Business Details
The Birthplace of the Hamburger Since 1895
Since 1895, Louis Lunch has been a cornerstone of New Haven, Connecticut, celebrated as the birthplace of the hamburger sandwich. Our family-owned establishment, now in its fourth generation, remains committed to preserving the legacy of our founder, Louis Lassen, who first served a ground steak sandwich between toast in 1900. We pride ourselves on simplicity and quality, using a proprietary blend of five fresh cuts of meat, cooked on original cast-iron grills from 1898.Recognized by the Library of Congress and featured in major media outlets, we continue to serve classic burgers with only cheese, onion, and tomato on white toast. Our historic relocation in the 1970s, supported by global patrons, underscores our dedication to tradition. At Louis Lunch, every meal is a tribute to history, offering an authentic experience that transcends generations.
Services
Original Burger
Potato Salad
Potato Chips
Homemade Pie
Gift Shop
Highlights and features
- We are the historic birthplace of the hamburger sandwich since 1900.
- Our burgers use a proprietary blend of five fresh meat cuts daily.
- Cooked on original cast-iron grills dating back to 1898.
- No condimentsonly cheese, onion, and tomato for authentic simplicity.
- Recognized by The Travel Channel, Food Network, and Library of Congress.
Associations and certifications
- Library of Congress
What people say
BEST burger I have ever had
Worth the trip
Hilarious and fun staff
Classic, juicy meat
Amazing potato salad
Services
Original Burger
Hand-rolled from a proprietary blend of five fresh meats, our Original Burger is cooked to order on century-old cast-iron grills. Served on white toast with cheese, onion, or tomato, it embodies the simplicity and quality that made us famous since 1900.
Potato Salad
A creamy, house-made potato salad recipe passed down through generations. Complementing our burgers, this side dish is a customer favorite, praised for its rich flavor and perfect texture.
Gift Shop
Explore our collection of vintage apparel and gift certificates, including exclusive 'No Ketchup' tees and Louis Lunch memorabilia. All items ship domestically with a flat $6.00 handling fee.
People
Jeff Lassen
Owner
Fourth-generation proprietor Jeff Lassen upholds his great-grandfather's legacy, ensuring Louis Lunch's historic recipes and traditions endure. He oversees daily operations and preservation of the restaurant's iconic identity.
Questions
What makes Louis Lunch unique?
We invented the hamburger sandwich in 1900 and still use the original recipe, cooking burgers on 1898 cast-iron grills with a proprietary meat blend.
Are condiments available with burgers?
We serve only cheese, onion, and tomato to maintain the burger's authentic simplicity, as created by Louis Lassen in 1900.
What are your gift shop shipping policies?
We offer domestic shipping only with a flat $6.00 handling fee. International orders are not accepted.
What are your operating hours?
We're open Tuesday-Thursday 12 PM-8 PM/12 AM and Friday-Saturday 12 PM-12 AM. Closed Sunday and Monday.
