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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to California

Barbecue and smash burger spots

Made for those who want the charred crust of a smash burger to compete with the slow-cooked depth of barbecue.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Bar combines chic, upscale design with a sexy, luxurious ambiance and intimate, cozy seating. Energy stays lively with artfully crafted cocktails and a well-curated vintage Hollywood vibe. Outdoor seating with heat lamps adds comfort without losing style.

Smash burgers come in classic and kosher versions, both noted for being amazing and filling. They pair well with other hearty items like fried chicken sandwiches in a multi-course meal.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burger I had was the best I ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 2 pm, offering great deals on drinks.

2

Martini Mondays feature special pricing on signature cocktails.

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Taco Tuesdays provide a unique menu option during happy hour.

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Modern diner style blends with 80s Los Angeles nostalgia in a cozy, laid-back space featuring leather booths and blue lighting. Music and live NBA games create a lively yet relaxed vibe. The atmosphere feels inviting and stylish, drawing in those who appreciate a cool, comfortable setting.

The BBQ sauce has a peppered, smoky taste without much kick. The spicy BBQ bacon burger stands out with its spicy bacon sauce and pairs well with onion rings and homemade ranch.

Smash burgers come well seasoned and freshly cooked with a high quality feel. They stand out as some of the most satisfying smash burgers around.

People are saying

"These smash burgers are the best in LA, hands down."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky; expect to circle the block for a spot.

2

The restaurant does not have a bathroom available for customers.

3

They do not accept cash payments; only cards are accepted.

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Food hall setting buzzes with loud, casual energy and limited seating amid kids running around. Burgers stand out for juicy, well-seasoned smash patties and unique truffle aioli, drawing burger enthusiasts despite high prices. Atmosphere stays fun and messy, fitting a lively, family-friendly vibe.

BBQ Burger stands out with rich, smoky flavors. The menu also features Truffle Honey Chick Sandwich and Garlic Parm Chicken Tenders that complement the barbecue theme.

Cheesy smash burgers deliver a memorable cheesy adventure with great caramelization on the patty. The burgers are well-seasoned and full of flavor.

People are saying

"I found the smash burgers here to be amazing and juicy."

"The barbecue burger was amazing and juicy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located inside the Windmill Food Hall near the Carlsbad Premium Outlets.

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A burger costs $16 without fries.

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There is an option to add fries and a soda to the meal for $3 more.

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Small barbecue spot with fun atmosphere and friendly vibe feels like a family BBQ. The space is cozy but limited, making it less suited for large dine-in groups. Known for excellent brisket and pulled pork, it draws those seeking quality BBQ in a casual setting.

Varied barbecue options come with flavorful, unique sauces that stand out. Prices stay fair while delivering some of the best BBQ and chicken in the area.

Smash burgers here stand out for their unique BBQ flavor and juicy, well-cooked patties. They pair well with loaded chicken fries and crispy onion rings, making for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"I found the best Barbecue in Oxnard here."

"I thought the smash burgers here were the best I ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The ice cream machine turns off at 7:00 PM.

2

Parking is tight and small.

3

The restaurant has unreliable hours, so visiting later in the day might lead to disappointment.

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Tiny burger joint with cramped seating and open kitchen creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, with a kinky-themed vibe and energetic back area. Outdoor seating faces a busy street, adding urban noise and smells to the experience.

The burger features homemade BBQ sauce that stands out for its flavor. It comes with onion rings and bacon, adding extra texture and taste.

Smash burgers here have a hot and heavy style with a taste similar to In N' Out. They offer a killer meal that can change your perception of burgers and turn you into a fan.

People are saying

"I thought these smash burgers changed my perception of burgers."

"The barbecue here has quality smashed patties and crispy bacon."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at the location.

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Seating is limited during busy hours.

3

Expect to pay over $20 for a combo meal.

