L’Avenue at Saks
Burgers at Saks Fifth Avenue
Price: $34
Meat: Premium Angust Steak 80/20 blend | 6.5oz Patty
Bun: Potato bun made in-house with Idaho potatoes
Cheese: Gruyere
Extras: Applewood Smoked Bacon (included), Avocado mixed into the Sauce
Sides: House-made Fries (Idaho potato to match the buns)
Sauce: Fresh house-made mayonnaise with white miso & sambal sauce, scallion
This visit was particularly meaningful, as it was the final burger I wrote about before publishing my collection. It was made even more special by sharing the experience with a fellow burger enthusiast—someone whose own burger creation I hold in very high regard.
We arrived at L’Avenue without knowing quite what to expect, though its location atop Saks Fifth Avenue suggested a certain level of extravagance. Navigating the ten-floor maze of the department store, we opted for the elevator rather than a succession of escalators. The ascent set the tone for what felt like a destination dining experience.
The approach to the restaurant is theatrical. Guests walk down a long, dimly lit hallway, where glass panes on the right reveal an expansive kitchen and dish pit in full operation. At the end of the corridor, a hostess greeted us promptly and led us to one of the many well-appointed tables. The space immediately conveys luxury: light-toned wood and veneers envelop the dining room, complemented by rugs placed thoughtfully throughout. A substantial wooden bar anchors the room, while glass cases display signed memorabilia collected over the years—keepsakes that add personality and history to the space. Despite the opulence, the room is not dark or heavy. Large windows and soft drapery allow generous sunlight to pour in, creating an inviting and airy atmosphere.
As we settled in, our waiter—professional and impeccably dressed—welcomed us and gave us time to review the menu. Though we knew the burger would be the main event, I had skipped breakfast in anticipation and was eager to explore a few starters. We chose the Melon Feta Salad and the Yellowtail Ceviche. Both dishes were enjoyable, but the melon salad stood out. It was light, balanced, and refreshingly flavorful. The ceviche was competent, though ceviche is a delicate dish that demands precision in acidity and seasoning, and this version fell just short of exceptional.
The highlight, of course, was the Classique Bacon Cheeseburger. Its presentation was polished and refined, accompanied by house-made fries—an increasingly rare inclusion. No single flavor overwhelmed the palate, though there was one textural element we found unnecessary: the avocado. It felt out of place and did little to enhance the burger. Beyond that, the execution was strong. The beef was cooked beautifully, the sauce distinctive, and the decision to layer the tomatoes beneath the patty cleverly separated them from the sauce, preserving the integrity of each component. The Gruyère added a subtle French touch that elevated the overall profile. While scallions were incorporated into the sauce, I would have appreciated the sharpness of fresh onion for added contrast.
At 6.5 ounces, the burger is satisfying without being excessive—substantial yet balanced. The house-made fries deserve special mention: crisp, golden, and consistently excellent throughout. Most importantly, they are included with the burger, making it a complete meal rather than an à la carte exercise.
Although the price point is approximately eight dollars higher than my ideal benchmark, the location, ambiance, presentation, and overall quality help justify the cost. It walks a fine line in the quality-to-value equation. If I were in the area again, I would gladly return—though I would request the burger without avocado, which felt more distracting than complementary.
For those shopping nearby and seeking a refined yet hands-on dining experience, L’Avenue at Saks is well worth a visit.