The birthplace of the hamburger sandwich.
Welcome to Louis’ Lunch
Est. 1895 in New Haven, CT
Est. 1895 in New Haven, CT
Serving New Haven, CT & Beyond Since 1895
According to the Library of Congress, “Louis’ Lunch in New Haven, Connecticut, is recognized as the birthplace of the hamburger sandwich.”
Family owned and operated for over four generations, Louis’ Lunch continues to serve the original hamburger, just as it was first prepared in 1895. Preserving our history and tradition isn’t just our pride, it’s our promise to every guest who walks through our doors.
Louis’ Lunch: New Haven’s Culinary Landmark
As seen on
For over a century, Louis’ Lunch has captured the attention of food lovers, historians, and journalists alike. From national TV features to global publications, our story — the invention of the hamburger — continues to make headlines.
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Louis’ Way
In 1900, a hurried customer asked Louis Lassen for something he could eat on the go. Thinking fast, Louis placed his own blend of ground steak trimmings between two slices of toasted bread — creating the very first hamburger sandwich.
More than a century later, Louis’ Lunch still serves that same simple recipe, honoring the original vision and tradition that started it all.
FAQs
The business started on a horse-drawn wagon in New Haven in 1895. It moved to its first location in 1900.
- The burgers are cooked in original cast iron vertical gas broilers from 1898.
- We use a special blend of 5 cuts of all-beef meat.
There is limited on-street parking. There is a parking lot located next to the restaurant that is a fee per hour.
No we are first-come first-serve seating.
The busiest time is at opening and a line could last through the first three hours. Late afternoon and early evening are a great time to visit generally!
We kindly ask allowing customers who have their food to have a seat and a seat will open in time for your order!
Yes, we are always closed the week after New Year’s and the month of August for our annual “Counting of Spoons”.
We suggest preparing the burgers at medium temperature. Please let us know at the time of ordering if you prefer different?
What Our Customers Are Saying About Us
HOURS
| Sunday | CLOSED |
| Monday | CLOSED |
| Tuesday | 12 pm – 8 pm |
| Wednesday | 12 pm – 8 pm |
| Thursday | 12 pm – 12 am |
| Friday | 12 pm – 12 am |
| Saturday | 12 pm – 12 am |