The Best Burgers in Melbourne Locals Swear By (2025)

There’s no shortage of spots claiming to sling the best burgers in Melbourne, but let’s be honest – not all patties are created equal. Whether you’re chasing a greasy classic that hits like a freight train after a few beers, or something a bit fancier, Melbourne’s burger scene delivers. From old-school diners with dripping cheeseburgers to joints pushing the limits with creative toppings, we’ve done the hard yards to bring you the best of the best burgers in Melbourne.

Best Burgers in Melbourne at a Glance

Highlights from our list include the following options:

• Best burger in Melborne CBD/overall: Gimlet
• Best vegan burger Melbourne: Leonard’s House of Love
• For a late-night snack: Butchers Diner
• Best for gluten free burgers: Easy’s
• For something outrageous: College Dropout

The Complete List of Best Melbourne Burgers

1. Leonard’s House of Love

Tucked away just off Chapel Street, Leonard’s House of Love is a ’70s-inspired log cabin that’s become a local legend for its incredible burgers and overall fun vibe. With timber walls, leather couches, a roaring fireplace, and a fairy light-covered courtyard that’s perfect for sinking a few beers, you could easily stick around this joint all night.There’s a pool table inside if you’re keen for a game, and the music’s always spot on – nothing too loud, just good tunes to keep things ticking along.

But let’s talk burgers. The cheeseburger is the standout – juicy beef brisket and short rib patty, melted American cheese, house-made sauce, pickles, and lettuce, all packed into a soft brioche bun. Simple, greasy in the best way, and goes down perfectly with a cold pint. If you’re feeling extra hungry, the double cheeseburger doesn’t mess around. There are veggie and vegan options too if you’re bringing along someone who’s off the meat. Pair it with their loaded fries or fried chicken, and you’re set. Leonard’s nails that combo of good food, cold drinks, and a vibe that makes you want to stick around all night.

• Address: 3 Wilson St, South Yarra VIC 3141
• Hours: Mon-Thurs 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 12pm-3pm, Sun 12pm-1am
• Phone: 0428 066 778

2. Fat Bob’s Bar & Grill

Tucked away in Moorabbin’s industrial backstreets, Fat Bob’s Bar & Grill is a burger joint that’s worth the hunt. From the outside, it might not look like much, but step inside and you’re hit with a neon wonderland of vintage signs and a buzzing atmosphere. The walls are plastered with retro memorabilia and the bar’s stocked with a cracking selection of craft beers.

The menu, of course, is all about the burgers – made from 100% grass-fed beef, cooked to order and served medium for that juicy, full-on flavour. The signature Fat Bob burger is a beast, loaded with beetroot, tomato, red onion, tasty cheese, bacon, pineapple, egg, and cos lettuce, all topped off with their special sauce. If you’re after a bit of heat, the Hummer Spicy brings the fire with jalapeños and spicy mayo. For the brave, the Firestone cranks it up with house-made Carolina Reaper chilli sauce – definitely not for the faint-hearted.

Not a beef fan? The Hudson offers a grilled chicken breast with bacon and Fontina cheese, while the City Temple caters to vegetarians with crumbed eggplant and mint yogurt. Sides like fries, onion rings, and popcorn chicken are perfect for sharing, and there’s a solid drinks list to wash it all down.

Whether you’re a local or making the trek from across town, Fat Bob’s delivers big on flavour and atmosphere.

• Address: 80A Cochranes Road, Moorabbin VIC 3189
• Hours: Wed-Thu 12pm-9pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-9.30pm, Sun 12pm-8.30pm
• Phone: (03) 9555 0909

3. Easey’s

Easey’s isn’t your average burger joint. Perched on a rooftop in Collingwood, this place is set inside an old Melbourne train carriage. It’s pretty darn iconic, and you really can’t miss it! You’ll have to trek up a few flights of stairs to get there, but once you do, you’re greeted with vintage train seats, graffiti-covered walls, and cracking views of the city skyline.

The menu’s stacked, with the option to go single, double, or triple on your patties – so whether you’re after a quick feed or ready to challenge your appetite, you’re covered. The cheeseburger is a classic –smashed patty, American cheddar, pickles, lettuce, tomato, onion, and burger sauce. After something with a bit of heat? The Rowdy Cheeseburger throws in bacon and jalapeños for a decent kick. Feeling brave? The Metropolitan Mayhem is a full-on monster – quad patties, bacon, potato cakes, dim sims… it’s as hectic as it sounds.

