When a run-of-the-mill cheeseburger just won’t cut it, opt for one of these standout burgers at eateries across the Hudson Valley.
Why settle for subpar burgers when the Hudson Valley is home to restaurants serving up handhelds with inventive toppings? For those looking for something other than the basic patty, check out these locations that are piling delicious, unique fixings.
Burger Box
New Paltz
Dig into the: Peanut Butter Burger
Burger Box on Main Street in New Paltz has a plethora of juicy burgers with unique toppings, including those topped with mac and cheese or jalapeno poppers. But there’s one option on the menu that stands out for its unexpected combination—the peanut butter burger. Yep, that’s a juicy burger topped with cheddar, bacon, and creamy house-made peanut butter. There’s something about the saltiness of the bacon and cheese that makes it an ideal pairing with the nut butter. Sure, it’s unusual, but it’s also so good you’ll be a peanut butter burger convert once you finish the last bite.
21 Burger and Wings
Wappingers Falls
Savor the: Ghost Burger
For those craving a little bit of kick, the Ghost Burger from 21 Burgers and Wings (voted Hudson Valley magazine’s Best Burger Joint for 2025) is the perfect pick. The handheld is topped with fried spicy cheese curds, honey-chili-infused bacon, ghost chili jack cheese, homemade ghost chili aioli, and Cajun-style guacamole.
Del’s Roadside
Kinderhook, Rhinebeck
Go for the: El Camino Burger
Make a pitstop in either Kinderhook or Rhinebeck to enjoy burgers, fries, or freshly made ice cream. The El Camino burger will not disappoint, with toppings of avocado smash, roasted jalapenos, caramelized onions, smoky mayo, and pepper jack cheese. The jalapenos will be a favorite for those who like a hint of spice, and they taste even better paired with the pepper jack cheese.
Bridgeview Tavern
Sleepy Hollow
Indulge in the: Elk Burger
The patty itself is what makes this burger unique. With all-natural elk, muenster, fried onion ring garnish, and Jameson barbecue sauce, this one is a savory flavor bomb that hits the spot just right. If you’ve never tried elk before, expect a slightly richer flavor than traditional beef that pairs perfectly with the barbecue.
1Fifty1 Bar & Grill
Newburgh
Try the: Sweet Coconut Onion Burger
In the mood for a sweet and savory combination? Indulge in two delicious smash patties topped with sauteed onions, a coconut onion ring, pepper jack cheese, and sweet chili sauce from 1Fifty1 Bar & Grill in Newburgh.
Mountain Brauhaus
Gardiner
Order the: Gunksburger
All burgers and sandwiches at Mountain Brauhaus are served with fresh-cut fries or a house salad, so you know you won’t walk away hungry here. The Gunksburger features an 8 oz. Hudson Valley Cattle Co. short rib blend beef patty, muenster cheese, and grilled onions. It’s served on raisin pumpernickel bread with baby greens, tomatoes, coleslaw, and a pickle.
City Line Bar & Grill
Albany
Try the: Pineapple Teriyaki Burger
Pineapple is an ideal accompaniment to otherwise savory favorites, so it just makes sense to add it to a burger. At City Line, this burger pairs pineapple salsa with teriyaki sauce for a handheld that’s just the right amount of sweet and zesty. From there, adding salty bacon and pepper jack cheese takes it over the top. Lettuce, tomato, and a brioche bun complete the picture.
The Breakfast and Burger Club
Nyack
Don’t miss the: Disco Burger
This Nyack eatery offers a number of burgers with fun toppings, including one with eggs and hashbrowns and a French onion burger with Texas toast buns. For something truly inventive, the Disco Burger is piled high with French fries and topped with melty mozzarella cheese and brown gravy.
Related: 9 Hot Dog Joints for Classic Eats in the Hudson Valley
