The Long Island-based chain Burger Village opened its latest outpost in July in the old Schnipper’s space on Church and Murray, and it has taken me this long to get a post up — even though we are big fans of the sweet tater tots and ‘shroom burgers already.

The brainchild of four brothers from Long Island: Sam, Nick, Vick and Ravi Yadav, Burger Village opened its first location in 2013 in Great Neck. They then expanded to Park Slope, Downtown Brooklyn, Hicksville, Farmingdale, Astoria and San Luis Obispo. This is their first on the left bank.

“I always wanted to be in the city,” said Nick Yadav, “but of course the rent was too high. So when I found a better deal during covid, we took advantage.” He wanted a bit more room, but this will do for now. They took at 10-year lease.

Their take on the burger joint is all-natural and organic meat from not just cows: there’s also burgers made from bison, turkeys, elk, boar, salmon, sheep and ostrich. Plus there’s a slew of vegan (with vegan cheese) and gluten-free options: black bean burgers, mushroom burgers, Impossible burgers and Beyond Burgers, gluten free buns, salads, etc.

Then there’s all the sides: tots, fries, waffle fries, fried pickles — you get the picture. They have also designed specials on the menu that combine the toppings and the sides, for inspiration.

The place is custom built for little league team gatherings, kids’ birthday parties, teen night. Not that the adults can’t enjoy (in fact, sit at the bar while the kids are on the lower level), but it’s spacious, with an Edison light bulb-meets-Western ranch vibe and the music is lively but not too loud.

So far business has been good, Nick said, but they are still waiting for the liquor license, which I have to say is just ridiculous on the part of the State Liquor Authority. Lately even the temporary licenses are delayed. He’s more good tempered about it than I would be.

“I am not disappointed,” said Nick. “Business has been pretty consistent. And hopefully by next month we will have our liquor license.”

Burger Village
120 Church at Murray
(646) 476-7570
Sun – Thurs, 10a to 10p
Fri – Sat 10a to 10p