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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Diego

Smash burgers

A smash burger that prioritizes the crust and the sear over the height of the stack.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
The Mixer image 1
The Mixer image 2
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American restaurant

American restaurant offers a high-energy sports bar vibe with indoor and outdoor seating and many TVs. Smash burgers feature a crispy edge and juicy center, especially the double and spicy versions. Fans enjoy themed nights and live events while savoring burgers and cocktails.

Smash burgers come with a crispy edge and juicy center. The double smash burger and spicy smash burger stand out, paired well with garlic fries and shakes.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing, truly the best."

"It's the perfect spot for catching live sports with tons of TVs."

"The Smash Burgers here are handmade and only $7."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $6.25 drinks and $7.25 food options.

2

The Bravo watch party for RHOSLC is on Tuesday nights.

3

Parking is ample and convenient near The Mixer.

02
Charli's Landing image 1

Outdoor seating offers bayfront marina views and a relaxed atmosphere with no loud music. Juicy smash burgers come with crispy fries and pair well with grilled fish tacos. Patio welcomes dogs and features simple games like connect 4 for a friendly vibe.

Juicy smash burgers come with crispy fries and pair well with grilled fish tacos. The burgers have a rich flavor and a perfectly smashed patty that stands out.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are phenomenal, fresh, and juicy."

"The seafood here, especially the fish and chips, is delicious and fresh."

"The smash burger was so juicy and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Outdoor seating is available, providing great views of the marina.

2

The eatery has a free parking lot for customers.

3

You can order from a QR code at the table to skip the line.

03
RomBomb Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Burger service runs on a limited schedule with quick sellouts, so ordering early is key. Known for juicy smash burgers with crispy edges, the taste is classic and satisfying. Pickup spots focus on takeout, offering no seating but great for catering.

Smash burgers here stand out for their juicy, flavorful patties and crispy edges. The burgers deliver a classic, satisfying taste that appeals to fans of this style.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were some of the tastiest I'd ever eaten."

"You have to try the smash burgers at this party; they're cooked to perfection."

"I thought these smash burgers were some of the tastiest I'd ever eaten."

Good to know

1

RomBomb Burger is only open on Wednesdays from 3 to 7 PM.

2

The burgers sell out frequently, so order early to avoid disappointment.

3

There isn't a place to eat the freshly made burger at the pickup locations.

04
Haole Shack image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Walk-up window near the beach offers sea view and cozy, lively atmosphere with local music. Smash burgers have a crispy sear and juicy inside, perfect for burger lovers. Busy late-night spot with small patio seating.

Smash burgers here feature a crispy sear and juicy interior. The flavor balance stands out, making them a solid choice for burger fans.

People are saying

"These burgers are the best smash burgers I've ever had."

"I found the teriyaki bowls to be delicious and amazing."

"I thought the smash burger was awesome."

Good to know

1

Haole Shack is a walk-up establishment located near the Pacific Beach lifeguard station.

2

Haole Shack only has outside seating with limited shade.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during nighttime as it's a popular late-night food spot.

05
Sidecar Bar image 1

Small dive bar offers a laid-back vibe with spacious seating and lively crowds during sports on multiple TVs. Smash burgers from food trucks are great tasting and pair well with affordable beer and cocktails. Pool tables and arcade games add to the fun atmosphere.

Smash burgers here have a good quality and great taste. The smash burger with fries stands out as a solid choice.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are made with fresh ingredients and taste great."

"This bar feels like a fun, divey neighborhood haunt."

"I found the smash burgers to be incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily with great drink specials.

2

Parking is usually available in the lot behind the bar.

3

Food options are limited to a food truck outside the bar.

06
Bonehead Burger Co. image 1
American restaurant

Open deck seating with fire pits creates a warm vibe for groups. The Impossible smash burger taco offers bold flavors without the bun. Loaded tatter tots with cheese and sauce pair perfectly. TVs and draft beers add to the chill, social setting.

Impossible smash burger taco burger blends smash burger flavors with a lighter feel by skipping the bun. Loaded tatter tots come with cooked onions, cheese, and sauce that complement the burger well.

