ZipPicks Awards
Best Burgers in East Village
Best Late Night Burgers in East Village
Master Critic Review
Royale
8.3
A neighborhood bar that’s unusually serious about burgers, built for late hours and backyard-patio hangs. The burger is straightforward and well-seasoned, and the best move is pairing it with fries or tots and treating the meal like a clean, classic bar-food win.
Must-Try Dishes:
Royale with Cheese, Bacon Royale, Tater Tots
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A classic bar burger with a backyard that changes the whole experience.
Who should go: Happy-hour crews and late-night burger people
When to visit: Weekday happy hour or late night
What to order: Royale with Cheese, fries or tots, one draft
Insider tip: Sit in the back garden when weather cooperates—best seat in the house.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability and tougher after 6pm. Rideshare or walking is easiest.
Dress code: Casual bar-friendly — jeans, sneakers, and relaxed night-out wear all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate early, louder late — easy conversation during happy hour, more energetic at night.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours, shorter if you grab a bar or patio spot
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — veggie-friendly sides and occasional non-meat options, but burger is the focus
Vegan options: Very limited — not a reliable choice for a full vegan meal
Gluten-free options: Some flexibility — burgers can be ordered bunless; sides vary
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially for a casual first date. The backyard and bar energy keep things relaxed without feeling low-effort.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes. Bar seating and the outdoor space turn over quickly, especially outside peak dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Earlier in the day it’s fine for older kids, but the late-night bar vibe isn’t ideal for families.
Best For
Better for: Late-night burgers, relaxed group hangs, and outdoor patio energy that most burger spots don’t offer
Skip if: You want a quiet, polished dining room or a menu with broad dietary accommodations