Best Burger Joints

A short list of the best ones I've discovered (in no particular order):

Corner Bistro, New York City Although the secret's out, the Bistro Burger remains one of the all-time greats... when there's a line it just runs along the bar, so relax and grab one of the two interchangeable Light or Dark beers on tap. The Bistro Burger is scrumptious and melts-in-your mouth, the modest size leaves you wanting more... sometimes it's not a bad idea to just order two upfront.

Burger Joint at Le Parker Meridien, New York City This place is the "hidden" gem that everyone always talks about... anyone serious about a good burger needs to experience this. A quintessential "joint" atmosphere ludicrously located in a dark offshoot of the plush Parker Meridien hotel, look for the neon burger sign. As for the burgers, genius, the pre-condimentization (ketchup & mustard) is just right. The fries, served in greasy brown bags, are top quality as well. Two cheeseburgers, fries, and a vanilla shake will do about just right. Everything about this place is awesome, including their website. Note: no affiliation with the SF 'Burger Joint' chain-let.

JG Melon, New York City Heard about this place from friends for a while before I finally sunk my teeth into one of their perfect burger creations... it was so good that everything became a blur and when I looked up I had buried three bacon cheeseburgers. When burgers get this good there's no way to make them better... JG Melon's earns its place in this list in every juicy bite.

Dave's Not Here, Sante Fe Excellent Southwestern-style burgers, a must-visit stop on any trip to Sante Fe. The story goes something like Dave, the owner, traveled so much that the standard answer "Dave's not here" grew to become the name of the place... the walls are plastered with postcards from Dave's travels to the far corners of the globe. A little spice in your burger adds rather than detracts from the overall taste... bigger burgers, didn't dare go for two.

Joe's Cable Car, San Francisco Prices have gotten high, but Joe grinds his own fresh-chuck daily, what more is there to say?

Honorable mention...

Big Nick's, New York City Don't look for the best burger here, but sometimes nothing's better than burying a 4am Sumo Burger...