Discover the Best Burgers in West London: A Culinary Guide

Right then, fancy a bit of a burger adventure? London's got a seriously good spread of places serving up everything from classic patties to those trendy smash burgers. We've been doing the hard graft, eating our way through the city to suss out the absolute best burger joints for 2025. So, whether you're after a quick bite or a proper sit-down feast, get ready to discover some truly tasty treats. This is your go-to guide for the best burgers in West London.

Key Takeaways

• Smash burgers are having a big moment in London, offering a more manageable yet flavourful option compared to heftier burgers.

• Quality ingredients are a common theme, with many places focusing on British beef, dry-aged cuts, and homemade condiments.

• Beyond beef, there are notable vegan options available, proving plant-based burgers can be just as satisfying.

• Atmosphere plays a part, with spots in bustling markets or those offering a lively dining experience adding to the burger enjoyment.

• London's burger scene is diverse, with options ranging from simple, well-executed classics to more creative and gourmet creations.

1. Black Bear Burger

Right then, let's talk about Black Bear Burger. These guys have really made a name for themselves, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. They started out small, but now they've got places dotted around London, and they're still sticking to their 'simple, done well' motto. You can tell they're serious about their meat; they use a special blend of dry-aged Native Breed beef, sourced from farms that really look after their animals. It genuinely makes a difference to the taste, you know?

It's not just the patties, either. They seem to make pretty much everything else from scratch too – think hand-cut chips, homemade sauces, pickles, and even their soft-serve ice cream. That's proper dedication for you.

Here's a quick rundown of some of their popular choices:

• The Black Bear: Their classic, featuring a dry-aged patty with smoked bacon, a sweet onion jam, and a garlicky mayo. It's a real winner.

• Brisket Burger: This one uses beef that's been braised for 12 hours in beer, topped with some really nice pink pickled onions. Proper flavour.

• Vegan Black Bear: Good to see they've got a solid option for the plant-based crowd.

They even scooped up the award for Best Burger in the UK at the National Burger Awards 2025 for their Bacon Miso burger. That's a pretty big deal and shows they're not afraid to play with flavours. Black Bear Burger proves that sometimes, the simplest things, done exceptionally well, are the most satisfying. They focus on quality ingredients and careful preparation, and it really shows in every bite.

They're proper serious about their meat, using a special blend of dry-aged Native Breed beef from farms that look after their animals well. You can genuinely taste the quality.

2. Dove

Tucked away in Notting Hill, Dove is a spot that really knows how to do a burger. It's not just about slapping some meat between buns; they put a lot of thought into it. Chef Jackson Boxer is behind this place, and you can tell there's a real focus on quality ingredients and getting the flavours just right.

They've got a few different burgers on the menu, but the classic cheeseburger is a solid bet. It's made with really good quality beef, smashed thin so it cooks up nicely with those crispy edges, and topped with proper American cheese. It’s simple, but when it’s done this well, you don’t need much else.

What makes Dove stand out?

• Quality Beef: They use well-sourced beef that’s cooked to perfection.

• Perfectly Toasted Buns: The buns are soft but hold everything together without getting soggy.

• Balanced Toppings: They don't go overboard, letting the flavour of the patty and cheese shine.

This is the kind of place where you can get a really satisfying burger without any fuss. It feels like a proper treat, and the atmosphere in Notting Hill adds to the whole experience.

If you're after a no-nonsense, seriously tasty burger in West London, Dove is definitely worth checking out. It’s a place that proves that sometimes, less really is more when it comes to burgers.

3. Earl Of Derby

The Earl of Derby is a proper local pub, part of the Parched group, and it’s got a kitchen team called Gengelly’s running the show. You can expect all the pub classics here – think pies, chips, and Sunday roasts with all the trimmings. But the real star, if you ask me, is their burger. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, especially if you’re someone who appreciates good cheese.

This isn't just any burger; it's a premium grade patty that's topped with melting Mornay cheese and finely grated Lyburn Old Winchester. They also add their own house burger sauce and pickles, which really round it off nicely. It’s the kind of burger that makes you want to settle in for a while.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Premium grade beef patty

• Melting Mornay cheese

• Finely grated Lyburn Old Winchester

• House burger sauce

• Pickles

It’s a really solid choice for a pub burger, done well with quality ingredients. Don't overlook it just because it's in a pub setting.

And if you fancy a pint with your burger, they often have a £4 deal on weekdays between 4-6pm, which includes Murphy's stout. It’s a great pairing for a burger like this. You can find out more about their food and drinks on the Earl of Derby website.

4. Burger & Beyond

Right then, let's talk about Burger & Beyond. These guys have really made a name for themselves, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. They’ve been officially named one of the best burgers in Europe, which is quite the claim, isn't it? Their secret seems to be in the meat – they dry-age grass-fed Swaledale beef for ages, like 28 to 45 days, in these special salt-lined fridges. It really makes a difference to the flavour, giving it this deep, rich taste that’s just… well, beyond good.

