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Top picks in San Clemente

Burgers and American food

A burger that is crafted with intention rather than just being another fast-food assembly.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
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Gastropub

Open space blends indoor and outdoor seating with ocean views and succulent decor. Atmosphere stays laid back and mellow, capturing a fresh surf-city vibe without feeling fancy. Crowd enjoys a casual, neighborhood feel with consistent great energy until closing.

Fried chicken sandwich stands out as a key dish here. The menu also features a steak special served with mac and cheese.

Burger stands out as delicious and exactly what you want. Fries and the short rib sandwich also pair well with the burger.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and has a creative feel."

"I thought the burger was amazing."

"I thought the American food here was delicious, especially the fried chicken sandwich."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight, especially on busy nights.

2

The menu features a nice selection of vegan options.

3

The pastrami sandwich is available only at limited times.

02
In-N-Out Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Large building with European-style architecture and roomy indoor and outdoor seating creates a bright, clean environment. Noisy atmosphere fills with families and kids, especially during busy times. Drive-through and diner setup add convenience to the lively, casual vibe.

Hamburgers stand out with real meat and a crispy bun. Animal fries and strawberry shakes add variety to the simple menu.

Burgers here have a crispy bun and real meat that tastes full of flavor. Prices stay cheaper than other chains while delivering a classic, tasty burger experience.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers tasted extra delicious."

"I thought the bathrooms here were the nicest and very clean."

"I thought the American food, especially the hamburger, was so good and juicy."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially for the drive-thru.

2

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is not accepted after 10 pm.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-stocked restrooms.

03
Small's Smash Club image 1

Minimalist design creates a clean, modern space with plenty of seating inside and out. The atmosphere shifts from chill and family friendly to fun and lively as it fills up. Burgers stand out for their phenomenal smash style and distinctive beef tallow flavor.

Hamburgers come served on cardboard, contrasting with the outside's upscale brunch look. Prices remind of old fast food, like a McDonald's hamburger costing 15 cents.

Smash burgers stand out with their perfect balance and fresh taste. Fries and onion rings come fresh and tasty, made without seed oils, complementing the meal well.

People are saying

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

"I loved the beer selection; every one I tried was excellent."

"This American food is pricey for just a smash burger and fries."

Good to know

1

A single combo with fries and a small drink costs $19.

2

Expect to pay $1-2 extra for toppings beyond cheese, pickles, onions, and sauce.

3

The restaurant specializes in smash burgers and fries.

04
Coastal Cowboy CA Eats image 1
American restaurant

Modern country decor with cowgirl surf art creates a laid-back, fun vibe that feels warm and welcoming. Busy atmosphere fills with people drawn to bold, fresh flavors in dishes like smash burgers and fish tacos. Patio seating adds to the casual, inviting energy.

Fish tacos and brisket cheesesteak deliver bold, fresh flavors and cook to perfection. The fried chicken sandwich and gluten-free fish and chips stand out alongside rodeo mac and cheese that tastes really delicious.

Smash burgers stand out with juicy, flavorful patties. The Outlaw burger pairs well with beef tallow fries for a rich taste. Fries are a must-try alongside the hot chicken sandwich and chips.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"The American Food here is delicious, especially the salmon and mac and cheese."

"I thought the Outlaw burger was the best burger I had ever eaten."

Good to know

1

On Thursday, all IPA beers are $5.

2

Expect a 30-40 minute wait during peak hours.

3

You can substitute a gluten-free bun for any sandwich or burger.

05
Krazy Kooters image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Hamburger restaurant with funky decor blending pirate, western, and Aztec temple themes creates a unique atmosphere. Live reggae music and a magician performing card tricks add entertaining energy. Outdoor patio features a party bus bar made from an old delivery van, enhancing the lively vibe.

Hamburgers stand out with excellent flavor and unique touches. Sandwiches include coleslaw, adding a distinct texture. Side salads accompany meals for a fresh balance.

