It's on 4 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- Address1291 3rd Ave, New York, NY
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
JG Melon is testament to simplicity. The restaurant’s small menu keeps the focus where it belongs, classic no frills burgers served on checkered tablecloths. Opened in 1972, this Upper East Side institution gained the loyalty of locals for consistently delicious burgers served with a side of NYC’s signature gruff service.
The plump seven-and-a-quarter ounce patty is griddle-cooked to perfection and comes with a side of onions and pickles, to be customized to your liking. I always top mine with cheese and consider the cottage fries a non-negotiable order.
Served in a cozy tavern setting (chock-full of watermelon decor), enjoying a burger at JG Melon is the quintessential New York experience. Don’t just take my word for it. Former mayor Michael Bloomberg calls these the best burgers in New York City.
JG Melon is an Upper East Side institution that stays open until 3AM, which makes it the perfect landing spot after a night out. Their burger is a no-frills masterpiece with a juicy, loosely packed patty on a soft bun, and the cottage fries are the ideal salty sidekick.
JG Melon, a New York City icon since 1972, is famous for its incredible burgers and extended hours, making it a top choice for late-night dining in NYC. It’s a cash-only establishment frequented by prominent New Yorkers, like former mayor Michael Bloomberg who calls these the best hamburgers in the world.
But apparently he’s not the only one, Gigi Hadid and Bobby Flay have also shared similar sentiments. With all the (well-deserved) fanfare it’s safe to call JG Melone of the best late-night food destinations in NYC.
JG Melon is a cash-only establishment known for classic no-frills burgers and irresistible cottage fries. Established in 1972, this iconic New York City restaurant is the youngest on the list, but try scoring a table on the weekend and tell me they don’t deserve the recognition.
Served in a cozy tavern setting chock-full of watermelon decor, enjoying a burger at JG Melon is the quintessential New York experience. The plump seven-and-a-quarter ounce patty is griddle-cooked to perfection and comes with a side of onions and pickles, to be customized to your liking.
I always top mine with cheese and consider the cottage fries a non-negotiable order. Don’t just take my word for it. Former mayor Michael Bloomberg calls these the best burgers in New York City.
Established in 1972, JG Melon stands as an iconic UES restaurant, revered in the New York City food scene. Renowned for its perfectly juicy and flavorful patties nestled between buttery buns, it offers an unparalleled burger experience.
The must-try fries and distinctive watermelon-themed decor add to the charm of this cash-only establishment. Frequented by prominent figures like former mayor Michael Bloomberg, who dubs them the best hamburgers in the world, JG Melon has also garnered praise from celebrities like Gigi Hadid and Bobby Flay.
With well-deserved fanfare, it rightfully claims its status as one of the most famous restaurants on the Upper East Side (and one of the best burgers in NYC!).