People are saying

"Bri's friendly service made the burgers experience better."

"The burgers and tots here are amazing Date Spots."

"These smash burgers have crispy ends and a tender center."

Good to know

1

The happy hour lasts until 8 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Street parking is available nearby, but paid parking is also an option.

3

The burger costs $13 for a 4 oz serving, which may be considered light by some.

07
Burger Deck image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor deck offers breezy views and heaters for cool nights, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for socializing. Smash burgers shine with homemade buns and rich flavor, making every bite satisfying. Patio seating feels private and shielded from noise and sun.

Smash burgers come out full of flavor and perfectly cooked with a homemade-tasting bun. They deliver a consistently tasty and satisfying experience.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be fantastic."

"The burgers and onion rings here are delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Burger Deck only accepts card payments.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating only.

3

It is dog-friendly and offers a pup patty.

08
Rosemarie's Buns & Brews image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small burger joint serves perfectly seared smash burgers with juicy interiors. Loud music and large TVs create a lively vibe. Outdoor patio and ping pong add to the casual, beachy atmosphere.

Smash burgers come out with perfectly seared edges and a juicy interior. Each bite delivers a balanced flavor that feels carefully crafted.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good and delicious."

"The sliders here are super delicious with amazing flavor variety."

"The smash burgers here are done to absolute perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 12-6pm with $5 drink deals on Saturdays.

2

Parking is available at a pay lot about a block away for $10 per hour.

3

They offer a variety of drinks during happy hour, including mango mimosas.

09
Deccan Bites image 1
Halal restaurant

Small halal spot serves fresh fried chicken and unique Hyderabadi dishes like Chicken 65 with Rumali roti. Cozy vibe fits quick bites or relaxed meals. Smash burgers pack rich flavor and hearty double patties for a satisfying taste.

Smash burgers come with rich flavor and a satisfying texture. The double smash burger offers a hearty option with well-cooked patties.

People are saying

"I found the smash burgers to be amazing and crispy."

"The rumali roti here is soft, thin, and made to perfection."

"You have to try the smash burgers; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

They offer a special on Tuesdays for $2 tenders.

2

Deccan Bites is open late on weekends.

3

There is plenty of seating and free parking available.

10
The Friendly Tavern image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Open-air back patio offers spacious outdoor seating and a dog-friendly atmosphere perfect for casual hangs. Smash burgers shine with buttery, crispy edges cooked on a flat top. The vibe is chill and dive-like, creating a relaxed, non-fast-food experience.

Buttery, juicy smash burgers come off a flat top with a crispy edge. These simple, affordable burgers have a greasy charm and a perfected flavor that rivals any other.

People are saying

"I found the smash burgers here to be the best in town."

"The smash burgers here are amazing and crispy."

"I found the smash burgers here to be the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Parking is hard to find near the tavern, especially on weekends.

2

Prices are competitive and affordable for burgers and drinks.

3

The tavern claims to offer carry-out service, but it does not actually provide it.

11
The Friendly image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Simple spot with fresh smash burgers and a French onion dip that adds rich flavor. Loud hip hop and a hipster vibe create a lively, youthful scene. Limited seating keeps it casual and no-frills.

Smash burgers come with freshly made patties cooked quickly and packed with flavor. The French onion dip adds a unique twist that blends classic smash burger taste with rich, savory notes.

People are saying

"These burgers are beyond delicious; they melt in your mouth."

"I found the burgers here to be very affordable and filling."

"I thought the smash burgers here were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during busy times, so arrive early.

2

The menu is fixed with no substitutions allowed on burgers.

3

The restaurant is small with limited seating available.

12
Angry Petes Pizza Kearny Mesa image 1

Refurbished 90s Taco Bell building serves Detroit-style pizza with a quirky vibe from retro arcade games and board games. Smash burgers feature two smashed beef patties with grilled onions and thousand island dressing. Drive-through and family-friendly space invite lingering beyond meals.

Two smashed beef patties with grilled onions and thousand island dressing make the $9 burger a solid protein boost. The smash burgers pair well with the fries and Caesar salad for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"I thought their Detroit Style Pizza offered a taste of Detroit."

