There is something unbeatable about a really great burger on a Friday night. Whether you're coming off a long work week, feeding a crowd after youth sports, or looking for a casual date night spot, a top-tier burger always hits the mark.
Around Fairfield County, our burger scene runs the full spectrum. You can find everything from old-school waterfront dive bars to fast-casual smash burger joints and upscale neighborhood taverns.
If you are looking to treat yourself this weekend, here are four open and operating local spots on our team's regular rotation.
1. The Black Duck Cafe (Westport)
Perched right on a barge on the Saugatuck River off Riverside Avenue, "The Duck" is an absolute Westport landmark.
The Vibe: Classic, unpretentious, waterfront dive bar. It’s laid-back, full of local history, and featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
What to Order: They are famous for their 3/4-pound stuffed burgers. The Brie Burger—stuffed with creamy brie cheese that oozes out when you bite into it—and the Black Duck Burger topped with sauteed onions, peppers, and mushrooms are iconic local legend material.
2. Press Burger (Wilton & New Canaan)
With locations in both Wilton and New Canaan, Press Burger has quickly become a go-to spot for families across the area.
The Vibe: Fast-casual, clean, and high-energy. It’s the ultimate stop for a quick lunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or post-game meals with the kids.
What to Order: They specialize in smashed, grass-fed beef patties seared on a flat-top grill. Get the double Press Burger on a soft potato bun with melted American cheese, grilled onions, and their signature Press Sauce. Don't forget a side of hand-cut fries and a milkshake.
3. Brick Walk Tavern (Fairfield)
Located in the heart of downtown Fairfield, Brick Walk Tavern offers an elevated, sit-down tavern experience where the kitchen treats comfort food like high art.
The Vibe: Warm, sophisticated, and comfortable. It’s an ideal spot for a Friday evening date night or a relaxed dinner with friends.
What to Order: The Brick Walk Burger is a masterclass in flavor. Made with a custom blend of prime beef and cooked to order, it comes topped with caramelized onions, aged cheddar, and house sauce on a toasted brioche bun. Pair it with a craft cocktail or a cold draft beer.
4. Match Burger Lobster (Westport)
Situated on Riverside Avenue, Match Burger Lobster combines two of our absolute favorite cravings under one roof.
The Vibe: Trendy, lively, and stylishly casual. It has a great indoor/outdoor feel and a menu designed by local chef Matt Storch.
What to Order: The Match Burger is legendary—a juicy patty served on a glazed donut-like potato bun with melted cheese and caramelized onions. If you want the ultimate indulgence, order the "Surf & Turf" combo or add lobster meat right on top of your burger.
The Marion Filley Team Perspective
A great local burger joint is one of those neighborhood anchors that makes a town feel like home. Whether you like grabbing a quick smash burger with the kids after practice or pulling up a stool at a riverfront barge on a Friday night, having these spots down the road is what makes living on the Gold Coast so enjoyable.
