America may be home to the biggest burger chains and often credited as the birthplace of the beloved burger, but for the first time, the crown of “World’s Best Burger” has traveled across the Atlantic. In a stunning turn of events, the prestigious 2024 title for the world’s best burger, awarded by the ‘Michelin Guide for Burgers,’ went not to a U.S. establishment, but to a relatively young burger chain from Spain, called Hundred Burgers.
Hundred Burgers, a seven-restaurant chain with locations in Valencia and Madrid, has wowed critics and customers alike with its gourmet take on the classic burger. Its secret? A combination of 120-day aged beef and perfectly crisp bacon, creating a flavor experience described as “melting in your mouth.”
Co-founder Álex González, in a candid interview, reflected on this massive achievement, stating that being recognized as the world’s best burger was a dream come true. González and his business partner Ezequiel Maldjian didn’t initially set out to claim such a title, but their passion for the perfect burger has now landed them global recognition.
Their journey started back in 2017, when the pair embarked on a burger research tour in New York City. After sampling 15 of the city’s top burgers in just four days, they returned to Spain brimming with inspiration. What began as an effort to improve burgers at González’s mother’s restaurant soon evolved into a full-fledged business.
By 2020, they opened their first location, and within a year, they had already nabbed the award for “Best Burger in Spain.” Fast forward to 2024, and they now hold the title of the world’s best burger—a rapid rise to the top of the culinary world.
While Pizza Loves Emily, the New York-based burger joint that previously held the top spot, slipped to number two, the competition in this year’s rankings was fierce. Legendary spots like Au Cheval in Chicago and New York came in at number three, while other international contenders like Holy Burger in São Paulo and Funky Chicken Food Truck in Stockholm rounded out the top five.
The news has come as a shock to many, particularly those who associate the best burgers with American institutions. Even in Germany, often believed to be the burger’s ancestral home thanks to the city of Hamburg, contenders fell short of the top spot.
This year’s rankings are a testament to how global the burger phenomenon has become, with gourmet establishments from all corners of the world stepping up to challenge American supremacy.
The achievement of Hundred Burgers highlights the dedication, creativity, and passion that go into perfecting something as seemingly simple as a burger. The chain’s use of high-quality, aged beef and innovative ingredients has earned them a place in burger history, leaving fans excited to see what they cook up next.
As America digests the news of losing its burger crown, food lovers across the globe are already planning their next culinary pilgrimage—to Spain, where the world’s best burger now reigns supreme.
