Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Pasadena

American food and burger spots

A thick burger and classic American food is the only thing on the mind.

Based on 936 Opinions
+933
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Smokehouse Social Barbecue image 1
Smokehouse Social Barbecue image 2
Smokehouse Social Barbecue image 3
View all
Barbecue restaurant

Bright, clean space with lots of TV screens and a full bar creates a lively setting. Atmosphere stays laid-back and welcoming with 80's music playing, making it easy to relax and enjoy. The vibe suits those who appreciate authentic Texas-style barbecue in a casual environment.

Smoked meats like brisket and pork ribs come tender and flavorful. Cornbread, especially the blue cornbread with honey butter, and homemade cookies add a sweet, scratch-made touch.

Burgers come thick and well-seasoned with a smoky flavor from the smoker. Pickles add a sharp contrast to the rich, heavy patties like the Smokehouse Burger and Smokeโ€™n Brisket Burger.

People are saying

"I thought the brisket was immaculate and mouthwateringly good."

"This American food is the best BBQ I've ever had."

"The burgers here are thick, smoky, and rich."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across at Vons, which solves the parking problem.

2

The wait might be a bit long depending on the number of people.

3

It could get crowded, so I recommend making a reservation if they allow that.

02
Super Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor seating defines the space with a retro vibe and old-school burger joint feel. The atmosphere stays chill with a faded patio and worn tables, attracting those who appreciate a family-run spot with hearty, handmade burgers.

Thick, juicy cheeseburgers with quality beef and melted cheese come off the grill perfectly cooked. The double cheeseburger is massive and satisfies big cravings.

Burgers come thick and juicy, cooked well done on request, with large portions and excellent fries. The cheeseburgers and pastrami sandwich stand out for their delicious, juicy quality and generous size.

People are saying

"These hearty burgers are massive and delicious."

"I thought the burgers here were super good and juicy."

"I thought the American food, specifically the burgers, were thick, juicy, and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Super Burger has plenty of street parking in the residential area next to the shop.

2

They usually close early around 3-4 in the afternoon.

3

There was no restroom available at Super Burger.

03
Dog Haus image 1
American restaurant

Casual American restaurant with clean, organized interior and outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly with fast service and a quiet dining experience. Popular for variety of sausages and burgers served on Hawaiian buns, offering both meat and plant-based options.

Hot dogs feature distinct components that blend into a strong flavor. The menu includes fried chicken sandwiches on Hawaiian bread, crispy corn dogs, cheeseburgers with pastrami, and loaded tater tots.

Burgers come with Hawaiian buns that add a sweet, soft touch. Options include a fried chicken burger and the Hangover burger, both with flavorful meat and solid seasoning.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly top-notch quality."

"I loved the huge, crispy, freshly fried corn dogs here."

"I found the burgers here to be fabulous and unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

There is plenty of parking in the back with an underground shaded area.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for vendors.

04
The Original Tops image 1

Diner with 1950s nostalgia and 1980s theme offers a friendly, bustling atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. Bold character shines through Route 66 history and a classic soda fountain serving orange whips. Small drive-thru and lively vibe make it a familiar spot for casual meals.

Burgers come in many forms here, including a bacon avocado cheeseburger and a hefty cheeseburger with pastrami. The menu also features pastrami chili cheese fries, Reuben, and patty melts, all served at reasonable prices.

Burgers come with rich, cheesy flavors and generous portions. Options like the pastrami burger and bacon avocado cheeseburger stand out for their quality and taste.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best in town."

"You can't skip the onion rings; they're the best I ever had."

"The American Food, especially the cheeseburgers, is amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking can be an issue, so plan accordingly.

2

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

3

The restaurant has a drive-thru for quick service.

05
Connal's image 1
Fast food restaurant

Old school diner with a retro feel and small indoor seating blends with a few outdoor tables and a walk-up order system. Atmosphere stays friendly and comfortable, often drawing lines for its legendary sandwiches and classic fast food staples.

