If there’s one thing Australians can’t resist, it’s a properly made burger - juicy, flavour-packed and loaded with just the right balance of fresh and indulgent toppings. Whether you’re craving a classic beef burger with all the fixings or something a little more adventurous, these standout venues are dishing up the best burgers from the South Coast to the Gold Coast.
The Hungry Monkey – Kiama, NSW
A road trip down the South Coast is always a good idea and stopping by The Hungry Monkey in Kiama makes it even better. Just a short stroll from the iconic blowhole, this café-turned-burger-hotspot serves up a casual, beachy vibe with seating options ranging from inside by a playful comic strip mural to the breezy verandah. The scent of fresh-baked treats and locally roasted coffee fills the air, making it an ideal stop for both early risers and lunch-goers.
When it comes to burgers, The Hungry Monkey doesn’t hold back. The Bad Boy is an absolute must-try, layering a juicy beef patty with crispy battered onion rings, bacon, melted American cheese and a smoky combo of chipotle aioli and mustard mayo.
For those after something a little different, the Lady Ba Ba delivers slow-cooked pulled lamb, roasted onion, mint, olive tapenade, rocket and garlic sauce in a gourmet twist. If you’re after the ultimate comfort bite, the Southern Fry - featuring crispy Southern fried chicken, butter lettuce, American cheese, jalapeños and Monkey hot sauce - hits all the right notes.
Heritage Hotel Motel – Dorrigo, NSW
A slice of history with a side of classic pub fare, Heritage Hotel Motel in Dorrigo has been welcoming guests since 1925. Perched at the town’s main intersection, this charming stay is brimming with old-world character, from its timber wardrobes to the wide verandahs perfect for an afternoon wind-down. With a bistro that dishes out locally sourced produce daily, it’s a popular stop for both locals and visitors heading out to explore the surrounding waterfalls and national parks.
While the bistro offers a range of hearty meals, it’s the steak sandwich with chips that stands tall as the burger lover’s choice. Featuring a thick-cut, juicy steak stacked with fresh lettuce, tomato and caramelised onions, it’s finished with a generous drizzle of rich, creamy garlic sauce that elevates it beyond your average pub bite.
Sandy’s Bar and Grill – Pacific Pines, Qld
Tucked away in Pines Point on the Gold Coast, Sandy’s Bar and Grill blends relaxed coastal charm with modern dining. The restaurant’s inviting interiors, featuring blue accents, reclaimed timber flooring and softly glowing pendant lights, create a laid-back yet stylish setting. For those who prefer the fresh air, the covered alfresco area, adorned with twinkling lights, is the perfect spot for a casual meal under the Queensland sky.
The Black Angus burger is a masterpiece of classic Aussie burger nostalgia. A perfectly grilled Angus beef patty is stacked high with crispy bacon, caramelised onions, fresh tomato, sliced beetroot, lettuce, cheese and a fried egg, all nestled inside a buttery brioche bun. Topped off with a rich BBQ sauce, this burger delivers all the smoky, sweet and savoury notes that make it an instant favourite.
Naked Racer Bar Café – Cheltenham, Vic
For a burger experience with a side of motorcycle culture, Naked Racer Bar Café in Cheltenham offers something truly unique. Housed inside Antique Motorcycles, this venue is a haven for both bike enthusiasts and food lovers alike. The atmosphere is vibrant and eclectic, with vintage bikes hanging from the ceiling, rustic timber furniture and live music setting the scene for a lively dining experience.
Among the many indulgent offerings, the Naked Racer Burger takes the crown. A succulent Wagyu beef patty is paired with crispy bacon, melted tasty cheese, beetroot, fresh tomato, lettuce, onion jam and a generous slathering of tomato relish. Juicy, smoky and full of flavour, this is the kind of burger that keeps you coming back for more.
A hidden gem in the coastal town of Eden, Rusty Plough is all about warm hospitality, rustic charm and farm-fresh flavours. Whether you’re enjoying a coffee in the alfresco courtyard, surrounded by an edible kitchen garden, or settling into a cosy spot inside by the crackling fireplace, this café is as welcoming as it gets. With a menu that changes regularly based on local seasonal produce, everything here is made in-house with care.
For burger fans, the Errol Burger is a standout. A perfectly grilled steak is layered with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato and a luxurious topping of prawns smothered in creamy garlic sauce. A little bit surf, a little bit turf, this burger is an unexpected yet utterly delicious take on the classic steak sandwich.
From classic beef and crispy chicken to gourmet steak-and-prawn creations, these burger spots across NSW, Vic and Qld prove that the humble burger is anything but ordinary. Whether you’re road-tripping down the coast or looking for a new local favourite, these venues are flipping up some of the best burgers in the game. The only question is - which one will you try first?
