From New York’s cult burger counters to Tokyo’s rice burgers and Queenstown’s legendary Fergburger, discover the world’s best burger joints for International Burger Day.
“Just a Burger? Just a burger. Robin, it’s so much more than “just a burger.” I mean… that first bite-oh, what heaven that first bite is. The bun, like a sesame freckled breast of an angel, resting gently on the ketchup and mustard below, flavors mingling in a seductive pas de deux. And then… a pickle! The most playful little pickle! Then a slice of tomato, a leaf of lettuce and a… a patty of ground beef so exquisite, swirling in your mouth, breaking apart, and combining again in a fugue of sweets and savor so delightful. This is no mere sandwich of grilled meat and toasted bread, Robin. This is God, speaking to us in food”.
Marshall Eriksen’s unforgettable ode to the burger in How I Met Your Mother perfectly captures the near-religious devotion this iconic dish inspires around the world. From legendary American diners to cult burger counters across global cities, the humble burger has become a worldwide obsession. This International Burger Day, we celebrate 10 of the world’s best burger joints — where every bite feels worthy of Marshall’s dramatic monologue
Shake Shack began as a humble hot dog cart in Madison Square Park before evolving into one of the world’s most recognisable burger institutions. Since opening its first permanent outpost in 2004, the brand has expanded globally, drawing loyal crowds for its gourmet burgers, crinkle-cut fries, frozen custards, and famously decadent milkshakes.
For first-timers, the Signature ShackBurger remains the gold standard — a perfectly seared meat patty layered with crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, molten cheese, and the brand’s cult ShackSauce. Vegetarians, meanwhile, should order the Shroom Burger: a crisp-fried portobello mushroom stuffed with molten muenster and cheddar, finished with lettuce, tomato, and ShackSauce.
Five Guys has been serving handcrafted burgers and fries since 1986, growing from a beloved American family-run burger joint into a global fast-casual phenomenon. Founded by Jerry and Janie Murrell alongside their “Five Guys,” the brand began franchising in 2003 and today boasts nearly 1,700 locations worldwide, spanning the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Known for its indulgent burgers, loaded fries, and retro Americana charm, the chain has also become a cult favourite in the UK, recently earning the title of the country’s most popular burger chain. Order the Little Cheeseburger with a side of Cajun Fries and the decadent Banana Bacon Chocolate Milkshake. Vegetarians should opt for the Cheese Veggie Sandwich — layered with grilled onions, mushrooms, peppers, melted American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and any of the brand’s signature toppings.
In-N-Out Burger was California’s first drive-thru hamburger stand, founded by Harry Snyder, who personally selected the meat and fresh produce while his wife, Esther, managed the business operations. What began as a modest roadside burger stop has since grown into one of America’s most iconic fast-food institutions, with 364 locations across the United States, including 262 in California alone.
Beloved for its old-school simplicity and fiercely loyal fanbase, In-N-Out draws burger pilgrims from around the world for its legendary Double-Double — two juicy meat patties layered with two slices of cheese and a thick whole onion slice, stacked inside the brand’s famously fresh buns.
Patty & Bun has earned cult status in London for its gloriously messy burgers, crisp fries, and laid-back, beer-friendly atmosphere. What began as a street-food favourite has evolved into one of the city’s most loved burger destinations, celebrated for juicy patties, rich sauces, and unapologetically indulgent flavours.
Among the must-orders are the smoky, flavour-packed Smokey Robinson and the indulgent Portobello Mushroom Burger, both of which have become signatures of the brand. For those staying in, Patty & Bun also offers popular cook-at-home kits, bringing its famously lip-smacking burgers straight to your kitchen.
MOS Burger began in the small town of Narimasu, near Tokyo, before becoming one of Japan’s most beloved burger chains. The brand has built a loyal following through its distinctly Japanese interpretation of the American hamburger, blending familiar fast-food comfort with local flavours and textures.
Its most iconic creation is the inventive Rice Burger — grilled meat layered with sweet soy and barbecue sauce, held together by compacted rice patties instead of buns. Vegetarians and vegans, meanwhile, should try the popular Kinpira Burger, a flavourful plant-based option inspired by classic Japanese ingredients.
La Royale has become a favourite among Barcelona’s burger devotees for its gourmet, made-from-scratch creations crafted with premium meats including veal, wagyu, tuna, and Angus beef. Stylish yet relaxed, the restaurant brings a distinctly European flair to the global burger obsession.
Vegetarians and vegans are equally well catered to, with inventive burgers built around tofu, soy, and fresh vegetables. Embracing a trend popularised in London and New York, La Royale also pairs its gourmet burgers with elegant gin and tonics — a combination that feels perfectly at home in cosmopolitan Barcelona.
Bioburger has built a loyal following in Paris for its affordable organic-certified burgers and environmentally conscious approach to fast food. Founded by friends Anthony and Louis, the stylish three-storey burger spot champions sustainably sourced ingredients while proving that eco-friendly dining can still feel indulgent.
The menu adds a subtle sweetness to the classic savoury burger experience, particularly with favourites like the BBQ Burger — layered with barbecue sauce, caramelised onions, grilled eggplant, bacon, and cheese for a rich, deeply satisfying bite.
Burger Project has earned a devoted following for its perfectly proportioned burgers, expertly cooked patties, and unfussy approach to quality fast food. The Sydney favourite is known for delivering juicy, flavour-packed burgers that strike the ideal balance between gourmet and comfort food.
The restaurant also serves impressive vegetarian burgers alongside rich, creamy thick shakes that keep loyal customers returning for more. Simple, indulgent, and consistently satisfying, Burger Project captures Australia’s growing love affair with elevated burger culture.
Buns Out Burgers has become a standout name in Johannesburg’s gourmet burger scene, serving indulgent, flavour-packed burgers with a distinctly modern edge. Known for its lively atmosphere and creative menu, the restaurant attracts loyal crowds with both classic favourites and inventive new additions.
Its diverse offering includes an impressive range of vegetarian and vegan burgers, alongside crowd-pleasers such as southern-fried chicken burgers, indulgent burger “extras,” and an exclusive range of Darrell Lea confectionery-inspired desserts that add a playful finish to the experience.
Fergburger is one of New Zealand’s most legendary burger destinations, famous for its ever-present queues, oversized burgers, and inventive flavour combinations. The bustling Queenstown institution has earned cult status for crafting indulgent burgers using everything from classic beef and chicken to more adventurous meats.
The menu also features options with lamb, cod, and falafel, ensuring there is something for every kind of burger lover. Known for their soft buns, generous fillings, and deeply satisfying flavours, Fergburger’s creations become even more irresistible when loaded with creamy avocado and crispy bacon.
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