instead of shake shack (mc Donald's 2.0) why not try Five Guys Burgers and Fries it's cheap and good and spread around manhattan. also if you like blue cheese give the burger at The Spotted Pig a try, It's their signature dish (image) and At least the place is worth a visit.

happy burgering! 

J.G. Melon on the Upper East Side is AMAZING, but for a healthier chain option, try out Bareburger (there are a bunch of locations)!

...Or if you want a super cheap option, hit up Five Guys and grab a drink at the speakeasy upstairs, The Garret (http://wp.me/p4iPrh-b6).

If you need any additional restaurant recommendations, feel free to check out my New York City restaurant blog (http://wp.me/4iPrh), which is also on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/TheStraunt) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/TheStraunt).

Minetta Tavern no question. shake shack is nice as a fake burger, but for the real thing, splurge for the black label burger at minetta's.

5 Napkin Burger is a small chain in NYC but it's pretty darn good. Definitely a step up from Shake Shack.

I would recommend Minetta Tavern for a special burger.  But it is a difficult reservation.  sometimes better to drop by off hours and take a chance. I've tried a few that were overpriced and really not that special.  a secret spot for my favorite is located in the Burger Joint at the Parker Meridian Hotel.  You will have to walk through the lobby in search of an indiscreet neon sign burger and go behind a curtain.  a seriously unfancy place, with a very good burger