"The decor and food give it a nostalgic Midwest vibe."

"I thought the smash burgers were to die for."

Good to know

1

Angry Hour runs from 3 to 6 pm with $5 draft beers.

2

Happy hour offers a slice of pizza and a beer for $11.

3

Trivia night is held weekly and is engaging for guests.

13
The Remy image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse blends warm rustic charm with an upscale vibe. Smash burgers use Wagyu beef for rich flavor but stay fresh and simple. Bar shines with glistening gold flakes and craft cocktails, creating a lively, cozy spot despite some cramped space.

Smash burgers here feature Wagyu beef that elevates the flavor beyond typical fast food. They come across as fresh and tasty, though some find them less distinctive than expected.

People are saying

"I had the most tender and flavorful steak ever."

"The dinner spots here have phenomenal servers who go above and beyond."

"The smash burgers here are super delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with drink prices between $10 and $12.

2

Parking can be challenging; street parking is often necessary.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

14
Swagyu Burger East Village image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Steakhouse style meets casual comfort with multiple TVs for game fans. Smash burgers shine with Wagyu beef on brioche buns and secret sauce. Atmosphere swings from chill to lively, perfect for burgers and drinks in a fun, relaxed spot.

Crispy smash patties come on a brioche potato bun with American cheese, fresh toppings, and secret sauce. The 1/2 pound and 1/4 pound options deliver perfectly put together burgers with a strong Wagyu beef presence.

People are saying

"These burgers are super yummy and delicious."

"You can grab a delicious burger while watching live sports."

"These Smash Burgers are perfectly smashed with crispy, seasoned edges."

Good to know

1

Parking is nearly impossible during Padres games without paying a high fee for garage parking.

2

Swagyu Burger East Village offers dog-friendly items for customers with pets.

3

Expect quick service on game days due to high demand.

15
Hayes Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small spot serves high-quality smash burgers with homemade spicy ketchup and perfect fries. Outdoor seating feels like a cozy cafe with mellow music. Limited seating and tricky parking keep the vibe casual and intimate.

Offers great smash burger selections with a mellow vibe. Smash burgers stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

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

"I found the parking available to be clean and tasty."

"I thought Hayes Burger served one of the best smash burgers I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult with limited spots available for multiple businesses.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, which may lead to wait times.

3

Prices are high, with a double cheeseburger costing around $14.

16
Hot Chickz Chicken Sandwiches image 1

Colorful, chicken-themed decor and wood accents create a casual vibe. Smash burgers offer fire quality and pair well with mac and cheese and Texas toast. Energetic music from 80s rock to 2010s pop keeps the mood lively.

Smash burgers here stand out with a delicious taste and a fire quality. They come alongside solid options like mac and cheese and Texas toast.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken sandwich was the best I ever had."

"The coleslaw here is scrumptious and perfectly fresh."

"I thought the smash burgers here were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a burger, fries, and drink for $9.

2

Expect to pay around $18 for a sandwich and tender combo.

3

Extra sauces are available at no extra charge.

17
VanMan's image 1
Restaurant

Old school diner vibe shines with non-electronic menu boards and lively counter seating. Grass-fed smash burgers boast crispy edges and juicy flavor, especially the Oklahoma Style Onion Smash with raw cheddar. Fries crunch perfectly, paired with house-made ketchup for a tasty finish.

Grassfed smash burgers have crispy edges and stay juicy with packed flavor. The Oklahoma Style Onion Smash Burger features raw cheddar cheese and stands out among the options.

People are saying

"I thought VanMan's had the best smash burger around."

"I found the healthy foods here were priced really well."

"I thought the smash burger here was amazing."

Good to know

1

The price point at VanMan's is unbeatable for the quality offered.

2

Everything is seed oil free and made with healthy ingredients.

3

There is plenty of parking available near VanMan's.

18
The Butchery image 1
Butcher shop

Butcher shop offers wide meat selection and a cozy sit-down area. Smash burger shines with perfect taste and juicy texture. Shelves hold rare beers and unique cooking ingredients, blending a specialty market with great eats.

