There’s no denying the thick competition when it comes to picking the best burger in the Mile Square City. While we already have a hold on the more classic options — lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, you name it — we thought it would be interesting to do a little research and nail down the more uncharted territory of burger heaven — because what’s more exciting than a super unique, original burger? Read on for unique burger choices in Hoboken.
The Blue Elk at Bareburger | 515 Washington Street
(Photo credit: @bareburger)
Foodies, especially our local vegans and vegetarians, love that Bareburger works with local farmers and artisans to deliver simplistic but creative and sustainable renditions of classic burgers, fries, and salads. Though the majority of Bareburger’s menu is pretty distinctive, we can’t help but give a special shout-out to the Blue Elk Burger, which features (surprise, surprise) an elk patty, Amish bleu cheese, black forest bacon, caramelized onions, and tomato fig jam all on a sprout bun. While it might not be for everyone, the Blue Elk certainly hits the spot for the more adventurous, game-meat-loving diners.
Read More: The Best Veggie Burgers in Hoboken + Jersey City
The Mac + Cheese Burger at The Ainsworth | 310 Sinatra Drive
(Photo credit: @theainsworth)
Speaking of Insta-worthy food, we definitely could not compile a list of the best burgers without making mention of The Ainsworth, which consistently delivers finger-licking goodness from brunch until dinnertime, along with spectacular skyline views while you dine. This full bar and restaurant, which also has locations in NYC and Vegas, features a loungey vibe and unique twists on some classic comfort food and drinks – think sweet tea wings, candied bacon, and frozen lemonade mules. And while the menu includes a number of unique burger choices, we’ve perpetually got our eye on the Mac + Cheese Burger, which features a juicy beef patty topped with perfectly crispy but somehow also creamy panko-crusted mac + cheese, all on a fresh sesame seed bun.
The Jersey Devil at The Madison | 1316 Washington Street
(Photo credit: @_madisonbarandgrill)
Madison’s really leans into the age-old Jersey debate with the Jersey Devil burger. This breakfasty burger comes with Jersey bred beef, Taylor ham, a local egg, and is served on a brioche bun. It’s served with a choice of house salad, french fries, sweet potato fries, truffle fries, or broccoli rabe, and there even are gluten-free buns available upon request. This is a great spot to bring some southern NJ visitors and duke it out over a yummy meal.
The Ragin’ Cajun at Onieal’s | 343 Park Avenue
It might actually be a crime to talk about the best burgers in Hoboken and make no mention of Onieal’s, a staple Irish pub downtown that features an “everybody knows your name” kind of vibe and some astonishingly good eats. The only problem here is choosing what to order, especially when it comes to their extensive menu of melt-in-your-mouth burgers. While the Onieal’s Famous is your go-to if you’re looking for a more original burger, the Ragin’ Cajun is our top choice when we’re in the mood for something a bit more different. This Cajun spiced burger is smothered in jack cheese, crispy onions, and remoulade, and it comes with a side of its famed house-made fries. Want to nix the kick? Onieal’s menu also includes some less spicy items that are equally delicious, as well as a veggie option and a laundry list of optional toppings for those who want to customize their burger experience.
The Breakfast Burger at The Shepherd + The Knucklehead | 1313 Willow Avenue
(Photo credit: @theshep_hoboken)
The Shep isn’t joking around when it calls its commitment to great beer “legendary.” Not only does it boast around 60 micro-brew taps at any given time, but it also feature wines by the glass, a fully stocked bar for cocktails, and a casual steakhouse-esque menu for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Diners (and drinkers) can choose from a variety of high-quality pub fare, including a number of half-pound Angus burgers that are all served with hand-cut fries. Our top choice for something different? We’re going with the already famous Breakfast Burger, which is topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, and a fried egg — because what other delicious combo would you expect on a breakfast burger?
The Fiesta Burger at Green Rock Tap + Grill | 70 Hudson Street
(Photo credit: greenrockhoboken.com)
This rustic spot is known for its burgers + pub fare, so of course it had to be included on our list. With a name like ‘the fiesta burger,’ expectations are high — and this unique sandwich delivers. It has tortilla chips on it — what says party more than that? It’s paired with delicious manchego cheese, sautéed bell peppers, and chili pepper aoili. With an assortment of bold flavors and a fun textural crunch, this burger will brighten up any dinner party.
SeeMore: The Best Spots for Avocado Toast in Hoboken
The Burger Melt at Tenth + Willow | 935 Willow Avenue
Tenth + Willow is much like the Madison in that there’s not much explaining to do. For years, this landmark establishment has been serving up “elevated pub grub” and a buzzing social scene that commences each weekend on Thursday evenings with half-priced martinis and culminates with a Sunday Funday that rivals the best brunches in town. Whether you’re downing martinis or mimosas, you’re bound to need some serious nourishment at some point, and the Burger Melt is the perfect option if you’re looking to switch it up. Sandwiched between freshly baked rye bread and topped with Swiss cheese and sautéed mushrooms and onions, this item offers up a refreshingly delicious twist on your classic patty melt.
The Brisket Blend Burger at Zack’s | 232 Willow Avenue
We all know Zack’s serves an awesome classic burger — there’s also a turkey burger on the menu for when you’re craving something a little lighter. While those burgers are served up with lettuce + tomato, the brisket blend burger takes a more unique route. With the unusual burger meat combo (brisket + bacon, yum) plus two different cheeses, this burger definitely will make your mouth water. The brisket blend burger is served with bacon, roasted tomato, cheddar, provolone, pickled red onion, and a cornichon aoili.
BYO Burger at Moran’s | 501 Garden Street
Okay, maybe we’re cheating a little with this one — but Moran’s offers the option to build your own incredibly unique burger, and it has a variety of interesting options to choose from. With ingredients such as bacon, avocado, smoked gouda, sharp provolone, cheddar, blue cheese, egg, pickled jalapeńo, arugula, lemon-caper aioli, curry sauce, truffle mayo, BBQ sauce, maple mustard, and even more, you can mix + match and customize your own individual burger every time you go. Want to try out a bacon maple mustard burger with arugula and smoked gouda? Go for it.
