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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in San Francisco

Smash Burgers

You want a thin, crispy-edged patty that doesn't sacrifice the integrity of the bun. Anything thicker just isn't a smash burger.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Smokin D’s BBQ SF image 1
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Barbecue restaurant

Small barbecue spot with on-site smoked meat creates a cozy, chill atmosphere reminiscent of Texas. Limited seating encourages takeout, attracting those who appreciate authentic Texas-style BBQ with bold, salty flavors.

Steak and smash burgers stand out with rich, satisfying flavors. The Smash Burger pairs well with sides like Mac n Cheese topped with Pulled Pork.

Smash burgers feature a great sear and excellent flavor. They pair well with sides like mac n cheese with pulled pork and brisket grilled cheese.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is tender and perfectly cooked."

"I found the smash burger to be great."

"I thought the smash burger was great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout only, with limited seating available.

2

Pricing is reasonable for the quality, with meals around $200 for a family.

3

Bao buns are available only from Friday to Sunday.

02
Louie's Original image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small, clean hamburger restaurant with comfortable seating and indoor and outdoor options. Atmosphere feels family oriented and low key, often accompanied by 90s rap or 70s music. TVs show sports, creating a relaxed vibe for ordering and unwinding.

Burgers come as premium smash style with a fluffy bun or on an English muffin, offering a tasty, satisfying size. The Big Louie features a double patty and well-balanced toppings.

Big Louie stands out as a premium smash burger served on a fluffy bun with perfect toppings. Prices range from $8 for a single to $11 for a double, making them well-priced and popular.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were top tier and very good."

"This chicken sandwich is so tender and juicy, it's a must-try."

"The smash burgers here are delicious on a fluffy bun."

Good to know

1

Louie's Original adds an automatic 21.5% gratuity to all orders.

2

Parking is ample and free on the street nearby.

3

The restaurant has a small, delivery-friendly menu focused on burgers.

03
Hamburger Project image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Cramped space with about 10 bar seats creates an intimate, no-frills setting. Atmosphere feels casual and straightforward, with a vibe leaning toward quick, focused dining rather than lingering. Clean, modern interior contrasts with narrow counters and dimmer areas near the kitchen.

Smash burgers come with a finely chopped onion and pickle mix that balances flavor perfectly. The Martin's Potato roll holds juicy, cheesy patties topped with American cheese and proprietary sauce, making each bite rich and unctuous.

Smash burgers come out cooked to perfection with a delicious flavor and great texture. Fries pair well, making the meal solid and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the Western burger with double patties was the best."

"You have to try the yuzu hot sauce at Bar Seating."

"I thought the smash burgers were delicious and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-4:30 PM, offering a burger, fries, and a drink for $12.

2

Expect limited seating; arrive during non-peak hours for a better chance to dine in.

3

Online ordering can lead to longer wait times for in-person customers.

04
Burger Littles image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor picnic tables offer seating with waterfront views near a busy ferry and financial district. The atmosphere is casual and classic, with no indoor seating except a standing bar. The place draws people looking for a simple menu and crispy smash burgers with thin patties and generous fries.

Burgers here feature a thin, crispy smashed patty with a cloud-like classic bun that enhances the flavor. The double fancy burger is cooked to order and offers a solid, tasty experience at a reasonable price.

Smash burgers feature thin, crispy patties with well-defined crispy edges. The Fancy Burger stands out as a notably delicious option among the offerings.

People are saying

"I found the smash burgers here to be the thinnest and crispiest."

"I found this cheeseburger to be one of the best I had."

"I found the smash burger here to be thin and crispy."

Good to know

1

The parking fee costs $11 per hour.

2

Burger Littles was open late.

3

I was able to sit outside at the picnic tables easily.

05
The Butcher Shop by Niku Steakhouse image 1

Display of steaks guarded by a Godzilla figure sets a unique tone in an immaculate, casual space. Atmosphere feels relaxed but not particularly welcoming, with no indoor seating available. Courtyard behind the building offers ample bench space for enjoying meals outdoors.

Two patties smashed with cheese, A5 wagyu fat, and special sauce sit on a brioche bun. The burger is perfectly cooked, juicy, and made with homemade ingredients including the buns.

Melt-in-my-mouth buttery texture defines the smash burger here. Toppings come perfectly balanced, making it a delicious and worth-the-money choice.

People are saying

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

"This chocolate chip cookie had me flying in cookie heaven."

"The smash burger here is amazing, rich and buttery."

Good to know

1

The burger costs about $30, and fries are extra.

2

The shop only offers take-out with no seating available.

3

They make cookies in-house using meat drippings.

06
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American restaurant

American restaurant offers a clean and modern space with a hippy tribute theme and 60s musician art. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and relaxed to fun and lively with a full bar and TV. A game room and billiard table add to the casual vibe.

Smash burgers here are juicy and packed with incredible flavor. Varieties like the blue cheese funk smash stand out for their bold taste and quality ingredients.

Funk smash burger stands out with its strong blue cheese flavor. Classic and Korean smash burgers offer solid options with crispy edges and juicy patties.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burger was one of the best I ever had."

"You've got to try the smash burgers and milkshakes here."

"I thought the smash burgers were some of the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is a great time to visit after work or shopping.

2

Prices are generally affordable, but some items can be steep.

3

Vegetarian burgers and gluten-free buns are available.

07
Saluhall SF image 1
Food court

Food court combines open, light-filled design with multiple levels hosting diverse restaurants and bars. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy with a refreshing vibe that connects to a nearby retail space. Frequented for local food options and a cooking school, it offers a lively yet chill environment.

Smash burgers stand out with their double smash signature and skinny fries. Plant-based and vegetarian options impress with solid fast food cheeseburgers that appeal beyond vegan tastes.

Smash burgers come with shoestring fries and have a tasty flavor, though the seasoning can be too salty at times.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of food options and vendors here."

"I found the smash burgers here to be very tasty."

"I found the smash burgers here to be superb and very tasty."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens on Mondays at Saluhall SF.

2

The downstairs area opens at 8 AM for breakfast and coffee.

3

Happy hour runs after 5 PM on Thursdays with specialty drinks.

08
Quik Dog image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Retro-modern burger spot combines family-friendly dining with a cozy bar area featuring moody lighting and wooden tables. The atmosphere stays fun and casual, with generous indoor and outdoor seating near a park. It balances a playful vibe with a comfortable setting for groups or solo visits.

Burgers come from a huge menu that also includes hot dogs and corn dogs. The smash burger stands out as one of the better ones around. Burgers are consistently good here.

Smash burgers here stand out for their juicy texture and rich flavor. The QD smash burger pairs well with a fresh kale salad for a solid meal.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burger was one of the better ones I had."

"I thought the cocktails here were brilliant and expertly-crafted."

"I thought the Smash Burger was one of the better ones I had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm, Monday through Friday.

2

Quik Dog is conveniently located next to Oracle Park.

3

Expect a 25-minute wait for food during busy lunch hours.

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