Best Burgers in Upper West Side
Updated July 28, 2026 · Ranked by combined rating and review volume
Where to find the best burgers in Upper West Side
Bareburger stands out for its commitment to organic, high-quality ingredients, offering a diverse menu that caters to all, from classic beef to bison and plant-based options. Diners consistently praise the friendly staff and the welcoming, cozy atmosphere, making it a reliable spot for a fresh and satisfying meal, perhaps with their popular sweet potato fries. It's a great choice for those seeking genuine, fresh food and a comfortable dining experience.
For a gourmet burger experience with a lively bistro vibe, 5 Napkin Burger delivers, especially with their unbeatable happy hour deals. Their signature French-inspired burger, often featuring Gruyere, is a standout, complemented by exceptional, attentive service that elevates the entire dining experience. Whether you're indoors or enjoying a perfect evening on their outdoor patio, it's a fantastic choice for delicious food and great service.
Holy Burger offers a quick and satisfying meal, particularly known for its generously sized chicken tenders and high-quality beef hotdogs. While burger opinions can vary, their grilled chicken burger with avocado is a fan favorite, and don't miss their unique Holy sauce with onion rings or the spicy Peri sauce for an extra kick. It's a great spot for fast service and flavorful, well-seasoned dishes.
If you're craving a classic, no-frills smashburger, 7th Street Burger on the Upper West Side lives up to the hype, serving up crispy, juicy patties with that irresistible old-school griddle flavor. Their loaded fries, essentially a deconstructed burger over a mound of fries, are a must-try. This narrow spot is perfect for a quick bite or takeout to enjoy nearby, offering a truly satisfying, old-school burger experience.
e's BAR is a beloved neighborhood gem that perfectly blends a lively bar atmosphere with surprisingly delicious food. Beyond the fantastic drinks, board games, and karaoke, patrons rave about their stellar burger and famous ranch, all served by an incredibly friendly and attentive staff who ensure a fun and memorable experience. It's an ideal spot for a casual night out, a group celebration, or simply enjoying great food and drinks.
Contenders
Places submitted by the community. The top contender with more points than #5 gets promoted.
How we ranked the best burgers in Upper West Side
Every place on this list is scored by a Bayesian weighted formula combined with a volume bonus. It rewards consistent positive feedback at scale, not just a high average rating — a 4.9-star place with 12 reviews ranks below a 4.6-star place with 800.
score = (v / (v + m)) × R + (m / (v + m)) × C + γ × log₁₀(v)
The prior m adapts to each neighborhood: it's the median review count among local candidates. So 200 reviews counts as “small sample” in dense markets like the West Village, but “solid” in quieter neighborhoods. Places with extreme review volume that clearly dominate their peers are promoted to #1. No paid placements — every spot earns its position via the public data.
Frequently asked about Upper West Side burgers
What is the highest-rated burger in Upper West Side?
Bareburger has the highest Google rating in our list of the best burgers in Upper West Side, with 4.9 stars across 3,116 reviews.
Which burger in Upper West Side has the most reviews?
5 Napkin Burger has the most reviews of any burger on this list — 3,300 ratings averaging 4.5 stars on Google.
How are the best burgers in Upper West Side ranked?
Each place is scored using a Bayesian weighted formula that combines its average Google rating with its review count. This pulls small-sample places toward the local mean — so a 4.9-star spot with 12 reviews is ranked below a 4.6-star spot with 800 reviews. Volume and consistency matter, not just an inflated average.
When was this ranking last updated?
This ranking of the best burgers in Upper West Side was last refreshed in July 2026 using the latest Google ratings and review counts. Restaurants and bars change constantly — always verify hours and current status before visiting.
Why isn't my favorite burger on the list of best burgers in Upper West Side?
To be considered, a place needs enough Google reviews for the rating to be statistically meaningful (at least 5 reviews, ideally 25+). Newer or hyper-local spots can be excellent but score lower until enough people review them. Boundaries also matter — a spot just outside the Upper West Side area may show up on a neighboring ranking instead.