The 20 Best Burgers In LA, Ranked
As the film "The Menu" proved, there's nothing quite as satisfying as a juicy and nostalgic burger. The classic combination of meat, cheese, and veggies squeezed between two pillowy buns is virtually foolproof — from crispy smash burgers to thick BBQ burgers, the possibilities are endless. Thanks to the rise in popularity of plant-based meat alternatives, even vegans and vegetarians are able to cure their craving for an all (sort of) American burger.
Considering Los Angeles is one of the greatest culinary cities in the world, finding a solid burger option isn't too hard. If you want a no-frills, classic combo straight out of the '50s, no problem. If you prefer a more elevated burger with a French twist, there are plenty of options. That said, knowing where to get the best of the best can save you some time. Thankfully, we've ranked the best burgers in LA so you can get your fix as quickly as possible!
20. HiHo Cheeseburger from HiHo
With four different locations scattered across Los Angeles, the HiHo Cheeseburger mini-chain can be found in Santa Monica, Mid-Wilshire, Studio City, and Marina del Rey. Both the HiHo Cheeseburger and classic cheeseburger are made with 100% grass-fed and finished wagyu beef, resulting in a higher quality patty that is juicy, tender, and super flavorful. While HiHo isn't at the top of our list, it is a reliable and consistent burger stop.
The HiHo Cheeseburger is the way to go thanks to the sweet onion jam and house-made pickles. However, you can take things to the next level by adding pastrami. If you like a little kick, you can also make it spicy for an extra fee. The menu also features a vegetarian burger that is made with a vegan patty that is created in-house.
19. The Double Double from In-N-Out Burger
In-N-Out is a California classic that never gets old. While In-N-Out is technically classified as "fast food," the drive-thru lines are always pretty long, so expect to do a bit of waiting. Since In-Out-Burgers are also known for being pretty small and having thin patties, the Double Double is the best route to go. The bun-to-meat ratio is optional, but if you prefer to have your burger protein-style (made without a bun), that works as well.
If you get the combo, be sure to get your French fries animal style, and don't forget to get an order of peppers on the side. Wash it all down with a chocolate or strawberry milkshake while you eat in your car, because let's be honest, you're not going to wait until you're home.
18. The Cheeseburger from Hudson House
Hudson House is a Dallas transplant that is serving upscale American cuisine on Sunset Boulevard, right where West Hollywood meets Beverly Hills. Though the menu has tons of variety ranging from sushi to salads, the cheeseburger is a must-order. The burger is built upon a soft sesame bun and features two patties that are pretty thin. The patties are then covered with a slice of American cheese, pickles, and minced onion.
However, the highlight of this burger is the massive pickle half that is served on the side. The pickle is coated in Old Bay seasoning, creating the perfect complement to the hearty burger. Get some truffle parmesan fries on the side or get your greens with the lemon parm broccoli. The mac and cheese is also a solid side to consider.
17. The Chili Cheeseburger from Original Tommy's
Though there is a California classic cheeseburger on the menu, Original Tommy's is best known for its chili-topped burgers that are sure to make your mouth water. The basic chili cheeseburger is a great way to go for those looking for a seamless blend of these two nostalgic comfort foods. The thin patty is topped with Original Tommy's signature chili along with the standard fixings of pickles, tomato, onion, and mustard.
You can also spice things up with the Caliente chili burger or switch things up entirely with the chili cheese hot dog. While you can get regular fries on the side, we recommend going all out with the chili cheese fries. Side note: Original Tommy's also has a solid breakfast menu if you're looking for something simple yet satisfying.
16. The Hamburger from Marty's Hamburger Stand
If you're looking for a no-frills, classic hamburger that will remind you of your childhood, head to Marty's Hamburger Stand. The prices can't be beat, as the hamburgers that are made fresh each day, go for $5.75 apiece, at the time of publication. While Marty's Hamburger Stand does offer everything from chili cheeseburgers to turkey burgers, the hamburger is simple (and maybe even nostalgic). That said, you can always add chili to any item for a small fee.
The tiny stand is super casual, and while the food isn't necessarily the highest quality ever, it gets the job done and tastes great. Let's just say, there's a reason Marty's has been a local favorite since 1959. Marty's is also cash only, which can be a bit inconvenient in today's tech-dependent society, so be sure to come prepared.
15. The Hook Burger from Connie & Ted's
Connie & Ted's may be known for being one of the best seafood restaurants in Los Angeles, but you'll definitely get hooked on the Hook Burger. This thick and juicy cheeseburger is made with Hook's sharp and bold four-year-old cheddar cheese. Other toppings include pickles, fresh onion, lettuce, and a creamy 1,000-island dressing. The burger is $17, at the time of publication, but you can also add some Neuske's bacon for an additional fee.
