The West Coast Burger Chain That Does Things A Little Fancier Than In-N-Out

Don't argue with Californians about In-N-Out: You're guaranteed to lose the debate over whether it has the best fast-food burger. That is, unless you're talking to someone from the Bay Area. San Franciscans know of a hidden gem burger joint that blows In-N-Out out of the water, and even though it's a little pricier, it's worth it for the high-quality and amazing flavors. We're talking about Super Duper Burgers in San Francisco — a fast-growing chain selling fancy burgers with organic ingredients, local flavors, and love.

Since opening its first location in San Francisco's Castro neighborhood in 2010, Super Duper Burgers has expanded to 20 locations across the Bay Area, including San Jose, Berkeley, Los Gatos, and a few locations in San Francisco proper, including Marina, Hayes Valley, and Downtown. The burger chain prides itself on sourcing fresh, local ingredients like sustainably farmed, vegetarian-fed ground beef, artisanal buns, house-made pickles, organic soft-serve ice cream, and more. It's even an eco-conscious chain, using 100% compostable packaging to produce as little waste as possible.

But beyond that, Super Duper's signage, friendly staff, and menu items featuring iconic California flavors (Mango Tajin shake, anyone?) put it a fancier step above the rest. Sure, In-N-Out is an iconic, cheap, and family-owned West Coast eatery, but the burgers are bare bones compared to this elevated chain. Prices reflect this, too: Super Duper's cheeseburgers are $7 to $13, whereas In-N-Out's are around $2 to $4, depending on location.

Like Super Duper Burgers, In-N-Out also commits to quality and fresh ingredients — its website says it uses USDA ground chuck free of preservatives. But it doesn't mention whether ingredients are locally sourced, which Super Duper prides itself on. In fact, Super Duper's website says, "burgers shouldn't cost $3" if ingredients are being purchased nearby. Higher costs should reflect higher quality.

Compared to In-N-Out's small menu of hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fries, and the iconic Double-Double, Super Duper's menu is a tad more extensive. A standout choice is the Mini Burger ($7.50), a ¼-pound beef patty on a fresh-baked bun with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and Super Sauce, which is similar to In-N-Out's famous spread. Other options include the Super Burger ($10.50) with two juicy patties and melty cheese, grilled or fried chicken sandwiches at select locations, and seasonal fare. We can't wait to try the new Poblano Burger ($12.50) with grilled peppers, jack cheese, and chipotle aioli. It even has several veggie burger options – something In-N-Out lacks.

Sides aren't as customizable at Super Duper's — no animal-style fries here — but they're still delicious. Choose from regular, jalapeño cheddar, or garlic fries, crisp dill pickles, and thick creamy shakes or soft serve. Get a house-made strawberry lemonade or root beer float on the side, and you'll see why it's such a highly ranked San Francisco restaurant. We can only hope for statewide expansion soon!