Best Burgers in Pittsburgh

A Bloomfield institution since the 1980s, Tessaro’s still draws lines for half‑pound patties kissed by a roaring hardwood grill. Frequently cited by Pittsburgh Magazine and highlighted by national outlets, it remains the city’s essential old‑school burger experience.

North Oakland’s beloved tavern builds a famously beefy, in‑house grind and pairs it with rotating Fancy Burger riffs. Praised by NextPittsburgh and local critics, it’s a masterclass in sourcing, technique, and Pittsburgh hospitality.

This indie smash‑burger shop went from pop‑up to powerhouse, winning Pittsburgh Magazine’s Burger Bracket and expanding while keeping its crisp‑edged doubles and joyful vibe intact.

Chef‑driven smash burgers meet house beer and local sourcing. Their Liberty Burger took top honors in City Paper’s Burgher Battle, underscoring a community‑rooted approach that tastes as good as it reads.

On Wednesdays, the Strip District brewery drops a one‑off burger with playful builds and serious technique. Pittsburgh Magazine singled out the series, making it a weekly pilgrimage for burger obsessives.

What began as a food truck now anchors a brewery kitchen, slinging the In‑N‑Aht double with local twists. Celebrated by Pittsburgh Magazine and City Paper, it nails the nostalgic smash‑burger profile without feeling copycat.

A neighborhood pub with a cult following for Basi Burgers—house kielbasa patties from a local butcher flame‑grilled and often topped with pierogies. Pittsburgh Magazine calls out its uniquely Pittsburgh personality.

A no‑frills classic where seasoned griddled patties, a toasted BreadWorks bun, and old‑school prices win lifelong loyalties. Pittsburgh Magazine spotlighted its burger as the city’s archetypal bar bite.

Lawrenceville’s whole‑animal butcher serves a daytime smash that lets exceptional local beef shine. Pittsburgh Magazine’s burger roundup praises the two‑patty build on a challah bun as a must‑try.

Downtown’s modern gastropub pairs a dialed‑in patty with house touches like pastrami pork belly and aged cheddar. Frequently cited by Thrillist and Pittsburgh Magazine, it bridges comfort and craft.

Pittsburgh’s landmark halal market doubles as a sleeper burger destination—think hefty patties, beef bacon, and serious fries. Table Magazine confirmed its Strip District reopening and ongoing local devotion.