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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Burger spots

Made for those who judge a kitchen entirely by the integrity of its burger.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Backyard image 1
The Backyard image 2
The Backyard image 3
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Cocktail bar

Cozy outdoor seating and live acoustic music create a peaceful garden vibe. Huge burgers like the Californication burger use great quality meat. A hidden gem with a laid-back atmosphere and dog-friendly space offers a quiet spot away from crowds.

Huge burgers made with great quality meat stand out here. The Californication burger is especially flavorful and fresh, alongside options like the Jalapeno Smash Burger and Crispy Chicken Sandwich.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing and flavorful."

"The service here is outstanding and super friendly."

"I found it to be an amazing hidden gem just off the main tourist sideshow."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers on Sundays.

2

The Backyard does not take reservations.

3

Parking is free for guests.

02
Library Alehouse image 1
American restaurant

Gastropub shines with a library of craft beers including Pliny the Elder. Signature burgers offer rich flavors that pair perfectly with draft beer. Back patio provides a dog-friendly seating area surrounded by green plants for a quiet break.

Signature burgers come with rich flavors and pair well with draft beer. Kids get two small burgers on the menu, making it easier for small hands to enjoy.

People are saying

"They have an awesome, wide selection of craft beers."

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

"The back patio is a beautiful, cool space to hang out."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm Monday to Friday with great deals.

2

Trivia night is held every Wednesday evening in the back area.

3

Parking can be challenging, but there are usually spots available nearby.

03
Urban Skillet image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal burgers deliver authentic Riyadh flavor with top-quality beef. Industrial decor and outdoor seating create a warm, upbeat vibe. Friendly staff make it great for casual dining or working on a laptop.

Burgers here are halal and have a taste that matches authentic flavors from Riyadh. The quality stands out as some of the best, with a delicious and authentic beef burger experience.

People are saying

"These burgers are juicy, flavorful, and made with high-quality halal meat."

"The food here is packed with flavor."

"The brisket fries are loaded and savory."

Good to know

1

Urban Skillet is 100% Halal.

2

The restaurant served halal beef and chicken.

3

Urban Skillet is open later than other local burger places.

04
Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Cozy space with warm lighting sets a calm mood. Juicy All American Burger shines alongside smoky barbecue aromas. Friendly service adds charm, making it a neat spot for both meat lovers and vegetarians.

Juicy and flavorful burgers stand out here, especially the All American Burger and Ol’ Smokey Burger. A great variety of burgers pairs well with friendly service that sometimes includes a free beer.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was the best I've ever had."

"These burgers are juicy and flavorful, truly some of the best I've ever had."

"I loved the key lime pie; it had a perfect size and fresh lime zest."

Good to know

1

Customers must stand in line to order and pay before receiving their food.

2

Parking costs outside the restaurant can be high.

3

The website for placing orders is user-friendly and efficient.

05
The Cloverfield image 1
American restaurant

Large outdoor patio offers an airy, dog-friendly space with warm fires and heaters. Smooth jazz sets a peaceful vibe perfect for groups and families. Burgers shine here, especially the vegan veggie burger and the tasty salmon burger.

Veggie options include a vegan veggie burger served with sweet potato fries. The salmon burger also stands out alongside the classic burger, both noted as delicious.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating has a great vibe and atmosphere."

"The large patio is dog friendly and they even give pups a treat."

"I found the burger here to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on the premises.

2

Reservations are required for outdoor seating.

3

Happy hour, called social hour, offers special deals.

06
Barneys gourmet Hamburger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Lively spot with perfectly grilled burgers featuring fried jalapeños for a spicy kick. Families enjoy the varied menu despite limited seating. High-quality ingredients make it a top choice for burger lovers.

Burgers feature high quality ingredients and cook perfectly on the grill. Toppings like fried jalapeños add a delicious kick, though prices run on the higher side.

People are saying

"I found the burgers to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Tipping is suggested after dining, not at pickup.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of burger options for all tastes.