Bacon blue burger stands out with its rich flavor. Smash burgers and the standard burger come cooked perfectly, paired well with fries. Chicken sandwich also offers a solid alternative.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing."

"The decorations and animatronic displays here are really cool."

"The American Food here, especially the burgers, is top notch."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit of a hassle, so plan accordingly.

2

Brunch features live magic shows that entertain guests at their tables.

3

Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch due to popularity.

06
Habit Burger & Grill image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Casual hamburger restaurant with outside seating and heaters offers a diverse menu including chicken and Impossible burgers. Atmosphere stays nice and chill with clean surroundings and plenty of parking. Burgers are juicy and flavorful, supported by reasonable prices and consistent quality.

Juicy double hamburgers stand out here, paired often with shakes. Kids meals include a small hamburger with thin meat and ketchup, while chicken club sandwiches come with a tiny chicken patty.

Burgers come chargrilled fresh to order with a juicy, flavorful taste. Options include a buttery classic, a portobello burger with avocado and special sauce, and newer chicken and Impossible burgers.

People are saying

"I loved the juicy, flavorful burgers here."

"The food here is delicious and made with care."

"I love their juicy American Food burgers."

Good to know

1

Habit Burger & Grill is open until 9:30 PM.

2

They offer great online deals and coupons.

3

Habit Burger & Grill offers vegetarian options that fit my needs.

07
Smashburger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Casual hamburger restaurant with a homey atmosphere and clean environment. Burgers focus on quality ingredients and distinctive flavors like mushroom truffle and BBQ bacon. Fries vary from crispy skinny style to sweet potato waffle, with some items considered pricey.

Cheeseburgers come piping hot and include options like the All American Smash and Mac and cheese burger. Meals feature generous kids portions and sides like fries and peanut butter cookie shakes with salted caramel.

Smash burgers offer good flavor with quality ingredients and come fast. Options include a mac & cheese burger and a smash chicken burger that appeals to non-beef eaters.

People are saying

"I loved this Smash Burger; the service was great too."

"I thought the burgers here tasted great."

"The American Food here, especially the cheeseburgers, is piping hot and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $15-$21 for a burger, fries, and shake.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

3

Reservations are not required, but expect a busy atmosphere.

08
Flights & Irons Urban Kitchen image 1

Speakeasy-style restaurant with cozy, intimate atmosphere and live jazz music creates a relaxing vibe. Comfortable seating and a wood fire oven add warmth to the space. Guests enjoy a thoughtful dining experience paired with a good selection of beers, wines, and crafted cocktails.

Cornbread and chili soup stand out with strong flavors. Loaded mashed potatoes and short rib grilled cheese offer rich, satisfying tastes. Other items like the burger and ribeye steak come off as average or mediocre.

Juicy and flavorful burgers stand out here, including a well-prepared chicken burger served with a crisp salad. The F&I Burger and other options like the fried bologna sandwich offer bold, satisfying flavors.

People are saying

"I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this hidden gem."

"You have to try the cornbread; it's the best American Food I've ever had."

"I thought the chicken burger was very good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can sell out quickly.

2

Happy hour offers $2 off select menu items and drinks at the bar.

3

Parking is limited; consider using the shopping center across the street.

09
Carl's Jr. image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant with a quiet, relaxing atmosphere and truck parking available. Burgers and chicken items come out fresh and hot, offering satisfying flavors. Prices tend to be on the higher side compared to typical fast food.

Western Bacon Cheeseburger stands out with its satisfying and flavorful taste. Hamburgers come hot and tasty, though a combo with fries and a drink costs around $14.

Burgers come hot and tasty with a solid classic style. They use iceberg lettuce in their Famous Stars burgers, and the burger often looks like the picture.

People are saying

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

"I found it to be a solid choice for a classic burger."

"I always ordered the Western Bacon Cheeseburger."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for trucks, making it convenient for larger vehicles.

2

Restroom access requires a food purchase to obtain a code.

3

Expect high prices, with a cheeseburger meal costing around $14.

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San Clemente, California

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