Their signature burger, the “Bougie Burger”, is a proper showstopper. It comes with this amazing 2.0 steak sauce, something they call “marrownaise” (sounds intriguing, right?), and onions cooked in beef fat. It’s a messy, glorious affair, and totally worth it. And if you’re a fan of sides, you absolutely have to try their truffle tots; they’re a game-changer.

Here’s a quick look at what makes them stand out:

• Meat Quality: Dry-aged, grass-fed Swaledale beef for superior flavour.

• Signature Sauces: Unique creations like “marrownaise” add a special touch.

• Accompaniments: Don't skip the truffle tots!

Burger & Beyond really nails that balance between high-quality ingredients and indulgent, satisfying flavours. It’s the kind of burger that makes you want to close your eyes and just savour every bite. If you're looking for a burger that's truly something special, Burger & Beyond is definitely worth checking out. They've even been recognised with a 4.3 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor, placing them well within the top restaurants in London Burger & Beyond in London.

They even scooped up the award for Best Burger in the UK at the National Burger Awards 2025 for their Bacon Miso burger. That's a pretty big deal and shows they're not afraid to play with flavours.

5. Nanny Bill's

Nanny Bill's has made a bit of a name for itself, and it's easy to see why. They're all about comfort food done right, and their burgers are a prime example. Forget fancy frills; this is about solid, satisfying grub that hits the spot every single time.

What really sets Nanny Bill's apart is their commitment to quality ingredients and classic flavour combinations. They don't mess about with overly complicated menus. Instead, they focus on getting the fundamentals spot on. Their signature burger, often featuring a juicy patty, perfectly melted cheese, and a special sauce that's just the right amount of tangy, is a real crowd-pleaser.

Here's a breakdown of what makes their burgers so good:

• The Patty: They use good quality beef, cooked to perfection. It's got that satisfying, slightly charred flavour you want from a great burger.

• The Cheese: Always perfectly melted, adding that essential gooeyness without being greasy.

• The Sauce: A well-balanced, flavourful sauce that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.

• The Bun: Soft, slightly toasted, and sturdy enough to hold everything together – no one likes a burger falling apart!

It's the kind of place where you can just relax, enjoy a really well-made burger, and feel completely content. They've got that knack for making simple food taste exceptional.

While they might not have the most extensive menu, what they do, they do exceptionally well. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, less is more when it comes to creating a truly memorable burger experience.

6. Henri

Henri, tucked away on Henrietta Street, is doing something a bit different with their burger game. Forget your standard beef patty for a moment and picture this: a dry-aged chuck steak burger, fried in smoked beef fat, and then absolutely smothered in melted raclette cheese. It sounds almost decadent, doesn't it? And honestly, it kind of is. They really go for it with the flavour here, and the raclette isn't just a topping; it's a whole experience.

What makes Henri's burger stand out is the attention to detail. The beef itself is dry-aged for a good six weeks, which really builds up that deep, beefy flavour. Then, it's cooked in beef fat, adding another layer of richness. The raclette cheese is gooey and pungent, perfectly complementing the savoury meat. To finish it off, they add some classic Lyonnaise onions, which are sweet and soft.

This isn't a burger you can easily eat standing up or on the go. It's a sit-down affair, best enjoyed with a knife and fork, perhaps alongside a glass of something nice. It’s a burger that demands your attention, and frankly, it deserves it.

It's a bold choice, and not for the faint-hearted, but if you're looking for a burger that's a bit more adventurous and packed with serious flavour, Henri is definitely worth seeking out. It’s a bit of a special occasion burger, if you ask me.

7. Hawksmoor

When you think of Hawksmoor, you probably picture a proper steakhouse, right? Well, they've taken that same serious approach to meat and applied it to burgers, and the results are pretty darn impressive. They use grass-fed British Longhorn beef, and the patty itself is infused with bone marrow, which gives it a really rich flavour. Then they top it with some lovely British Ogleshield cheese.

It's not just about the main event, though. If you fancy something a bit different, their bar, The Lowback, does a couple of other interesting burger options, including a tribute to a certain fast-food classic. It’s a bit of a fancy affair, but honestly, the burger is worth it. Hawksmoor's burger is a sophisticated take on a classic, proving that a burger can indeed be a bit aristocratic.

Here's a quick look at what makes their burger stand out:

• Beef Quality: Grass-fed British Longhorn, chosen for its flavour.

• Bone Marrow Infusion: Adds a deep, savoury richness to the patty.

• Cheese: Topped with a quality British Ogleshield.

While Hawksmoor is known for its steaks, their dedication to sourcing and preparing excellent beef shines through in their burger. They have several locations across London, so you're likely to find one not too far away. It's a good shout if you're after a burger that feels a bit more special than your average. You can find them at their Air Street location and other spots too.

