Discover London's Best Hamburger Joints for 2025

Right then, if you're on the hunt for the best hamburger in London, you've come to the right place. Burgers are pretty much a national treasure now, aren't they? From quick bites to proper sit-down meals, there's a burger for everyone. We've had a good old look around and tried a fair few to bring you this list of top spots for 2025. Forget the usual suspects; we're talking about places that really know how to make a good burger.

Key Takeaways

• Bleecker Burger is consistently praised for its premium beef and straightforward approach, earning acclaim both locally and internationally.

• Black Bear Burger is noted for its flavourful patties and excellent sides, with a strong following for its unique creations.

• Dumbo, a French import, has quickly become a favourite for its smashburgers, known for their perfect char and succulent beef.

• Burger & Beyond offers a lively atmosphere and creative burger options, including dry-aged beef and interesting flavour combinations.

• The Plimsoll is highlighted for its exceptional Dexter cheeseburger, a local favourite with a perfect balance of ingredients.

1. Bleecker Burger

Bleecker Burger has really made a name for itself in London's burger scene, and for good reason. They're all about keeping things simple and letting the quality of the beef do the talking. You'll find their focus is on dry-aged beef, which gives their patties a really deep, beefy flavour that's hard to beat.

They've got a few spots around town, but the Spitalfields Market and Seven Dials locations are often highlighted for their great atmosphere and, of course, fantastic burgers. The buns are usually perfectly toasted, holding everything together without getting soggy, which is a big win in my book.

• Dry-aged beef for intense flavour

• Secret sauce that's a bit peppery

• Toasted sesame seed buns

If you're looking for a classic, no-fuss burger done exceptionally well, Bleecker is definitely a top contender. It's a place that understands the fundamentals of a great burger and executes them perfectly. You can expect to pay around £14 for a burger, which feels about right for the quality you get. It's worth checking out their Bleecker Street Burger for a taste of what they're all about.

2. Black Bear Burger

Black Bear Burger has really made a name for itself, starting out as a street food vendor and now having several spots across London. They even won 'Best Burger in the UK' at the National Burger Awards 2025 for their Bacon Miso burger, which is pretty impressive.

Their classic Black Bear Burger is a solid choice, featuring two thin, smashed patties cooked to a nice crisp, with sweet onion jam and garlic mayo. It’s a good balance of flavours.

Here's a quick look at what you might expect:

• Black Bear Burger: Two smashed patties, onion jam, cheese, garlic mayo.

• Bacon Miso Burger: A flavourful option with a distinct umami taste.

• Sides: Don't skip the wings; they're coated in buffalo and blue cheese sauce but stay surprisingly crispy.

They've got restaurants in Brixton, Exmouth Market, and a larger place at Westfield Shepherd's Bush, plus more casual spots in Boxpark Camden, Market Halls Victoria, and Canary Wharf. So, you're likely to find one not too far away.

Expect to pay around £11.50-£12.50 for their main burgers.

3. Dumbo

Hailing from Paris, Dumbo has made a significant splash in London's burger scene, particularly in Shoreditch. They're all about the 'smashburger' – a technique that creates a wonderfully crisp, lacy edge on the patty while keeping the inside incredibly juicy. It’s a simple concept, but when done right, it’s pure magic.

The star of the show is their classic cheeseburger, featuring double patties of dry-aged beef, perfectly melted American cheese, tangy pickles, and a subtle blend of ketchup and mustard. It’s a masterclass in balance, proving that sometimes less is more. You might have to wait a bit, but honestly, it’s worth every minute.

Here's a quick look at what to expect:

• Burger Style: Smashburger

• Key Ingredients: Dry-aged beef patties, American cheese, pickles

• Vibe: Casual, fast-casual

They focus on quality ingredients and a straightforward approach, letting the flavour of the beef really shine through. It’s a no-fuss, high-impact burger experience that’s quickly made them a favourite.

4. Burger & Beyond

Burger & Beyond started out as a bit of a street food sensation, and honestly, they've kept that same energy. They're known for really focusing on the meat, using dry-aged beef that's been aged for 45 days. You can find them in a few spots around London, like Shoreditch, Soho, and Borough, and they all have a pretty lively vibe.

They've got a knack for creating some seriously stacked burgers. Whether you're after a classic beef patty with all the trimmings, a spicy hot honey fried chicken option, or even a vegan choice, they seem to have it covered. Don't skip the sides either; their bone marrow gravy fries are something else.

