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One of the world’s best burgers is right here in Tokyo

This local smash burger joint made Time Out Worldwide’s list of the world’s best burgers

Kaila Imada
Written by
Kaila Imada
Digital Editor, Time Out Tokyo
Smash Things
Photo: Kisa Toyoshima | Smash Things
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While Tokyo is known among foodies especially for its sushi, ramen and Michelin-starred dining, sometimes nothing hits the spot quite like a really good classic burger. Fortunately the capital is a great place to indulge in one, thanks to its abundance of homegrown burger chains and speciality restaurants serving gourmet creations made with top-notch beef.

To prove our point, Time Out Worldwide’s just-released roundup of the world’s best burgers has Tokyo in a prominent spot. The roundup features burgers from 14 cities worldwide, each personally selected by Time Out editors and listed according to their Google star ratings.

The Tokyo restaurant to make the list is Smash Things – a tiny burger shop located in Komazawa-Daigaku, just a short distance from Komazawa Park. 

Smash Things
Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaSmash Things

Smash Things is known for its ultra-thin patties made with 100 percent Japanese black wagyu beef – the kind of premium meat that makes Japan an obvious contender for some of the world’s best burgers. The beef is smashed on a blazing-hot griddle to create a crispy crust and juicy interior, while the burgers are kept intentionally simple to let the wagyu shine, topped only with onion, cheese and original mayo-based sauce, then served on your choice of a milk or charcoal-coloured bun.

Smash Things
Photo: Kisa ToyoshimaSmash Things

Since the patties are thin, it's recommended to order a double or triple, but you can also opt for other versions like the bacon cheeseburger or the Oklahoma-style loaded with sliced onions. Burgers with the charcoal bun also come in other variations like one topped with chilli cheese, mushrooms, or avocado and basil. 

For more meaty goodness, check out the full list of Time Out’s world’s best burgers.

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