Durban’s Smash Burger Scene: My Selected 5 Spots You Need to Try
BY ANAZIRA ABASI
These are some of my favourite spots in Durban to get a good (and I mean really good) smash burger. You’re going to want to stay for this one. So, grab a snack and get comfy; you know the drill. I get so carried away talking about food sometimes that a 10-minute chat turns into 30 really quick.
Let’s dive in!
Foodwagen
We’re starting off strong; burgers are never just burgers.
I still remember spotting that iconic orange food truck/trailer at one of The White Boxx pop-ups. I thought, “Hmm, what’s the worst that could happen if I try?” and wow… what a discovery. I started with the single smash patty (MK1) and now? I can’t even look at anything besides the MK2. It’s R90 without fries and worth every cent.
Confession: I only learned what MK1/MK2 stood for this year. For the longest time, I thought it was someone’s initials. Please tell me I’m not alone. I’ll include a picture for those who also don’t know as well.
What I love most? Each meal is named after a vehicle. I assume that the owner is a VW fanatic. It just fits, especially with their counter top being a car. Their vibe, humour and personality you get when you step into the store makes them stand out.
My recommendation: Start with the MK2. Then, once you’re hooked, you can spiral into the rest of the menu at your own pace.
2. Stone
Stone pizzeria is not just about pizza, okay? As someone who refuses to order the usual creamy chicken or margherita like my family (love you guys, but please), I explore. And I explored right into their smash burgers.
Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned patties pressed between soft brioche, made into a slider that honestly competes with the pizza. Don’t get me wrong, the pizza SLAPS, so that’s saying something.
Picture this: Saturday astro. Lights glittering. You score the winning goal, then the smell of deliciousness hits you harder than the soccer ball earlier. That’s Stone. I mean being right next to an astro court? That’s pure genius because I know no one leaves without their post-match fix.
They’re priced from R50 with fries and get a clean 10/10 from me.
3. Foodcity (aka Smashed in the City)
Foodcity… my Overport edible love language
Whether you call them Foodcity or Smashed in the city, just know: they make some damn good burgers. The owners are warm, inviting and honestly reflect the food – simple, intentional and packed with flavour.
The OG smash burger (R85 with fries) is a masterpiece. I’ve tried almost their whole menu but the burger… that’s the one that kept me hooked.
You know, I can advise that when you’re looking for a good burger, don’t look far. I love how they’re rooted in our small neighbourhood joints. No pretence. No gimmicks. Just good food made properly.
So whether you catch them at the sporting events that they frequent, or you go in store and sit at the little benches, you’re in for a real treat.
4. Ironman Rare Steaks
If you’ve seen my video, you already know where this is going.
The cheesy dunked burger is genuinely, one of the best things to ever grace my taste buds and I know they thank me till this very day. The sauce is velvety, buttery, creamy but in no way overpowering. It complements every layer of the smash patties. Each bite has texture, flavour, comfort, and a bit of chaos in the best way possible.
Yes, it’s R140 and yes I still think about it at 11pm on a random Wednesday.
And then, they have this vibe as soon as you enter: low exposure, dim lights and gritty interiors. It feels like a private diner tucked away from the world. Aesthetic and delicious? I love that for them!
5. The Burger Bar
Okay, okay! I know someone is already screaming; “But they’re not permanently in Durban!”
Let me explain.
They pop up often enough, so whether you’re from Durban or Joburg, or just came for a salty ocean dip in the 031, chances are you’ll catch them at a market. And if you do? Get the nacho burger. Trust me on this, okay?
My first introduction to the burger bar wasn’t cinematic. My close friend’s uncle actually started up this business. So, when she took me to their stall and introduced me (long before I even started posting reviews), there was a little voice in my head saying, “just order a burger, you’re here already.” So I ordered the nacho burger (requested it to be mild), took one bite… and the rest was history. I find myself lurking on their page waiting for the next pop-up like it’s an unpaid internship.
Yes, they do a wickedly good deep-fried burger, but I cannot speak of anything except my nacho burger. Let me have this.
But keep some for me, I would hate for it to be sold out now.
Honourable mention: SJ
I just know that someone is ready to throw hands that I haven’t mentioned Smokin’ Joes. And in all honesty, I haven’t had them in a while, but they’re still among Durban’s best, and if you’re wondering which burger to try from there, it’s in the name 😉
Final Bite:
These are my recommendations. And listen… though I’ve been accused of having verbal diarrhoea, I had no idea it could translate into text too. Yet here you are as well, still reading, so maybe we’re both the problem.
About the Writer:
ANAZIRA ABASI
The faceless girl with the loud personality. I overshare, I rant, I review, and somehow the internet hasn’t kicked me out yet. I’m a digital creator who loves finding the beauty in simple spaces and bringing it into life through stories, voice-overs and vibes.
Sadz
December 13, 2025Awesome article🙌
I’m not doing enough, definitely will checkout every recommendation this holiday InshaAllah😜