Hearty double cheeseburgers and philly cheesesteaks offer solid American classics. Subs, chili cheese fries, and a standout Cobb Salad round out the menu with familiar flavors.

Old school style burgers stand out with a signature double burger meal that includes fries and a drink for under $11. The avocado burger and patty melt offer solid variety alongside classic combos.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be great and a nice balance."

"The fried food here is perfectly crispy and not greasy."

"The American food, especially the Philly cheesesteak, is excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a dedicated, free lot behind the restaurant.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

The menu features a variety of sandwiches, including hot and cold options.

06
Tops image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small, old school burger shop with a mom and pop feel and casual, easygoing atmosphere. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating and serves notable chili cheese fries and breakfast burritos. Feels like a diner sanctuary amid fast food giants.

Cheeseburgers stand out with options like bacon avocado and Top Cheeseburgers that are juicy and flavorful. Chili cheese fries come in large portions and are highly praised, often considered the best around. Club sandwiches feature fresh ingredients including crisp lettuce, tomato, and plenty of avocado.

Burgers here are simple, classic, and delicious. The avocado bacon cheese burger stands out, paired well with fries and spicy pickled carrots.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great, especially the American classics."

"I found the chili cheese fries to be the best I've ever had."

"I loved the avocado bacon burger; it was excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging once the lot is full.

2

The portions are massive, with small chili cheese fries enough for four people.

3

The drive-thru is often busy during weekday lunch hours.

07
Dog Haus Biergarten image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating including picnic tables on a cute patio. Atmosphere shifts from laid back indoors to lively and energetic outdoors, especially during summer. Features board games, many screens for sports, and an above-average beer selection.

Gourmet hot dogs come with innovative flavors like aioli, avocado, and crispy onions for a creamy, crunchy bite. The menu also features excellent corn dogs, chili cheese fries, and standout chicken wings.

Burgers come with a fun twist like the Quad Kings Hawaiian bun and include options like chili burgers that raise the bar. They pair well with onion rings and beers, offering a solid variety alongside hot dogs.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"I thought the American food, especially the hot dogs, was excellent."

"I thought this was the best burger I had eaten in a very long time."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Game night is hosted every Friday evening.

08
T. Boyle's Tavern image 1

Rundown sports bar with lots of TVs showing various games creates a chill atmosphere for real sports fans. The vibe is low key and welcoming, with a dive bar feel that suits those looking to relax and watch sports.

Loaded fries come in large portions and include chicken. Buffalo wings offer a classic spicy flavor. Hot dogs and pickled eggs sit on a bed of pretzels, priced affordably at $3 each.

Smash burgers stand out with their amazing flavor and variety. Options include a Beyond Burger and several finger food appetizers to complement the meal.

People are saying

"It's a great spot to catch a game with a chill atmosphere."

"You have to try the buffalo wings; they did not disappoint."

"I loved their smash burgers, especially the crispy patty."

Good to know

1

Tuesday night is trivia night.

2

Happy hour runs regularly with good deals.

3

The loaded fries with chicken cost $10.95 and can feed two.

09
Hook Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Casual hamburger joint with a retro vibe and clean, well-lit interior. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting but can be loud due to music volume, making conversation difficult. Outdoor patio offers pleasant seating and welcomes dogs.

Hickory burger and root beer float stand out as solid choices. The menu features a chicken club sandwich and grilled cheese, both served on a toasted hamburger bun.

Burgers come quickly and taste fresh with bold flavors like blue cheese and hickory. Options include a mushrooms burger and customization like removing bacon after cooking.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here juicy and flavorful."

"The onion rings are amazing and cooked to perfection."

"I loved the American food, especially the yummy burgers and fries."

Good to know

1

Prices for burgers start at $11, with combos around $18.

2

Unlimited sauces and pickles are available at no extra charge.

