The Absolute Best Burger in Harlem [Updated 2024]

Having sampled and reviewed a total of twelve burgers from various establishments across Harlem, I am confident in my ability to narrow down the vast options to bring you the crème de la crème. From juicy, succulent patties to perfectly toasted buns, I have searched high and low to find the burger that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

So, whether you're a local Harlemer or a curious foodie exploring the vibrant streets of this iconic neighborhood, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a savory journey through Harlem's burger scene.

Harlem Shake

Highlights
Jerk fries
Delicious burger
Jazz event
Satisfying meal

First and foremost, let me mention that Harlem Shake is not your ordinary burger joint. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a vibrant and lively atmosphere, like stepping into a 1950s soda shop. The walls adorned with vintage posters and the music that transported me back in time created the perfect backdrop for my burger adventure.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the burgers. As I took my first bite into the delicious burger, I immediately knew that I had stumbled upon something special. The patty was juicy and perfectly cooked, nestled between a soft, toasted bun that held all the flavors together.

But what truly made my taste buds dance were the jerk fries. Spicy and perfectly seasoned, they were the perfect accompaniment to the burger. The combination of the savory burger, the tangy jerk seasoning, and the crispy fries created a flavor explosion in my mouth that left me craving for more.

Beyond the food, Harlem Shake offers more than just a satisfying meal. During my visit, I had the pleasure of attending a jazz event, which added another layer of authenticity to the experience. The live music, paired with the mouthwatering food, created a truly immersive and enjoyable dining experience.

All in all, Harlem Shake is a burger joint that not only satisfies your hunger but also transports you to a bygone era. With their delicious burgers, tantalizing jerk fries, and live jazz events, it's no wonder that this place has earned its spot in the sought-after category of the best burgers in Harlem. So, go ahead and shake up your dining experience at Harlem Shake - you won't be disappointed!

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Harlem Tavern

Highlights
Wonderful lunch experience
Delicious food
Multiple sports screens
Accommodating staff
Busy local hot spot
Cold and delicious Shocktop beer
Pot of mussels in spicy tomato sauce
Great fries, chicken, and waffles
Excited to return soon

Walking into Harlem Tavern, I was immediately greeted by a lively atmosphere and the wonderful aroma of sizzling burgers. As I made my way to the table, I couldn't help but notice multiple sports screens displaying exciting games. It was clear from the get-go that this place was a busy local hot spot for both sports enthusiasts and foodies alike.

The accommodating staff promptly seated me and I couldn't wait to delve into their burger selection. After perusing the menu, I settled on the classic Harlem Burger, topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a tangy barbecue sauce. The burger arrived promptly, and from the first bite, I knew I had found a winner.

The patty was cooked to perfection, juicy and packed with flavor. The combination of the melted cheese and crispy bacon added an indulgent element, while the tangy barbecue sauce added that perfect sweet and smoky kick. Every single bite was a burst of deliciousness.

Aside from the burger, I couldn't resist trying their other specialties. The pot of mussels in spicy tomato sauce was a delightful surprise, with a spicy kick that left me craving more. The fries were crispy, the chicken was tender, and the waffles were the perfect balance of fluffy and crisp.

As I sipped on a cold and delicious Shocktop beer, I couldn't help but feel satisfied with my wonderful lunch experience at Harlem Tavern. The combination of great food, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere made me excited to return soon. If you're in Harlem and craving a top-notch burger, Harlem Tavern should be at the top of your list.

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Tex's Chicken & Burgers

Highlights
Good chicken
Nice service
Clean inside
Open late
Friendly staff

Upon entering, the first thing that caught my attention was the cleanliness of the restaurant. The interior was impeccably clean, with well-maintained tables and a neat atmosphere that created a pleasant dining experience.

The friendly staff immediately welcomed me with warm smiles, which made me feel right at home. They were cheerful, accommodating, and ready to assist with any questions I had about the menu.

