Burgers are one of those meals that, when done right, are worth every bite.
Juicy, messy, indulgent and deeply satisfying, they are the kind of comfort food that never goes out of style. From classic cheeseburgers to over-the-top creations built to challenge your appetite, Sydney is packed with options to satisfy every craving. Here are our top picks for the best burgers in Sydney.
The Gidley, CBD
Our pick: The Gidley Burger
The Gidley Burger isn’t just our favourite in Sydney. It has been named one of the World’s Top 25 Burgers for the second year in a row. Double beef patties, rich cheddar, pickles and a pillowy milk bun have made it a cult favourite, and now the world agrees. You can find it at The Gidley in the CBD or The Rover in Surry Hills.
Next Door, Double Bay
Our pick: 160g Coppertree Farms American cheeseburger
Next Door’s 160g Coppertree Farms American cheeseburger is easily one of the best in Australia. A brisket and chuck pattie cooked to perfection sits in a soft milk bun with melted cheese, crisp onions, tangy pickles and that addictive rose mayo. Simple, balanced and irresistible, it proves the classics done right are unbeatable.
Bar Luca, CBD
Our pick: The Gucci Jang
No best burger guide would be complete without Bar Luca. The Gucci Jang is our choice, loaded with karaage chicken, gochujang sauce, corn cheese poutine, golden curry, kimchi aioli and shallots. At just $20, it is bold, flavour-packed and seriously tasty.
Mary’s, multiple Sydney locations
Our pick: The Mary’s Burger
Mary’s Burgers have reached cult status in Sydney. Known for loud rock vibes and no-frills American-style fast food, Mary’s is all about burgers done right. Go for the Mary’s Burger with beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and signature sauce. With multiple locations across the city, Mary’s is a must-try for any burger lover.
Ume Burger, Barangaroo
Our pick: Tonkatsu Burger
Our pick at Ume Burger is the Tonkatsu Burger, featuring hand-crumbed pork mince katsu with tonkatsu sauce, Japanese mayo, shredded cabbage and onion. Ume is known for bold Japanese flavours and quality ingredients. With many favourites under $20, Ume Burger is one of Sydney’s best spots for inventive burgers with a Japanese twist.
Elements Smokehouse and Bar, Darlinghurst
Our pick: Firehouse Smoked Burger
Our pick at Elements Smokehouse is the Firehouse Smoked Burger, stacked with a 250g wagyu patty, fried egg, American cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, smoky habanero BBQ and Smokehouse sauce. Juicy, bold and perfectly balanced, it delivers premium beef, big flavour and just the right amount of heat, making Elements Smokehouse one of Sydney’s best American steakhouses and home to a true standout burger.
Betty’s Burgers, multiple Sydney locations
Our pick: Cripsy Chicken Burger
As the writer, I have to choose wisely, and for me, it’s all about consistency. Betty’s Crispy Chicken Burger delivers every time: juicy fried chicken, fresh lettuce and tomato, and that addictive special sauce. It may not be as edgy as Mary’s or as fancy as Rockpool, but paired with fries and a mega coke, it’s the kind of burger that always hits the spot.
JB & Sons, various Sydney locations
Our pick: The Papi
The standout at JB & Sons is The Papi, a juicy beef burger stacked with crispy smoked bacon, melted cheese, onion, tomato, lettuce, pickles and their signature burger sauce. It is simple, loaded with flavour and perfectly balanced, which is why it earns its spot on every best burger in Sydney list.
The Bunsik Burger, Surry Hills
Our pick: Chilli Prawn Burger
This standout creation features a crispy fried prawn patty paired with cucumber pickles, house slaw and a punchy chilli mayo. It is fresh, crunchy and full of flavour, striking the perfect balance between heat and zing. Add in Bunsik’s friendly service and cozy vibes, and it is easy to see why this burger has become a favourite among locals and one of the best unique burgers in Sydney.
Slim’s Quality Burger, Multiple Locations
Our pick: Slim’s Original
Our pick at Slim’s is the Slim’s Original, a classic Angus beef burger done to perfection. Juicy beef, melted cheese, grilled onion, lettuce, tomato, pickles and Slim’s signature spread come together in simple harmony. With 100 percent Angus beef, locally sourced produce and everything made fresh daily, it is a perfectly balanced burger that proves simple really is better.
There is certainly no shortage of noteworthy burger joints in Sydney. Now the question is, where to first?
Frequently asked questions:
Where can I get the best vegan burger in Sydney?
For the best vegan burger in Sydney, Mary’s delivers with their unbelievably delicious Shroom Burger that even meat lovers rave about.
Where can I get the best vegetarian burger in Sydney?
Betty’s also has some great vegetarian options alongside Mary’s Shroom Burger, making both spots must-visits for plant-based burger fans.
