Cambridge Dining Guide
Best Burgers in Cambridge
The best burgers in Cambridge, Massachusetts — from classic smash burgers to gourmet creations. Locally tested and approved.
2 restaurants curated
The Cambridge burger scene is a study in contrasts — no-frills counters where the patty-to-bun ratio is the only thing that matters sit alongside gastropubs crafting burgers from grass-fed beef with house-made pickles and artisan cheese. What unites them is quality: this is a city that takes even casual food seriously.
Insider TipLunch is peak burger time in Cambridge. Many spots that are packed for dinner are pleasantly uncrowded at noon.
Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage
Burgers · Harvard Square
Harvard Square legend since 1960. This is THE Cambridge burger. 7oz patties, creative toppings, burgers named after politicians and celebrities. Cash only (ATM inside). The frappes are incredible. Filmed in Good Will Hunting and The Social Network. You will wait, and it will be worth it.
Charlie's Kitchen
Burgers · Harvard Square
Two-level Harvard Square institution: a diner downstairs and a college dive bar upstairs, with a beer garden added in recent years. Famous for the double cheeseburger and the unchanged fifties-meets-seventies décor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cambridge has excellent burger spots ranging from fast-casual smash burger counters to sit-down restaurants with gourmet creations. See our full listings above, sorted by rating.