The Best Burgers in Boston: A Foodie’s Guide to Juicy, Mouthwatering Bites
By Michelle Rooney
Posted on March 1, 2025
Discover the best burgers in Boston! From classic cheeseburgers to gourmet creations, this guide covers the top spots for burger lovers in the city.
Introduction
Boston is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, its incredible food scene. For burger enthusiasts, the city offers a wide range of options, from classic diner-style burgers to gourmet creations that push the boundaries of flavor. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this guide will take you through the best burgers in Boston that you absolutely need to try.
Why Boston is a Burger Lover’s Paradise
Boston’s culinary scene is diverse, and its burger joints are no exception. From juicy patties made with locally sourced beef to creative toppings and artisanal buns, the city has something for every burger craving. Many spots emphasize sustainability and quality, making your meal not only delicious but also ethical. Whether you prefer a simple cheeseburger or an extravagant gourmet creation, Boston has it all.
Top 5 Best Burgers in Boston
1. Tasty Burger
📍 Location: Multiple locations, including Fenway and Harvard Square
🌐 Website: tastyburger.com
Why It’s Great: Tasty Burger is a Boston institution, offering classic, no-frills burgers that hit the spot every time. Their signature “Tasty Burger” features a perfectly grilled patty, melted cheese, and all the traditional fixings.
🔥 Must-Try: The Double Tasty Burger with a side of crispy fries.
2. Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage
📍 Location: Harvard Square, Cambridge
🌐 Website: mrbartley.com
Why It’s Great: This iconic spot has been serving up massive, creative burgers since 1960. Each burger is named after a celebrity or pop culture reference, adding a fun twist to your meal.
🔥 Must-Try: The “Taylor Swift” burger topped with goat cheese and caramelized onions.
3. Shake Shack
📍 Location: Newbury Street, Chestnut Hill, and more
🌐 Website: shakeshack.com
Why It’s Great: While it’s a chain, Shake Shack’s Boston locations are a must-visit for their high-quality, smash-style burgers and creamy shakes.
🔥 Must-Try: The ShackBurger with a side of cheese fries.
4. R.F. O’Sullivan & Son
📍 Location: Somerville (just outside Boston)
🌐 Website: rfosullivan.com
Why It’s Great: Known for their massive, half-pound burgers, R.F. O’Sullivan & Son is a favorite among locals. The burgers are cooked to perfection and served with a side of crispy onion rings.
🔥 Must-Try: The Bacon Blue Cheese Burger.
5. The Haven
📍 Location: Jamaica Plain
🌐 Website: thehavenjp.com
Why It’s Great: This Scottish-inspired pub offers a unique twist on the classic burger. Their “Haven Burger” features a blend of beef and lamb, topped with haggis and whisky sauce.
🔥 Must-Try: The Haven Burger with a side of Scotch eggs.
Honorable Mentions
- Craigie on Main – For a gourmet experience, try their dry-aged beef burger.
- Boston Burger Company – Known for over-the-top, Instagram-worthy creations.
- Bred Gourmet – A food truck serving up some of the juiciest burgers in the city.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Burger in Boston
✅ Check Reviews: Look up reviews on Google or Yelp to find hidden gems.
✅ Explore Neighborhoods: Different areas of Boston offer unique burger experiences.
✅ Ask Locals: Bostonians are proud of their food scene and will gladly share their favorites.
Conclusion
Boston’s burger scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you’re craving a classic cheeseburger or a gourmet creation, there’s a spot in Boston that will satisfy your hunger.
So, grab a friend, head out to one of these top burger joints, and indulge in the best burgers Boston has to offer. Happy eating!