Where to Celebrate National Burger Day in Boston
Ah, the hamburger: is there any food that more clearly says American summertime (or anytime)? Whether you grill at home or order out, whether it’s dressed with crazy toppings or just plain cheese, the burger might be the perfect food. In honor of National Hamburger Day, here’s a roundup of some of Boston’s best burgers!
NOTE: Many third-party delivery and pickup apps charge fees for their service which can affect a restaurant’s earnings from the order. For this post, we have opted to only include third-party links if endorsed by the restaurant’s website. To maximize your support of local businesses, order directly wherever possible!
Freak out: Boston Burger Company.
It’s go big or go home at BBC, best known for their monstrous and creative burger concoctions that got the Triple D stamp of approval when Guy Fieri came to town. Bring your appetite and bust out your stretchy pants, because these burgers will leave your belly full! Save room for dessert: you don’t want to miss out on the oh-so-Instagrammable Freak Frappes.
Multiple locations; open in Back Bay, Cambridge, Davis Square and Salem, available for pickup or delivery.
Perfect pub grub: Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant.
It’s tough to nail elevated comfort food, but this is Southie, kehd — check the pretentious at the door. Lincoln is legendary for brunch fans, but their caliber is consistent no matter the time of day. Their burger, topped with cheddar cheese, caramelized onions and — the kicker — bacon aioli, is no exception. If you’re game for an appetizer, their sliders (each with a sunny-side quail egg) make a great snack-size burger.
Located at 425 W Broadway in South Boston, available for pickup or delivery.
Don’t overcomplicate it: Alcove.
Upscale burgers can be hit or miss in this blogger’s book. While Alcove touts itself as a “neighborhood restaurant”, its demeanor earns it a natural spot a cut above its all-sports-bar brethren. In short, I had high hopes for this burger. It’s elegant without being complicated, topped with pickles, caramelized onions and cheddar. The whole shindig rests on the most pillowy bun I’ve had the privilege of sinking my teeth into.
Located on Lovejoy Wharf in the West End, available for pickup.
Game for a challenge? Eagle’s Deli.
This Cleveland Circle outpost is best known for its tremendous “challenge” burgers. If your quarantine was lacking in competitive eating, you can order the 20-pound Eagles Challenge for just $69.99 (no word from Eagle’s on how the contest is conducted remotely). For those who prefer their meals without a side of competition, the standard-size burgers are just as delicious, if not as formidable.
Located at 1918 Beacon St. in Brighton, available for pickup. Call for delivery.
The tastiest of them all: Tasty Burger.
In a city full of burgers, it takes a real champion to be named the official burger of the Boston Red Sox, but Tasty earns its title. They keep it simple around the clock, whether you’re waking up with a Rise ‘n’ Shine or beating the midnight munchies. Oh, and yes, you can order their famous Starvin’ Student special (burger, fries, tall boy beer) for takeout!
Multiple locations; currently open in Fenway and Harvard Square, available for pickup or delivery.
Honorable mentions: Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage in Cambridge and Drink in the Seaport are both temporarily closed. We miss you and hope to see you soon!
