Circus Pub – award-winning Burger- bar (1st place at BurgerFest 2024), famous for the special burger “Nights in Istanbul” (with beef, Oriental spices and halloums). Burgers cost ~ 40- 50 lei, and the full menu (burger + potatoes + salad) ~ 60 lei – a qualitative-price ratio praised by customers. “Burgers are the best I’ve tried, at only 44 lei with potatoes, garlic sauce and salad – in Bucharest you give more on less,” says a satisfied customer, highlighting large portions and excellent taste.
Smashed Burgers (Burduf) – Burger house famous for burgers cooked in “smashed” style. Their special preparation “Burduf,” winner of 3rd place at BurgerFest 2024, impressed the jury with the combination of curly cheese and chilli sweetness – “a sen- za- tional burger” that everyone hopes to see on the permanent menu. A burger here costs ~ 35-45 lei (just the burger) or ~ 55-60 lei menu with lining. The atmosphere is urban and crowded in the evening, and the enthusiasts say that Smashed delivers a genuine taste of streetfood: fresh meat, rich sauces and fluffy buns.
Modeler – A bohemian pub famous for its generous burgers (e.g. Hangover Burger or Godzilla Burger). Prices are ~ 50- 65 lei per burger, but also include homemade fries. Many consider Modeler “by far the best burger in Bucharest,” with a retrocool design and an intimate garden. Succulent meat and inventive combinations (e.g. burger with lamb or crispy bacon and egg) appear constantly in reviews, and consistent portions do not disappoint.
The Burgeria Stirbei – A book-by-book burger on Stirbei Voda Street, appreciated for attention to detail. They have classic burgers as well as author variants (e.g. Blu Burger with blue cheese). Prices are ~ 35-50 lei, and all burgers come with potatoes included. An enthusiastic customer writes, “The Burgery of Stirbei is an absolute gem! The burgers are tasty, full of fresh and flavoured ingredients, with the juicy and perfectly cooked meatball.” The friendly service and the cute decor complement the experience – many come back saying that here they ate the “best burger in town.”
Hashtag Pub – A modern restaurant with relaxed atmosphere, known for both juicy burgers and cocktails. Burgers (~ 30-40 lei) can be served alongside gaskets such as parmesan or nachos potatoes. It also offers a wide selection of artisanal beer. “Hashtag Pub is a great place for delicious burgers and drinks, with a wide variety of beers and soft drinks to choose from,” notes a review. Bar snacks (mozzarella sticks, fins) are also appreciated, making Hashtag a popular destination for young groups.
Switch.Eat – Bistro famous for its burgers “loaded” with toppings (e.g. Burger with double bacon and melted cheddar). A consistent burger costs ~ 40- 50 lei; the portions are large and the menu includes homemade sauces and fries. The atmosphere is vivacious, with modern music and decor. “The staff is friendly and attentive, and the food fantastic! Portions are huge, burgers are real comfort food. Cocktails are delicious,” says a pleased customer. Many recommend you come hungry, because the Switch burgers are famous for their wealth.
Vivo – Fusion Food Bar – Gourmet burger chain also present in Bucharest (Floreasca and AFI area), known for its nationally awarded recipes. Burgers cost ~ 45-60 lei, and combo menus (~ 70-80 lei) include potatoes and booze. The meat is matured and the combinations include toppings such as truffle mushrooms or parmesan sauce. A tourist notes: “Vivo Burgers have rich flavors, and parmesan potatoes have been a real gourmet delicacies.” The fast service and urban atmosphere make Vivo a popular, often crowded weekend choice.
Paninaro – An eclectic bistro near Cişmigiu, where you find both sandwiches and brunch, and unique burgers, such as the Pane Brain Burger (a rare delicacy, appreciated by connoisseurs). Prices are ~ 30-40 lei for burgers and 20-25 lei for gaskets such as fries with the tele. The portions are generous. A customer strongly recommends: “You must taste the French fries with the Ibanesti tele, the mashed pig jaws, the Pane-brain burger – absolutely delicious!” Paninaro combines the modern atmosphere with reinterpreted Romanian cuisine elements, offering a surprising culinary experience.
This article is an English translation and adaptation of the original Romanian article on Lista Scurtă. Read the Romanian version.
