Welcome to Hamburger America
Welcome to Hamburger America, a nostalgic diner nestled in the heart of SoHo, where the classic American burger takes center stage. Founded by burger aficionado George Motz, this cozy spot offers a limited but thoughtfully curated menu featuring the iconic Fried Onion Burger, Classic Smash Burger, and a monthly special inspired by diverse regional flavors. Each burger boasts fresh 75/25 chuck meat, caramelized onions, and a buttery toasted bun, ensuring a juicy, crispy delight in every bite. The casual, trendy atmosphere invites both locals and visitors to enjoy not only burgers but also shoestring fries and fresh lemonade. At Hamburger America, every meal is a cherished experience, blending gourmet techniques with classic diner vibes.
- 51 MacDougal St New York, NY 10012 United States Hotline:
Welcome to Hamburger America, a quintessential diner experience nestled in the heart of SoHo, New York City. This gem, located at 51 MacDougal St, beckons burger enthusiasts and casual diners alike with its vibrant, contemporary vibe, seamlessly blending nostalgia and modern dining.
At Hamburger America, each bite is a celebration of the classic American burger, crafted with precision and passion by burger innovator and filmmaker George Motz. The menu is refreshingly concise, featuring just three signature burgers: the Fried Onion Burger, the classic Smash Burger, and a monthly special that explores diverse flavors from around the country. This focus allows the kitchen to pour their heart into every element, ensuring a quality that speaks volumes.
Some highlights from the menu include:
- Fried Onion Burger: A customer favorite, this burger is adorned with crispy, caramelized onions that add a delightful crunch and flavor.
- Classic Smash Burger: A well-balanced patty with juicy succulence, perfect for purists who appreciate traditional flavors.
- Seasonal Specials: Inspired creations that rotate monthly, allowing for new culinary adventures like the recent New Mexico-inspired chili cheeseburger.
While the primary focus is on burgers, the diner also serves a selection of delectable sides such as shoestring fries—crisp and airy, paired perfectly with any meal. The ambience resonates with a lively chatter, ideal for groups and gatherings, while the outdoor seating option is perfect for those who wish to enjoy their meal al fresco.
Despite its humble setting with limited seating, Hamburger America promises a remarkable dining experience. Customers rave about the quick service and the quality of the food, highlighting the efficiency of the staff even during peak hours. The casual, trendy atmosphere invites diners to linger, hang out, and savor the classic American cuisine.
So, whether you're grabbing a quick bite, planning a night out with friends, or simply indulging in the nostalgia of a classic diner experience, Hamburger America stands out as a must-visit destination. Dive into the world of perfectly crafted burgers that promise to delight your taste buds and keep you coming back for more!

This place has been on my list forever! Such a cute diner vibe and it does get really packed for lunch and dinner so be mindful of that. I love a good smash burger and this was good but not the best I've had. I would definitely come back and try other burgers on their menu but I think it's a cute spot for a bite and to hangout. I wish my cheese was more melted and that the burger felt more juicy but it wasn't bad at all.

Yummy burgers - we tried the classic and the onion patty. Both were tasty n made to order. Onion patty better. French fries were good

Burger icon, scholar, and film-maker George Motz is sharing his love for this classic American dish through Hamburger America in SoHo. Only 3 burger options on the menu: the fried onion, the classic smash, and a monthly special that features flavors from different places in the country. *Off-the menu item: the Chester (a must-try grilled cheese burger). This first-come, first-service 15 stool counter (seating room and take-out also available) is truly nostalgic, serving other American classics like fresh-squeezed lemonade, egg salad sandwiches, shoestring fries, and chocolate chip cookies. The line moves very quickly and service is efficient. Hamburger America prides themselves on fresh, finely ground 75/25 chuck meat and thinly sliced sweet onion. Motz's researched techniques are used to meld the caramelized flavor, balance of juicy and crispy meat, creamy American cheese, and perfectly toasted buttery bun.

Try the Fried Onion Burger! My partner and I shared the Fried Onion Burger, Classic Smash Burger, and Chili Cheeseburger (the monthly special). We both agreed that the Fried Onion Burger was the best one- I loved how hot and crispy the onions were. The other burgers were tasty too, but the Fried Onion Burger really stood out! The shoestring fries were also good as a side, crisp and airy!

We had to try this place before it went away. Of course, we ordered all 3 burgers to try. The steamed burger - biggest patty of them all. Onion burger - wow this stayed hot n fresh for a longer time than usual. So hot it nearly burned my mouth. But this was the most delicious. Smash burger - cannot go wrong with this. Fries were pretty good. A lot of seating but difficult to find. Eventually got a bar seating. Pleasantly surprised that servers bring your food out.

Having moved from the West Coast, I've been looking for a new burger spot that rivals In n out. I hadn't found one until now at this place. It's such a simple burger- patty and bread. But I can't describe how juicy and crispy and overall delicious it was. They gave us pickles as a side and the acidity was a perfect addition to the burger. Fries were also great- crispy and not too salty. Best burger i've had to far in NYC!

Hamburger America is the 1950s burger/diner experience you didn't know you needed until now. They make a smashburger style, and it lived up to the hype -- I had their seasonal burger (which rotates every month or so, inspired by a specific region of the country), and it was amazing. This month's inspiration was from New Mexico, and the green chiles were fantastic. They also have a few non-burger entrees on the menu, as well as milkshakes and a few other diner-esque treats. But the main draw is definitely that flattened patty of red meat. Not quite 1950s prices, with a burger, fries, and a drink running me about $20. But still definitely worth it for a well-made burger and a fun overall concept!