Best Burgers near Central Park North, NY
Whether you’re spending the day exploring Central Park North, visiting one of Harlem’s cultural landmarks, or simply looking for an incredible meal after a walk through the park, one thing is certain, a great burger always hits the spot.
Just a few minutes north of Central Park sits one of New York City’s most celebrated burger restaurants: Harlem Shake®. Located at 100 W. 124th Street and Lenox Avenue, Harlem Shake® has become a destination for locals, tourists, Columbia University students, museum visitors, and food lovers searching for one of the best burgers near Central Park North, NY.
Known for award-winning smash burgers, organic handcrafted milkshakes, crispy fries, and a dining experience that celebrates Harlem’s rich culture, Harlem Shake® delivers much more than just another burger.
Just Minutes from Central Park North
Central Park North (110th Street) serves as the gateway between Central Park and Harlem, making it one of the city’s most vibrant areas to explore.
After spending the day enjoying nearby attractions like:
- Central Park North
- Harlem Meer
- Conservatory Garden
- The Dana Discovery Center
- Duke Ellington Circle
- Museum of the City of New York
- El Museo del Barrio
- The Africa Center
- Marcus Garvey Park
- Columbia University
- Morningside Park
- The Apollo Theater
- Frederick Douglass Circle
Harlem Shake® is the perfect place to grab lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite. Its convenient location on West 124th Street is only a short walk, subway ride, or drive from Central Park North, making it an easy stop before or after exploring Upper Manhattan.
Why Harlem Shake® Is One of NYC’s Best Burger Restaurants
New York has no shortage of burger restaurants.
What makes Harlem Shake® different is its commitment to doing the classics exceptionally well.
Every burger starts with a custom Pat LaFrieda beef blend, smashed on a hot griddle to create the crispy caramelized edges that define an authentic smash burger while keeping the center juicy and flavorful. The burgers are served on toasted Martin’s Potato Rolls with fresh toppings and house-made sauces that let the quality of the beef shine.
That simple approach has earned Harlem Shake® recognition from:
- Eater
- The Infatuation
- Forbes
- Time Out
- The New York Times
- Fodor’s New York City Guide
making it one of New York City’s most talked-about burger destinations.
Signature Burgers Worth the Trip
No matter what you’re craving, there’s a burger you’ll want to come back for.
Harlem Classic
The signature smash burger features two Pat LaFrieda beef patties, American cheese, homemade pickles, onions, and Harlem Shake®’s famous special sauce on a toasted potato roll. It’s the perfect introduction to everything Harlem Shake® does well.
Hot Mess
One of the restaurant’s most famous creations.
The Hot Mess Burger takes the Harlem Classic and tops it with the restaurant’s signature pickled cherry pepper and bacon relish, American cheese, and smoky chipotle mayo for the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. It’s consistently recommended by both returning customers and first-time visitors.
Harlem Jerk Classic
Inspired by Harlem’s diverse culinary influences, this burger features jerk seasoning and jerk mayo that deliver bold Caribbean-inspired flavor while still letting the smash burger remain the star.
Impossible Harlem Classic
Plant-based diners don’t have to compromise. The Impossible Harlem Classic delivers the same satisfying toppings and signature flavor profile using an Impossible™ patty.
House-Made Veggie Burger
Unlike many frozen veggie burgers, Harlem Shake®’s house-made version is crafted with wholesome ingredients for great texture and flavor.
Complete the Meal
A great burger deserves great sides.
Popular favorites include:
- Regular Fries
- Curly Fries with Smoky Chipotle Mayo
- Truffle Fries
- Onion Rings
- Sweet Potato Fries
- Chicken Tenders
The crispy fries have become almost as popular as the burgers themselves, especially the seasoned curly fries served with chipotle mayo.
Don’t Leave Without a Milkshake
The restaurant didn’t get its name by accident.
Harlem Shake® serves handcrafted organic milkshakes made with Blue Marble organic ice cream, organic whole milk, and premium ingredients.
Customer favorites include:
- The Harlem Shake® (Red Velvet Cake Shake)
- Cookies & Cream
- Chocolate
- Vanilla
- Strawberry
- Seasonal specialties
The signature Harlem Shake® combines Blue Marble ice cream with locally sourced red velvet cake from a Harlem bakery, making it one of the restaurant’s most iconic menu items.
A True Harlem Experience
What makes Harlem Shake® memorable isn’t just the food.
Since opening in 2013, the restaurant has become part of the Harlem community, celebrating the neighborhood through its old-school diner design, Wall of Fame featuring more than 200 celebrity autographs, vintage décor, and commitment to honoring Harlem’s history and culture.
It’s the kind of place where you’ll find:
- Neighborhood regulars
- Families
- Tourists exploring Harlem
- Columbia University students
- Museum visitors
- Foodies checking another iconic NYC restaurant off their list
That community atmosphere is one of the reasons Harlem Shake® continues to earn loyal customers year after year.
Visit Harlem Shake®
If you’re looking for the best burgers near Central Park North, NY, you’ll find exactly what you’re craving at Harlem Shake®.
Whether you’ve spent the day walking through Central Park, visiting Museum Mile, exploring Harlem, or attending an event nearby, Harlem Shake® offers the perfect combination of incredible smash burgers, handcrafted organic milkshakes, crispy fries, and genuine neighborhood hospitality.
It’s more than a meal, it’s one of Harlem’s most beloved dining experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get the best burger near Central Park North?
Harlem Shake® is one of the highest-rated burger restaurants near Central Park North, serving award-winning smash burgers just minutes from the park in Central Harlem.
How far is Harlem Shake® from Central Park North?
Harlem Shake® is located at 100 W. 124th Street, approximately one mile north of Central Park North, making it a quick walk, subway ride, or drive.
What is Harlem Shake® known for?
Harlem Shake® is famous for its smash burgers made with a custom Pat LaFrieda beef blend, handcrafted organic milkshakes, Hot Mess burger, Harlem Classic, and its celebration of Harlem’s culture and history.
What should I order on my first visit?
Many first-time guests start with the Harlem Classic or the Hot Mess burger, paired with curly fries and the signature Harlem Shake® red velvet milkshake.
Is Harlem Shake® family-friendly?
Yes. Harlem Shake® is a welcoming destination for families, couples, students, tourists, and groups looking for an authentic Harlem dining experience.
Where is Harlem Shake® located?
Harlem Shake®
100 W. 124th Street at Lenox Avenue
New York, NY 10027
