Mainstays of the genre include Neil Perry’s take on the classic hamburger at Burger Project (World Square, Level 1, Shop 11.06, 644 George St, Sydney), the versions at Mary’s (6 Mary St, Newtown), available with trashcan bacon, and the In-N-Out-inspired numbers at Down-N-Out (77 Liverpool St, Sydney).
Those willing to brave the lines at Bar Luca (52 Phillip St, Sydney, 02 9247 9700) will be rewarded with the Blame Canada poutine burger.
How about a Japanese twist? At Gojima (1/80 Pyrmont St, Pyrmont), Sokyo’s Chase Kojima swaps buns for rice and nori, and Bar Ume (478 Bourke St, Surry Hills, 02 9380 7333) serves its wagyu patties with a side of renkon chips.
Other contenders for top spot include the neon-bright Jacks Newtown (170 Missenden Rd, Newtown, 0405 410 281), Pub Life Kitchen (265 Bulwara Rd, Ultimo, 0484 848 400), and Pub Life offshoot Superior Burger (30 Bulls Rd, Wakeley), all offering their spin on the American fast-food staple.