With Labor Day around the corner, there’s no better way to toast the end of summer than with a perfectly seared, juicy burger. Luckily, New York City is home to some of the most inventive (and indulgent) patties in the country from smashburgers served on toasted potato rolls to wagyu creations and even a burger festival straight out of a ‘90s fever dream. Here’s where to get your fix. 

Clinton Hall's Teeny-Weeny Mini Meal

1. Gotham Burger Social Club

📍 Lower East Side

If there’s one name synonymous with NYC’s smashburger scene, it’s Gotham Burger Social Club. Founded by former finance professional–turned–burger evangelist Mike Puma, GBSC has become a citywide obsession for its Oklahoma-style fried onion smashburgers.

The Gotham Smash — made with Puma’s custom beef blend, seared with onions on the flattop, and served on a buttery potato roll — is simplicity perfected. You can order it single ($8), double ($11), or go all-in with the three-patty Beastie Boy ($14).

Beyond burgers, Puma has expanded the menu to include a Chopped Cheese Taco, loaded tots, onion rings, and even a nostalgic New York egg cream. Pair it all with a local beer from KCBC or Grimm Artisanal Ales, and you’ve got a meal that’s equal parts old-school and modern cult favorite.

2. Kel’s Burger Fest

📍 BK Backyard Bar, Williamsburg | August 30th

For one day only, the Brooklyn waterfront transforms into burger paradise at Kel’s Burger Fest. Actor and comedian Kel Mitchell (yes, of Good Burger fame) has teamed up with Bucket Listers to throw a burger-fueled block party with live DJs, arcade games, carnival rides, and — of course — over-the-top patties.

Expect a lineup of NYC favorites like Next Stop Vegan, Oh Boy, Lacey’s Burgers, and Bear Burgers, alongside national names such as Fat Sal’s. From juicy smashburgers to vegan stacks, this festival has something for every appetite — plus a dedicated Orange Soda Fountain for that extra dose of Kel nostalgia.

3. NADC Burger

📍 SoHo, NYC

Born from skate sessions in Austin, Texas, NADC (Not A Damn Chance) is the passion project of pro skateboarder Neen Williams and chef Phillip Frankland Lee. Their mission? To create the perfect cheeseburger.

At NADC, there’s just one burger on the menu — but it’s all you need: a double wagyu patty topped with American cheese, pickles, onions, secret sauce, and slightly tamed jalapeños ($16). The high-quality wagyu beef sets it apart, delivering a rich flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the tangy toppings.

For sides, don’t skip the Beast Mode Fries, twice fried and topped with cheese, jalapeños, pickles, and OG steak spice. It’s the kind of burger experience that feels equal parts nostalgic and next-level.

4. Clinton Hall

📍 Multiple Locations: FiDi, Herald Square, Midtown, Bronx

If variety (and scale) is your thing, Clinton Hall is your burger playground. Known for outrageous creations and beer hall vibes, Clinton Hall is rolling out its adorable new Teeny-Weeny Mini Meal this fall: a bite-sized burger, fries, and your choice of a mini beer, margarita, or wine — all for just $8.

But if you’re feeling bold, take on the Challenge Burger: a 20-ounce patty loaded with bacon, cheese, BBQ chicken tenders, onion rings, and more, served atop a mountain of fries. Finish it solo, and it’s free. For everyone else, Clinton Hall’s regular lineup of burgers and beer towers will more than satisfy.

5. Smashy

📍 Union Square

New to NYC but already making waves, Smashy brings a European smashburger craze straight from Budapest to Union Square. The hook? It’s one of the most affordable burger joints in Manhattan.

A single cheeseburger with all the classic fixings will only set you back $4.99, while a double comes in at $6.99. Pair with crispy fries ($2.99) and a Coke, and you’ve got a full meal for under $12 — practically unheard of in this city.

With its straightforward menu and retro vibe, Smashy is the kind of spot you’ll want to swing by on your lunch break or late-night craving run.