New York City, renowned as one of the food capitals of the world, offers a culinary experience far beyond its sparse gas stations. While iconic dishes like bagels, pizza, and pastrami dominate the dining scene, the city has recently garnered recognition for hosting one of the best gas station eateries in the United States. Smacking Burger, located inside a Mobil station in Greenwich Village, has captured attention as a top destination for delicious food, being ranked No. 7 on Yelp’s list of the nation’s top gas station restaurants.
Nestled in a prime location at Eighth Avenue and Horatio, Smacking Burger is one of the few remaining gas stations below 14th Street. Its menu features the much-lauded Big Smack, a burger celebrated for its two crispy smashed patties, caramelized onions, and house-made Butter Crunch pickles, all enhanced by a unique Smack Sauce. Priced at $10.99, the Big Smack exemplifies value for a New York burger. Other popular offerings include “The Truff,” a single patty burger with grilled mushrooms and truffle mayo priced at $9.99, and the loaded World Famous Fries at $9.49, making it clear that affordability doesn’t compromise quality.
Beyond its signature burgers, Smacking Burger stands out for its diverse menu catering to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and pet-friendly options. Recently, the establishment added milkshakes, enhancing its appeal as a go-to stop for both locals and travelers in Manhattan. Fans of the restaurant praise its flavorful offerings, which blend traditional and inventive culinary elements, affirming its growing popularity on social media.
The grill was established by Tommy Hondros, a native Brooklynite with deep familial ties to the gas station business. Having grown up around fuel stops, Hondros aims to revive the nostalgic burger joint experience, recalling a time when gas stations featured unique eateries rather than ubiquitous fast-food chains. Sharing his vision with his girlfriend, Elizabeth Torres, a second-generation restaurateur, the duo launched Smacking Burger in spring 2024, quickly achieving viral status and sustaining consumer interest.
Yelp’s recent accolade only solidifies Smacking Burger’s reputation in the competitive food scene, placing it alongside distinctive eateries like lobster taquitos in Yosemite and Hawaiian loco moco in Washington. It proudly represents New York as the sole establishment on the prestigious list, distinguishing itself from other notable contenders like Brooklyn New York Pizza & Wings located in Mesa, Arizona, which ranks eighth.
As part of Yelp’s updated list of top gas station restaurants for 2025, Smacking Burger remains a key player, joining diverse culinary establishments such as Tioga Gas Mart & Whoa Nellie Deli in California and Hillbilly Hideout in Arkansas. Its remarkable journey reflects a commitment to quality food and community engagement, proving that even in unconventional settings, incredible dining experiences can flourish, enhancing New York City’s already vibrant food culture.
