G spots [ Burger kings]
We’re flipping out over these hot buns!
THE WOLFPACK 21 4th Ave, Parkhurst; 011 447 7705
This raw-brick eatery, with beautifully painted artwork and a cool rooftop terrace, is one of the city’s hippest spots, with burgers to match. Try the signature Big Bad Wolf (cheddar-stuffed beef patty topped with wasabi onion rings, jalapeños, pineapple, pancetta, tomato and garlic aioli; R103). Outstanding!
HUDSONS, THE BURGER JOINT Cnr 4th Ave and 14th St, Parkhurst; 011 268 0713
A hip vibe, lively waitrons and plenty of vegetarian options are some of the attractions here. Go for The Boss (mozzarella and cheddar-stuffed beef patty topped with BBQ rib and pickles; R76) followed by a lemon cheesecake milkshake (R38), or try a ladylike choice of sliders (three mini burgers; from R64).
BGR Joburg 172 Jan Smuts Ave, Rosebank; 010 593 4545
Designed for “the adventurous burger lover”, BGR prides itself on high-quality ingredients and offers its patrons a choice of counter or restaurant seating, as well as takeaways. We fell for the cheese burger (beef patty topped with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onions, mushrooms, pickles and Peppadews; R59).
Durban REPUBLIK Unit 8, Broadway Shopping Centre, Swapo rd, Durban North; 031 573 1429
With amazing burgers, like the Republik 4.0 (beef patty topped with Camembert, deep-fried Parma ham, fig and rosemary sauce; R95), live music evenings and laidback decor, it’s no surprise that this spot is a local favourite! Feeling creative? Build your own burger with an extensive list of scrumptious toppings (from R65).
DISTILLERY 031 2nd Floor, The Foundry, 43 Station Drive, Berea; 087 941 4540
Durban’s first craft distillery has impressive artisanal spirits and gourmet street food. The Prohibition Waffle (deep-fried chicken served with relish and blue cheese dip; R80) is a tasty twist on the classic chicken burger, and we loved the white miso ice cream (R20) as a sweet treat to end.
UNION SQUARE 59 Adelaide Tambo Drive, Durban North; 031 563 0923
The ‘burger bucket list’ at this fun spot ranges from inventive choices, like the Asian Invasion (chicken patty topped with coriander, Thai green curry sauce and mozzarella; R60) to the popular Banting option (R59), although Banting lovers be warned: the chips are pretty irresistible!
Cape Town DROPKICK MURPHY’S 8 Kloof Street, Gardens; 021 422 2251
This popular Durban restaurant has set up a Cape Town branch – and we couldn’t be happier, as the trendy decor, cool sta , fun setting and stellar menu add up to a great experience. Our suggestion: start with the loaded potato skins (with bacon, cheese, tomato salsa and sour cream; R45) then tackle one of the delectable burgers. Our favourite: the La Paris (beef patty with bacon, brie and caramelised onions; R82).
JERRY’S BURGER BAR 5 Park Rd, Gardens; 021 422 4415
Comfortable, relaxed and situated in a vibrant, fashionable area, Jerry’s Burger Bar creates excellent classics, like the Cheapskate (beef patty topped with pickles; R65), but the part of the menu that really got us excited was their Burgers of the World section. Top of our list: the Japanese-inspired ramen-noodle burger, which involves a beef patty nestled on a bun made entirely of noodles (R79).
ENGRUNA EATERY 343 Main Rd, Sea Point; 021 433 0789
A welcoming atmosphere and attentive service combined with a somethingfor-everyone menu? Count us in! The tapas dishes include oven-roasted black mushrooms (R48), and there are fabulous burger options, like the chorizo burger (R82), as well as a wide range of delicious sauces (we loved the basil and blue cheese mayo; R20). Don’t miss the truffle and Parmesan chips (R40). You won’t go home hungry!