Having been born in New Haven back in the 40's and never took the time to visit Louis Lunch, I thought it was time. In addition, I personally witnessed the moving of the building from George Street to Crown Street; it was quite an ordeal....The atmosphere at Louis Lunch is awesome; the tables, chairs and walls display countless carvings of names, symbols and comments. The burgers were very good reflecting the blend of quality meats used to make them and if you choose to let the staff at Louis prepare the burger the way they feel it should be served, is will arrive very rare. Realizing the meat is of such high quality, I had no issue with it being rare. I will state, however, that I would not entertain eating a burger that rare at a typical chain burger joint.More

Like the sign in the Restaurant says " This isn't Burger King, you don't get it your way" No argument here, you don't mess with perfection. Every Burger is made fresh from the toasting of the bread to the patties being freshly cooked. There are...2 choices for sides , chips or Potato salad. I chose the the Potato Salad and it was very good. I washed it down with a Foxon Ginger ale. it took less than 10 minutes from the time we walked in to getting our food.More

1st time customer and was greatly surprised by the experience! I figured a fun historical stop,and discovered a fantastic burger that is unique and yet just what a burger should be. You have to wait, but it's worth it!

About 15 years ago we were last in New Haven and Louis' Lunch was closed the day we stopped by. This time, we went straight there when we arrived. The burgers were really good and the whole family enjoyed the stop, ambiance, and appreciated the...friendly, hard-working guys behind the counter. We'll definitely stop again, next time we're in New Haven.More

Was on a business trip and couldn't leave without trying the birthplace of the hamburger, it was a good decision. The upright flame burners date back to 1899, no frills, never frozen beef, white bread, onions and cheese spread. The patties and onions are grilled...together so the onion is a little sweeter than raw and goes well with the smoky flame grilled flavor. A very juicy burger, grilled onion, toasted white bread and cheese sauce and that's all you need, perfection!! They do not allow ketchup but the burger doesn't need it. This is a must stop for any foodie or anyone who likes great food done well for generations, I will definitely be back.More

The burger itself is just OK, but I’m glad I went just to say I visited the place that claims to have invented the hamburger. Plus, the old fashioned building is interesting. And the chef’s wisecracks were funny.

I was introduced to this gem in 1990 on my first date with my ex-husband, I have been a fan every since. When I asked for a well done cheese works....Pops called the order, "One hockey puck for the pretty young lady". So, that been...me every since! I ditched the "jerk" who introduced me to Louis' Lunch, but keep coming to this landmark location for the best burger in the country! I'm bringing my new beau for his first experience tomorrow afternoon!! I cannot wait! See ya soon.More

I've been there in the early 90s,. ordered a hamburger & asked for ketchup.they got offended & said they invented the hamburger & a real hamburger doesn't need Ketchup. i was like" well i want some ketchup on mines'..it turned out that they was right.the...burger didn't need any ketchup,it was very juicy and delicious without it.More

Hamburger or cheeseburger- those are your options at this historic and iconic hole in the wall restaurant that has been around forever. I was a little wary of the white bread that is used as a bun but it held together remarkably well. The highlight...was the homemade potato salad.More

Cheese works and a birch - all you need to know! Our timing was impeccable, the large table was opening up just as we ordered. The staff was so fun and friendly, a must do on your next trip to New Haven. Very flavorful hamburger,...they’re right - you don’t need ketchup!More

Great Place, Friendly staff. Meat used is top notch fresh beef. I was very satisfied. I will definitly go back again.

I have been wanting to get here for months. So glad I finally did. Those burgers are just as advertised and the owner and staff are just as nice as can be. The building is so quaint and historic. Don't just get the original hamburger,...which is so tasty! You must also get the potato salad and a piece of pie. This will now be a must stop on every visit to New Haven. (so long as they are open - check the hours)More