Speaking about the menu, the star of the show at Tex's is undoubtedly their burgers. I had high expectations, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. The patties were cooked to perfection, juicy and flavorful, with just the right amount of seasoning. The buns were fresh and soft, adding a delightful texture to each bite.

While I was mostly focused on the burgers, I couldn't resist trying their chicken as well. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and taste. The chicken was tender and well-seasoned, providing a delicious alternative to their already amazing burgers.

An additional standout feature of Tex's Chicken & Burgers is their extended hours. Being open late is a great perk for those who find themselves craving a mouthwatering burger or chicken late at night.

To top it all off, the service at Tex's was exceptional. The staff was attentive, ensuring that my dining experience was enjoyable from start to finish.

In conclusion, Tex's Chicken & Burgers in Harlem offers an enticing menu with a range of mouthwatering burgers and delicious chicken options. With great service, a clean interior, and a friendly staff, this spot is definitely a strong contender for the title of best burger in Harlem.

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Row House

Row House in Harlem is a hidden gem that serves up a phenomenal burger. The juicy patty, topped with melty cheese and crispy bacon, is a flavor explosion in every bite. The ambiance is cozy, making it the perfect spot to indulge in a mouthwatering burger. Definitely a must-try!

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Tex’s Chicken & Burgers

Tex’s Chicken & Burgers in Harlem is a hidden gem that truly knows how to satisfy my burger cravings. The moment I sunk my teeth into their delectable creation, I was transported to burger heaven. The patty was juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, while the buns were perfectly toasted to add a delightful crunch. Every bite was a delightful symphony of textures and taste. The friendly staff ensured exceptional service, making my visit even more enjoyable. If you're seeking a mouthwatering burger experience in Harlem, put Tex’s Chicken & Burgers on the top of your list. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Harlem Burger Co.

Harlem Burger Co. in Harlem offers a culinary adventure that will make your tastebuds dance with joy. They serve juicy, mouthwatering burgers that are packed with flavor. The unique combinations of toppings and perfectly cooked patties create a symphony of deliciousness. Harlem Burger Co. is a definite must-try for all burger enthusiasts.

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Mo's Burgers

Mo's Burgers in Harlem exceeded all of my burger expectations. The juicy, flavor-packed patty was perfectly cooked to medium-rare, and the melting cheese and crispy bacon added just the right amount of indulgence. The soft, buttery bun held everything together, creating burger bliss. Mo's is a must-visit for burger lovers in Harlem.

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Jimbo's Hamburger Palace

Jimbo's Hamburger Palace in Harlem is a hidden gem that elevates the burger game to a whole new level. The juicy and flavor-packed patties, served on pillowy buns, will make your taste buds dance with joy. Don't miss out on their crispy hand-cut fries – they are heavenly. A must-visit spot for burger enthusiasts in Harlem.

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Burger & Shake Co.

It was a playful yet professional dining experience at Burger & Shake Co. The juicy patty melted in my mouth, and the toppings were like flavor fireworks. The friendly staff and rustic ambiance completed the delicious puzzle. It's a must-visit in Harlem's quest for the best burger!

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Harlem Public

Located in the heart of Harlem, Harlem Public is a delightful burger joint that knows how to please the taste buds. The burgers here are a culinary masterpiece, with juicy patties grilled to perfection and topped with a variety of delectable ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and the service is top-notch. Trust me, Harlem Public definitely deserves a spot on the list of the best burgers in Harlem.

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Jimbos Hamburger

Jimbos Hamburger in Harlem is a hidden gem that won't disappoint burger enthusiasts. Their juicy and flavorful patties are served on pillowy buns, perfectly melted cheese, and a medley of fresh toppings. The crunchy pickles and secret sauce elevate their burgers to a whole new level. It's a must-visit spot on your burger quest in Harlem.

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Shake Shack Harlem

Shake Shack Harlem in Harlem is a burger joint that truly lives up to the hype. The burger was juicy and flavorful, with the perfect ratio of meat to toppings. The crispy crinkle-cut fries were addictive, and the milkshakes were the cherry on top. A must-try for any burger enthusiast in Harlem!

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