Here's a look at what you might find on their menu:

• Beef Burgers: Made with their signature 45-day dry-aged patties.

• Fried Chicken Burgers: Often featuring a hot honey glaze.

• Vegan Burgers: Creative options with interesting sauces.

• Sides: Think loaded fries, spring rolls, and other tasty additions.

Burger & Beyond really knows how to pack flavour into their burgers. It's not just about the beef; it's the whole package – the bun, the sauce, the toppings. They've earned their spot on the London burger scene for a reason.

5. The Plimsoll

Tucked away in Finsbury Park, The Plimsoll is a real gem that consistently gets mentioned when people talk about London's best burgers. It's run by the Four Legs team, and they really know their stuff when it comes to making a proper burger. Their Dexter cheeseburger is the absolute star of the show. It’s a bit of a messy affair, in the best possible way, with a thin, juicy patty that’s been chargrilled to perfection. You get melted cheese, a good burger sauce, finely chopped onions, and a generous helping of sweet pickles that taste like they’ve come straight from your nan’s kitchen. It’s the kind of burger that makes you close your eyes after the first bite.

If you're looking for a top-notch burger experience in North London, you really can't go wrong with a visit to The Plimsoll. It’s the kind of place that makes you appreciate the simple things done really, really well.

It’s a gastropub that punches well above its weight in the burger department, proving that sometimes, the best food comes from places that don't try too hard to be fancy.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Quality Beef: They use Dexter beef, which is known for its flavour and tenderness.

• Perfectly Cooked: The thin patty is chargrilled, giving it a great texture and taste.

• Classic Toppings: The combination of cheese, burger sauce, onions, and pickles is spot on.

• Great Atmosphere: It’s a friendly gastropub, perfect for a relaxed meal.

6. MEATliquor Queensway

MEATliquor has a unique vibe, and their Queensway spot, located within the Queens Skate Dine Bowl complex, is no exception. It’s not just about the burgers here; it’s a whole experience. They’ve managed to blend a really good burger joint with a place that’s packed with entertainment. Think arcade games, bowling, and even augmented reality darts. It’s a fun place to go with mates, especially if you fancy a bit of a laugh after your meal.

When it comes to the food, they’re known for their signature style. The Dead Hippie burger, with its mustard-fried double beef patty, American cheese, and pickles, is a classic for a reason. It’s a flavour explosion that’s hard to beat. They also do a cracking job with their chicken burgers and have decent plant-based options too, so there’s something for everyone.

They’ve got a good deal going on during weekdays. If you pop in between 12 pm and 4 pm, Monday to Friday, you can grab a burger and a side for a pretty reasonable price. It’s a nice way to try them out without breaking the bank.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

• Signature Burgers: Don't miss the Dead Hippie or the Buffalo Bill.

• Sides: Fries are a must, but the mac 'n' cheese is also worth a shout.

• Drinks: They do some seriously good cocktails, which complement the food perfectly.

• Entertainment: Bowling and arcade games are available to keep you busy.

It’s a place that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of its charm. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavour-packed burger in a lively setting, MEATliquor Queensway is definitely worth checking out. You can find out more about their menu and locations online.

7. Burger And Lobster

Burger and Lobster, as the name clearly suggests, has been serving up a solid combination of burgers and lobster since 2011. You can find their spots dotted around London, from Knightsbridge to Oxford Circus, and even further afield internationally. They’ve got a decent selection of burgers on offer, including a wagyu beef option that comes with bone marrow onions, and a crispy chipotle chicken thigh burger.

If you fancy trying a bit of everything, they do have combo deals that let you sample their lobster rolls alongside your fries. It’s a straightforward concept, but they do it well.

Here’s a quick look at what you might find:

• Wagyu Beef Burger: Often featuring premium wagyu beef with interesting toppings.

• Chipotle Chicken Burger: A spicier option with crispy chicken thighs.

• Lobster Rolls: A classic seafood offering.

They stick to their guns with the core offerings, making it a reliable choice if you know what you're after.

8. Britannia

Britannia, located in the London Bridge area, is a spot that really leans into the barbecue experience. If you're a fan of smoked meats, this place is definitely worth checking out. They've got a menu that features things like smoked bacon and slow-cooked beef brisket, all piled into brioche buns. It's a US-inspired vibe with a nod to British tastes.

