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Handcraft Burgers and Brew
Master Critic Review
Handcraft Burgers and Brew
8.2
A Bryant Park-adjacent fast-casual counter built around smash-style Certified Angus Beef patties, tots, and a tight “burger + beer” lane. The move is simple: go double if you want real beef-to-bun balance, add tots or fries, and keep toppings focused so the char and salt stay in front.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double smash cheeseburger, Tater tots, Burger of the Month
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Smash burgers plus fries/tots in a quick-service, beer-friendly setup.
Who should go: Midtown workers and travelers needing fast burgers
When to visit: Weekday lunch before the rush
What to order: Double cheeseburger, tots, seasonal burger special
Insider tip: Order double patty for the best beef-to-bun ratio.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site parking; street parking is limited and competitive. Nearby paid garages around Bryant Park are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, workwear, and sneakers are all fine.
Noise level: Moderate — counter-service buzz, but conversations are easy at off-peak times.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours, shorter earlier in the evening
Weekday lunch: Light line or brief wait; moves quickly even when busy
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — typically one veggie-style burger option, availability can vary.
Vegan options: Very limited — possible with modifications, but not a core strength.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some locations offer bun alternatives or lettuce wraps, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure meet than a romantic date — it’s fast, informal, and food-forward rather than atmosphere-driven.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service with open seating, so reservations aren’t part of the model.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — straightforward burgers, fries, and a quick format work well for kids, though seating is more cafeteria-style than family-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Quick, well-executed smash burgers with strong beef flavor and a clean burger-and-beer focus near Bryant Park.
Skip if: You want a full-service sit-down burger bar, extensive customization, or strong vegan/gluten-free depth.