3

Parking is spacious with plenty of available spots.

10
The Hat image 1
Sandwich shop

Old-school diner with classic, authentic charm and nostalgic atmosphere offers a casual, lively vibe filled with families and friends. Large, clean dining room features old-fashioned decor that preserves history. Known for massive portions and best pastrami sandwiches in the region.

Chili cheese fries with pastrami on top stand out as a signature dish. Double cheeseburgers come with fries and gravy, offering a classic American combo.

Burgers come in good-sized portions with options like the pastrami burger and turkey burger standing out. They taste better than typical fast food and pair well with chili and gravy fries.

People are saying

"The chili cheese fries are delicious and enormous."

"I loved the chili cheese fries with pastrami; they were enormous."

"I found the pastrami burger to be exceptionally delicious."

Good to know

1

Customers must stand in line to place orders or use the app for ordering.

2

Restrooms are exceptionally clean, enhancing the overall experience.

3

Portions are very large, often enough to share among multiple people.

11
Tastees Donut & Burger image 1

Tiny shop in a strip mall with limited seating fills up quickly, creating a busy atmosphere. Known for fresh, fluffy donuts and large, flavorful breakfast burritos, it draws early crowds for warm pastries. Generous portions and top-tier croissants add to its distinct appeal among local breakfast spots.

Breakfast burrito and patty melt stand out as solid choices. The hamburgers and ham & cheese croissant also hold up well in the American food lineup.

Burgers come big and tasty here. They are solid but not exceptional, fitting well with the overall casual vibe.

People are saying

"These donuts are fresh and delicious."

"The American Food here, especially the donuts, is phenomenal and fresh."

"I found the burgers here to be big and tasty."

Good to know

1

Calling ahead is recommended to save time and avoid long waits.

2

Expect popular donut variations to run out by mid-morning.

3

Breakfast sandwiches and a delicious breakfast burrito are available.

12
Popping Yolk Cafe image 1
Brunch restaurant

Ordering system resembles fast casual spots, creating a cafeteria vibe with a relaxed ambiance and quick service. Seating includes a dog-friendly outdoor patio and a small bar offering mimosas and margaritas. Noise level stays chill, making it suitable for solo dining or casual meetups.

Eggs Benedict comes with Nashville Hot chicken for a hot and sweet twist. Burgers, pancakes, waffles, and crepes offer classic American flavors. Potatoes are seasoned to complement the eggs Benedict well.

Burgers come juicy and fresh with great seasoning. Options like the Popping Yolk burger and Nashville chicken burger stand out for their size and flavor.

People are saying

"This brunch is delicious, fresh, and satisfying."

"The American food here, especially the Eggs Benedict, is cooked to perfection."

"The burgers here are juicy and cooked just right."

Good to know

1

There is free parking before 11am and on Sundays.

2

A $1 fee applies for 2 hours of paid parking behind the restaurant.

3

They text you when your table is ready, allowing you to explore nearby.

13
Plate 38 Kitchen And Bar image 1
New American restaurant

Converted coffee shop with outdoor tented seating and a full bar featuring big screen TVs creates a casual, lively atmosphere. Patio seating faces street noise and car exhaust, adding an urban edge. The vibe mixes dog-friendly amenities with a quaint, industrial feel and energetic service.

Big juicy hamburgers and a savory prime rib sandwich stand out. The menu also includes mac and cheese, steak and eggs, and salmon and eggs.

Burgers come with packed flavor and often feature unique touches like poblano pepper. The truffle mushroom burger with a portobello patty stands out for its rich taste and perfect medium rare cooking.

People are saying

"The ricotta lemon pancakes were light and incredibly flavored."

"The American Food, like the truffle mushroom burger, was excellent."

"These burgers are packed with flavor and totally delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night on Mondays, making it a busy time.

2

The happy hour menu offers smaller portions at higher prices.

3

Bring cash to avoid a 4% credit card fee.