They cook their meat in a traditional way, which you can really taste. It's a good idea to keep an eye on their 'Burger of the Month' as it changes regularly, offering something new to try. To go with your burger, they have a decent selection of whiskies and beers.

The focus here is on hearty, flavourful burgers with a distinct smoky character, making it a solid choice for barbecue enthusiasts.

Here's a quick look at what you might find:

• Smoked bacon

• Beef brisket patties

• Buttermilk fried chicken

• Brioche buns

• Rotating Burger of the Month

9. The Abbey Tavern

Tucked away in Camden, The Abbey Tavern is a proper pub that’s also doing some seriously good burgers. It’s not just about the food though; the atmosphere here is pretty great too. You’ve got a decent beer garden for when the weather plays ball, and even a roof terrace if you fancy a change of scenery.

What’s really interesting is that they’ve teamed up with The Jerk Valley, so expect a Caribbean twist on their burger offerings. This means you can get your hands on a proper jerk chicken burger, or if you’re vegetarian, a halloumi or spicy bean option. They’re all loaded up with homemade barbecue sauce and a spiced mayo that really gives them a kick. It’s this blend of classic pub vibes with a unique Caribbean flavour that makes The Abbey Tavern stand out.

Here’s a quick look at what you might find:

• Jerk Chicken Burger

• Halloumi Burger

• Spicy Bean Burger

They also show sports, which is always a bonus if you fancy catching a match with your burger and a pint. It’s a good spot for a casual catch-up, and you can find out more about their location near Kentish Town.

It’s a solid choice if you’re in the area and fancy something a bit different from your standard burger joint.

10. World's End

Tucked away in Finsbury Park, World's End is a pub that really knows its burgers. They've got a few different options, but the real star has to be their signature Red Dog burgers. Imagine this: thick, juicy patties topped with smoky maple bacon, proper American cheese, and their special Red Dog sauce, all nestled in a soft bun. It’s a proper flavour bomb.

They also do a cracking Nashville hot chicken burger if you fancy something with a bit more kick. It’s the kind of place you can just rock up to, grab a pint, and tuck into a seriously good burger without any fuss.

World's End manages to hit that sweet spot between a traditional pub vibe and serving up genuinely exciting, well-made burgers. It’s a solid choice for anyone in the area looking for a satisfying meal.

Here's a quick look at what you can expect:

• Signature Red Dog Burger: Featuring hickory maple bacon, American cheese, and Red Dog sauce.

• Nashville Hot Chicken Burger: For those who like a bit of heat.

• Classic Cheeseburger: Sometimes, you just can't beat the original.

It's a no-nonsense spot that focuses on getting the burgers right, and they absolutely do. Definitely worth checking out if you're exploring Finsbury Park.

So, Where Will Your Next Burger Take You?

Right then, that’s a wrap on our 2025 London burger tour. We’ve seen some truly cracking contenders, from the perfectly smashed patties that have taken the city by storm to those places still championing a more classic, hefty build. Whether you’re after that simple, pure beef flavour or something a bit more adventurous with all the trimmings, London’s got you covered. It’s been a tough job, but someone had to taste all those amazing burgers! Hopefully, this guide helps you find your new favourite spot. Happy munching!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a burger 'smash' style?

A 'smash' burger is made by pressing a ball of beef very thinly onto a hot griddle. This creates a really crispy edge and a juicy centre, giving it a fantastic flavour.

Are there good vegan burger options in London?

Yes, many burger places now offer tasty vegan burgers. These often use plant-based patties with creative toppings, so there are plenty of choices for everyone.

What's the difference between a regular burger and a gourmet burger?

Gourmet burgers often use higher quality meat, like dry-aged beef, and more special ingredients like fancy cheeses or unique sauces. They're usually a bit pricier but offer a richer taste experience.

Do these places offer delivery?

Many of London's top burger joints do offer delivery services. It's best to check their individual websites or apps like Deliveroo or Uber Eats to see if they deliver to your area.

What are typical prices for a good burger in London?

You can expect to pay around £10 to £15 for a really good burger in London. Some places might be a bit cheaper or more expensive depending on the ingredients and location.

Is it worth trying burgers from places that aren't just burger specialists?

Definitely! Many pubs and restaurants that aren't solely burger joints also serve amazing burgers. They often have their own unique twist, using great local ingredients.