When it comes to sides, choose between French fries, classic potato salad, or cole slaw. You can also switch things up and go for a side of onion rings or homemade dill pickles. If you can, save room for dessert and order Connie & Ted's blondie, which is topped with vanilla ice cream and caramel.
14. The Triple Cheeseburger from For The Win
For The Win has four different locations in LA in Hollywood, Whittier, Glendale, and Grand Central Market. The atmosphere is super casual and guests order at the counter before taking their food to-go or posting up at one of the indoor or outdoor tables (depending on which location you visit). The triple cheeseburger is made with three smashed patties, all of which are mashed with grilled onions for extra flavor and texture.
The toasted Martin's potato bun is toasted, resulting in a soft bite with a slight crunch. However, the homemade fry sauce is what truly rounds out the entire meal (you'll probably want to order extra). If the triple seems like a bit much, the double or single burgers should suffice.
13. The Irv's Double at Irv's Burger
After a four-year interim, Irv's Burgers is back and better than ever. Before closing in 2018, Irv's Burgers had been a local favorite since 1946, making it an LA staple. Thankfully, its reopening sparked joy for burger lovers all across the city, and it has made itself right at home once again in West Hollywood on Santa Monica Boulevard.
The Irv's Double is one of the most popular items on the menu and is made on Irv's signature bun. The two smashed patties are covered in cheese before being generously topped with tomatoes, onions, pickles, ketchup, mustard, and mayo. From strawberry to Nutella, there are also a handful of delicious shakes to choose from that are well worth exploring. The cheese fries are also a must-order.
12. The smash burger from Burgers Never Say Die
What once started off as a pop-up in Hollywood has since turned into one of the most beloved burger joints in East LA. Burgers Never Say Die is a fast-casual hotspot that specializes in nostalgic burgers that cover the basics. Despite being simple, these burgers are always made fresh and prove the concept of "if it isn't broken, don't fix it." The simple ingredients and no-frills concept ensure that the focus is on the quality of the burger rather than the flair surrounding it.
In fact, the regular smash burger is all you need to cater to your craving. Though the fries are great on their own, you'll definitely want to order an extra side of cheese sauce for dipping and dunking.
11. The Oklahoma Double from Burger She Wrote
Located in the heart of LA, Burger She Wrote puts an elevated twist on a classic by using wagyu beef patties. Each burger is made smash-style, but the Oklahoma Double is a local favorite thanks to the grilled onions and double patty. When dining at Burger She Wrote, you'll find that, despite being thin, the patties are pretty huge and are much wider than the bun.
If you're dining with a plant-based friend, Burger She Wrote also serves vegan-friendly burgers made with Impossible Meat. The hand-cut fries are also a must, but if you want to pair your burger with some greens, order the delicate yet flavor-forward vegan Caesar. The fried pickles are also a stellar side, especially for those that enjoy a zesty kick.
10. BBQ Burger from BurgerShop
Take your burger to the next level with BurgerShop's tangy BBQ Burger. Each burger is made with Angus beef from Aspen Ridge and there are plenty of styles and toppings to choose from. That said, the onion ring and tangy BBQ sauce on the BBQ Burger make this crowd-pleaser a solid go-to when you've got a craving for something hearty and rustic. If you prefer spicy over tangy, the Toro Bravo with roasted Hatch chile peppers and habanero aioli should be at the top of your list.
There are also several plant-based burgers to enjoy, all of which are made with an Impossible Patty on a vegan bun. No matter which you choose, splurge on the cheesy shop fries that are topped with pickles, caramelized onions, and Burger Shop dressing.
9. The Double Cheeseburger from Monty's Good Burger
Vegan? No problem. Monty's Good Burger has made headlines for creating incredibly realistic burgers that are entirely plant-based. The patties in the double burger are made from Impossible Meat that tastes (almost) exactly like the real thing. The Follow Your Heart cheese is also completely vegan, as is the savory spread that is made in-house.
Another thing that sets Monty's burger apart from the competition is the fact that it is built upon a soft brioche bun rather than a standard potato or wheat bun. However, you can also get the double cheeseburger in a lettuce wrap if you prefer to keep things light. When it comes to sides, the shoestring fries are the obvious choice, but the tater tots have a mouthwatering crunch that will have you coming back for more.
8. The Goldburger from Goldburger
Goldbuger has mastered the art of the smash burger and has two locations in Los Feliz and Highland Park. This East LA staple uses 100% grass-fed beef in its thin and flavorful patties and the quality of the meat shines. The Goldburger, as the name suggests, is the eatery's signature item. This six-ounce double burger is $11, at the time of publication, and is made complete with grilled onions, cheese, and fresh pickles.
That said, the most important part of the Goldburger (besides the patties) is the legendary garlic-mustard aioli. This sauce is made in-house and you'll definitely want to put it on everything after your first bite. Most of the burgers on the menu can also be customized to have an additional patty or even pastrami.
