($17.90) with all of the above, plus Streaky Smoked Bacon.
But of course, that’s not all. The crew also do a range of Chicken Burgers and Speciality Burgers. And then there’s their Slow-Cooked Ribs….
Honestly, this spot is a flame-grilled meaty heaven!
This burger bar takes its influence from the American company, ‘Fat Bob’s’. At this award winning diner, you’ll gain an authentic American experience in the heart of Melbourne, which is the perfect soother for the American traveller.
At this burger bar, you’ll receive generous, American-sized portions alongside the best beer in Melbourne. You’ll definitely leave with a full stomach.
For example, the signature Fat Bob Burger ($20.5) is virtually a meal in itself. Featuring a 180g Grass-Fed Beef Patty, Tomato, Beetroot, Bacon, Tasty Cheese, Red Onion, Pineapple, Eggs, Cos Lettuce and Fat’s Bob’s Sauce, don’t eat before you turn up!
Not that you’d want to. After all, this is one of the 15 finest burger restaurants in Melbourne.
This burger restaurant is perfect for thick, heavy burgers and is perhaps the best chicken burger joint in the state.
This is because the fried chicken is cooked with a copious amount of grease (which may be important to consider if you are on a health kick!) But you will engulf a burger so crispy that you’ll be dreaming of the delicious crunch for a long time.
The chicken is brined for 24 hours prior to service and is pressure fried to add an untouchable flavour.
Incidentally, the John Curtin Hotel were this joint resides has a great band room upstairs and an all-round good, grungy vibe.
Yakamoz on Lygon Street has a strong fan-base. The Mediterranean restaurant does a stunning Charcoal Beef Oyster Blade Shish ($21 for 2), amongst other things. But it is their Burger that has really put them on the map. In fact, the hype around this dish is so strong that the Yakamoz team have opened up a window at the side of their kitchen dedicated to pretty much this cult Burger.
And people have come.
Whether you rock up 30 minutes before opening, or anytime during service, you’ll need to be prepared to wait.
The star of the tiny menu is the Double Patty Cheeseburger. Messy with Truffle Mayo and Chilli Jam, it’s pretty irresistible. And it’s not just us that think so. The World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants just crowned it the 14 best Burger in the world.
This burger joint offers fast and friendly service, creating a warming atmosphere. The order-arrival time is approximately 5-8 minutes and this makes it lightyears ahead of most burger joints in Melbourne if you are looking for a thick and fast experience.
The menu includes smaller and larger burgers catered to different appetites that are uniquely delicious at a moderate cost. Our go-to is the Phat N Spicy ($16.50). With a Beef Patty, Double Cheese, Lettuce, Chilli Mayo, Onion & Jalapenos, it punches just the right amount of heat.
Of course, there are a lot of great cafes around that do awesome burgers. See our top Cafes in Melbourne for some recommendations
This American-stylised burger joint caters to everyone. It serves up gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian choices that make a delicious alternative to even the most staunch meat eater.
Is there anything more Aussie than a burger or snag, cooked on the barbie? Well, whether you BBQ outside, or on the stove top in the kitchen, we have everything the keen home BBQ fan could desire. Click here for more information.
Burger Road is made more desirable by the fact that most of its dishes use a lot of spice. The flavoursome wagyu beef burger and loaded fries are one such example of the culinary excellence that is on display at Burger Road.
Lastly, this restaurant featured on the renowned Urban List in 2017 and is a local favourite. And that’s why it’s made the cut of our top 15 burger restaurants in Melbourne.
Location: 205 Barkly Street, St Kilda VIC 3182 Ph: 0414 317 710 See Website For Further Locations
Fat Jaks is an Americanised burger joint that serves American-sized portions. The taste of all these burgers is exceptional and they are crafted with locally sourced meat and premium ingredients that add an abundance of flavour to each burger.
The burgers are also branded with an ‘FJ’ for a unique touch.
Easey’s is an American-style diner, on a rooftop, 5 floors above the urban beauty of Collingwood. Oh. And the ‘dining rooms’ are actually a collection of railway carriage. On that roof.
And yes, could say it’s all about the hype. But we’re here to tell you that the Burgers at Easeys are legit. Not least because you can tweak your protein needs according to your hunger.
The single Patty BBQ BCN Cheeseburger ($16.50) has a Smashed Patty, Bacon, American Cheese, BBQ Sauce, Aioli & Deep Fried Crispy Bits. And it’s a meat lovers dream. In contrast, the Your Mate Burger ($17.50) puts that American Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, Onions, Pickles & Burger Sauce with a Potato & Zucchini Rosti.
The Sides are pretty rad too. They have a Deep Fried Potatoes selection that warms our carb-addicted hearts. The stand-out being the ones ‘Loaded with Shredded Cheese & Gravy’. Keep talking!
Location: 3 Freshwater Pl, Southbank, Melbourne, Vic 3006 Ph: (03) 9938 8805 See Website For Further Locations
It’s going to be interesting to see how the discerning foodies of Melbourne take to Five Guys burgers.
The American fast food restaurant has already spread its yummy tentacles across much of the US, Europe and Asia. In fact, when Eatability made a recent trip to the UK, they found Five Guys outlets all over the place. And they were doing a roaring trade.
So what’s all the fuss about?
Well, at Five Guys the burgers are made to order, from top quality produce. You pay for your basic burger of choice and then there are a number of free extras that you can include to customise your burger to your personal taste. Those additions cover things like grilled onions and – be still my heart! – HP Sauce.
Also located at: Sunbury & Melton South & Hoppers Crossing
We close our round up of the best burgers in Melbourne with Between 2 Buns (B2B), a niche burger chain with outlets away from the CBD and the traditional inner-city foodie havens.
We love the irreverent slogan “skinny people are easy to kidnap, eat a burger”, and this sense of fun is reflected in the friendly staff and witty branding.
The burgers are simple, unfussy and well-priced, packed full of flavour, and delivered promptly. Set aside your lettuce and lentil wraps and indulge with a burger from B2B.
When it comes to great places to eat in Australia, the list really is endless. There are so many different restaurants, cafés, and chains to try that you really are spoiled for choice. From Italian food, to Japanese food, to a good ‘ole rump steak, the food options are endless.
This is why I decided to set up my blog, Eatability, to share the best food and drink spots in Australia with as many people as possible. Hi, my name is Dylan Cole, and I moved to Australia five years ago from England, UK.
Through this blog, I will be sharing and recommending some of my favorite places you need to visit, such as where to find the best pizza in Adelaide, and the best bakery in Brisbane. Whatever food you are fancying, I have got you covered!
