When The New York Times named Flatbush-based Rogers Burgers one of New York City’s top three burger spots recently it marked both a culinary and cultural victory.
For Brooklyn’s large Caribbean community, the recognition confirmed what locals already knew: Caribbean culture is shaping the city’s food scene with originality, grit, and pride.
Founded by Haitian co-owners Jonathan and Josue Pierre, Rogers Burgers has quickly become a fixture at the intersection of Little Haiti and Little Caribbean by bringing authentic Caribbean flavors to the classic American burger, they told Caribbean Life on Dec. 15.
In its rave review, the Times said: “What makes Rogers Burgers stand out from the many, many patty purveyors around town is its deftly carved-out lane: Caribbean American fast food.”
The Pierres said they made fostering local culture their core mission before any accolades.
They opened this summer, marking the occasion with community events — from their grand opening and J’Ouvert gatherings to daily moments of unity.
“This recognition means everything,” said Jonathan. “To be honored for having the best burger in New York City shows the world what we’ve always believed — that Caribbean talent belongs at the very top of New York’s food culture.”
“This recognition means everything,” said Jonathan. “To be honored for having the best burger in New York City shows the world what we’ve always believed — that Caribbean talent belongs at the very top of New York’s food culture.”
Josue echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the impact on the community and local economy.
“We built Rogers Burgers with the view that Flatbush is on par with Harlem as a hub for food and culture worthy of its place on the map,” he said. “Its success is one more reason to visit Flatbush and bring more dollars into the local economy.”
“We built Rogers Burgers with the view that Flatbush is on par with Harlem as a hub for food and culture worthy of its place on the map,” he said. “Its success is one more reason to visit Flatbush and bring more dollars into the local economy.”
The Pierres’ rise has reflected the growth of Central Brooklyn’s Caribbean corridors.
As Caribbean Life has chronicled, businesses like theirs serve as cultural anchors — not just food destinations—where neighbors gather, celebrate, and preserve identity amid rapid change.
“The visitors coming to places like Kings Theaters will learn to enjoy local Flatbush restaurants, as well,” Josue said.
With this honor, the duo plans to expand both their menu and community involvement, including catering at major events.
They said their mission remains to uplift Flatbush, empower Caribbean entrepreneurs, and inspire the next generation.
They said their mission remains to uplift Flatbush, empower Caribbean entrepreneurs, and inspire the next generation.
“The badge from New York’s top food critics is humbling,” Jonathan said. “But the real reward is seeing our people proud.”
Being named a top burger spot in just five months, they said, “is only the beginning.”
“To the Caribbean community, it reflects resilience, showcasing what’s possible when culture, commitment, and community drive a business forward,” they added.
“To the Caribbean community, it reflects resilience, showcasing what’s possible when culture, commitment, and community drive a business forward,” they added.
