The Best Hamburger Buns (2024)

The easygoing portability achieved by the application of a patty to a bun is central to the burger's appeal. It wasn't until 1921 that Walter Anderson, a cofounder of the White Castle chain, developed the first bun designed expressly for a burger. Nowadays, some 8 billion burger buns are produced each year, and the versions range from sesame seed-dotted domes to crusty artisanal rolls. Kaiser roll The bulk and fluffy interior of this classic bun, good versions of which can be found in most supermarkets, make it an excellent vehicle for big, juicy backyard burgers. See our Guide to Building the Perfect Burger »

Ciabatta Roll

The thick crust of Italian-style ciabatta provides structure for even the juiciest of burgers. The ciabatta rolls made by Amy’s Bread in New York City are the gold standard.

English Muffin

Round and sturdy, the English muffin seems designed for burgers. Wolferman’s, a bakery in Hope, Arkansas, makes a miniature muffin that’s ideal for sliders. Toast it first.

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Kaiser Roll

The bulk and fluffy interior of this classic bun, good versions of which can be found in most supermarkets, make it an excellent vehicle for big, juicy backyard burgers.

Onion Roll

A bun studded with onion bits gives character to simple burgers. Farm to Market Bread Co. of Kansas City, Missouri, makes a terrific onion brioche.

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Potato Roll

This sweet, pillowy roll is the softest of burger buns. Martin’s in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, makes the definitive version, sold in supermarkets along the East Coast.

Pretzel Roll

Salty and chewy, these rolls, made by J & J Snack Foods in Pennsauken, New Jersey, are sold nationwide.

Sesame Seed Bun

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Sesame Seed Bun

This soft and fragrant bun has become the iconic hamburger platform. Arnold Bakery of Horsham, Pennsylvania, makes one of our favorite models. (See Homemade Sesame Buns for a recipe.)

Sliced Bread

Toasted sandwich bread was the original burger bun. Denser-textured breads, like the ones from Pepperidge Farm, hold up well to patties thick and thin.