Louis' Lunch
4.6 ★ average from 5 reviews
Tiny rustic lunch spot with claims of having invented the hamburger, which it still serves on toast.
Location
Hours
- fri
- 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- sat
- 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- thu
- 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- tue
- 12:00 – 8:00 PM
- wed
- 12:00 – 8:00 PM
Photos
Recent reviews
- ★★★★★Mike A.
Stopped into Louis’ Lunch late at night on my way to Massachusetts and had a great experience. I’ve been here before during the lunch rush and it was an absolute madhouse, so coming in during a quieter time really let us appreciate the place. The guys behind the counter were friendly, welcoming, and kept things moving without making you feel rushed. The burger was juicy, simple, and absolutely delicious. Watching them cook the burgers in the original vertical gas-fired cast iron broilers is part of the experience itself — you can taste the history and tradition in every bite. No frills, no gimmicks, just an iconic New Haven spot serving a fantastic burger exactly the way it has for generations. Definitely worth stopping in if you’re passing through.
- ★★★★★Nick Howarth
I have been waiting years to have one these burgers. I watched a Food Network show on this establishment in life always got in the way of me getting down there, when we did arrive early on Saturday before they opened a line quickly formed behind us. The atmosphere was very positive about what we were going to have, the smells coming out of the windows was amazing before they opened and only further made me want to have one of those great burgers. When we finally got in and saw the nostalgia, That was this place. It was amazing then we were able to get cheeseburgers and a slice of blueberry pie, sat down at one of the small booths and had the single greatest burger of my entire 50 year-old life.I cannot state how awesome the experience was to bite into that burger. Then I was able to take a bite of the pie, which was equally as good if you ever have the opportunity to be in New Haven when they are open, it is my strong suggestion that you enjoy one of these burgers and a slice of pie.
- ★★★★☆Alan Tan
Whenever I’m in New Haven, the first thing I want to eat is a hamburger from Louis’ Lunch — the true OG of hamburgers. The burger is simple yet iconic: cheese spread with onion and tomato served on toasted bread. No frills, just great flavor done right. The hospitality is warm and welcoming while there may be a wait due to their traditional cooking process, it’s absolutely worth being patient. A must-visit spot in New Haven. Highly recommend!
- ★★★★☆Alan and Deirdre Forever
A quaint restaurant with roots dating back to the 1900s, staying true to its original preparation method. Medium rare is the way to go—it highlights the natural flavors beautifully. Simple, classic, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
- ★★★★★Roger Lobbezoo
My first-time trying this historic sandwich and it was delicious! The beef patty was prepared medium rare and was juicy and flavorful, a hint of salt and absolutely NO condiments! Served with or without cheese, tomato & grilled onions... we waited 30 minutes to get to the counter to order, then another 15 minutes to pickup our hamburgers... Very limited seating but customers pretty much eat and leave, so seating does become available. No reservations, first come first served... Felt honored to taste America's hamburger creator, not disappointed 😋