ZipPicks Awards
Best Burgers in Harlem
Master Critic Review
Island Burgers & Shakes
8.0
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Quick Bites Champions
Island Burgers & Shakes in Morningside Heights focuses on oversized, char-broiled patties with dozens of topping combinations plus thick shakes. Students and locals treat it as a sit-down burger house when they want something heavier and more elaborate than a quick smashburger.
Must-Try Dishes:
Napalm Burger, Frog Burger, Black & White Shake
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 6.5
What makes it special: Flame-grilled, knife-and-fork burgers with dozens of topping combos and old-school shakes.
Who should go: Hungry groups craving big-format burgers near Columbia.
When to visit: Early dinner or off-peak lunch to avoid long ticket times.
What to order: Napalm Burger, Frog Burger, Black & White Shake.
Insider tip: Share one loaded burger and a salad if you don’t want to tap out early.