The Best Smash Burgers in Montreal
Unlike a more traditional burger, a smash burger is defined by its patty being pressed thin on the griddle until the edges turn crisp. That simple gesture changes everything: the result is more caramelized, more intense, and undeniably decadent when done right.
Originally from the United States, the smash burger has since become one of the great staples of contemporary fast food. Legend has it that it was invented in a small diner in Kentucky, when an employee, feeling particularly inspired, used a two-kilo can of beans to press a beef patty onto a scorching hot flat-top grill. That improvised move is said to have given birth to one of the most popular burger styles around today.
But what exactly sets a smash burger apart? The principle is quite simple: a ball of cold ground beef is placed on a very hot cooking surface, then smashed with a press. This allows the meat to make direct contact with the griddle, creating a deep, rapid caramelization. The result is a patty that is thin, juicy at the centre, crisp around the edges, and packed with flavour. Usually served in a soft bun with cheese, sauce, pickles, and onions, the smash burger relies less on thickness than on balance, texture, and sheer efficiency.
In Montreal, more and more addresses are embracing the format, and several now offer truly excellent versions. From specialist counters to neighbourhood snack bars, the smash burger has found its place in the city, with interpretations ranging from the classic to the more loaded and indulgent.
To satisfy all your smash burger cravings, here’s a list of the best in Montreal. In the same vein, here’s our list of the best burgers in Montreal, the best poutines in Montreal, and our suggestions for where to enjoy the best fries in town.
Happy discoveries!
Casse-Croûte MangeDansMonHood
Mange Dans Mon Hood hardly needs an introduction in Montreal’s smash burger landscape anymore. Set in the former La Belle Tonki space, the snack bar relies on a short, precise, and deeply satisfying formula, with finely smashed patties, beautifully caramelized edges, melted American cheddar, and soft potato buns. It is an address that has more than proved itself, here and beyond, with its Happy Ending Burger even being ranked among the best burgers in the world by Time Out.
Montréal
NDG Luncheonette
NDG Luncheonette is a cozy American-style diner in the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce neighbourhood. Open for breakfast and lunch, the restaurant offers diner classics, with a focus on local, quality foods. On the NDG Luncheonette menu you’ll find a delicious smash burger, a gourmet hot dog, crepes, a classic breakfast plate and more.
Montréal
Chez Tousignant
Stefano Faita and Michele Forgione (Impasto, Gema) and chef Yann Turcotte have opened a Quebec snack bar called Chez Tousignant in Little Italy. The name Chez Tousignant comes from Yann’s mother, Huguette Tousignant. “We put Chez in front of it to really give you the impression of coming into someone’s home, we wanted a warm welcome”.
Montréal
Patty Slaps
Ahhh, smash burgers. Soft, fluffy bread, a carefully crushed beef patty for extra crunch, melty cheese, sauce(s) and a generous topping for extra indulgence… it’s like heaven in your mouth. At Patty Slaps, opened in May 2023 by a group of five co-owners on Sainte-Catherine Street near Concordia University, you can taste paradise in every bite.
Montréal
Double’s
Danny Smiles has created a classic and tasty bar menu, perfect to accompany a drink. The must-try dish at Double’s Late Night is definitely the burger, which is now on our list of the best burgers in Montreal. Come to Double’s Late Night for a drink on a rainy night, to watch a sports game of any kind in a fun setting, to enjoy a good burger, to play pool, or to finish off a night of drinking. Cheers!
Montréal
Chez Simon Cantine Urbaine
Although the typical cuisine offered in canteens is well known, Simon Jodoin Bouchard’s is known as ‘urban’ because of the enhanced offerings it puts forward. The restaurant’s specialities are inspired by the fast-food classics of the American South: smashed burgers and chili cheese fries are the order of the day.
Montréal
L'hamburger
L’Hamburger on Saint-Zotique is known for its delicious smash burgers, compact yet juicy hamburgers. With a simple but perfectly executed menu, the restaurant also offers crispy fries, poutines, and milkshakes for a truly memorable experience. It is also one of Montreal’s best, and one of its earliest, smash burger spots.
Montréal
Le Jus
Le Jus is a tiny NDG counter specializing in smash burgers and fried chicken sandwiches, taking over the former Buboy space. The room is very small, with only a few seats, but that is precisely what makes it such a perfect stop for a quick and satisfying meal. You come here solo or on the go for an excellent burger, a crispy chicken sandwich, or the house’s essential cheesy fries. A modest little spot we absolutely love.
Montréal
Bāgā
BAGA serves smash burgers, fries, and drinks — and everything is 100% local. The menu is concise (three burgers and fries), keeping the focus on quality over quantity. It’s the kind of spot you come to for a quick lunch or to meet friends for a simple meal — maybe even a glass of wine (they have a liquor license!). The décor is absolutely stunning, far from your typical fast-food joint.
Montréal
ZEEZ
ZEEZ, on Mont-Royal East Avenue, is one of those addresses that clearly understands what makes a good smash burger: a thin patty with deeply caramelized edges and enough personality to keep you coming back, often. Among the options, we have a soft spot for the Chili Crisp, whose spicy honey brings just the right amount of heat. The house serves halal burgers made with fresh beef delivered daily. A Plateau address that more than deserves its place on our list of the city’s best smash burgers.
Montréal
Rosie's Burgers - Mile End
Rosie’s Burgers, in Mile End, confidently embraces the North American diner spirit in its most effective form. In this tiny red-and-white counter, everything revolves around a tightly focused formula: burgers, fries, milkshakes. The smash burgers are classic and well executed, with the caramelized crust you come specifically for, in a quick format that takes nothing away from the pleasure. It is an address that naturally earns its place among the city’s best smash burgers.
Montréal
Messorem
Messorem Bracitorium already brings together everything you need for a great night in the South West: beers brewed on site, a lively atmosphere, and an absolutely beautiful terrace. Added to that, seven days a week, are the smash burgers from its collaboration with Mitch Deli. It is exactly the kind of place to head when the craving for a very good burger calls for an equally excellent pint.
Montréal
