5 excellent burgers on Main Street

A classic Double Dutch from Meyers Olde Dutch.

Unlike the sandwich, the exact origin of the hamburger is still fiercely debated. Some believe it was invented in Hamburg, Germany while others think German-American immigrants made the first one here in America. And there are those who insist someone named Louis Lassen, owner of a lunch counter in New Haven, CT., invented it when a customer requested steak trimmings between two slices of toast.

However, what isn’t debatable is Beacon, NY has a wide variety of excellent burgers to choose from. By variety, we mean regular beef hamburgers, of course, but also salmon, turkey, vegan, and even Afghan burgers. It’s just not possible to highlight all the wonderful burgers available along and off Beacon’s Main Street, but here’s a sample of some of The Beacon Beacon’s favorites:

Beef Burger

Meyer’s Olde Dutch has Beacon and Poughkeepsie locations.

Although Meyer’s Olde Dutch (184 Main Street) offers a veggie burger as well as a pork and bacon one, the New York State Special (1/4 lbs beef patty, muenster cheese, garlic aioli) and the Double Dutch (1 ¼ lbs beef patties, cheddar, bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, fry sauce) are the two that stand out.

The Beacon Beacon had the Double Dutch on a recent visit and believes even a serious burger connoisseur would be impressed. It's served on a soft bun that doesn’t overwhelm, and all the toppings melt perfectly, meaning none outshine the others. It’s also a large burger that takes some diligence and dexterity to eat, but it’s well worth the time and effort.

Turkey Burger

Picture yourself at Yankee Clipper Diner (397 Main Street), sitting in a cozy booth watching the world go by on Main Street. The turkey burger you’re eating is memorable because, unlike many that are dry and tasteless, this one is not only moist but well-seasoned. Don’t bother asking the staff for the recipe because they won’t give it to you.

Not to worry, you’ll just have to keep returning to Yankee Clipper Diner for more.

Salmon Burger

Salmon burger and fries at The Roundhouse.

Salmon burgers are pretty popular these days, and The Beacon Beacon contends that the best in town can be found at The Roundhouse (2 East Main Street). Made with top-quality salmon delivered from the famous Hunts Point Market in the Bronx, this sandwich is served on a soft brioche and topped with wasabi mayo and kimchi, which are rarely found on a burger of any type but highly recommended. This burger is accompanied by a perfect side of fries that are as good as any you’ll find in town.

Vegetarian and Vegan Burgers

Beyond Meat Smash Burger and string fries at Cooper’s Beacon.

If you’re looking for a burger that tastes like vegetables or beans, please don’t order the Beyond Meat smash burger at Cooper’s Beacon (47 East Main Street). That’s because, although it’s not made of beef, it tastes almost exactly like the real thing. It’s perfectly cooked with grilled onions, cheddar, and chili aioli layered on top. Served on a gluten-free bun, this vegetarian burger can be made completely vegan upon request. It’ll make you wish Meatless Monday was every day of the week.

Afghan Burger

Afghan burgers from Nansense.

Burgers probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Afghan food. They probably aren’t the second, third, or even on your top ten list of Afghan delicacies. That’s why Nansense (2 Eliza Street) is such a pleasant surprise.

Although this new lunch place does offer more traditional Afghan food—such as rice bowls with eggplant and beans and vegetable turnovers—beef burgers are its specialty. Made in the increasingly popular smash style, these reasonably priced single, double, and triple-decker Afghan burgers are subtly seasoned with middle eastern spices that make them taste like a cross between a traditional American hamburger and a kofta kebab.

Don’t forget to order a side of the fresh-cut fries that are dusted with a spice mix we wish we could duplicate.

Other great burger destinations in Beacon

Melzingah Tap House | 554 Main Street     

Beacon Falls Café |472 Main Street

Carters Restaurant & Lounge |424 Main Street

Towne Crier |379 Main Street

Maggie & Ease |288 Main Street, The Hudson Valley Food Hall

BJ’s Restaurant |213 Main Street

Beacon Bread Company |193-195 Main Street

The Beacon Daily |29 Teller Avenue

Did we miss your favorite Beacon burger? Send us your suggestion here.

See our Eat & Drink Directory for the full menu of Beacon restaurants, eateries, and more.

Until next time…

The Beacon Beacon 🧡