The York

East Village

Friday night at 8pm – one thing I wasn’t craving was a smash burger while squeezed into a skin-tight top, preparing to sing karaoke on a stage. However, I quickly changed my mind when someone showed me the drinks list.

The York is a tiny bar in NYC, known for serving some of the best smash burgers and chicken sandwiches in the city. Behind the bar, a kitchen window is a hub of activity, with burgers, onion rings, and fries flying out. It can only hold about 50 people, and that's pushing it. Drinks took about three minutes, food about 10; aka, things move fast. It's seat yourself, order from the bar, then listen for your name, shut up, and enjoy.

I went for the normal smash burger with all the works, along with fries and onion rings. Everything was delicious; I honestly couldn't pick a favorite thing. Long story short, whether it's a date, with friends, or even alone, The York is a must-try. Enjoy a preferably alcoholic drink and savor the crispy, juicy, surprisingly light smash burger next time you are anywhere near ABC City.