07
The Upper West image 1
New American restaurant

Spacious spot with urban rustic decor offers an upscale vibe that shifts from cozy to lively. Juicy braised short ribs and a standout veggie burger with house-made ketchup satisfy food lovers. Flawless espresso martinis and strong Old Fashioneds round out the experience.

Burgers here stand out for their incredible juiciness and rich flavor. The Veggie Burger shines with house-made ketchup that boosts its taste, making it a notable choice.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared."

"This is the perfect place for dinner celebrations and private events."

"I thought the burgers here were juicy and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Upper West offers a happy hour with deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

On Sunday, craft cocktails are priced at $10 until 7:00 pm.

3

Parking can be challenging in the area, so plan accordingly.

08
George's Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Classic diner shines with retro decor and a lively vibe. Burgers boast juicy real meat and bold combos like bacon Swiss and double avocado. Seating is simple with benches and booths, plus step-free access for ease.

Burgers here offer a classic American taste with juicy, real meat and generous fixings. Options like the bacon and Swiss burger and double avocado burger bring bold, flavorful combinations to the menu.

People are saying

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

"You get huge portions of American food for a great price."

"The breakfast burritos here are massive and stuffed to your liking."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on weekends, but orders are prepared quickly.

3

Ample parking is available for guests visiting the restaurant.

09
Cafe Zella image 1

Small cafe offers heavenly burgers with rich flavor but not daily. Cozy space with cramped tables and limited outdoor seating suits breakfast and lunch lovers. Ordering at the counter means wait times during busy hours.

Burger tastes like heaven on earth with rich flavor and satisfying texture. Not available every day, as they sometimes stop making burgers on Sundays.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The Local Spot has great coffee and tasty salmon bowls."

"I ordered their burgers after surgery."

Good to know

1

Customers must walk to the counter to order and pay.

2

Expect a 10-minute wait for coffee and 20 minutes for burritos.

3

Salsa with the burrito is available only if paid extra.

10
Pier Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Retro style and ocean views set a lively, casual vibe with outdoor terrace seating. Burgers are flavorful and juicy, featuring the popular Pier Burger and Veggie Burger. Expect quick service amid energetic, sometimes noisy, atmosphere with vintage flair and great music.

Burgers here are flavorful and juicy, cooked just right with plenty of options to customize. The menu includes signature choices like the Pier Burger and a satisfying Veggie Burger, all at affordable prices with quick service.

People are saying

"I thought the burger I had was the best I've ever tasted."

"I thought the hot dogs here were outstanding."

"Enjoying a burger with the ocean breeze is an iconic tourist experience."

Good to know

1

Pier Burger offers affordable prices for a quick bite on the pier.

2

The restaurant is family-friendly and suitable for casual dining.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

11
Santa Monica Brew Works image 1

Huge space with live bands and a big patio welcomes dogs and sports fans. Burgers, including a grilled chicken burger, come fresh but expect a 30-minute wait. Extensive on-tap brews pair well with notable pizza from a top food partner.

Burgers come out fresh and include options like a grilled chicken burger made to perfection. Expect a wait time around 30 minutes after ordering on the phone.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"The brewery staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"You won't be disappointed with these amazing burgers."

Good to know

1

You must be 21 or older to enter the brewery.

2

There is a mandatory 18% service charge on all bills.

3

The brewery does not accept cash payments.

12
Palma image 1
Restaurant

Stylish interiors with deep couches create a relaxed vibe for chatting or work. The Plant Burger offers a vegan option topped with cheese and tangy aioli. Music volume varies, sometimes loud enough to affect conversation.

The Plant Burger stands out with its vegan profile and comes topped with cheese and a tangy, herby creamy aioli. It costs 36 dollars and pairs well with a mimosa.

People are saying

"The breakfast service here is so attentive and friendly."

"The Plant Burger food here is vegan with a tangy, creamy aioli."

