A Love Note to Room Service Cheeseburgers

When you think of “luxury travel,” what images come to mind? Perhaps a five-star hotel, first-class flights, Michelin-starred dining, or indulgent spa treatments. But in truth, nothing compares to the sheer luxury of enjoying a cheeseburger delivered right to your room.

As someone who works in the travel industry, I frequently find myself traveling for business—not just the dreamy adventures associated with writing for a travel magazine, but also for meetings and events with colleagues. While we enjoy each other's company, there are times I crave solitude. After a day of events, instead of joining my colleagues for dinner or drinks, I often retreat to my room under the pretense of catching up on work. And here’s my little secret: I’m actually indulging in room service, specifically a cheeseburger every time.

Imagine this: after a full day of meetings, you return to your hotel room, freshen up, slip into a plush white bathrobe, and switch on the TV. Then, a knock on the door announces the arrival of a well-dressed waiter with a perfectly cooked burger, crispy fries, and—if they really excel—tiny jars of dipping sauces. You kick back and relish every bite. It’s not merely about the burger; it’s the entire experience.

If you’re sensing some ‘Home Alone’ vibes with the phrase, “a lovely cheese pizza, just for me,” you’re spot on, and I have no regrets. Business travel can be exhausting and demanding, leaving you drained from constant engagement. What better way to recharge than with a comforting meal that leads to a blissful food coma? Trust me, you’ll never experience sleep quite like it afterward.

How to Create the Ultimate Room Service Cheeseburger Experience

To set the mood for maximum comfort, start with a robe. There’s nothing quite like slipping into a plush hotel robe, even at a midrange venue or during a work trip. You might be tempted to pocket it, but it's probably best to resist that urge.

Next, choose something to watch—ideally, something light and entertaining. Cooking competition shows or a familiar movie are perfect options. Cozy outfit, comforting shows, comforting food—are you picking up on a theme here?

Finally, let’s talk about the burger. Remember, it might take a little time for room service to deliver your burger, so it’s wise to order before settling into your robe and selecting a show. For me, ordering the burger is the first thing I do upon arrival. While there may be fancier options on the menu with unique cheeses or toppings, nothing beats a classic burger with gooey American cheese for that true luxurious feel. Choose your side carefully—if Parmesan fries are available, go for them! After all, the best things in life involve cheese. And like those calories you rack up at the airport, room service calories don’t count. If you’re lucky, your sauces will come in adorable tiny jars—great for a little souvenir! Yes, I have collected tiny Tabasco bottles in my purse; you never know when a hot sauce might come in handy. For a touch of extra elegance, treat yourself to a glass of prosecco.

Where to Discover the Best Room Service Cheeseburger in NYC

Have I inspired you to experience this luxurious delight? Here’s where to slip into a cozy robe and savor a taste of the high life on your next visit to New York.

The Thompson Central Park

The Thompson is famous for its tucked-away, cash-only burger spot, Burger Joint, making it a natural choice for an outstanding room service burger. You can view the room service menu on the TV, which includes an array of options, from salads and appetizers to a variety of pizzas and classic entrees like roasted chicken and Atlantic salmon. What you really want is the Burger Joint Burger (a Beyond Meat option is also available). This classic cheeseburger comes with all the traditional toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and onions. You can choose from a selection of cheeses, but remember, we’re here for that gooey American cheese. It’s all served on a soft, fluffy bun, complete with Parmesan fries and adorable tiny jars of sauces (a perfect little souvenir). The rooms are nearly the size of small apartments, featuring a kitchen area, living space, and bedroom, offering plenty of spots to enjoy your burger. However, I would be remiss not to suggest going all out and indulging in bed, nestled between your sheets with your burger. Don’t worry, I won’t spill your secret.