Chicken fans aren’t left out either with fried chicken sandwiches that hit the spot. Plus, vegans and gluten free diners are also catered for – it’s a great spot to visit with the whole crews. Put it simply: Easey’s nails it and has definitely earned its reputation as one of Mlebourne’s best burger spots.

• Address: 3/48 Easey St, Collingwood VIC 3066
• Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm
• Phone: (03) 9417 2250

4. Juanita Peaches

Perhaps as low-key and as unpretentious as it gets, Juanita Peaches is oh-so Brunswick and we’re here for it. Their burger lineup might be small, but it packs a punch. The cheeseburger features a 120g grass-fed brisket patty with double cheese, shallots, onions, and pickles on a house-made boogie bun. If you’re extra hungry, the double cheeseburger ups the ante to 240g of beefy goodness.

But it’s not just about burgers here. The menu also offers fried chicken sandwiches with slaw and boss sauce, eggplant sandwiches for the vegos, and a range of burritos like the black bean or fish options. Sides include popcorn chicken, buffalo chicken ribs, and classic fries. They’ve got gluten-free options too, so everyone can dig in.

It’s a very casual affair – with pastel wood walls and diner-style tables – perfect for a chill meal and catch-up with your mates.

Address: 12 Edward St, Brunswick VIC 3056
Hours: Mon-Thurs 12pm-9pm, Fri-Sun 11am-9pm
Phone: (03) 8060 6664

5. 300 Grams Northcote

Northcote locals can’t seem to stop raving about this place, and it’s no secret why. Our top rec? The 300 Gs – beef patty, cheese, lettuce, onion, tomato, pickles, and their house-made 300 sauce. The Hot Bird brings some heat with fried chicken, slaw, cheese, and chilli mayo. If bacon’s your thing, the Beef ‘N’ Bacon won’t disappoint, and the Norfcote is stacked with bacon, egg, beetroot, and all the trimmings.

You can go single or double on most burgers, and there are veg and vegan options if needed. Gluten-free buns are available too. Sides include crunchy fries, mac fries topped with pickles and onion, fried chicken bites, and southern fried cauliflower. Sweet tooth? The Oreo and Biscoff thickshakes are a go, and there’s a rich chocolate cake that lives up to the hype.

Basically, 300 Grams is an absolute all-rounder for burgers, sides and drinks so if this isn’t on your list of best Melbourne burgers to try – it needs to be.

• Address: 313 High St, Northcote VIC 3070
• Hours: Mon-Weds 11.30am-9pm, Thurs-Sat 11.30am-9.30pm
• Phone: 0422 874 377

6. Bar Margaux

While burgers may not be the first thing that comes to mind at Bar Margaux, you’d be surprised what this French haunt serves up. The New York-inspired French bistro is moody, decadent and full of French menu items – think escargot and steak tartare. But if you delve a little deeper, you will find the MGX Burger, which is stacked with two Wagyu patties, crispy bacon, melted cheddar, their signature sauce, and a rich bordelaise, all sandwiched between a soft milk-brioche bun. It comes with a side of perfectly crisp frites to mop up every last bit of sauce. This thing’s rich, juicy, and seriously satisfying.

If you’re keen to dig in with a mate, Wednesdays are the day to do it. They’ve got a deal going – two MGX Burgers and two glasses of Beaujolais for $85. It’s a proper feed paired with a red that goes down easy with all that beef and bacon goodness. You’ll walk out full and happy.

• Address: Basement/111 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Hours: Tues-Weds 5pm-12am, Thurs 5pm-1am, Fri – Sat 5pm-3am
• Phone: (03) 9650 0088

7. Butchers Diner

Butchers Diner is the spot you hit when you need a late-night feed that’s actually good (no soggy takeaway here). It’s open late every night except Sunday, which is why you’ll find plenty of hospo workers rolling in after their shifts. If the people who work with food all night are choosing this place, you know it’s worth it.

The burgers are straight-up classics done to perfection. The cheeseburger comes with a 160g beef patty, aged cheddar, pickles, lettuce, tomato, onion, sauce, and mayo – juicy, cheesy, and everything you want at 12am. Chuck on some house bacon if you’re feeling it. There’s also a hamburger if you want something simpler, but let’s be honest – why skip the cheese?

