Photos courtesy of Rosebud Steakhouse

Mark this as an historic moment: Never before in the history of burger reviewing has such an esteemed group of food writers been gathered to reveal their favorite hamburger joints. Epicurious asked renowned restaurant critics from around the country to identify their local hamburger heaven and describe the beef, buns, condiments, and toppings. Some combinations are classically simple (ground chuck on a bun) while others get fancy (want Kobe beef with that?). Buns range from sesame-seed to kaiser roll to rosemary-scented focaccia (nice idea, San Francisco!). Toppings are all over the map, too: There’s Gruyere cheese and Kraft American, garlic aioli and regular mayo, grilled onions and pickle chips, Bacon Bits, horseradish, and, of course, burger’s best friend, ketchup.
We made sure to cover the map: Miami, Washington, DC, Seattle, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, New York, Santa Fe, and New Orleans. Those of you who don’t live within driving range of any of these cities can head straight to our 21 Favorite Burger Recipes slideshow, Steve Raichlen’s Ultimate Burger Tips page, or our top ranked burger recipes and try grilling up a sizzling patty of your own.