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Hamburger America
Master Critic Review
Hamburger America
8.7
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hamburger America is a small SoHo luncheonette from burger historian George Motz, serving historically faithful smashburgers, fried onion burgers, and diner-style sandwiches at a tightly focused counter. Families come for the affordable burgers, egg creams, and key lime pie before or after a movie near Houston Street.
Must-Try Dishes:
George Motz Fried Onion Burger, Classic Smash Burger with American cheese, Key lime pie
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: A critic-adored, throwback burger counter focused on just a few classic smashburgers and diner staples.
Who should go: Families and burger obsessives who appreciate old-school style.
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner before prime-time counter lines build.
What to order: Fried Onion Burger, classic single with cheese, key lime pie.
Insider tip: Grab seats at the counter so kids can watch patties getting smashed on the griddle.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in SoHo; expect metered spots to be scarce during peak shopping hours. Nearest paid garages are on Lafayette St. and Crosby St.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—most guests come in everyday wear, including families and shoppers.
Noise level: Moderate—counter sizzle and steady foot traffic, but still easy to talk with your group.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes for counter seats during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically a minimal wait; 0–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—grilled cheese and sides are the main options.
Vegan options: Very limited—no dedicated vegan patty; sides only.
Gluten-free options: Not ideal—no gluten-free buns and cross-contact on the griddle is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for a casual, low-pressure meetup—it's a counter-service burger spot with quick turnover, not a linger-and-chat environment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Seating is first-come, first-served at the counter; arrive slightly off-peak for the best chance at sitting together.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—best for ages 4+ who can handle counter seating. The simple menu, quick service, and ability to watch burgers cooking make it engaging for kids.
Best For
Better for: Historically faithful smashburgers, efficient service, and affordable pricing in an area dominated by pricier sit-down spots.
Skip if: You want broad menu variety, vegan or gluten-free options, or a longer, sit-down meal with full table service.