Exploring Joburg’s burger scene reveals a range of spots beloved by locals for their craft and consistency. Each venue brings its own twist to the classic formula through house-blended beef, innovative toppings, and artisanal buns. Whether you’re indulging in a cheat-day treat or a weekend feast, these burger joints are worth the visit.
BGR
BGR keeps their burgers simple and honest, catering to purists who appreciate the essentials done exceptionally well. The menu sticks to the classics: hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and the “Cardio” option wrapped in crisp lettuce. Their beef blend is made daily and cooked to order for maximum flavour and juiciness. The slightly sweet buns which are baked without preservatives and enriched with real milk ensure these burgers strike the perfect balance between soft and satisfying. The restaurant offers a range of sauces and toppings allowing you to build your burger just the way you like it.
The Local Kitchen Co.
Local Kitchen Co. prides itself on serving up fresh, perfectly executed burger classics. Their straightforward menu focuses on quality ingredients, ensuring each bite delivers maximum flavour. For those with big appetites the Double Trouble is the ultimate choice. It’s a true feast that lives up to its name and guarantees you won’t leave hungry. If you’re craving something with a southern twist, the Texas Pulled Pork Burger with gorgonzola slaw is a must-try.
Grub Worx
Grub Worx in Soweto is a hidden gem with a casual and welcoming atmosphere for those seeking an authentic local experience. The Worx Deluxe, which comes with chakalaka (a spicy South African relish) is a standout burger that showcases Grub Worx’s commitment to blending classic elements with local culinary traditions. With its combination of handcrafted creations, distinctive local flavours, and friendly service, the place guarantees a delicious gateway into Soweto’s popular food scene.
Proud Mary
Proud Mary elevates the humble burger into a bistro-style indulgence, pairing classic flavours with modern finesse in a chic, minimalist space. As you step inside, you’re greeted by sleek décor and an Instagram-worthy bar that sets the tone for a refined yet relaxed meal. For a decadent experience try their Wagyu Cheese Burger, which is topped with smoked Stansford cheese, white onion, fennel and mustard jam, garlic aioli, and lemon watercress.
Hudsons The Burger Joint
Hudsons brings an unmistakable American-style diner vibe to the city, making it the perfect spot for juicy burgers and ice-cold beverages. The Original Royale, filled with streaky bacon, battered onion rings, cheddar, and chilli oil is a must-try. The Deluxe, a Wagyu patty topped with garlic mayo, cheddar, bacon, and their house-made Jameson BBQ sauce is a mouth-watering combination that also tops the favourites list. Be sure to try some unique fries such as their truffle cheese fries and disco fries.
Smoke Daddy’s
Smoke Daddy’s is the epitome of unpretentious, hearty dining, where burgers arrive big, messy, and unapologetically smoky. The space combines the best of a modern American barbecue eatery and a cosy craft-beer joint, featuring dark wood panelling, exposed brick, and industrial finishes. Their Buffalo Blue Burger, a flame-grilled beef patty loaded with smoked bacon, sweet caramelized onions, crumbled blue cheese, and smashed avocado, won’t disappoint.