Beyond burgers, the menu’s stacked with everything from steak sandwiches to a Coney Island chilli dog, loaded with burnt ends chilli and jalapeños. Sides like hand-cut chips and poutine keep things hearty, and if you’re still hungry, they’ve got steamed dim sims and fried chicken to round it out.

• Address: 10 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Hours: Mon-Sat 11.30am-1am
• Phone: (03) 9639 7324

8. Smithburg

Smithburg dishes out smash burgers and lobster rolls right in the heart of South Melbourne Market – an iconic spot that’s been a go-to for locals (and tourists) for decades. After a lap around the market, this is where you head for a proper feed.

The cheeseburger is a classic – pasture-raised beef, American cheese, iceberg lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, and house-made special sauce. The bacon cheeseburger ups the game with crispy bacon, while the spicy version brings heat with pickled jalapeños and Sriracha mayo. Hungry? Double up on the patties and you won’t regret it.

If you’re after something different, the lobster rolls are a solid choice – options like the classic, crispy chilli, or garlic butter versions hit the spot. Sides include crispy chips, sweet potato fries, and loaded disco fries topped with cheese, bacon, and special sauce. Chuck in some corn ribs or popcorn cauliflower if you’re still peckish, and round it out with a Tommy’s Margarita. Good food, market buzz, and plenty to sink your teeth into. What’s not to love?

• Address: Shop 99 116 Cecil Street, Market, South Melbourne VIC 3205
• Hours: Wed 9 am–8:30 pm, Thurs 1 am–9 pm, Fri-Sun 9am-9pm
• Phone: (03) 8638 9032

9. Kick Ass Burgers

Kick Ass Burgers in Preston lives up to its name, serving up big, hearty burgers that do exactly what you want them to – fill you up and taste bloody good. The menu’s stacked with options, from classic beef to spicy numbers with jalapeños and sriracha, and if you’re really hungry, the Mega Beef Burger’s got double patties, double cheese, a fried egg, and a hash brown crammed into a brioche bun. It’s a beast.

Chicken fans are covered with crispy southern fried chicken burgers, and there’s no shortage of choices for veggos, like the falafel burger or the southern fried mushroom packed into a matcha bun. Add sides like poutine loaded with gravy, cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, or go for onion rings and sweet potato wedges if you’re keen for something crunchy.

Feeding the crew? Their family packs are a solid deal with burgers, sides, and drinks to sort everyone out.

• Address:  288 High St, Preston VIC 3072
• Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat & Sun 12pm-10pm
• Phone: (03) 9041 2500

10. Gimlet

After a night on the town, there’s nothing better than sinking your teeth into something outrageously good – and that’s where the Gimlet burger steps in. Served up late on Friday and Saturday nights after 10pm, this thing has earned its reputation as one of Melbourne’s best burgers. It’s a proper, no-nonsense cheeseburger that hits all the right notes – juicy patty made from top-quality Gippsland beef, melted American cheese, crisp lettuce, dill pickles, onions, and a punchy house-made sauce, all tucked into a soft potato bun. Simple, messy, and bloody delicious.

Gimlet’s burger might steal the show, but there’s more to the supper menu that’s worth sticking around for. You’ll find a solid cocktail list to keep the night rolling. The Lychee Martinez blends vodka, amaretto, lychee, and chamomile for something a bit fancy but easy to sip, while the Mexican Razorblade brings some heat with tequila, cucumber, chilli, and citrus.

And if you want to treat yourself – the caviar service is there take things up a notch, with options like house caviar or the premium Giaveri Beluga. One word? Yum.

• Address: 33 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Hours: Only on the Supper menu on Fridays and Saturdays – 10pm until late
• Phone:  (03) 9277 9777

11. Resistance Burger

The Resistance in Hawthorn isn’t mucking about when it comes to burgers. They’ve been flipping patties since 2015, and you can taste the effort – they bake their buns fresh, use locally sourced pasture-fed Angus beef, and make all their sauces in-house.

If you’re hungry, the Supremo De Resistance is the go-to: beef, double cheese, bacon, caramelised onion, grilled pineapple, and enough sauce to make a mess (in the best way). Want heat? The Nashville Hot Bird brings the fire with buttermilk fried chicken coated in a chilli mix that goes from mild to deadly –your call. Veggos and vegans aren’t left out either, with the Veggie Warfare and Marley Vegan burgers holding their own.

