DB and I wanted to grab dinner before going to a show at BB King's, but knew we wanted to avoid eating in Times Square like the plague. So, we knew that our best bet was to head over to 9th Avenue. I kept hearing great things about 5 Napkin Burger, and even recommended it to DB's mom when she was visiting a few weeks earlier. So, now it was time to check it out for ourselves.
We were planning on a late dinner, and didn't think we'd need a reservation, but decided to make one for the OpenTable points anyway! When we arrived to the restaurant, it quickly became clear that was a very good move. There was a 45 minute wait at 9:30pm for a party of 2.
We noticed there were two empty tables right near the door and hostess stand, and I kept saying how bummed I'd be if we were seated there. Apparently the managers and hostess knew other customers felt the same way, and did not seat anyone there all night...maybe any night! Luckily, we were seated after only 5 minutes at a table in the middle of the restaurant.
The owners of 5 Napkin Burger created a very cool atmosphere inside. The walls and floors are covered with black and white tile. And, meat hooks and exposed light bulbs dangle from tracks that line the ceiling.
I glanced over the menu, and definitely did a double-take when I saw a few non burger joint items listed like matzah ball soup, sushi maki rolls, and charred salmon. Interesting. I may not eat red meat, but I knew I was definitely going to order a burger of some sort! We started off with the stack of cornmeal crusted onion rings.
The burgers come with a large side of delicious fries too. Onion rings AND french fries? Check!
DB considered ordering the lamb kofta burger, but ended up getting the cheddar-bacon burger...10oz of fresh ground chuck, with sharp cheddar, bacon, raw onion, lettuce, and tomato. He really liked the burger a lot, and said it was cooked well and full of flavor.
We both really enjoyed our meal and would definitely go back. The waitress was very friendly and helpful. My only complaint would be that apparently tourists have discovered this great restaurant...contributing to the long wait. But, just remember: make a reservation (even as you're walking out the door) and you'll be good to go!
5 Napkin Burger
630 9th Avenue
@ 45th Street
website
Menu Pages listing
We were planning on a late dinner, and didn't think we'd need a reservation, but decided to make one for the OpenTable points anyway! When we arrived to the restaurant, it quickly became clear that was a very good move. There was a 45 minute wait at 9:30pm for a party of 2.
We noticed there were two empty tables right near the door and hostess stand, and I kept saying how bummed I'd be if we were seated there. Apparently the managers and hostess knew other customers felt the same way, and did not seat anyone there all night...maybe any night! Luckily, we were seated after only 5 minutes at a table in the middle of the restaurant.
The owners of 5 Napkin Burger created a very cool atmosphere inside. The walls and floors are covered with black and white tile. And, meat hooks and exposed light bulbs dangle from tracks that line the ceiling.
I glanced over the menu, and definitely did a double-take when I saw a few non burger joint items listed like matzah ball soup, sushi maki rolls, and charred salmon. Interesting. I may not eat red meat, but I knew I was definitely going to order a burger of some sort! We started off with the stack of cornmeal crusted onion rings.
DB was a big fan...
...and so was I!
I decided to order Italian turkey burger, topped with melted mozzarella, spicy tomato sauce, and vinegar peppers. Usually turkey burgers are pretty average, but with these toppings and plenty of seasoning in the ground turkey, this one impressed me with its great flavor. 
...and so was I! 
The burgers come with a large side of delicious fries too. Onion rings AND french fries? Check!DB considered ordering the lamb kofta burger, but ended up getting the cheddar-bacon burger...10oz of fresh ground chuck, with sharp cheddar, bacon, raw onion, lettuce, and tomato. He really liked the burger a lot, and said it was cooked well and full of flavor.
We both really enjoyed our meal and would definitely go back. The waitress was very friendly and helpful. My only complaint would be that apparently tourists have discovered this great restaurant...contributing to the long wait. But, just remember: make a reservation (even as you're walking out the door) and you'll be good to go!
5 Napkin Burger
630 9th Avenue
@ 45th Street
website
Menu Pages listing
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