"The Plant Burger's tangy, herby aioli is amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect higher prices than the menu indicates; verify before ordering.

2

Brunch menu offers a variety of flavorful options, but limited overall.

3

Cocktails are priced steeply; budget accordingly for drinks.

13
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Open-air seating creates a calm atmosphere perfect for families. Burgers shine with fresh ingredients and standout options like the California Burger. Bright, spacious interior invites guests to relax away from noisy spots.

Burgers here feature fresh ingredients and are cooked perfectly. Options like the California Burger and blue cheese burger stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

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

"This Local Spot's fresh, from-scratch cooking uses local ingredients."

"I thought the burgers and fries were fresh and meaty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

14
Diner Antonette image 1
American restaurant

Old building hosts an American diner with retro-inspired decor and cozy booths under warm lighting. Classic burgers like the smash-burger cheeseburger satisfy cravings, while the quinoa burger offers a tasty vegetarian choice. Patio spaces provide a bright, airy setting for gatherings.

Quinoa burger offers a tasty vegetarian option but can be messy to eat. Classic burgers like the smash-burger cheeseburger and standard burger come with fries and satisfy basic burger cravings.

People are saying

"The diner's fried chicken is wonderfully spiced and crispy."

"It's a warm, retro-inspired atmosphere with a modern, curated vibe."

"I ordered a burger and it was great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks before 7 PM on weekdays.

2

Kids meals are available for $5 each.

3

Parking is generally available on the street, but check for meters.

15
Rabano image 1
Restaurant

Spacious, airy design with heated outdoor patio creates a relaxed vibe. Burgers shine with fresh ingredients and a slightly spicy kick. Focus on healthy, organic options makes it great for vegan and health-conscious diners.

Burgers here feature fresh ingredients and soft buns with sauces that add a slightly spicy kick. Options like the Wow Burger and Green Earth Burger stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, tasty, and always good."

"I found the healthy foods here to be delicious and fresh."

"I said 'wow' when I tasted the Wow Burger."

Good to know

1

Rabano offers a variety of dishes suitable for all tastes, including options for kids.

2

The kids menu includes a drink for a very reasonable price.

3

Rabano now offers breakfast burritos all day.

16
Habit Burger & Grill image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Clean space with a relaxed vibe and electronic ordering makes dining easy. Burgers shine with flame grilled patties and tasty sauces. Outdoor seating adds charm while prices stay affordable for a great meal.

Burgers here feature fresh, flame grilled patties with a great balance of toppings and buns. The double char burger stands out for its juicy meat and tasty sauce, paired well with fries or onion rings.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with fresh ingredients in every bite."

"I found the grilled hamburger with caramelized onions delicious."

"The burgers here are so fresh and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the parking lot right next door.

2

You can pay using a Credit or Debit Card on the touchscreen.

3

Meal prices range from $13 to $16.

17
Augie's On Main - Chicken Restaurant Santa Monica, CA image 1

Outdoor seating with a quiet courtyard creates a chill vibe perfect for relaxed hangouts. Burgers shine with juicy, saucy meat and include a standout fried chicken option. Creative sandwiches bring freshness and flavor that keep the menu exciting.

Burgers feature high-quality meat that stays juicy and saucy. Options include a fried chicken burger and large, luscious servings often paired with fries.

People are saying

"I found the spicy chicken sandwich to be one of the best."

"The outdoor seating is pleasant and a chill spot to hang out."

"I found the burgers here to be excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

Only outdoor seating is available, so dress appropriately for the weather.

2

They only accept card payments; no cash is accepted.

3

You can bring your pets onto the patio, which is a nice touch.

18
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively vibe with loud music and a DJ at night. Burgers come with fresh, tasty bread and are seasoned well, with meat and vegetarian options piled high. Outdoor terraces provide sunset views and a bar-focused atmosphere.

