Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Bryant Park, lies a culinary gem that has redefined the burger experience in New York City: Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer. For both locals and tourists seeking the best burgers near Bryant Park, Black Tap stands out as a must-visit destination, offering a fresh take on American comfort food with a dash of style and an unwavering commitment to quality.
A Brief History of Black Tap
Founded in 2015 by restaurateur Chris Barish, Black Tap began as a modest 15-seater in New York City. The name “Black Tap” pays homage to craft beers, where black tap handles are a common sight, symbolizing the restaurant’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Over the years, Black Tap has expanded its footprint globally, with locations in cities like Las Vegas, Singapore, and even the Middle East. Despite its growth, Black Tap remains true to its roots, holding onto its New York vibe and unique approach to the classic burger joint.
The Perfect Midtown Location and Unique Ambiance
Located at 45 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001, Black Tap’s Bryant Park location is conveniently situated for those exploring Midtown’s attractions, making it easy to grab a delicious meal after visiting landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, or Bryant Park itself. Stepping into Black Tap feels like a blast from the past with a twist—its interior is a vibrant blend of street art, pop culture, and classic hip-hop from the ‘80s and ‘90s, creating an exciting, nostalgic atmosphere.
The Burger Menu: A Culinary Delight
Black Tap’s menu is a testament to its commitment to quality and innovation. Each burger is crafted with precision, using prime beef and fresh ingredients. One notable detail about Black Tap’s burger preparation is their griddling technique. Instead of grilling, the burgers are seared and flipped just once, which helps to retain maximum juiciness and flavor, giving each patty a tender, mouthwatering quality that sets it apart.
Here are a few of Black Tap’s signature burgers, each one designed to cater to different palates:
- The All-American Burger: A tribute to the classic burger, the All-American is topped with melted American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a special sauce that adds just the right kick. It’s the perfect choice for anyone who loves a straightforward, expertly made burger.
- The Texan Burger: For fans of BBQ, this burger offers a smoky, savory flavor combination with bacon, crispy onion rings, and tangy BBQ sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that pays homage to Southern flavors with a New York twist.
- The Mexico City Burger: This burger is a bold choice, featuring pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, chipotle mayo, and a crispy onion ring. It’s got just the right amount of heat, perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick with their meal.
- The Wagyu Steakhouse Burger: For a more luxurious experience, the Wagyu Steakhouse Burger is a standout. Made with half a pound of rich Wagyu beef, pepper jack cheese, crispy onions, A1 sauce, and roasted garlic mayo, it’s a burger experience like no other, offering layers of indulgent flavors.
For vegetarian and vegan guests, Black Tap goes the extra mile with its Falafel Burger. This plant-based burger features vegan feta, hummus, and tahini, served on Dave’s Vegan Buns, proving that Black Tap can make delicious burgers for all dietary preferences. The commitment to inclusive dining ensures everyone can enjoy a meal here, regardless of their dietary needs.
Award-Winning Creations
Black Tap’s dedication to crafting exceptional burgers hasn’t gone unnoticed. One of their signature burgers, the Champ Burger, has won the People’s Choice Award three times at the NYC Wine & Food Festival’s “Burger Bash.” This half-pound Wagyu burger, topped with blue cheese, arugula, and a house buttermilk-dill sauce, is a testament to Black Tap’s knack for creating crowd-pleasing, award-winning flavors that stand out in a city filled with excellent burger joints.
Beyond Burgers: A Diverse Menu
While burgers are undoubtedly the stars of Black Tap, their menu offers a variety of other options for those looking to try something different.
- Snacks & Sides: Black Tap’s sides are as indulgent as the main courses. Fried Pickles with house buttermilk-dill, Teriyaki Broccoli seasoned with ginger, garlic, sesame seeds, and scallion, and crispy French fries make excellent pairings with any burger.
- Wings: Black Tap serves up wings with flavors ranging from Korean BBQ to Hot Chili and Mexican Hot, making for a diverse and flavorful addition to any meal.
- Craft Salads: For a lighter option, the Burger Chopped Salad is a great choice. It features a prime burger, American cheese, romaine lettuce, marinated tomatoes, black pepper bacon, horseradish pickles, and a garlic parmesan black pepper vinaigrette—a salad with all the flavors of a burger in a healthier format.
- Sandwiches: The Crispy Chicken Sandwich is another highlight. Topped with buttermilk coleslaw, cilantro, fresh lime, spicy mayo, and Korean BBQ sauce, it’s a satisfying, flavor-packed alternative to their burgers.
The CrazyShake® Phenomenon
Black Tap has become as famous for its CrazyShakes® as it has for its burgers. These over-the-top milkshakes are as much a visual treat as they are a sweet indulgence. From the Cookies ‘N Cream Supreme to the Strawberry Shortcake, each shake is adorned with an array of toppings like cotton candy, lollipops, and even slices of cake. The CrazyShakes® are an experience in themselves, often attracting customers who are eager to snap a picture of the extravagant creations for social media.
Craft Beers and Cocktails
True to its name, Black Tap offers an impressive selection of craft beers on tap, with a rotating list of local brews and fan favorites. The beverage menu doesn’t end with beer, though. Black Tap has a variety of cocktails that perfectly complement the hearty dishes, such as the Brooklyn Blackout and Pink Punk Mojito. With options that range from refreshing IPAs to classic cocktails, there’s something for every taste.
Customer Experience and Reviews
Patrons consistently praise Black Tap for its friendly service, lively atmosphere, and, of course, its outstanding food. Reviewers frequently mention the well-trained staff, who are always ready to provide recommendations or accommodate dietary needs. The playful, Instagrammable CrazyShakes® add to the fun and create a dining experience that appeals to all ages.
On TripAdvisor, Black Tap’s Bryant Park location has received numerous positive reviews, with many customers calling it their favorite burger spot in NYC. The restaurant’s ability to consistently deliver delicious food, combined with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, has helped Black Tap build a loyal following among locals and tourists alike.
Events and Private Dining Options
Black Tap’s Bryant Park location also offers options for private dining, making it a popular spot for events and celebrations. With fully private spaces, semi-private areas, and even options for full restaurant buy-outs, Black Tap can accommodate parties of various sizes. The restaurant’s central location and customizable menu options make it an ideal choice for everything from corporate gatherings to birthday celebrations.
Why Black Tap Stands Out
What sets Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer apart from other burger joints in New York City is its dedication to quality and creativity. The restaurant has mastered the art of blending traditional American comfort food with unique flavors and an imaginative presentation, appealing to diners who appreciate both taste and innovation. In a city where food trends are constantly evolving, Black Tap has managed to capture the hearts (and stomachs) of New Yorkers and visitors alike by staying true to its vision while keeping things fresh and exciting.
For anyone looking for the best burgers near Bryant Park, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer is a must-visit destination. With its iconic CrazyShakes®, award-winning burgers, and a lively atmosphere, Black Tap offers an experience that is as much about the ambiance and creativity as it is about the food itself.