14
Cordova Cafe & Bottleshop image 1

Cozy cafe with metal bar-height tables and a dominant bar area creates an inviting, effortlessly cool vibe. Mellow rock and blues music play at a comfortable volume, supporting a peaceful, warm atmosphere inside. Outdoor seating offers a relaxing space with amenities for dogs, though street noise can intrude.

Happy hour features a brie, fig jam, and prosciutto grilled cheese with a $2 upgrade. Breakfast includes a bacon and hash brown burrito. Pulled pork sandwich has a small portion of tough, overcooked pork.

Offers a variety of burgers including a notable Impossible burger with mushrooms for vegans. The happy hour special pairs any beer on tap with a burger and fries for about $20.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be perfect."

"I thought the burgers were truly delicious and the fries were crispy."

"The dirty chai here is spicy, fragrant, and not overly sweet."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; expect to find street parking and bring coins.

2

Happy hour is available most days with special deals on food and drinks.

3

The cafe serves breakfast all day, offering a variety of options.

15
Lucky Boy Drive-In at Walnut image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Old school diner with late 70s atmosphere and classic Pasadena vibe offers massive breakfast burritos and chili cheese fries. Space feels small and cozy with a quiet, unhurried mood even when busy. Outdoor patio provides a solid seating option without shade tarps.

Chili cheese fries stand out as a favorite, paired often with breakfast burritos and patty melts. Burgers come with grilled onions and are notably large for the price, offering classic fast casual American flavors.

Huge burgers come with an abundance of fries. Classic burgers and Patty Melts stand out alongside chili cheese fries and fried zucchini. Breakfast burritos also pair well with the burger offerings.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were solid and enormous."

"This breakfast burrito is massive, easily enough for two people."

"You've gotta try the huge breakfast burritos; they're amazing American Food."

Good to know

1

The diner is not a drive-thru, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect reasonable prices for large portion sizes.

3

There is plenty of parking available at the location.

16
Kings Breakfast & Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small space with cozy indoor and outdoor seating and colorful tile decor creates a down-to-earth vibe. Busy street noise adds liveliness while murals and mountain views enhance the atmosphere. Affordable prices and house-made hot sauces complement the casual burger and breakfast experience.

Burgers come with jalapeรฑo bacon, western bacon, and hot link options. Breakfast items include a spinach and avocado egg burrito with tater tots and a loaded plate called "The One" with bacon, sausage, hash browns, sauce, cheese, and eggs. Fried chicken sandwich offers good flavor.

Smash burgers stand out for their great quality and reasonable price. The western burger and fries also get strong mentions for being very good.

People are saying

"This breakfast burrito is super flavorful and loaded with ingredients."

"I thought the burgers here were flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"I thought the burgers were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is large and available.

2

There was never a wait or line at Kings Breakfast & Burgers.

3

The prices at Kings Breakfast & Burgers are more reasonable than many other places.

17
Five Guys image 1
Fast food restaurant

Old burger joint style with a red and white motif sets a classic fast food scene. Rock music plays, creating a lively atmosphere despite a cold interior. Burgers come with free toppings and large, oily fries that can feed multiple people, making it a spot for a quick, filling meal.

Cheeseburgers come in large, flavorful portions with options like bacon and grilled mushrooms. Cajun fries stand out as a popular side, often shared and costing extra along with bacon.

Burgers come with a thick patty and lots of melted cheese, giving a rich, heavy bite. They remind of In-N-Out but are larger and customizable, with very tasty flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be super tasty and nicely cooked."

"The American Food here, especially the Cajun fries, is tasty and crispy."

"You can get your cheeseburger "all the way" with every topping."

Good to know

1

All toppings are free, and you can choose as many as you want.

2

Cajun fries and bacon cost extra, adding $5 to your bill.

3

The place is clean and well-kept, providing a pleasant dining environment.

