Boozy Cow
17 Frederick Street
This unassuming basement entrance opens into a cavernous space with plenty of room for groups. The smash burgers are the undoubted stars: confidently seasoned with a hit of black pepper that lingers, they more than hold their own against sides like the (utterly filthy) loaded fries.

Fat Patty’s
Edinburgh Street Food, Leith Street
The buzzing Edinburgh Street Food venture has proved a big hit. Among its traders, Fat Patty’s brings thin Cali smash-style burgers to the table, with lovely nubbins of caramelised and charred meat, topped with pickles and addictive house sauce. Guaranteed to trigger finger lickin’.

The Lioness Of Leith 
21–25 Duke Street
Burger Mama has ruled the roost at this Leith corner bar since 2018. With patties made from flank and skirt steak, their 6oz burger hits the sweet spot, served with cheddar, dill pickles and tangy mayo, all sandwiched in a brioche bun. 

Portobello Tap
87 Portobello High Street
The Tap draws a loyal Porty crowd with its Cross Borders brews, cool beer garden and top-notch burgers in a basket. No cutlery here; just grab it with both hands and bite into a nicely charred classic patty, oozing with mustard and ketchup, American cheese and sweet, fried onions. 

Salt Horse
57–61 Blackfriars Street
With 14 draught lines and more than 200 cans and bottles, this is nirvana for hopheads. While the drink options dazzle, don’t miss their banging burgers: 5oz smash patties, jazzed up with tangy burger sauce, monterey jack cheese and bourbon pickles. A winning combo.