Burgers are popular as ever in Toronto, as evidenced by the rapid expansion of local (and international) chains. Even still, there's room in this city for Independent joints to excel, which is exactly what you'll find at these five new restaurants where burgers are menu standouts.

Here are my picks for the top new spots for burgers in Toronto.

Mascot Brewery
The rooftop beer garden serves a backyard barbecue inspired menu and the house cheeseburger combo with fries ($14) is a highlight. Built onto a soft chewy pretzel bun, the burger features a ground brisket patty loaded with double smoked bacon and onion aioli.

Craft Brasserie
This tap house in Liberty Village might be best known for its astounding selection of draught beers, but what pairs better with a pint than a burger? The Craft Classic for $10 is hard to beat; the hand pressed patty is perfectly seared and it comes topped with jalapeĂąo cheese, candied bacon, caramelized onions and spicy mayo.

Little Schmiddy's Hot Meat House
The burger here is slapped with a slice of cheddar and dressed with bacon and red onion jam, which makes it a standout on an already meat-centric menu. This premium cheeseburger comes with fries on the side for $15.

Corktown Kitchen
This newly opened restaurant on King St. East serves up its signature six-ounce beef burger for $16. The handheld favourite comes dressed with the usual array of condiments, but upgrades like cheese and smoked pork belly can be added for $2 each.

The Bulging Burger
This burger joint in The Beach(es) grinds its meat daily and serves up hand-formed ground chuck patties that could very well rival some of the city's more popular purveyors. Customize as you like or try the namesake burger featuring a half pound of beef with double cheese, smoked bacon, sautĂŠed onions and special sauce.

This post was brought to you by Heineken.

What burger did I miss? Add your picks to the comments.

Photo from Mascot Brewery by Jesse Milns.