The Best Burgers in South Africa: Rocomamas vs Babylonstoren -

Table of Contents

The Best Burgers: What Makes a Burger Truly Great?

When it comes to the best burgers, every burger lover has an opinion. Some swear by classic cheeseburgers, while others go all out with double patties, crispy bacon, guacamole, and gourmet buns. The truth is, the perfect burger is a blend of quality ingredients, expert preparation, and a balance of textures and flavors that tantalize your taste buds from the first bite to the last. In this post, we’re diving deep into the battle for the best burger in South Africa, comparing two beloved spots: the well-known fast-food gem Rocomamas, and the rustic, farm-to-table magic of Babylonstoren.

Burgers have evolved over the years. No longer just a quick meal, they’ve become gourmet experiences. And as South Africa’s food scene continues to grow, burger fans are treated to some of the most unique and flavorful creations anywhere in the world. Whether you’re craving the grease of a fast-food masterpiece or the organic perfection of a farm-style patty, the choices are endless — but which one truly holds the title of best burger in South Africa?

Rocomamas Bacon Cheese Guac Burger: A Fast-Food Legend

If you’re familiar with South African burger joints, then Rocomamas needs no introduction. Known for their quirky vibes and build-your-own burger menus, this fast-food chain has carved out a major fan base. One of their most iconic creations is the Bacon Cheese Guac Burger, which has long held a spot in my heart as my all-time favorite.

What made it so special? It wasn’t just the ingredients — crispy bacon, creamy guacamole, melted cheddar, and a juicy patty grilled to perfection. It was the consistency. Whenever I ordered it and asked for my bacon “super extra crispy,” they nailed it every time. The mix of creamy and crunchy, savory and salty, all wrapped in a soft toasted bun — it was a celebration of indulgence. For years, I considered it the best burger in South Africa, hands down.

Rocomamas also made the experience fun. Their vibrant atmosphere, cool branding, and customizable options made every visit exciting. It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience. If you’re a fan of fast food that tastes like gourmet, Rocomamas is still one of the top contenders for best burgers in South Africa.

Babylonstoren Burgers: Homemade Perfection Beyond Expectations

And then, one weekend, everything changed. I discovered the burgers at Babylonstoren — a lush farm, winery, and boutique hotel tucked away in the Western Cape. I had no idea that they served burgers. And certainly no idea that I was about to experience something that would dethrone Rocomamas in my personal burger rankings.

Their homemade burgers are everything you didn’t know you were missing. First, the patty: grass-fed, farm-raised beef, seasoned simply and grilled with love. Then comes the bun, baked fresh daily using heritage flour, slightly crusty on the outside but perfectly pillowy on the inside. The toppings? Locally sourced produce, artisanal cheese, and in-house sauces that are bursting with flavor.

What really sets Babylonstoren burgers apart is the attention to detail. Each burger feels like a curated experience. No greasy wrappers. No mass production. Just honest-to-goodness quality. It’s the kind of burger that makes you pause after every bite to savor the flavor. I didn’t expect it to be that good — but it was, and then some.

If you want to try a burger that reflects the future of sustainable, conscious eating while still hitting every note of indulgent satisfaction, Babylonstoren is your destination. It’s not just one of the best burgers in South Africa — it might be the best burger I’ve ever had, period.

Best Burger Showdown: Fast-Food vs Farm-to-Table

So which burger wins? Rocomamas’ Bacon Cheese Guac Burger or Babylonstoren’s Homemade Masterpiece? Honestly, it comes down to what you’re looking for. If you want a quick, fun, flavor-packed bite, Rocomamas hits the spot. It’s reliable, delicious, and always satisfying. But if you’re after something more elevated, something that captures the beauty of local ingredients and the joy of homemade food, Babylonstoren takes the crown.

The real beauty is that South Africa offers both. Whether you’re in the mood for a cheeky burger with crispy bacon or an elegant farm-inspired dish served under oak trees, the options are there — and they’re spectacular. Foodies are spoiled for choice in this country. The burger scene is alive and thriving, with new contenders popping up across Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and beyond.

If you’re planning your next foodie adventure, make sure to include both of these spots on your list. You’ll taste the full spectrum of what makes burgers so universally loved — and uniquely South African.

Exploring Other Best Burger Spots in South Africa

Beyond Rocomamas and Babylonstoren, South Africa boasts a host of burger joints worth exploring. In Cape Town, try Jason Bakery for a burger made with their famous brioche buns. In Johannesburg, visit BGR for American-style smashburgers that are crispy on the edges and juicy in the middle. And if you’re in Durban, Smokin Joe’s offers smoky barbecue-style burgers that are bold and unforgettable.

South Africa’s burger scene is fast becoming a world-class culinary category. From gourmet and experimental to comforting and familiar, the choices are endless. So go out and explore, one bite at a time.

Conclusion: The Best Burgers Are the Ones That Speak to You

At the end of the day, the best burgers are deeply personal. Maybe it’s a burger that reminds you of your childhood, or one that surprises you with unexpected flavor. Whether you’re a fan of fast-food burgers like Rocomamas or crave the farm-fresh sophistication of Babylonstoren burgers, South Africa has a burger that will steal your heart.

Food is more than sustenance. It’s memory. It’s culture. It’s joy. And when you bite into a burger that checks all your boxes, you know you’ve found something truly special.

Hungry yet? Go try them both — and decide for yourself which is the best burger in South Africa.