Burgers come with fresh, tasty bread and are seasoned very well. Options include both meat and vegetarian, served piled sky high and consistently tasty.

People are saying

"The live sports here are great, with friendly and attentive service."

"The outdoor seating has a great view of the Santa Monica Pier."

"I thought the burgers were really tasty and well put together."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

19
Tavern on Main SM image 1

Bar and grill has a full bar and big screens for sports fans. Burgers come as sliders or chicken tenders and pair well with draft beer. Enjoy a pool table and a neighborhood vibe that feels both lively and welcoming.

Burgers come with options like sliders or chicken tenders. You can pair a burger with draft beer for around $9 to $11, making it a solid deal.

People are saying

"This bar is the best place to watch the Detroit Lions games."

"The tacos here are juicy and flavorful."

"I got the $9 burger and beer combo on Monday."

Good to know

1

No one under the age of 21 is allowed in the restaurant or on the terrace.

2

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday between 9 and 11 pm with 2-for-1 deals.

3

Wings are a special on Wednesdays, with a 50 cent deal.

20
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting offers stunning views and cozy outdoor heaters. Vegan burger shines with creamy vegan cheese and unique homemade patty. Space feels lively and sexy, welcoming with wheelchair-friendly seating and elevator access.

A vegan burger features a creamy vegan cheese and a tomato-fig sauce on vegan brioche bread. The patty is homemade and tastes distinct from common brands, making it a standout option.

People are saying

"The food here was incredible, especially the slow-roasted chicken."

"The Rooftop staff, especially Juan and Paul, are so attentive and friendly."

"Their vegan burger is delicious with a creamy vegan cheese."

Good to know

1

Reservations are almost required due to high demand.

2

A $5 non-refundable reservation fee is charged per person.

3

Valet parking is available and convenient.

21
Palms n' Patties image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Shared space with four restaurant stalls offers a clean but somewhat stale food hall vibe. Smash burgers stand out with insanely juicy patties and perfectly toasted bread. Limited seating can feel uncomfortable during busy times, while background music adds energy to the quiet atmosphere.

Smash burgers come out insanely juicy with a perfectly toasted bread that is not oily. The house sauce adds a lovely flavor, making the burgers so good that ordering two is common.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the smash burgers."

"These smash burgers are some of the best I've had in LA."

"I enjoyed the beef tallow French fries."

Good to know

1

They have a 50% off deal in the afternoon.

2

Parking is free in the lot at the back.

3

Seating is limited and shared with other shops.

22
Perry’s Cafe & Beach Rentals - 1200 image 1

Beachfront cafe offers breathtaking views and a relaxing atmosphere with jazz music. Burgers come with homemade fries and tasty flavor, though prices are high. Friendly service and bike rentals add a casual, active touch.

Burgers here come with homemade fries and have a very tasty flavor. Prices lean high, but the service is friendly.

People are saying

"The burgers here are tasty and excellent."

"I found the coffee here to be surprisingly good."

"The view of the beach was so refreshing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs after 4pm with discounted drinks.

2

Cruiser bikes are available for $14 per hour.

3

The restroom facilities are clean and well-maintained.

23
Chez Jay image 1
Steak house

Small dining room with romantic booths and a lively bar creates a cozy, sometimes loud vibe. Jalapeño burger shines with bold flavor and a chef's secret sauce, perfect for enjoying in The Backyard's live music and chill atmosphere. Dive bar charm blends with outdoor comfort.

Jalapeño burger stands out with strong flavor and ranks highly. Burgers come with a chef's special secret sauce and serve well in the garden or backyard spaces. Some patties can be burnt, but overall the burgers and steak sandwich are solid.

People are saying

"This bar feels like it hasn't aged a day since the sixties."

"The steaks here are amazing; I've never had better."

"I thought the burgers here were great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Parking is limited, but there is free parking next to the building.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

24
pasjoli image 1
French restaurant

French fine dining shines with tableside pressed duck and attentive service in a warm, elegant space. Burger offers a unique flavor that pairs well with cocktails and draws food influencers. Atmosphere blends casual and upscale vibes for a polished yet inviting feel.