Smash burger stands out with its perfect taste and juicy texture. It pairs well with fries and holds its own alongside smoked brisket.

People are saying

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was one of the best I've had."

"I found the seafood selection here to be really fresh."

"I had the smash burger and have no regrets."

Good to know

1

The shop opens at 9 AM, while the kitchen opens at 10 AM.

2

They offer a wide selection of meats, fish, cheeses, and artisan foods.

3

Expect a great variety of spices, oils, and vinegars for cooking.

19
For The Win image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall spot offers double smash burger with juicy, rich flavor and sweet potato fries. Casual vibe suits quick take-and-go service with large touchscreen ordering. Limited outdoor seating keeps experience simple and relaxed.

Double smash burger stands out with rich flavor and juicy texture. Sweet potato fries complement the meal well. Quality matches or exceeds typical smash burger expectations.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the seasoned patty."

"I thought these smash burgers were the best in San Diego."

"The cheeseburger's meat was seasoned perfectly and the bun was soft."

Good to know

1

The place mainly offers take-and-go service with limited seating options.

2

Parking is difficult due to the busy road location.

3

Expect to spend around $17 for a burger, which some find overpriced.

20
Villains Brewing Company image 1

Multi-story black wood and brick building offers indoor and outdoor seating with a balcony view. Smash burger features varied toppings and pairs well with brisket tacos. Lively atmosphere blends English pub vibes and villain-themed decor, perfect for socializing and watching sports on plenty of TVs.

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 dishes here are so tender and flavorful."

"The beer here is good and made on-site."

"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.

21
Majorette image 1

Dive bar offers a dog-friendly patio and free pool tables for a chill vibe. Smash burgers shine with solid flavor and a $10 beer combo on Tuesdays. Multiple big screens show sports, creating a relaxed atmosphere loved by locals.

Smash burgers stand out with solid flavor and texture. The BLT and chimichurri steak sandwich also offer tasty options. Tuesdays feature a deal with a beer and a smash burger for $10.

People are saying

"They have a good beer lineup and menu."

"The smash burgers at this dive bar are fantastic and a great deal."

"You've got to try the smash burgers; they're damn good."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday evening at 7pm.

2

On Tuesdays, enjoy a burger and any beer for just $10.

3

The bar has a patio for outdoor seating, but dogs are not allowed inside.

22
Hawaiian Fresh Seafood At Centerpark Labs image 1

Outdoor seating offers synthetic lawn and Cornhole games for a chill vibe. Smash burgers arrive in 15-20 minutes with solid fries on the side. Indoor space feels tight and sterile, but outdoor area is spacious and kid-friendly.

Smash burgers come out in about 15-20 minutes and taste good. Fries serve as a solid side to the smash burger.

People are saying

"The seafood here is insanely fresh and delicious."

"The outdoor seating area has tables and umbrellas on the lawn."

"The smash burger here is delicious, with great meat and toppings."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 5pm with $2 off draft beers.

2

Taco Tuesday offers a dollar off each taco.

3

Expect long lines during peak lunch hours; arrive early.

23
Irv's Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small-town beach vibe creates a casual spot with shared outdoor areas and limited seating. Smash burgers shine with crispy edges and juicy flavor, though seasoning can be salty. Some cleanliness issues and slippery floors add to the unpolished feel.

Smash burgers here have super crispy edges and a juicy, flavorful patty. Buns stay soft, but some find the seasoning a bit too salty.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were really great."

"I got the world's best smash burger with super crispy edges."

"I thought the milkshakes were out of this world good."

Good to know

1

Prices for burgers start around $10.50, which is reasonable for the area.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

They offer both indoor and outdoor seating for a comfortable dining experience.

24
The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli image 1

Small butcher shop offers high-quality meats with a casual vibe. Smash burgers feature double patties and classic toppings on a soft bun. Outdoor seating and a smoker trailer add to the bro hangout feel, perfect for quick, tasty takeout.

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 the turkey sandwich was the best I'd ever eaten."

"I found the dry aged burger and tallow fries to be excellent."

"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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