8. Blacklock

Blacklock is primarily known for its fantastic chops and steaks, but don't overlook their burger. It's a seriously good option if you're a meat enthusiast. They source their beef from Phillip Warren, a farmer in Cornwall who raises grass-fed cattle, so you know the quality is top-notch. The burger itself features two thin patties, which is a smart move as it creates more of that desirable crispy edge. It's served in a soft sesame bun with good cheddar cheese, gherkins, and a sauce that has a bit of a kick.

What you get:

• Two thin, grass-fed beef patties

• Melted cheddar cheese

• Tangy gherkins

• A flavourful burger sauce with a kick

• Soft sesame bun

While the chops might steal the spotlight, Blacklock's burger is a testament to their commitment to quality ingredients and simple, effective preparation. It’s a proper, no-nonsense burger that tastes exactly how a great burger should.

9. FOWL

Right then, let's talk about FOWL. This place is a bit of a specialist, focusing heavily on chicken, and it's an offshoot of the well-regarded Fallow. When it comes to their burgers, the classic FOWL Burger is the one that really stands out. They give the chicken a proper coating in a special flour mix, and then it's fried three times. This triple fry method gives it a fantastic crunch on the outside while keeping the inside really juicy. The combination of a pink pepper glaze and a cheese sauce is pretty epic, adding a nice bit of zing and richness.

While the classic is great, their buffalo burger is also a strong contender. It’s got this really addictive house-made buffalo sauce, and they even tuck a hash brown inside, which is a nice touch. It’s a bit of a flavour explosion.

It's worth noting that some reviews suggest the chicken burger can be mostly batter with not a huge amount of chicken, and the accompanying salad might not be the freshest. It's always a bit of a gamble, isn't it?

Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:

• The FOWL Burger: Triple-fried chicken, pink pepper glaze, cheese sauce.

• Buffalo Burger: House-made buffalo sauce, with a hash brown inside.

• Quality: Focus on crispy, juicy chicken.

If you're a big fan of fried chicken and looking for something a bit different, FOWL is definitely worth checking out. They're located at 3 Norris Street, SW1Y 4RJ, and you can book a table if you fancy it.

10. Twenty Ft Fried Chicken

Coming from the same people behind Black Bear Burger, Twenty Ft Fried Chicken is a place you'll want to check out if you're after some seriously good fried chicken. They've clearly got a knack for it, and their chicken burgers are top-notch.

Their classic option is pretty solid, featuring golden crispy chicken, a nice house sauce, pickles, and shredded iceberg lettuce. But honestly, the one that really stands out is the Hot Honey burger. It's got this brilliant mix of sweetness and spice that just works so well. It really feels like the complete package.

If you're a fan of fried chicken, you'll appreciate the attention to detail here. They know how to make chicken taste amazing.

Beyond the burgers, don't miss out on their buffalo and blue cheese wings – they're pretty epic and definitely worth trying if you want to explore more of their menu. It's a great spot for a satisfying fried chicken fix.

For those looking for a bit more variety in their burger journey, exploring places like Bébé Bob can offer a different, perhaps more refined, take on chicken burgers.

So, What's the Verdict?

Right then, we've munched our way through quite a few patties to bring you this guide to West London's burger scene. It's pretty clear that whether you're after a classic beefy number, something a bit more adventurous, or even a cracking plant-based option, this part of town has you covered. We've seen some seriously good ingredients and a real passion for getting the burger just right, from the bun to the sauce. So next time you're craving a burger, you know where to head. Happy eating!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a burger really good?

A top-notch burger needs a few key things. First, the meat should be good quality, with the right amount of fat so it stays juicy. The bun is super important too – it needs to be soft but sturdy enough not to get soggy. Then you've got the extras like tasty cheese, tangy pickles, and maybe a special sauce that all work together.

Are smash burgers a big thing in London?

Yes, smash burgers are really popular right now! They're made by pressing the meat thin on the grill, which gives them loads of flavour and a nice crispy edge. They're a bit easier to eat than a huge, thick burger, but still packed with taste.

Do I need to book a table at these burger places?

It really depends on the place. Some popular spots, especially ones that are quite small or only make a limited number of burgers each day, might get very busy. It's always a good idea to check their website or give them a quick call to see if booking is recommended, especially if you're planning to go during peak times like evenings or weekends.

Are there good vegan burger options in London?

Definitely! Gone are the days when vegan burgers were boring. Lots of places now offer really creative and tasty plant-based burgers that even meat-eaters will love. They use all sorts of clever ingredients to make them satisfying and full of flavour.

What's the deal with dry-aged beef in burgers?

Dry-aging beef means it's left to mature for a period, which helps to concentrate its flavour and make it more tender. Burgers made with dry-aged beef often have a richer, deeper taste that many people find delicious.

Can I get a good burger at a pub in London?

Absolutely! Many pubs in London serve fantastic burgers, often using great quality ingredients. They can be a brilliant choice if you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere alongside your burger. Keep an eye out for pubs that mention using special beef or having their own house-made sauces.