The Ultimate Guide to London’s Luxurious Burgers

Burgers are a versatile culinary staple, varying widely in style and flavor to suit different occasions. While fast food burgers may satisfy a quick craving, sometimes the desire calls for a gourmet experience, such as a perfectly grilled Wagyu patty nestled in a lightly toasted, buttery brioche bun.

The concept of a burger has roots dating back to the 1st century AD, when Romans experimented with dishes featuring pine nuts and minced meats. By 1747, the “Hamburg Sausage,” a minced beef patty served with toast, became popular. This term made its way into the Oxford English Dictionary by 1802, although it was referred to as a “slab” of minced meat instead of a sausage. The hamburger as we know it emerged in 1885 when the Menches Brothers in New York sold minced beef sandwiches. That same year, “Hamburger Charlie” Nagreen introduced a similar creation in Wisconsin, sparking a growing love for burgers.

Today, the burger landscape is incredibly diverse. As an enthusiast, I believe that the best burgers often embrace simplicity—too many toppings can dilute the perfect fusion of texture and flavor. With that principle in mind, we set out to explore some of the best upscale burger offerings in London, transforming this humble sandwich into a fine-dining sensation.

Dove London

Renowned chef Jackson Boxer’s Dove London has quickly become a sensational dining hotspot. The menu boasts exquisite dishes ranging from fried-potato pizzettes with burrata and mortadella to zingy fresh tuna tostadas and wood-roasted herb-fed chicken smothered in café de Paris butter.

However, the highlight is the restaurant’s famous 50-day dry-aged beef burger. This hefty two-inch-thick patty, oozing with melted gorgonzola and accompanied by champagne-buttered onions, has earned viral fame.

Securing one of the limited 24 burgers prepared each day requires planning. Arrive early, as seating is limited, with lunch at noon and dinner at 5:30 pm. Guests are encouraged to queue about 15 minutes prior to reserve a burger, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s advisable to order alongside other dishes from the menu, as this burger’s richness makes it ideal for sharing.

Though it may seem complicated, the effort is rewarded. This burger, paired with duck-fat fries and the Sapling Martini, exemplifies gourmet dining at its finest.

Burger £18, dove.london, W11 2EU

Claridges Hotel

For those in search of a sumptuous patty, a classic hotel like Claridges promises an exceptional experience. Their flagship burger features a blend of chuck, brisket, and beef fat sourced from Aubrey Allen Butchers, known for high-quality, ethically sourced meats.

The burger comes in a brioche bun dotted with onion seeds and topped with aged comté cheese, butter lettuce, a rich burger sauce, and caramelized onions. For sides, guests can choose from onion rings and fries, complete with smoky pickled cucumbers.

Relish this burger in the grandeur of the hotel’s Foyer & Reading Room, or opt for a special event where a “burger and fries” trolley can be served.

Burger £46, claridges.co.uk, W1K 4HR

Otto’s

From the outside, Otto’s may appear modest, but stepping inside reveals a lavish ambiance reminiscent of a distinguished French estate. The decor is adorned with a blend of classic and contemporary art, while the tables are set elegantly.

This establishment offers one of London’s priciest burgers: the £300 Burger Bespoke de Luxe, crafted from a blend of fillet, sirloin, and ribeye with unique toppings including seared foie gras, lobster claw, and Oscietra caviar, creating a luxurious dining experience. The owner, Otto Tepasse, introduced this opulent creation after a brainstorm about burgers as a social equalizer.

Intended for an exclusive clientele, this burger takes fine dining to an entirely new level.

Burger £300, ottos.com, WC1X 8EW

ABC Kitchens at the Emory Hotel

The Emory Hotel recently debuted ABC Kitchens, a concept by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. The London location offers a modern Latin-inspired menu with local, sustainable ingredients, featuring delights such as sweet pea guacamole and pretzel-crusted calamari.

The cheeseburger boasts Hereford beef blends and secret house recipe buns, complemented with herbed mayo, jalapeño, and Montgomery cheddar. Its stylish location provides stunning views of Hyde Park, ensuring an elegant dining atmosphere.

Burger £33, the-emory.co.uk, SW1X 7NP

The Park

Jeremy King’s latest venture, The Park, combines chic Manhattan café vibes with a delightful menu that includes a variety of dishes like shrimp cocktails and classic salads.

The Park’s cheeseburger features house-made patties topped with a zingy spicy sauce, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Additionally, a whimsical toothpick flag adds a playful touch. Served alongside Cajun-seasoned tater tots, this burger pairs excellently with a properly crafted Manhattan or Martini.

Don’t miss the banana split dessert!

Burger £18.75, theparkrestaurant.com, W2 3RX

BéBé Bob – Chicken Burger

For days when red meat isn’t on the menu, BéBé Bob, the lively sibling of Bob Bob Ricard, presents the “Chicken and Egg” burger. Presented on colorful manga comic paper, this burger features a crispy chicken fillet, confit egg yolk, lettuce, pickled cabbage, and an option to add caviar.

A harmonious blend of textures and flavors makes this burger an experience in itself, with the creamy egg and caviar creating a unique taste sensation.

Be prepared for a bit of a mess; it’s best to tackle this burger by cutting it into manageable pieces. Fries can be customized to either regular or truffle flavors, with options for dips.

A visit to BéBé Bob is not just about the food but immersing in its opulent decor featuring red lacquer, modern art, and luxurious seating.

Burger £19.50, with caviar €21, bebebob.com, W1F 9LB