New Jersey’s burger scene is nothing short of extraordinary, offering everything from classic roadside stands to upscale gourmet creations. The Garden State has become a true burger lover’s paradise, with passionate chefs crafting perfect patties from Sussex County to Cape May. Whether you’re craving a simple smash burger with American cheese or an elaborate creation topped with everything from pork roll to truffle aioli, NJ delivers some of the most mouthwatering burgers on the East Coast. Join us as we explore the top 10 burger joints that have earned their place in New Jersey’s culinary hall of fame.

1. Krug’s Tavern

Rating: 4.9/5
Address: 118 Wilson Ave, Newark, NJ 07105

This Ironbound legend has been serving Newark since 1938 and was crowned the winner of NJ’s best burger showdown. Krug’s 12-ounce, 80/20 beef patties are cooked to perfection on a tiny grill, creating a juicy, flavorful burger that needs no fancy toppings to shine. The bacon cheeseburger is their standout offering.

• Why try it: Perfectly cooked 12-ounce patties with simple, quality ingredients
• Local favorite since 1938 with authentic tavern atmosphere
• Winner of NJ’s best burger competition

2. White Manna

Rating: 4.8/5
Address: 358 River St, Hackensack, NJ 07601

This tiny, retro diner (said to have originally been at the 1939 New York World’s Fair) serves legendary slider-style burgers that have earned national recognition. The burgers with onions are cooked on a small flat-top grill, where the onions caramelize directly into the patties, creating an irresistible aroma and flavor that keeps lines forming outside the door.

• Why try it: Historic diner experience with nationally recognized sliders
• Signature onion-infused patties with incredible aroma
• Featured on multiple food shows and an essential Jersey food experience

3. Steve’s Burgers

Rating: 4.8/5
Address: 506 US-46, Garfield, NJ 07026

This unassuming roadside stand delivers big on flavor. Owner Steve Chrisomalis, a Johnson & Wales culinary school graduate, creates masterpieces like the signature Steve’s Burger—an 80/20 chuck patty topped with American cheese, crispy onion rings, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and a secret sauce that elevates it to crave-worthy status.

• Why try it: Chef-crafted burgers with homemade toppings and sauces
• Perfect balance of textures with crispy onion rings and bacon
• Humble roadside location with gourmet-quality food

4. Outlaw’s Burger Barn & Creamery

Rating: 4.7/5
Address: 1370 S Main Road, Vineland, NJ 08360

This South Jersey favorite focuses on locally-sourced ingredients, with vegetables from nearby farms and meat from Main’s Meat Market just steps away. The Shroomin’ Burger showcases their commitment to quality with a chuck patty topped with charred balsamic red onions, caramelized mushrooms, fontina cheese, and their signature steakhouse mayo.

• Why try it: Farm-to-table ingredients from Vineland’s local producers
• Perfect balance of savory mushrooms and sweet balsamic onions
• Also offers house-made ice cream for the perfect burger-and-dessert combo

5. Blue Monkey Tavern

Rating: 4.7/5
Address: 2 S Centre St, Merchantville, NJ 08109

The Blue Monkey Burger features what many consider the best patty in New Jersey—a proprietary blend of short rib, brisket, and chuck that delivers incredible flavor. Topped with blue cheese, a sauteed portobella mushroom, and caramelized onions, this burger achieves perfect harmony between the high-quality beef and its carefully selected toppings.

• Why try it: Award-winning beef blend with exceptional flavor profile
• Perfect balance of blue cheese tang and sweet caramelized onions
• Excellent craft beer selection to pair with your burger

6. Barnacle Bill’s

Rating: 4.6/5
Address: 1 1st St, Rumson, NJ 07760

With its scenic perch on the Navesink River, Barnacle Bill’s offers not just great views but one of the Shore’s most beloved burgers. Their hefty 10-ounce cheeseburger is a study in simplicity done right. Watch as your burger sizzles on the grill while enjoying the waterfront atmosphere that makes this a true Jersey Shore institution.

• Why try it: Perfectly cooked 10-ounce burgers with spectacular river views
• Simple but expertly executed classic cheeseburger
• Authentic Jersey Shore institution cooking around 2,500 burgers weekly

7. Diesel & Duke

Rating: 4.6/5
Address: Multiple locations in Caldwell, Jersey City, Montclair, New Brunswick, and Princeton

This popular local chain has developed a cult following for both its classic and creative burger offerings. The Holypeño burger delivers the perfect kick with bacon, aged cheddar, jalapeños, caramelized onions, and chipotle mayo. For the adventurous, their S.P.B.B. burger combines the unexpected flavors of sriracha, peanut butter, and bacon into a surprisingly addictive combination.

• Why try it: Perfect balance of heat and flavor in their specialty burgers
• Multiple locations throughout New Jersey for convenience
• Adventurous flavor combinations alongside perfectly executed classics

8. Burger 25

Rating: 4.5/5
Address: 199 NJ-37 East, Toms River, NJ 08753 (additional location in Ship Bottom)

A Shore favorite that’s earned multiple local awards, Burger 25 offers over 25 creative burger combinations. The Reef & Beef stands out with an Angus patty topped with melted pepper jack cheese and crispy rock shrimp tossed in spicy Gochujang sauce. Their commitment to quality extends to their hand-cut fries and house-made sauces.

• Why try it: Creative surf-and-turf combinations with house-made sauces
• Over 25 unique burger options to satisfy any craving
• Multiple-time winner of local “best burger” competitions

9. The Galley

Rating: 4.5/5
Address: 1313 Memorial Dr, Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Located in Asbury Park, the Shore’s premier dining destination, The Galley serves up impressive burgers alongside excellent pizza and wings. The Galley OG Burger features a massive 10-ounce Pat LaFrieda meat patty topped with aged white cheddar, roasted long hots, roasted red onions, and garlic aioli on a brioche bun—a perfect representation of Asbury Park’s elevated food scene.

• Why try it: Premium Pat LaFrieda beef with perfect spicy-savory balance
• Located in Asbury Park’s vibrant dining and entertainment district
• Generous 10-ounce portions for serious burger enthusiasts

10. Burger Buff

Rating: 4.5/5
Address: Pop-up events throughout New Jersey (check social media for locations)

Created by Nick Lepore, a bodybuilder-turned-burger influencer known as “The Hamburger Hulk,” Burger Buff offers a unique pop-up dining experience. His signature burger combines elements of high-end steakhouse burgers and old-school burger joints with two thin smashed patties, American cheese, and proprietary “Buff sauce” on a Martin’s potato roll. Events sell out quickly, so follow their social media for announcements.

• Why try it: Perfect execution of the trendy smash burger style
• Created by a burger expert who once ate a burger every day for a year
• Limited availability makes this a special burger experience

Find These Top 10 Burger Joints in New Jersey

Ready to Embark on Your New Jersey Burger Adventure?

New Jersey’s burger scene offers something for every palate, from classic roadside stands to gourmet creations with premium ingredients. Whether you’re a North Jersey resident, down the Shore for the weekend, or planning a dedicated burger road trip across the Garden State, these top 10 burger joints represent the best of what New Jersey has to offer. Each location brings its own unique approach to the humble hamburger, elevating it through quality ingredients, creative combinations, and passionate preparation. Don’t just take our word for it—grab a friend, bring your appetite, and start checking these exceptional burger destinations off your list!