Clarke’s has earned its place by sticking to the fundamentals, showing that a well-made burger does not need to be complicated.
The World’s 50 Greatest Burgers ranking has put Cape Town on the global burger map, with a local favourite earning recognition among the world’s best.
Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room on Bree Street has secured the 17th spot on Big 7 Travel’s list, thanks to a burger that proves simplicity can be just as satisfying as a towering creation.
The restaurant, which opened in 2011, has built a reputation as a relaxed spot for a meal or a drink in the city centre.
Its burger, however, is the reason it is now attracting international attention.
Clarke’s has secured the 17th spot on Big 7 Travel’s list, thanks to a burger that proves simplicity can be just as satisfying as a towering creation.
A burger that keeps things simple
In a world of elaborate burger combinations, Clarke’s takes a more straightforward approach.
The restaurant’s offering centres on South African beef, with the patty cooked to bring out its flavour and served without an overwhelming assortment of toppings.
Big 7 Travel describes it as thick, succulent and full of flavour, with careful cooking that leaves a lasting impression.
The ranking celebrates burgers from around the world, from classic American cheeseburgers to more unusual creations.
Clarke’s has earned its place by sticking to the fundamentals, showing that a well-made burger does not need to be complicated.
Siobhán McKenny, chief marketing officer of Big 7 Travel, said the Cape Town restaurant's approach was a standout.
“Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room proves you don’t need a mountain of toppings to make one of the world’s best burgers. It’s a wonderfully straightforward burger made with the best South African beef, thick, succulent and cooked with real precision. Cape Town has become one of the world’s most exciting burger cities, and having two spots on our list shows just how strong its food scene is,” she said.
Cape Town makes its mark
Clarke’s is not the only Cape Town restaurant to feature in the ranking, with the city earning two places on the list.
The recognition adds to the Mother City's reputation as a destination for food lovers, with its restaurant scene offering everything from neighbourhood favourites to ambitious dining experiences.
At number one is Hamburger America in New York City, a restaurant founded by burger expert and filmmaker George Motz in late 2023.
The Manhattan eatery specialises in smash burgers, including the Oklahoma and Midwestern Smash, cooked in beef fat.
Its menu takes a similarly uncomplicated approach, focusing on classic burger styles rather than elaborate toppings and sauces.
For Clarke’s, the international recognition is a reminder that a great burger can be found in the heart of Cape Town, with quality beef, careful cooking and a little restraint doing much of the work.