At This New York Burger Stand, The Double Cheeseburger Is Always In Demand
New Yorkers move fast, but there’s one thing that always makes them slow down and wait in line: the legendary double cheeseburger at Shake Shack in Madison Square Park.
What started as a humble burger stand has become a citywide obsession, with locals and visitors alike craving that perfect stack of juicy patties, melted cheese, and pillowy bun.
It’s the kind of burger that proves simple ingredients, done right, can create a flavor worth every bite.
1. From Hot Dog Cart to Burger Empire
Back in 2001, nobody could have predicted that a simple hot dog cart would evolve into a global burger sensation.
Danny Meyer launched this humble food stand as part of a public art initiative to help revitalize Madison Square Park. The cart was only supposed to be temporary, but New Yorkers couldn’t get enough.
By 2004, the first permanent Shake Shack kiosk opened, and burger history was made. The lines formed immediately and never disappeared.
2. Iconic Green Kiosk in the Heart of Manhattan
Nestled among the trees and greenery of Madison Square Park stands the world’s first permanent Shake Shack. Its ivy-covered walls have become as recognizable to New Yorkers as the Flatiron Building nearby.
Unlike the sleek, modern designs of newer locations, this original kiosk maintains its rustic park charm.
The green roof blends with surrounding foliage, creating an urban oasis where concrete jungle meets actual trees and grass. Food tastes better with this backdrop!
3. Prime Real Estate on Madison Avenue
Location, location, location! Positioned at the intersection of Madison Avenue and East 23rd Street, the original Shake Shack enjoys some of Manhattan’s most coveted real estate.
With the historic Flatiron Building just steps away and the Empire State Building looming in the distance, burger-lovers enjoy million-dollar views with their meal.
Office workers, tourists, and locals converge here daily, creating a melting pot of burger enthusiasts right in the heart of NYC.
4. Double ShackBurger: The Crown Jewel
When delivery apps reveal customer favorites, one item consistently tops the charts – the Double ShackBurger.
Two 100% Angus beef patties, melted American cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, and that secret ShackSauce create burger perfection.
Regulars know to order it medium for the ideal juicy-to-crispy ratio.
While the menu has expanded over the years with chicken options and seasonal specialties, nothing dethrones this beefy masterpiece that keeps customers coming back time after time.
5. The Legendary Line Experience
Waiting in the Shake Shack line has become a New York rite of passage. On sunny summer days, the queue can stretch completely around the park, with wait times exceeding an hour.
Smart visitors use the Shake Shack app to order ahead, though many insist the wait is part of the experience.
The line has even inspired academic studies on queue psychology! Strangers become friends, business deals are made, and more than a few first dates have started while waiting for those coveted burgers.
6. Beyond Burgers: A Full Culinary Experience
While the Double ShackBurger gets all the glory, the Madison Square Park location serves up a complete menu that satisfies every craving. Their crinkle-cut fries have a cult following all their own.
The frozen custard concrete mixers – especially the location-specific “Shack in the Garden” with vanilla custard, mint chocolate chunk and chocolate truffle cookie dough – draw dessert enthusiasts year-round.
And yes, you can even grab a glass of wine or local craft beer with your burger. Fast food this is not!
7. Born from Art, Built for Community
Few fans realize that Shake Shack exists because of art. The original cart was created to support a public art installation called “I ♥ Taxi” in the once-neglected Madison Square Park.
Danny Meyer, already a successful restaurateur, wanted to contribute to the neighborhood’s revitalization.
The Madison Square Park Conservancy partnered with Meyer’s vision, creating a food stand that would help fund park improvements.
Today, a percentage of Shake Shack proceeds still supports the park’s maintenance and free community programs.