The gourmet burger trend shows no sign of slowing, with four new outlets opening in the last month. Try these spots for a burger and beer pit stop, or a slightly more-wholesome bunless feast.
Corner Burger
After just nine months at Greenwoods Corner, this relatively new burger joint has opened a second outpost, on the corner site of an old petrol station in Mt Eden. Delicious burger creations include hickory pulled pork with streaky bacon, and an ice cream-filled cronut burger. The bar offers craft beer and cocktails in a tempting outdoor space.
395 Mt Eden Rd, Mt Eden.
The Burger Bar K' Rd
St Kevins Arcade's newest addition is a retro-themed beer and burger bar. The small space, which opened in July, has an old-school living room feel, with couches extending into the arcade. Burgers are handmade, as is the relish and aioli, and flavours include experimental options such as chicken liver pate with duck breast and parsnip curls.
Shop 18, 183 Karangahape Rd, Auckland.
Burg'z Burgers
Elliot Stables' latest offering specialises in organic, handmade burgers, teamed with organic wine and craft beer. The team swears by fresh produce, using free-range and hormone-free meat, and vegetables supplied daily from local farmers. Weekly specials like mushroom chips keep things interesting.
39 Elliot St, Auckland CBD
Al's Deli, Kingsland
A third outpost of Montreal-style diner Al's Deli recently opened in Kingsland. While the delis are known for their bagels, burgers (on homemade brioche buns) are another drawcard. Specialities including a poutine burger, and one-off creations such as the macaroni and cheese burger. Oh, and bacon cheeseburger doughnuts.
509 New North Rd, Kingsland.
Bald Eagle Diner
Set to open in Mission Bay next month, the Bald Eagle Diner is an unapologetically USA-themed diner, with gourmet burgers, hot dogs, shakes – and hard shakes – to come. Owned by the team behind neighbouring Mexican restaurant Dos Amigos, you can expect a similar party-friendly atmosphere – with the juke box ready to go.
89 Tamaki Drv, Mission Bay.