7. The Big Mec from Petit Trois
Petit Trois is a beloved French restaurant that has two locations: the original in Hollywood and a second in Studio City. The "Big Mec" is a fun take on McDonald's famous Big Mac burger, and it is a popular entree among regulars at both locations. This saucy double cheeseburger is coated in a red wine bordelaise sauce that adds depth and complexity. Be sure to soak up any extra drippings with the crispy fries that are served on the side.
Since this elevated burger is topped with both bordelaise and another secret sauce, it comes with a hefty price tag of $37, at the time of publication. While this is pretty expensive when compared to a typical cheeseburger, it's well worth the splurge every once in a while.
6. Le Burger from Camphor
Camphor is a Michelin-starred restaurant situated in the vibrant Arts District of downtown Los Angeles. While you might not expect to find a burger on the menu at such an elevated eatery, the Le Burger is far from a standard sandwich. The patty is made of both dry-aged beef and tender duck, resulting in a juicy and mouthwatering bite.
The bun is equally as decadent as the patty and is topped with duck fat, giving it a stunning glow. Of course, sauce can be a deal breaker, but the smoked beef fat-based one used on the Le Burger is a fool-proof crowd-pleaser. The elevated burger is served with a side of crispy pomme frites. Pro-tip: End the night with Camphor's bread pudding. You won't regret it!
5. The Double Cheeseburger from The Win-dow at American Beauty
When it comes to smash burgers, The Win-dow at American Beauty serves up the best ones on the Westside. Located on Rose Avenue in the heart of Venice, patrons can order pick-up or delivery all week long for lunch or an early dinner. Silver Lake also has a location, but we find that the Venice one is the most popular.
These flat and crispy patties are topped with American cheese, grilled onions, zesty pickles, and a savory house sauce. Since the patties are so thin, the double cheeseburger is the way to go when you're feeling hungry. Since everything is a la carte, be sure to order a side of French fries ... no burger is complete without them!
4. The Not a Cheeseburger from Mr. Charlie's
If you're a vegan who's ever caught a craving for McDonald's, Mr. Charlies is a dream come true. Everything on the menu is completely plant-based, allowing you to indulge your craving for a classic burger without the guilt of using animal products. This sustainably-driven concept uses the iconic red and yellow branding of McDonald's to create a unique play on the historic fast food joint.
The Not a Cheeseburger is made with a tender Impossible Meat patty and is topped with vegan cheese, crisp pickles, onion, and the classic fixings of ketchup and mustard. Though the menu predominantly focuses on burgers, Mr. Charlie's also serves up a popular vegan chicken sandwich. Solidify your meal with a side of fries and then choose your sauces. The white sauce and green sauce are fan favorites, but you can't go wrong with a classic chipotle aioli.
3. Quad Burger from Love Hour
Located in LA's Koreatown, Love Hour is a casual neighborhood burger joint that specializes in crispy smash burgers. The order-and-eat outside dynamic makes Love Hour a great place for families or larger groups seeking a laid-back dinner. Choose between a single, double, triple, or quad burger, all of which are topped with raw onion, cheese, pickles, and the signature Love sauce. Since the patties are thin and crisp, the quad burger is ideal for meat lovers looking to get their fix.
In addition to French fries, Love Hour also serves onion rings. You can even choose seasonings like sour cream and onion or salt and vinegar to be added to your burger. Other menu highlights include the crispy hot chicken sandwich and fish fillet.
2. The Double Burger from Heavy Handed LA
Heavy Handed LA has made major waves since landing in Santa Monica. The short rib patties have a more tender texture than standard ground beef patties, plus a rich and fatty flavor to match. Since these burgers are on the heartier side, a double is ideal since you'll want more than a single — but a triple might be slightly overwhelming. These memorable smash burgers are coated in Heavy Handed signature sauce. If you get a combo, they come with fries and a drink.
The French fries are fried in beef tallow, giving them the perfect texture. You can also make them "heavy," which is the establishment's rendition of animal fries. If you're dining in, sip on some local beers before ending your meal with a vanilla coat dipped in a butterscotch coating.
1. The Melanie smash burger from Melanie Wine Bar
Landing in our number one spot is none other than the Melanie smash burger. Melanie Wine Bar is a quaint and locally-loved hotspot that boasts a bold menu despite its small space. Shortly after appearing on the menu, the Melanie Smashburger became a major hit for locals looking for a burger to cure their cravings with a decadent, French-inspired twist. The sweet onion jam is complemented by a rich gruyere cheese, while the fresh arugula adds brightness and balance.
In fact, the burger became so popular that Melanie Wine Bar decided to open their own Melanie Burger lunch that is served daily. Melanie Burger offers a handful of options for every kind of burger lover, from veggie burgers to a double burger coated in pepper jack cheese. Just don't forget to order a side of the signature Havesum ranch sauce!