A considerable amount of burger joints have popped up in Pittsburgh over the past few years. BRGR  (check out my review HERE), Burgatory, and Winghart’s all have multiple locations in the area. I recently got to sample the fare at Burgatory at the Waterfront.

Burgatory is a large space with minimal décor. The vastness of the dining area is necessary to accommodate the large number of patrons who visit during the weekend. We arrived on Saturday before noon, and seats were filling fast.

We were immediately greeted by the hostess, and shown to a table on the patio- a great space for people watching and fresh air. Our drink orders were taken, and the waitress briefly went over the menu. Instead of traditional ordering, you may also do a build-your-own-burger with pamphlets and pencils that are provided at each table that include protein choices, as well as toppings and sides.

Patio Seating

Burgatory Interior

There is a large selection at Burgatory- traditional burgers are available, as well as Wagyu (Japanese beef $14.00), Phat Patti’s Veggie ($10.50), Buffalo Bison ($12.50), Elk ($14.00), Crab Shack ($12.50), and Ying Yang Chicken ($11.00). All burgers are served with sweet and rusted potato chips, which were tasty and perfectly seasoned. If you’re not interested in a burger, opt for the high-piled nachos, garden fresh salads, or deep-friend onion rings.

Delicious Fresh Berry Lemonade

I chose the Wagyu Burger- other orders from our table included the Crab Shack, and The Green Apple and Quinoa Salad.

My burger arrived promptly, and smelled delicious. I ordered my burger medium (our waitress asked, “pink in the middle?”) Yes, please. The wagyu was tender, but unfortunately WAY overcooked. The aged Gruyere, sweet roasted tomatoes and truffled shallot aioli made up for the moist-free beef.

Wagyu Burger

The Crab Shack was tasty, but would have fared better if it had been pan-seared instead of deep-fried. The Green Apple and Quinoa salad had tangy dressing and crisp greens- the only thing missing was seasoning on the quinoa- it lacked any distinguishable taste.

Crab Shack Burger

Green Apple and Quinoa Salad

On our way out we noticed shakes that were being served- they looked fantastic; something we will definitely make a return trip for.

If you’re looking for a fun, hip place to have quality burgers, drinks, and prompt service, Burgatory is definitely worth a visit.

Burgatory, Pittsburgh, PA