Best Burgers Restaurants in University Village

Keith McNally’s Greenwich Village tavern is famous for its Black Label Burger, a dry-aged beef blend crowned with caramelized onions and pommes frites. It’s a splurge, but the steakhouse-level depth of flavor and clubby, red-leather room make it one of the city’s most serious burger experiences.

A tiny counter on MacDougal turning out ultra-simple, ultra-craveable smashburgers with molten American cheese, griddled onions, and soft potato buns. High-volume service and late-night hours make it a go-to for quick, greasy-in-a-good-way burgers near NYU.

A SoHo fixture since the 1970s, Raoul’s is a dim, classic French bistro known for peppery steak au poivre, escargots, and a small but coveted bar burger. Regulars lean on it for late-night dates, celebratory dinners, and a transportive room that still channels old downtown energy.

A halal-certified smashburger shop with a sleek, futuristic diner look and a tight menu of buttery, crispy-edged patties. Students and night owls flock here for affordable burgers, truffle fries, and a veggie and chicken lineup that feels more curated than fast food.

This LaGuardia Place outpost of the better-burger mini-chain focuses on organic meats, plant-based patties, and a big build-your-own menu in a casual, family-friendly room. It’s the most flexible option near NYU for mixed groups juggling vegan, gluten-free, and classic burger cravings.