18
Yuca's / We Cater! image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small food stand with limited seating focuses on takeout and quick service. Atmosphere feels casual and unassuming, with a short wait and modest portions that often lead to leftovers. Known for classic Mexican dishes, large portions, and minimal sauce servings.

Cheeseburgers come with a delicious taste and are affordable around $6.50. Chili on the burger has a burnt aftertaste that stands out.

Affordable burgers cost around $6.50 with a regular patty that is common in many burger spots. The chili burger is small and has a lack of chili.

People are saying

"The carne asada burrito here is tasty, but the beef could be more tender."

"The roja salsa here is very good."

"I found their cheeseburger to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Yuca's is a food stand with no seating available.

2

Expect to pay extra for additional salsa.

3

Portions are large enough to share between two people.

19
Dena Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Booths feature ornate upholstery with Los Angeles scenes, creating a cute atmosphere inside. The place offers both indoor and outdoor seating along with a drive-through. It serves a mix of classic burgers and authentic Mexican dishes, with a notable spicy green salsa that stands out.

Hamburgers and Mexican dishes stand out with solid flavors. Crispy, warm hash browns replace fries on request, and sandwiches like the club and grilled cheese come at reasonable prices.

Burgers come out classic and well made with great seasoning and cooking. Options like the garden burger and patty melt stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast burrito to be super delicious."

"The green salsa with avocado and habanero is spicy and worth the pain."

"I found the burgers here to be classic and well made."

Good to know

1

You can buy the green salsa to go.

2

There was plenty of parking available.

3

Dena Burgers offered indoor and outdoor seating options.

20
Fatburger & Buffalo's Express image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Clean interior and dining area create a straightforward setting with a loud atmosphere that drowns out music. Massive portions of burgers made from fresh beef stand out as the main attraction. Location near a college brings in a mix of students and workers, adding to the energetic vibe.

Classic hamburgers stand out here, especially the Old School style cheeseburgers. The XXXL Cheeseburger features a large patty but can be overcooked and tough.

Burgers here are delicious, very filling, and consistently satisfying. Adding extra onions is a common choice to enhance the flavor.

People are saying

"These burgers are delicious, satisfying, and very filling."

"I found the food to be fresh and delicious."

"I thought the American food here served the best cheeseburgers ever."

Good to know

1

The location is right across from Pasadena City College, making it convenient for students.

2

The restaurant offers massive portions, ideal for hungry diners.

3

The dining room is kept clean, providing a pleasant atmosphere.

21
Magnolia House image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar blends cozy indoor spaces with a chill outdoor patio featuring heat lamps and dog-friendly seating. Atmosphere mixes unique decorations and art with lively pop and rap music, creating a fun, vibey energy. Crowd varies from friends relaxing after work to family gatherings, with a welcoming, casual vibe throughout.

Chicken wings stand out as a meal by themselves with bold flavors. Breakfast options include Eggs Benedict, Foragers Omelet, and Belgian waffles. Crab cakes exist but lack freshness and have an unusual mustard hollandaise twist.

House burger stands out as a nice and juicy option served with house fries. The old-fashioned burger and fries special offers a simple, satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and delightful."

"I thought the house burger was nice and juicy."

"The American Food here is fantastic, especially the drinks."

Good to know

1

Magnolia House closes the kitchen between 3 and 4:30 PM, serving only fries during that time.

2

Reservations are required for larger tables, especially on busy days.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

22
Wonder Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Old-school hamburger diner with a classic, comforting vibe and massive portions defines the space. The atmosphere stays busy during lunch hours, with many using the drive-thru window. Food is made fresh to order, leading to a longer wait time but satisfying, hearty meals.

Hamburgers come greasy with a lack of sauce, featuring only mustard and no ketchup. BLT sandwiches and cheeseburgers offer better flavor compared to the greasy hamburgers.

