Here in Deptford, we’re incredibly fortunate to say that within a 500m radius of the station are some of the finest contributions to this ever-burgeoning scene. So what makes a great burger? Is it about keeping it simple with just a patty and cheese? Or how about with BBQ and bacon? What if we told you one of the tastiest burgers we've ever had was actually vegan? Well, here it is; our short-list of the best burgers in Deptford.
All of the entrants have been rigorously tested and each was found to have been made with such love and care that we call on all of our Deptford brothers and sisters to think again before settling for a vastly inferior McDonalds - or any of the other fast food chains that plague our communities. Not to mention they're all available at such fair prices... Shop local, support independent restaurants, show someone in your community that you appreciate their hard work and enjoy food that is easier on the purse strings as well as the heart strings. So, in no particular order...
The Royal Standard
For those that prefer simplicity and consistent quality, head to the newly refurbished Royal Standard pub for a no-fuss burger in truly comfortable surroundings; great pub grub in an ambient and wonderfully warm-feeling environment - it’s probably the result of all that exposed brick, steel and wood work… This beautiful bar and kitchen, located on Tanners Hill and dating back to 1787, went through an extensive refurbishment of the physical space and of the menu and the selection of food & drink on offer. Expect friendly bar staff willing to make suggestions and some great local craft beers.
The juicy bit: The burger itself is cooked to medium with succulent tomato, lettuce, gherkins and a fresh kick of sweet chilli mayonnaise. The skin-on homemade chunky chips are definitely ones to shout about; fluffy sweetness encased in a crispy scrumptiously-seasoned skin. In terms of price, it’s not the cheapest for the area, but is still cheaper than your average gourmet burger chain, especially for those enjoying 10% off with their South London Club Cards.
The Bird’s Nest
This no-fuss no-frills pub has a fantastic menu, lively atmosphere and an unusually diverse clientele. Their cheap & cheerful offering doesn’t compromise on quality though, so don’t be fooled by the shabby well-used interior. The juicy bit: with a number of burger options spanning the full spectrum -usually no less than 12 options from the beefy ‘Breakfast’ burger to the more exotic ‘Wasabi’ burger with pickled ginger- there truly are options here for all. Prices start as low as £3.50 and peak at around £6 (chips are an extra £3), unless you fancy yourself as a contender to the Bird’s Nest ‘Challenger’ or ‘Tower’ burgers which, not for the feint-hearted, weigh in at £10 each.
The best part of this experience however is the disarming effect this renowned venue has on your self-consciousness; you can go to town on a juicy patty secure in the knowledge that no-one in the room is judging the way you do it. There is no pretentiousness here, just great food and genuine fellowship. Stacked on top of that is the team’s ability to satisfy vegetarians and vegans, whereby each of the burgers on the menu can be made without the meat and replaced with seitan, the faux meat option that continues to rock the world of the flesh-free. To wash it all down, happy hour is between 5pm - 7pm meaning you can also enjoy a cold pint with your burger for a measly £2.50. Expect down to earth customers and staff, a place to blend into the crowds and loud rock-n-roll. Oh, and the dress code is whatever you want to wear, however you want to wear it.
You can get 10% off with your South London Club Card too!
Buster Mantis
Moving towards the new Deptford Market Yard, two more venues make our list. I am sure you agree that it wouldn't be an accurate review of Deptford’s best burgers without commenting on those inspired by the flavours of the Caribbean, flavours that both Deptford and South London as a whole benefit from immensely. Chic, clean and vibrant, Buster Mantis is a family-owned Jamaican cocktail bar, restaurant and music venue with a varied and authentic menu.
The juicy bit: You’d be forgiven for wondering whether the only burger on the menu really stands up against some of the others in the area until, of course, you have tasted it. This tear-jerkingly good, superbly spiced pulled pork burger steals the show amongst the more traditional options on the menu. Keep things Caribbean and wash it down with a refreshing red stripe lager or a punchy rum cocktail. On top of that, enjoy 10% off your food bill with your South London Club Card!
Mama’s Jerk
Also under arches and only a stone’s throw from Deptford station, Mama’s Jerk is the more recent addition to Deptford’s food scene. The juicy bit: The burger here is a ‘Coco-bun’, available with jerk chicken or sweet potato, and is full of sweet and spicy jerk flavours. With locally sourced ingredients and a commitment to wellness, the food served at Mama's Jerk is as much for the soul as it is for the tastebuds. The bun itself is made locally with coconut and jerk seasoning, giving a sunshine vibe to the jerk chicken thigh or sweet potato patty within. The restaurant is incredibly intimate so be prepared to share some space or opt to takeaway. As with many of our independents here in Deptford, receive 10% off with your South London Club Card.
The Full Nelson
Last but by no means least, comes the Full Nelson. Sister company of the well-established Waiting Room coffee house on Deptford High Street, the Full Nelson, in their new digs on Deptford Broadway, is a vegetarian/vegan bar & kitchen. The space is elongated and intimate & always bustling with revellers. Their masterful chefs have worked hard to produce a menu of indulgent meat-free dishes, all of which are also available dairy-free (upon request).
The juicy bit: choose from four burger options including; the “Fonz” -american style smoked cheese & BBQ sauce-; the “Sith” -spicey sauce, jalapenos and more hot sauce-; or the ‘Colonel’ - ‘chicken’ fillet with garlic buffalo sauce, lemon and black pepper mayo-. Each burger comes with a brioche bun, finely chopped lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and a £6 price tag. Fries come separately and if you need a side, definitely consider going for a portion of ‘Seitanic Wings’ - you’ll understand why when you have them.
And so concludes over journey of discovery around Deptford's beastly burger joints. Enjoy!
What is the South London Club Card?
The South London Club Card is a loyalty card designed to reward you for shopping locally. Over 400+ independent businesses across South London offer our members set discounts as a 'thank you' for making the right choice and investing in your local community. While using your card, you'll be saving money on a daily basis and discovering the most amazing & diverse establishments South London has to offer.