Which London Burgers Made the World's Best List?

If you’re curious about how London’s burger scene compares to the rest of the globe, the latest rankings from the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants awards can put your curiosity to rest. London has dominated the top of the list, with iconic burger spots making a significant appearance. Notably, Bleecker Burger ranked second, followed closely by Black Bear Burger in third, and Hawksmoor and Burger & Beyond also made the top ten. Here’s everything you need to know about these celebrated establishments.

Last updated: 22 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

Bleecker Burger ranks second globally, celebrated for its classic cheeseburger.
Black Bear Burger’s Miso Bacon Burger takes the third spot and has won multiple awards.
Hawksmoor’s Big Matt burger was previously ranked first and is an elevated take on the Big Mac.
Burger & Beyond, known for its creative twists, ranks ninth with unique menu offerings.
London's burger scene showcases a mix of traditional and innovative flavours.

Bleecker Burger: A London Icon

Founded by Zan Kaufman, Bleecker Burger has become a staple in London’s burger scene. With eight locations across the capital—including popular areas like Victoria, Soho, Seven Dials, and Spitalfields—it’s no surprise they’ve garnered global recognition.

Their menu primarily features cheeseburgers, starting with the classic cheeseburger priced at £9.75. This burger includes a UK beef patty aged for at least 40 days, American cheese, onion, and their signature house sauce. Additional options include:

Double Cheeseburger
Bacon Cheeseburger
Bacon Double Cheeseburger
Blue Cheese Burger
Symplicity Burger (vegetarian option)

Accompanying the burgers are a variety of fries priced around £5 per portion, alongside milkshakes. Diners have praised Bleecker for its phenomenal offerings, with many describing the burgers as "a thing of beauty." In 2024, their Bacon Double Burger was even crowned Britain’s best burger, adding to their accolades.

However, not all opinions are glowing. Critic Grace Dent previously compared Bleecker to a “depressed Five Guys,” leaving some to wonder if the restaurant's reputation has changed since her review in 2017.

Black Bear Burger: Award-Winning Flavours

Black Bear Burger is another heavyweight in London’s burger competition, securing the third position with its celebrated Miso Bacon Burger. This establishment has three locations in London, including Westfield, Exmouth Market, and Brixton, and also features various food hall locations across the city.

The Miso Bacon Burger, priced at £12.50, comprises a dry-aged beef patty, cheese, smoked bacon, miso butter mayo, and onion. Customers rave about this burger on Reddit, with some calling it “freaking beautiful” and “sensational.” However, others have remarked on its appearance, labelling it “messy” and reminiscent of a “heart attack waiting to happen.”

Beyond the famous Miso Bacon, the Black Bear menu includes:

Classic Burger
Black Bear Burger
Brisket Burger
Hot Honey Chicken Burger
Vegan Burger

Additionally, Black Bear offers cocktails, fries, a rarebit crumpet, and brisket spring rolls, making it a versatile dining destination.

Hawksmoor: Luxury Meets Tradition

Hawksmoor is well-known for its high-quality steak, but its burger offerings have also earned accolades. In 2023, their Big Matt burger claimed the top spot in the world rankings. This extravagant take on the classic Big Mac is priced at £19.50, including a side of beef dripping fries.

The Big Matt features two dry-aged beef patties, double American cheese, Hawksmoor special sauce, shredded lettuce, onions, and homemade pickles, with an additional piece of bread nestled between the patties, mimicking the structure of a Big Mac. Launched in 2017 by executive chef Matt Brown, it quickly became a viral sensation.

The burger has been described as ‘delightful’ and ‘extravagant,’ with diners praising its rich flavour and high-quality ingredients. While some food critics have differing opinions, many agree the Big Matt represents a significant upgrade from the fast-food counterpart.

Burger & Beyond: Creative Innovations

Rounding out the top ten, Burger & Beyond has made waves with its inventive menu and bold flavour combinations. With locations in Borough Yards, Shoreditch, and Soho, this burger joint offers a variety of unique burger options.

Their menu includes creative twists on classics, such as:

Chopped Cheese Focaccia – featuring a dry-aged beef patty, American cheese, bone marrow onions, tomato, lettuce, jalapeños, French’s mustard, and smoky mayo.
Hot Honey Chicken Burger
Oso Yaki Burger with teriyaki sauce
French Dip Burger
Bacon Butter Burger with pancetta bacon and burnt butter mayo

Prices for burgers start at £12 for a single cheeseburger and can go up to £19.50 for more elaborate options. While many customers on Reddit have hailed Burger & Beyond as ‘incredible’ and ‘exceptional,’ some Tripadvisor reviews have noted that certain burgers may have too much sauce, leading to inconsistent experiences.

Why London’s Burgers Matter

The emergence of London’s burger scene on a global scale has significant implications for culinary enthusiasts and the local economy. With a diverse range of burger offerings, from classic to avant-garde, London continues to attract food lovers from around the world. The recognition of these establishments not only highlights the city’s vibrant food culture but also encourages local entrepreneurs to innovate and elevate their culinary offerings.

As the burger landscape evolves, it’s essential to consider how these rankings reflect broader trends in food consumption and dining preferences. The increasing popularity of gourmet burgers signifies a shift towards quality ingredients and unique flavour combinations, making the burger a versatile canvas for culinary creativity.

What’s Next for London’s Burger Scene?

As we look ahead, it’s worth contemplating how these top-ranked burger joints will adapt to changing consumer preferences and market trends. Will we see more plant-based options? How will restaurants keep their menus fresh and exciting? The future of London’s burger scene is sure to be filled with innovation and experimentation, enticing both locals and tourists alike.

With London’s burger scene now firmly on the global map, it's the perfect time to explore these celebrated establishments. Each offers a unique experience that showcases the best of what the city has to offer. So next time you’re in the mood for a burger, consider visiting one of these top-rated spots to taste the best of London’s culinary scene. #LondonBurgers #BestBurgers #FoodieAdventures

FAQs

What is the highest-rated burger in London?

The highest-rated burger in London, according to the latest rankings, is the cheeseburger from Bleecker Burger, which ranks second globally.

Where can I find Black Bear Burger in London?

Black Bear Burger has three locations in London: Westfield, Exmouth Market, and Brixton, along with several spots in food halls across the city.

How much does the Big Matt burger cost at Hawksmoor?

The Big Matt burger at Hawksmoor is priced at £19.50 and includes a side of beef dripping fries.

Are there vegetarian options available at these burger restaurants?

Yes, both Bleecker Burger and Black Bear Burger offer vegetarian options, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy.

What makes Burger & Beyond unique?

Burger & Beyond stands out for its creative twists on traditional burgers, featuring innovative ingredients and combinations that elevate the burger experience.