Burgers come in huge sizes that need two hands to handle. The Wonder Burger stands out with its perfect char and unique taste, while the pastrami burger offers a solid option. Combos include fries, ranch, and a drink at great prices.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and a great value."

"These burgers are loaded, messy, and truly one of a kind."

"I thought the American Food, especially the burgers, was out of this world delicious."

Good to know

1

Wonder Burgers closes early, around 3 to 3:30 PM.

2

It gets busy during lunch hours, so expect longer wait times.

3

If there are more than five people, be ready to wait.

23
Tom's Burgers 31 image 1
American restaurant

Old-fashioned diner with a retro 80s vibe and spacious booth seating creates a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The pace varies from quiet to noisy, with a clean and well-maintained interior throughout. Generous portions and a diverse menu cater to a wide range of tastes.

Cheeseburgers stand out with options like double patties and combos served with fries. Breakfast includes a biscuits and gravy plate, and sandwiches like the club sandwich also feature on the menu.

Juicy, family-owned burgers offer a taste that rivals In-N-Out but with a unique twist. Combos come with generous fries and prices that stay reasonable.

People are saying

"The food here is seriously amazing and served nice and hot."

"Their breakfast burritos are highly recommended and generously portioned."

"I loved the simple yet delicious burgers here."

Good to know

1

They are one of the only small businesses that accept EBT cards.

2

There are combo meals under $10 available from 6:00 p.m. until closing.

3

The restaurant is very clean and well maintained.

24
New York Chicken & Gyro Pasadena image 1

Spacious fast food restaurant with clean, well-lit interior and cute decorations creates a bold, inviting vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy and fun despite cooler temperature inside. Seating is ample but could use more tables to accommodate crowds.

Fresh, juicy cheeseburgers stand out here, with options for kids like cheeseburgers, nuggets, and fries. The fried chicken wings also get attention for their flavor.

Burgers vary here, with some tasting delicious and others coming off as gross or nauseous. Fries often accompany the burgers, making for a common combo.

People are saying

"I thought the food tasted like it was straight from NYC food stalls."

"I loved the big portions of their American food."

"The burgers here are delicious and Steve gave us free ones."

Good to know

1

Parking on Green Street is difficult; arrive early or on weekdays.

2

Prices are very affordable, with platters costing around $11 each.

3

The restaurant offers good kid options like cheeseburgers, nuggets, and fries.

25
OH LA LA image 1
Brunch restaurant

French-style cafe offers a spacious seating area with beautiful interior design and live jazz music on weekends. Atmosphere feels inviting and relaxing, suitable for working or date nights. Bakery features artisan pastries that compete with top Parisian standards.

Fried chicken shines with a crispy sandwich and a fresh side salad that balances the meal. Eggs Benedict stands out as a classic brunch choice with attentive service enhancing the experience.

Burgers here come with truffle fries and take extra time to prepare. Some find the meat undercooked and pink, while others call the burger amazing or fire.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and unique."

"The American food, like the fried chicken sandwich, was delicious."

"I found the burgers here to be amazing and fire."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM on weekdays.

2

Live music is hosted during dinner time on weekends.

3

Parking is difficult to find, with most spots being time-limited.

26
Carl's Jr. image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant offers peaceful atmosphere with very clean dining and kitchen areas. Burgers feature charbroiled style and crispy fries stand out. Location tends to be less crowded, making it a calm spot for lunch.

Hamburgers stand out as the specialty here, with a focus on the western bacon cheeseburger. Breakfast combos come with a generous portion of hash browns compared to other fast food spots.

Fresh, hot burgers come out quickly, often in less than 4 minutes. Options include charbroiled and beyond burgers, with solid, consistent quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and super fresh."

"I thought their burgers were the best in town."

"Their charbroiled burgers are the best American food in town."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is usually not crowded during lunch hours.

2

Expect higher prices compared to other fast-food chains.

3

The dining area and kitchen are consistently clean.

Discover more

Pasadena, California

Area guide
Loading Map...