📍Gotham Burger Social Club/Three's Brewing, New York City

This smash burger has been popular and trendy in NYC since smash burgers took off. There used to be a group of guys that went to different burger places and reviewed them called Gotham Burger Social Club which transformed into a burger popup. They ran dozens of popups over a few years. Due to location or schedule, I could never make it. It appeared to be quite successful. They posted pictures with long lines and big crowds. When I saw that they were doing a residency at Three’s Brewing in Greenpoint, I had to go.

I wasn’t the only one. The place was packed. The tables inside were occupied, both indoor and outdoor. It wasn’t that bad outside but it’s still December. The bar stools were taken with patrons crowded around attempting to order a beer. To the left of the entrance was a counter for Gotham Burger Social Club (GBSC). I later learned that it was a true residency meaning beer orders at Three’s and burger orders at GBSC were separate transactions.

First things first, I ordered a beer. Three’s has a great selection of beers and I particularly enjoy the Vliet. Since that’s accessible in many bars and restaurants, I wanted something else. I ordered a Czech Pilsner that was on the tap list, I believe named Lifeworld. It’s a full-bodied and toasty beer albeit fairly light.

I jumped over to the GBSC counter to order my burger. I had brunch earlier in the day and I had dinner plans at night so I had a narrow window. It also meant I couldn’t try multiple things on the menu. I was mission-driven to get a double cheeseburger. They asked if I wanted everything on it. If that’s how the chef recommends it or created it, then that’s how I want it. I got my number and went back to the bar seat. A short while later my burger arrived.

Two smashed patties with smashed onions, American cheese, pickles, jalapeños, ketchup, and mustard on a potato roll. This burger is substantial. You’re getting a lot of beef, bun, and condiments in a single bite. I’m not sure how much beef was in it but it felt denser than some smash burgers, adding to that substantial feeling. Some smash burgers feel like a snack, this felt like a meal.

I can’t remember the last time I had a two-side toasted bun. This was buttered on both sides or at least toasted on a greased griddle on both sides. The bun holds together well. If you’ve had an OKC-style burger, you know how the onions and beef play together. While smashing makes the edges crispy, the onion also steams keeping the beef juicy. The pickles and jalapeños brought some bite to it. They’re pickled Jalapeños, meaning they were not spicy for my palette. Lastly, it’s a small thing, but I like the color of the yellow mustard and red ketchup instead of an orange special sauce mixing the two ingredients.

I get why this burger has lines. Especially in NYC, this is right up there with the best smash burgers. Offering it as a popup within a brewery like Ted’s does in Miami and countless others is one of my favorite ways to enjoy this kind of meal.

📍 Gotham Burger Social Club at Three's Brewing
113 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

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