Buster's

Burger competition is stiff in the capital, but Buster’s has jumped straight to the top of London’s best burgers list with this opening from Other Side Fried duo Matt Harris and Tommy Kempton. This time, they’ve swapped poultry for prime cut Wagyu burgers at a small, neon-lit site a few steps from Brixton station. There are a limited number of counter seats for folks who are wandering past and fancy a bite, but it’s mostly prepped for takeaway orders, with a semi-open kitchen where you can watch your burger being cooked to medium-rare perfection while you wait.  

The menu hangs above the counter in black block letters and depicts a concise list of three burgers, two sauces, and a single French fries option. We imagine its brevity serves the purpose of reducing lingering time from visitors, while also showcasing the concept’s commitment to doing the simple things well - great burgers need not be complicated, after all.  

All contain a thick (not smashed) Wagyu patty that’s juicy and well-cooked, then served in a soft-but-sturdy hot buttered potato roll coated in sesame seeds. From here they’re pimped three ways; we opt for a cheeseburger filled with classic American cheese and a punchy green peppercorn dijonnaise, whole peppercorns and all, and the Buster’s Burger which comes dressed in its signature ‘buster’s sauce’. We couldn’t tell you what’s in it, only that it’s delicious. The French fries are the kind you’d expect to find in an American diner, skinny, crispy, and addictive. We could take or leave the IPA cheese sauce, which tastes ok, but looks a bit like someone melted down a Cheesestring.  

Not many burger bars put chocolate mousse on their menus, but Buster’s does an excellent version for seven quid. It’s ganache-like in texture and topped with glossy caramel and sea salt, then served in a stainless-steel coupe with a wooden fork. We couldn’t work the fork out either, but that mousse was phenomenal. 

Combined with an achingly trendy drinks list of Pet Nats by the glass, punchy cocktails and local lagers, Buster's feels very much like a zeitgeist operation, but one that absolutely lives up to the hype.  

Buster’s is a burger bar in Brixton, South London. The restaurant is the latest venture from the dynamic hospitality duo, Matt Harris and Tommy Kempton, the team behind the acclaimed neighbourhood restaurant Ploussard and the popular fried chicken brand, Other Side Fried. With Buster’s, the pair transitions from poultry to prime cuts, offering a simplified yet flavourful menu that highlights the best quality ingredients.

Situated just a minute’s walk from Brixton underground station, Buster’s takes over the former Other Side Fried site on Atlantic Road. The restaurant, housed in one of Brixton's iconic railway arches, has been newly fitted out, reflecting a modern and inviting aesthetic. Wood panelling and neutral tones, reminiscent of the understated elegance found at Ploussard in Battersea, provide a comfortable and stylish atmosphere.

The menu at Buster’s showcases expertly crafted burgers, using premium Welsh Wagyu beef from Alternative Meats. Guests can choose from three signature burgers: the Hamburger, featuring a Wagyu beef patty with green peppercorn dijonnaise; the Cheeseburger, with American cheese added to the mix; and the Buster Burger, served with the restaurant’s special Buster sauce. All burgers come in a specially developed, buttered potato roll that complements the rich flavours of the patties.

As well as burgers, the menu includes delicious sides like French fries and indulgent sauces such as chicken fat mayo, green peppercorn dijonnaise, and cheese sauce. For dessert, customers can enjoy a decadent chocolate mousse with caramel sauce. Buster’s also offers a variety of beverages, including locally brewed beers, cocktails, and pet nat wine by the glass.

Other Side Fried fans will still be able to enjoy their favourite chicken dishes, as the brand will continue operating as a delivery-only service, popping up at festivals and private events. Buster’s is a must-visit destination in Brixton, combining high-quality ingredients with a laid-back, vibrant dining environment.