The surrounds aren't much to speak of, but how many people want to gut a burger in the company of strangers anyway? Wouldn't you rather grab takeaway and let the sauce … dribble down your arms and chin without fear of recrimination? The burgers are extra large and freshly made with tasty beef, chicken, fish, or vego options. The guy who runs the place is super friendly without fail, so there's no chance of being looked down upon for downing a burger for the fifth time in a week. A choice of herbs and spices on your chips is a standout touch.[link]

I'm not sure why the Aussies got lobbed with beetroot and pineapple as indicators of Australianness in the world of burgers, but alas, it's a common sight on our burger … bar menus. Although it again features here, at least Burger Edge's creation, the Okker, pairs the great Aussie duo with smoky beef and bacon to offset the sweetness. I'm not convinced about the egg and aioli to top things off, but you can't argue that it's original. Down a few of these 100% Australian owned and made numbers, and you'll be an honorary Aussie in no time.[link]

Feta, baby rocket, jalepeno relish, and olive tapenade wouldn't usually make an appearance on the menu of a burger joint, but this is Sydney, where burgers are high-class … and grease is not the main ingredient. From its shop in Darlinghurst as well as Bondi and Newtown, this joint offers equally pleasing wraps and bun-less burgers for the carb-conscious. Don't be fooled -- they're not really burgers if they've got no buns.[link]

Traversing the Tasman Sea on its journey to Oz from New Zealand comes this franchise, currently starring in Newtown, but with designs on a sister-store in Kings Cross. … Super fresh ingredients and special sauces make this a unique offering worthy of Australian tastes. Their famous spud fries are chunky and delish, while gourmet enough to make you forget their equally as deep-friend and cholesterol-inducing as their cousins the greasy fries.[link]

Spilling out gourmet burgers in Darlinghurst (plus Bondi), this is not your typical fast food take away joint. With modern surrounds including bench seating and slick … décor, you're more than welcome to dine in and enjoy the various accents of the staff who seem to hail from all corners of the globe. Homemade mayo complements thick mince patties between what looks like small buns, but which contribute to a very satisfied stomach at dinner or lunch's end.[link]

Bite Me's made a name for itself in the eastern suburbs, where the adage seems to be the more upmarket burger joints, the merrier, before expanding to Paddington. But … this one could almost pass as healthy. And, with the online promise of "dozens more to come," chances are it's going to take over the world.[link]