The “Burger War” is an ongoing conflict between London’s top burger joints, competing to reign supreme with anything but your run-of-the-mill patties. The term was coined by food critics in 2013 when an influx of new players hit the city’s gourmet junk food scene. If you’ve had your share of Christmas food and are dying to sink your teeth into a really great burger, our London locals James and Chris have shared a few of their favourite places where you can do just that.
1. Honest Burgers
Honest Burgers first opened its doors in Brixton Village Market – the birthplace of many top-notch eateries in London. It has since expanded to other central locations including Soho and Kings Cross, and earned a name for itself as one of the top 10 burger joints in the city. The Ginger Pig beef patties are juicy and delicious, while the caramelised red onion chutney and rosemary fries really put the icing on the cake.
Photo credit: Ewan Munro
2. Patty & Bun
If you’re looking for a unique burger experience, Patty & Bun is a great option. This tiny establishment just north of Bond Street Station offers a well-rounded menu of six burgers and a handful of tasty sides, with a focus on high-quality produce. Burger enthusiasts will appreciate the carefully composed and balanced masterpieces, and those with an eye for detail will enjoy the restaurant’s edgy branding and design. Ari Gold and Smokey Robinson are rated among London’s finest burgers.
Photo credit: Patty & Bun
3. MEATliquor
Picklebacks, bourbon shakes, juicy burgers, chili cheese fries, deep-fried pickles and the best buffalo chicken burgers in London. Hungry? With a dark and grimy underground vibe, MEATliquor is a perfect place to kick back after a long day. According to most Londoners, it’s the Mecca of burger joints. Other branches include MEATmarket (quieter and more informal), MEATmission (try the Monkey Fingers) and MEATwagon (meat from a wagon), but if you love queuing outside to earn your saturated fat, head here.
Photo credit: TomEats
4. MEATmarket
Hidden away in Convent Garden behind numerous stalls selling tourist junk, you’ll find a delicious meaty oasis. This long and slender diner-style burger joint is the younger sibling of MEATliquor. As you probably guessed, it’s all about meat. If you appreciate American-style burgers and accept your love of food over health, then this is the place for you. The burgers aren’t pretty, rather they’re simple, big and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The chili cheese fries are dangerously tasty, and can be washed down with soda, Czech beer or a bourbon shake. Gourmet junk food purists definitely won’t be disappointed.
Photo credit: MEATmarket
For more local recommendations read:
What locals like to do in London
Where locals like to eat in London
Where locals like to party in London
Special tip:
For a more authentic London experience, get the Like A Local mobile app
Opening photo credit: a_b_normal123