When I crave a burger that’s more than just a quick meal on the go, Bad Love Burger Co in West Leederville is my go-to spot. My love of real burgs started with Bad Love Burger Co. In my opinion, Owner Tristan and his crew are pretty much the only elite Perth burger flippers to truly master the art of the lacey edged smashed burger. That’s created when the patty is smashed hard and fast onto a hot flattop grill, creating juicy patties with crisp edges that have that perfect amount of char. If you don’t know what I’m talking about – you HAVE to try one.
The laid-back spot, just over the railway line from Leederville, doesn’t mess around; their burger line up is all about big flavours and perfectly cooked smash patties that leave you wanting more – even if your tummy is most definitely full.
Fun fact – Bad Love is an evolution of Smashburger BBQ. Back in 2019, I queued at the cult pop up colab between Tristan’s “Fireworks and Smoke” and BBQ royalty Big Don’s Meats. Not only is Bad Love badass when it comes to cooking, components, flavours, assembly – the whole shebang – it’s also largely gluten free (more on that in a bit).
The Best Burgers in Perth
The mouthwatering aroma of grilled patties and sizzling bacon hits you, as you walk in the door. The menu is solid and packed with options that make choosing a delicious dilemma. Beef or fried chicken, spice, smoky BBQ notes, vego options and more. Plus, they are licensed, so Mr H gets to enjoy one of his local craft beer faves – Gweilo with his burg.
I often order their Classic Bad Love Burger which features double beef smash patties, double melted cheese, pickles, onion, ketchup and mustard (adding crispy bacon, plus lettuce to make me feel less guilty lol) all assembled between a soft bun.
For those who like a bit of spice, the Hot Lovin’ burger, with its crispy fried chicken and hot dust is popular. Mr H loves the ‘Smokin Mikes BBQ’ – double beef, double cheese, bacon, pickles, French’s Crispy Onions, house BBQ sauce and chipolte mayo.
Pair your burger with their love-dust seasoned fries for the ultimate comfort food experience. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, their loaded fries, topped with melted cheese, smashed beef and more, are delicious.
The Gluten-Free Factor
The cherry on top, for me, is their dedication to gluten free options. Pretty much everything, except for the regular buns, and crispy onions are GF. Most of the burgers, including the fried chicken burgers (*happy dance*), can be made gluten free. That said, I love the beef burgers SO MUCH, I’m yet to indulge in the fried chicken side of the menu – but I will, eventually!
I’m happy to report their gluten free buns are good – no sad crumbly, dry bread here.
Bad Love Burgers is top of the wozza, for me. There’s just no beating it, which is why I recon I’ve been there about 6 times or more now. If you’ve never visited – make this your next guilty pleasure, Bad Love Burgers are flippin the best burgers in WA for me, by a mile.
Find Bad Love Burger Co. at 39 Harrogate St, West Leederville.
My tip? Head to ‘Otherside of Nowhere’ brewery nearby for a pre or post Burger drink and make a night of it.