The city’s burger scene is more ambitious than ever. From traditional charcoal grilling to innovative smash burgers, are you ready to discover best hamburger places in Istanbul?
Istanbul is home to countless restaurants, bars, and cafés serving both classic and creative burgers. While some stick to traditional methods, grilling their patties over charcoal for that signature smoky flavor, others elevate the burger experience with special spice blends, unique sauces, and inventive cooking techniques. Alongside their signature creations, many venues have embraced smash burgers—one of the hottest trends in recent years—further expanding the city’s diverse burger offerings. Istanbul’s culinary scene continues to evolve, shaped by the creativity and innovation of its chefs. If you’re on the hunt for the best burger in the city, this list is for you. Explore these top burger spots and decide for yourself.
Istabul’s Best Place for Burger
Baltazar
One of the most popular burger destinations in Karaköy, Baltazar pushes the boundaries of flavor! More than just a burger joint, it offers a true gastronomic experience with its charcoal-grilled meats, commitment to sustainability with a zero-plastic approach, and burgers that leave a lasting impression. Each burger is crafted with specially aged meat, and the unmistakable smokiness is evident from the very first bite. Beyond burgers, Baltazar also excels with its selection of salads and steak dishes. Among its must-try options are the Baltazar Burger, a classic house; the Lokum Burger, featuring exceptionally tender meat; and the Blue Cheese Burger, packed with bold, intense flavors. With locations in Karaköy and Beşiktaş, Baltazar has also expanded internationally with a branch in Dubai and is set to bring its signature flavors to London soon.
Banko Burger
At Banko Burger, where legendary flavors make you forget to count calories, each burger from Chef Bora Bozankaya’s kitchen is a masterpiece. Whether you prefer classic flavors or enjoy exploring new tastes, you’ll find a burger experience that suits you here. Recognized with the 2024 Gault & Millau “Modern Cuisine” award, Banko Burger stands out with its fluffy buns and special house-made sauces, delivering a distinct taste in every bite.
When visiting, be sure to try the Mush & Truffle Burger, a perfect blend of grilled chestnut and oyster mushrooms with truffle mayonnaise; the Angora Burger, featuring beef mohair ribs, two cheeses, and an apple-purple onion salad; or the Pineapple Burger, where grilled pineapple and teriyaki sauce create an unexpected burst of flavor. Banko Burger also offers vegan options for those who prefer plant-based dining. Located in Caddebostan, you can also find Banko in Dekk on the European side and House of Rene in Izmir.
The Grungy
How much effort does it take to make a truly great hamburger? The Grungy has spent years perfecting its secret formula sauce, making it a go-to spot for burger lovers. From the very first bite, you’ll taste the payoff of their dedication. The highlight of The Grungy’s menu is its signature Grungy Sauce, a flavor-packed addition that elevates their burgers. Located in Teşvikiye, Etiler, and Suadiye, the Grungy Burger and Cheeseburger prove that simplicity, done right, is unbeatable.
Biber Burger
The long queues at Biber Burger are no coincidence—this spot is all about juicy, flavorful patties crafted with the chef’s signature touch. What started in Beşiktaş has expanded to Moda and Bomonti, bringing its bold flavors to more burger enthusiasts. For those who love intense flavors, the Amarillo Burger with a spicy house sauce, the Louis Burger, a standout classic, the Jetlag Burger, and the Imperial Burger, which promises a true meat feast, are must-tries.
Markus Rib Eye Society
A fine-dining burger experience in an industrial zone? Yes, you heard right. Markus Rib Eye Society brings a unique take on gourmet burgers with its stylish decor and legendary flavors in the heart of Maslak Oto Sanayi. The rib meat is slow-cooked for hours and paired with dömi glas sauce, resulting in an ultra-tender, flavor-packed burger. Served alongside crispy, French-style fries, these burgers are highly addictive. Recognized with the 2025 Gault & Millau “Gourmand Table” award in the “Modern Cuisine” category, Markus has locations in Maslak and Emaar on the Anatolian side.
Rebel
If you’re looking for a fast, satisfying, yet high-quality fast-food experience, Rebel is the place to be. With the motto “Think bold, eat bold,” Rebel stands out as one of the most ambitious brands of Bundle Kitchen, offering a next-generation fast-food experience through its virtual kitchen concept. Here, you’ll find a quick yet top-tier hamburger service, with the option to customize your flavors with guacamole, honey mustard, and special spice mixes. Beyond burgers, Rebel also serves hotdogs and wraps at its Ataşehir, Etiler, and Reşitpaşa locations, where only takeaway service is available. Be sure to try the Spicy Crispy Chicken Burger, featuring crispy chicken coated in a signature spice blend and topped with homemade coleslaw in a brioche bun. Whether you’re craving a quick hotdog or a lighter wrap, Rebel delivers bold flavors with every bite.
Bronco
This is a destination that elevates street food to a whole new level, reinterpreting local flavors with original recipes. Bronco’s burgers, crafted with its signature Bronco buns, deliver a distinct taste in every bite. Accompanied by bold, flavor-packed sauces that go beyond mere complements, each burger takes the experience to the next level. Founded in 2019 in Vadistanbul, Bronco continues to captivate burger lovers today at its Sanayi and 42 Maslak locations in Kağıthane.
Cluster
One of the boldest names in Istanbul’s burger scene, Cluster delivers juicy patties, soft buns, and premium ingredients that make each burger unforgettable. Try the Aşna Vişne Burger, made with 100% beef patties, Erzincan tulum cheese, and homemade cherry jam, perfectly balancing sweet and savory flavors. The Tinto Onio Burger, featuring cheddar, truffle mayo, red onion, Cluster sauce, and German pickles, is another favorite.
For those looking for something different, the Holy Moly Burger, with avocado, cheddar, and chipotle sauce, and Cheesus Walks With Me Burger, with cheddar, blue cheese sauce, hot pepper jam, and arugula, are must-tries. Cluster is located in Caddebostan and Teşvikiye.
Dali Burger
If you believe a hamburger is more than just food—it’s art—then Dali Burger is the place for you. Named after Salvador Dalí, one of the most extraordinary figures in the art world, this spot crafts its burgers like works of art. Drawing attention with its special ingredients, inventive recipes, and unique ambiance, Dali Burger offers original burger varieties infused with creative touches that set them apart in both flavor and presentation. Located in Kadıköy, this is where gastronomy meets artistry.
RUB
If you’re craving a smoky, spicy burger with real character, RUB is the place for you. Named after the “rub” spice mixes used to marinate meat, this spot stands out with the special touches it adds to its burgers and meats. One of these touches is the unique rub spices, and the other is the kamado technique used to cook the meat, giving it incredible character.
Kamado, meaning stove or oven in Japanese, refers to a special cooking method using a ceramic stove that traps the smoke of natural charcoal, offering a much more intense flavor than a standard barbecue. Additionally, the airtight structure of the kamado prevents unnecessary air circulation and keeps the meat moist, ensuring every bite is perfect. The result? Juiciest, most tender meats cooked to perfection with the kamado technique over a wood fire.
At RUB, this technique is the indispensable secret behind its distinctive flavor. If you want to experience this unique cooking method, visit the spot in Suadiye.
