The Naples Burger Guide: Top Patties for Every Mood
With Shake Shack finally opening at Mercato, it feels like the right time to talk burgers. Shake Shack tastes like stressed lunch breaks when I worked in the Financial District in New York, so I’m pausing a trip down memory lane for now. Naples, thankfully, has a range of killer burgers: old-school bar classics to wagyu blends, thoughtful sourcing, and pop-ups that sell out in an hour.
Brooks Burgers is still the local heavyweight and the first stop for anyone building their Naples burger map. Once ranked #2 in the nation on TripAdvisor for burgers (yes, the nation), it’s earned its reputation for consistency and unique flavors (like their signature glazed donut burger). Brooks is the blueprint: you can go outrageous or keep it simple, but either way, it’s still a reliable family favorite.
If you’ve already crossed Brooks off your list, here’s where the flavor trail leads next:
Only Doubles (rotating pop-up, often at Brookside Beer Market)
This one’s a cult favorite and proudly untraditional. There’s no dining room, just a sizzling grill with lines down the block and a loyal local following. In 2024, it won the Naples Daily News burger bracket by popular vote, which tells you everything you need to know. Each burger is a double-patty smash with a satisfying crisp. Follow them on Instagram @onlydoubles to catch the next appearance and specialty flavors (and go early -- they always sell out). They’re usually at Brookside Market on Wednesdays and Fridays from 5PM.
Jimmy P’s Charred, 1839 Tamiami Trl N, Naples
If burgers were graded like steak, this would be the honor student. Coming from the well-known Jimmy P’s butcher family, the burger game here starts with impeccable wagyu beef that is ground on site. You can taste the difference in the way it melts in your mouth and perfectly contrasts with the char on the outside. Their Jalapeno smash burger is a fan favorite if you can handle some heat. Check out their weekly lunch specials for a killer deal. On “Burger Madness” days, you can get a half-pound Wagyu burger for just $16 with your choice of fries or tots, plus a soft drink.
Lake Park Diner, 944 7th Ave N, Naples
Lake Park Diner feels like a breath of fresh air. Literally, it's a bright patio and a clean ingredients list. Every burger is made with antibiotic-free, hormone-free beef, and the toppings balance freshness with flavor. Think diner comfort without the heavy aftermath. A great midday option when you want to indulge a little without needing a nap. Bonus points for the old-fashioned milkshakes that taste as if they came from an actual soda fountain.
Harold’s Place, 2555 Tamiami Trl N, Naples
This one’s been a neighborhood staple for decades (44 years!), and thus has many long-standing fans. Get the classic burger, the Southwest, or the ever-popular sliders and don’t think twice. This outdoor restaurant is around a pool, so expect a casual, Tiki hut ambiance to one of Naples’ favorite bites.
Syren Oyster & Cocktail Bar, 336 13th Ave S, Naples
You don’t expect to find one of Naples’ most underrated burgers at a seafood bar, but here we are. Syren’s double smashburger is still somewhat of a secret. With crisp sear, a special Syren sauce, homemade pickles, and Syren fries, it’s worth trying at least once even though it’s one of the more pricey burgers on this list ($26).
The Warren, 111 10th St S, Naples
If you want to get dressed up… and have a burger that is dressed up, head to The Warren for an upscale bourbon-and-steakhouse vibe. Premium, thick burgers cooked exactly as you would want. Choose from either a bone marrow blend or signature dry-aged blend burger patty. Their “Damn Good” burger is a favorite and comes with gruyere and a fried egg on a soft brioche bun. Best with a neat pour from one of their hundreds of whiskeys.
Naples might not shout “burger town,” but it has a deep lineup of burgers that can hold its own. Both smashburger fiends and thick patty enthusiasts can find their perfect burger here—if they know where to look.