Burger stands out with a unique flavor and earns honorable mentions alongside steak frites. It pairs well with cocktails and draws attention from food influencers.

People are saying

"The French food, especially the steak frites, is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"I really enjoyed their cocktails, especially the 'Contesse'."

"I might go back just for a burger and red wine."

Good to know

1

A mandatory 15% service charge is added after tax.

2

Appetizers and sides cost between $25 and $30, with main dishes over $50.

3

The early menu is available from 5 to 6 PM.

25
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with a dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun vibe. Burgers include a Sicilian option and a light Impossible burger, both served with fries. Fire pits add warmth but music volume can challenge conversation.

Burgers come with pork ingredients unless requested otherwise, and staff clearly explain this. The Sicilian burger offers a solid flavor, while the Impossible burger feels light and satisfying. Fries accompany the burgers well.

People are saying

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

"Our Brunch server Robert was very attentive and accommodating."

"Rico made great recommendations for the burgers and drinks."

Good to know

1

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

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

26
Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge image 1

Frank Gehry's design creates a gorgeous architectural setting with chic decor and warm vibes. Burgers are small but flavorful sliders, though prices feel steep. A DJ spins tunes, adding lively energy, while the outdoor patio shows vintage Los Angeles clips for a unique touch.

Burgers come in a slider size but pack good flavor. The $18 price feels high, especially with beer and fries adding up to a $160 total for three burgers.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The food and cocktails here are amazing for Date Spots."

"I had the best burger I've ever had in LA."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drinks for $10.

2

Parking is available, but not validated.

3

The restaurant has a family-style dining option for sharing.

27
The Galley image 1
Steak house

Rustic steakhouse shines with high-quality steaks and a heated patio that invites relaxed vibes. Happy Hour features a surprisingly good burger alongside fish tacos and fried chicken sandwiches. Nautical decor and Christmas lights add a unique, intimate charm.

Offers a surprisingly good burger that stands out during Happy Hour alongside fish tacos and fried chicken sandwiches. The burger pairs well with other menu items like the steak sandwich and calamari.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers tasted excellent."

"The clam chowder here is hearty and full of fresh clams."

"I found the tomahawk steak to be humongous and impressive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5-7pm with discounted drinks.

2

The restaurant offers late-night food service until 1am.

3

Expect some menu items to be marked as 'market price.'

28
Carl's Jr. image 1
Fast food restaurant

Bright, clean spot offers freshly grilled patties and a quiet vibe. Burgers shine with Diablo jalapeños and standout vegan options. Staff often speak Spanish, adding a friendly touch to the neat dining area.

Burgers come fresh and cleanly made with options like the Diablo burger featuring jalapeños and pepper jack cheese. Vegan burgers stand out among fast food, and the Angus burgers get serious attention from the kitchen.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly made."

"I thought the fast food here was fresh and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

The facility is very clean and well-maintained.

2

The restroom is the cleanest I have seen around.

3

The drive-thru is faster than the McDonald's across the street.

29
Jameson’s Pub image 1

Irish pub offers a lively sports bar vibe with authentic decor and many TVs. Burgers shine with vegan options like Impossible Burger and a juicy GameTime Burger. Live music and karaoke boost energy, while indoor and outdoor spaces create a beachside feel.

Burgers come with vegan options like the Impossible Burger with Daiya cheese and a vegan chicken BLT. The GameTime Burger stands out as hot, juicy, and affordable with just the right toppings.

People are saying

"It's a lively bar with a fun, energetic atmosphere."

"I loved the happy hour deals, especially the two-for-one drinks."

"The burgers here are great for watching the game."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 7pm with 2-for-1 drink specials.

2

A cover charge applies after 10 PM on Saturday nights.

3

The pub can get very crowded during football season.

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