Sides are next-level – beer-battered fries, cheesy bacon-loaded chips, and pulled pork fries that’ll have you licking your fingers clean. If you’ve got room after all that, the thickshakes are worth it (Milo, choc peanut butter, and blueberry cheesecake, just to name a few).

• Address: 412 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122
• Hours: Tues-Thurs 9am-3.15pm, 4.15-9pm, Fri & Sat 9am-3.15pm, 4.30-9pm, Sun 9 am–3 pm, 4–9 pm
• Phone: (03) 8597 9523

12. College Dropout Burgers 

If you’re chasing a burger that’s big, bold, and outrageously good, College Dropout Burgers in Brunswick West and Ivanhoe has you sorted. The menu is loaded with options, from classic smash burgers to combos that push the limit.

The Gorgeous keeps things simple with a juicy smashed beef patty, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and their signature Dropout Sauce. But if you’re here for something that’ll make you loosen your belt, the College Dropout (Signature) Burger is where it’s at – double beef, double cheese, and fried chicken all stuffed into one bun. It’s messy, over-the-top, and exactly what you want after a big day (or night).

Behind it all is Mark Elkhouri, who kicked things off flipping burgers at his dessert shop. What started as a uni-side hustle turned into one of Melbourne’s go-to burger spots. To add to this burger joints iconic status, they also got into a legal spat with Kanye West over the name (inspired by Ye’s College Dropout album).

With a huge menu, indulgent combos, and portions that don’t hold back, College Dropout Burgers is the spot for when you’re hungry and not watching your calories.

• Address: 482 Albion St, Brunswick West VIC 3055
• Hours: Mon-Thurs 4pm-9pm,
• Phone: 0431 116 644

Honourable Mentions

• Rocket Burgers and Fries: Simple, greasy burgers that hit the spot. The classic cheeseburger with pickles and ketchup is hard to beat.
• Royal Stacks: American-style burgers (the closest to Shake Shack you’ll find in Aus) made with quality Aussie beef. Grab a burger, shake and fries and you’ll be back before you know it.
• Hello Harry: Grass-fed beef, pulled pork and spicy chicken burgers that go down a treat with a cold beer.
• Ziggy’s Eatery: Burgers packed with global flavours. The Texan burger is a must but if you’re starving, tackle the Giant Texan.
• Mad Patties: Huge burger selection that hits every craving. Meat eaters will love it but the veggie options hold their own.
• 1090 Burger: Top-quality Angus beef, hand-shaped patties and a secret marinade that smacks you with flavour. Juicy AF.
• Burgertory: Sinfully good burgers with a cheeky twist (it’s all in the names). The ‘Abraham’ with fried chicken and jalapeños is a flavour bomb.
• Fat Jaks: Big burgers and big flavour. They even brand the bun with an FJ. You’ll leave full and happy.
• The B.East: Burgers, beers and live tunes. Grab a ‘Filthy’ burger, order a drink and settle in. Oh, and don’t forget to order a side of tots.
• Kustom Burgers: Retro vibes with serious burger game. The fried mushroom burger is a surprise winner and the milkshakes are spot on.

How Man of Many Chose the Best Burgers in Melbourne

With an editorial team full of foodies, Man Of Many has had the unique opportunity to directly sample and experience some of the best burgers in Melbourne. Our list is primarily based on experience, in-depth research and customer reviews of these venues. It’s our job to guide readers between competing products and services. For this article, we’ve provided our independent opinion in formulating these selections. Our editors have taken into account food, price, and quality. You can read our review policy on how we maintain our independence in our editorial lists.

Updates to this article

• 25 Feb 2025: We removed Beats Burgers, Beatbox Kitchen, Truck Stop Deluxe, Chargrill Charlie’s, Burger Road, Three One 2 One, Phat Pizza and Sonny’s Fried Chicken & Burgers either because these places have closed, or because we felt these venues haven’t remained consistent since first publication to be included in this list. We added Smithburg, Kick-Ass Burgers, Gimlet, Bar Margaux, Resistance Burger, and College Dropout to keep the list fresh and exciting. We also update restaurant opening hours.

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