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Restaurant occupies a beautifully restored old theater building with spacious picnic bench seating. Atmosphere varies from calm and inviting to lively with multiple TV screens showing sports. The setting blends an old-fashioned facade with a modern sports bar style inside.

Tri Tip, chicken, and brisket stand out as favorite meats, each cooked with care. Sauces add the perfect touch, and the meat fries with pork belly offer a unique BBQ twist.

Single smash burger comes with fries and offers a solid, satisfying taste. The menu also includes meat fries and rib plates, adding variety beyond the burgers.

People are saying

"I thought the barbecue here was the best I ever had."

"I found the smash burgers to be really good."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; expect to park across the street with 1-hour limits.

2

You must order before sitting down; drinks are self-serve except for beers.

3

The price for five pork ribs is $30, which may be high for some.

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Multi-story black wood and brick building offers indoor and outdoor seating with a balcony providing a great view. Atmosphere blends English pub vibes with a villain-themed decor, creating a unique and inviting space. Plenty of TVs and a full bar support a lively environment for socializing and watching sports.

Smoked dishes like the BBQ brisket and grilled ribeye tacos stand out for their tender texture and rich flavor. The BBQ sauce adds a bold, elevated taste that complements the meat well.

Smash burger comes with varying toppings, sometimes including pickles. It pairs well with fries and is often recommended alongside brisket tacos.

People are saying

"The brisket here is flavorful and tender, not dry at all."

"I thought the smash burger was excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers 50% off drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure seating.

3

All menu items are confirmed halal, catering to dietary preferences.

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Industrial and chic decor shapes a small but impactful space with open sidewalk bar seating ideal for people watching. Atmosphere balances cozy and lively with a slower pace that suits conversation and enjoying drinks. Frequented for delicious burgers and creative cocktails, it offers a full bar and occasional live music with dancing.

Burgers feature a smoky sweetness with a BBQ sauce that has a little kick. The Drunken Pig and BBQ burgers come juicy and cooked to medium or medium well.

Double smash burgers feature juicy patties and flavorful toppings. The BBQ Burger and short rib tacos also appear alongside the double smash burger on the menu.

People are saying

"The short ribs here are flavorful and tender, melting in your mouth."

"I believed their Smash Burgers were the best in town."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights.

2

Happy hour runs from 12 to 6 pm on weekdays with great specials.

3

Bar seating is available for walk-ins if reservations are full.

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Small hamburger restaurant blends old school diner and 70s mechanic shop styles with a relaxed, chill vibe highlighted by string lights and privacy screens. Indoor space offers ample TVs and limited seating, while a full bar and unique soda flavors add variety. Energy feels welcoming but somewhat tired compared to earlier times.

Pulled pork fries come loaded with fries, onion rings, Mac and cheese, BBQ sauce, and ranch. The BBQ bacon burger features sweet BBQ sauce, crispy lettuce, tomato, and tasty bacon for a solid barbecue flavor.

Smash burgers come with signature sauce and options like Diablo sauce or southwest mayo. Adding extra patties makes them super juicy and satisfying.

People are saying

"I had the best smash burger I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on certain days, making it a great family option.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment with regular cleaning.

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Small butcher shop with outdoor counter seating and a smoker trailer emitting strong aromas. Atmosphere feels like a casual bro hangout with high-quality meats and a focus on takeout sandwiches. Limited seating encourages quick visits, often with a wait for popular items.

Two smash burger patties sit on a soft toasted bun with cheddar cheese melted over them. Lettuce, tomato, pickle, and Thousand Island dressing add classic toppings.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best smash burger I had."

Good to know

1

The deli offers great quality meat and delicious sandwiches until 5 PM.

2

It's important to consider the wait time, which can easily be 40 minutes to an hour.

3

There isn't much seating at The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli.

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Outdoor seating on a covered terrace overlooks a lively boardwalk near Muscle Beach, creating an energetic atmosphere. Old school jams play consistently, adding to the upbeat vibe. The place draws a mix of locals and beachgoers, offering late-night hours until 3am.

