Brash Burger
Brash Burger. Image: @brashburger/ Instagram

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Exploring the smashburger trend in Cape Town

Finding the best smashburger trend in Cape Town can feel like a never-ending quest, simply because the city’s culinary scene moves at lightning speed. While the big names often steal the spotlight, any local will tell you that the true magic often happens in the smaller, independent kitchens tucked away in side streets. Discovering the […]

11-02-26 10:51
Brash Burger
Brash Burger. Image: @brashburger/ Instagram

Finding the best smashburger trend in Cape Town can feel like a never-ending quest, simply because the city’s culinary scene moves at lightning speed.

While the big names often steal the spotlight, any local will tell you that the true magic often happens in the smaller, independent kitchens tucked away in side streets.

Discovering the hidden smashburger trend in Cape Town

Beyond the well-known hotspots, several other players are perfecting the art of the crusty patty. Smasht in Rondebosch has quickly become a Southern Suburbs staple, offering a fully halaal menu that focuses on the “Oklahoma” style of smashing onions directly into the beef. It is a technique that creates a sweet, charred flavour profile that is hard to beat.

Then there is Burgers & Brews on Bree Street. This spot takes the “hole-in-the-wall” concept literally, serving up double-double smashburgers through a window. Their “Animal-style” fries – a nod to famous Californian imports- have become a late-night essential for anyone exploring the city centre’s nightlife.

Where to find the smashburger trend in Cape Town

If you are looking for the gold standard, Zuney Wagyu Burgers on Kloof Street is a must-visit. They use farm-to-table Wagyu beef, which means the fat content is high enough to create an incredibly juicy result even when smashed thin. Their “Wacon” burger, featuring Wagyu bacon, has become a local legend.

Just down the road, Stud. The Burger Shop offers a no-nonsense approach. With branches in Sea Point and Gardens, they focus on the quality of their pasture-raised beef. It is the kind of place where the “Midnight Mass” late-night slots are always buzzing with people looking for a post-event meal.

New favourites joining the smashburger trend in Cape Town

In De Waterkant, Le Pickle is making waves with their house-made everything. From the buns to the eponymous pickles, every element is crafted to balance the richness of their double beef patties. Their “Le Godfather” burger, with mozzarella and smoked tomato aioli, offers a slightly more Mediterranean twist on the American classic.

For those who love a retro aesthetic, Brash in Sea Point is the place to be. Started as a food truck, this diner-style spot serves up burgers with perfectly charred edges and a signature sauce that fans claim is addictive.

What is your favourite burger place?

With new pop-ups appearing at markets and brewery taprooms every month, the “best” spot is always up for debate. Whether you prefer the Wagyu luxury of the CBD or a messy, sauce-laden patty from a suburban gem, there is no shortage of options.

What is your favourite burger place that we haven’t mentioned yet?