Best Non-Traditional Burger: Umami Burger

The “Manly Burger.” Image courtesy Umami Burger

Burgers haven’t quite escaped the wave of upscale fusion cuisine in New York CIty, which is not necessarily a bad thing. This is best shown by the flavorful, unconventional burgers served at Umami Burger. “Umami” means “deliciousness,” and it’s certainly an accurate name despite the non-traditional nature of its burgers.

Boasting “chef-driven” burgers, this hip eatery offers everything from the “Umami” (Parmesan frico, shiitake mushroom, roasted tomato, caramelized onions, and Umami house ketchup) to the “Manly” (Chicken breast patty, house beer-cheddar cheese, bacon lardons, smoked-salt onion strings, Umami ketchup, and mustard spread) and the “Royale Burger” (braised short rib, truffled aioli, house truffle cheese, truffle glaze).

If you’re not a beef person, they may have the “Ahi Tuna Burger” at your location or “Sam’s Crispy Chicken Burger.”

To add even more flavor to your meal, try an unusual side dish like maple bacon fries or caramelized brussel sprouts

Complete with Umami’s signature Portuguese-style buns, these burgers are the kind you take your time with, chewing slowly and taking in every savory bite and flavorful layer. You’ll taste everything from soy sauce to miso paste and bonito flakes, or more traditional Western flavors like cured ham, cheese, and mushrooms.

Umami has locations in Williamsburg, Hudson, Brookfield Place, and Greenwich Village.