Honey BBQ wings stand out with a sweet and tangy flavor. Spicy wings and onion rings also feature on the menu, adding variety to the wing selection.

Wagyu smash burgers come juicy and flavorful, cooked just right. The Smash Burger combo pairs well with blue lemonade, and kids enjoy their smash burgers too.

People are saying

"I drove all the way from Phoenix for these Smash Burgers."

Good to know

1

Marathon Burger is open until 3am daily, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The $20 OG Burger meal includes a burger, fries, and a drink.

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Rustic restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a dog-friendly patio that includes complimentary treats for pets. Atmosphere feels friendly and community-oriented with smooth music and a casual vibe. Strong focus on barbecue and craft beers, featuring brisket and a variety of margaritas.

Smoky, flavorful barbecue comes with slow cooked and smoked meats served in generous portions. Brisket fries feature a massive portion of fries topped with smoked brisket and barbecue sauce, making feeding a crowd easy.

Smash burgers come with crispy fries and hit the spot every time. The West Coast Smash Burger and smash burger mac and cheese stand out with great flavor.

People are saying

"The Barbecue meats were perfectly smoked and tender."

"The smash burger was fresh, juicy, and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 6 pm with a buy-one-get-one-free deal on draft beer.

2

There is only one restroom available for about 80 people.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and dog-friendly.

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Smoke fills the air alongside the scent of barbecue, while old wood floors scattered with peanut shells create a Texas BBQ vibe. Neon beer signs and multiple TVs support a lively sports-friendly atmosphere. Seating accommodates both groups and families, with a comfortable patio adding to the space.

Barbecue aroma hits immediately upon entering. The tri tip cooked medium and shrimp with mustard barbecue sauce stand out. Sausage and BBQ wings deliver strong flavors. Only one delicious BBQ sauce is offered, with hopes for a spicy addition.

Smash burgers cost $5 during happy hour and come with fries. They have a good flavor and are considered very good value.

People are saying

"The brisket melted in my mouth; it's the best decision."

"I thought the smash burger was the best in OC for only $5."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7pm on weekdays and 3 to 6pm on weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday features special menu items and pricing.

3

Parking is generally easy to find near the restaurant.

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Historic fire station converted into a spacious restaurant with exposed brickwork and vaulted ceilings creates a striking setting. Loud noise levels make conversation difficult during dinner. Outdoor patio features a stage and BBQ grill, hosting games and relaxed meals.

Brisket stands out with BBQ Brisket tacos and delicious barbecue. Sides include BBQ beans, cornbread, and coleslaw, with mac and cheese being just okay.

Smash burgers come with a strong reputation here, often described as amazing and satisfying. They stand out alongside other hearty options like tri-tip and brisket.

People are saying

"The spicy BBQ wings were amazing and tender."

"I found the smash burgers to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7:30 PM with a diverse selection of beers.

2

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

3

The kitchen often runs out of popular items by early evening.

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Barbecue restaurant offers shaded outdoor seating with a covered eating area that feels cozy despite some road noise. The menu is large for a small shack, featuring smash burgers and BBQ meats made with quality beef ground in-house. Expect a busy atmosphere where ordering ahead is common due to wait times.

Great BBQ meat stands out with plates known for their flavor. The pulled pork grilled cheese dipped in BBQ sauce pairs well with fries and extra sauce on the side.

Double smash burger features sautéed umami onions, American cheese, and a secret sauce on a toasted brioche bun. Price is $14.99 except Thursdays. Presentation may vary from promotions.

People are saying

"I considered their barbecue plates my favorite."

"The double smash burger with umami onions and secret sauce is fantastic."

Good to know

1

The burger is available on Thursdays for $10.99.

2

Expect to wait if it is busy, especially during lunch hours.

3

The menu is extensive, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.

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