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Burgers and sandwiches in Santa Monica

Made for those who are strictly loyal to handheld meals and refuse to settle for anything less than a solid burger or sandwich.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica image 1
Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica image 2
Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica image 3
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Barbecue restaurant

Small space with cozy, upscale design and warm lighting creates an inviting atmosphere. Barbecue aroma fills the air, complementing a menu that balances meat lovers and vegetarian options. The vibe stays unassuming and neat, with a quieter pace than typical barbecue spots.

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

Sandwiches highlight robust barbecue flavors without unnecessary add-ons. Options like the brisket, pulled chicken, and fried chicken sandwiches stand out for their juicy, flavorful meat and soft texture.

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 found the brisket sandwich here was worth flying for."

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.

02
Rabano image 1
Restaurant

Spacious restaurant with open, airy design and natural lighting creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Heated outdoor patio welcomes dogs and offers a spot for people watching. Consistent focus on healthy, organic, and vegan options defines the dining experience.

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.

Chicken pesto sandwich stands out with its juicy, flavorful, and fresh qualities served on a French baguette. Pork bahn mi sandwich offers a tasty option with a good portion size for the price.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the chicken pesto sandwich to be delicious and flavorful."

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.

03
The Backyard image 1
Cocktail bar

Cozy outdoor seating blends with live acoustic music to create a relaxing garden vibe. The atmosphere stays quiet and chill, attracting those seeking a peaceful spot away from tourist crowds. A hidden gem with its own bar and kitchen offers a laid-back, dog-friendly experience.

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.

Chicken sandwich and steak sandwich come out tasteful and well-presented. The steak sandwich with fries stands out as a notable meal, while the mahi sandwich tends to be overcooked.

People are saying

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

"The service here is outstanding and super friendly."

"I found this sandwich spot to be a perfect local hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers on Sundays.

2

The Backyard does not take reservations.

3

Parking is free for guests.

04
Diner Antonette image 1
American restaurant

Old building hosts an American diner with retro-inspired decor and cozy booths under warm, dim lighting. Atmosphere blends nostalgic charm with modern touches, creating a relaxed vibe. Patio and event spaces offer airy, bright settings 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.

Fish sandwich stands out with its amazing flavor and is highly recommended. Chicken sandwich and cheeseburgers also deliver excellent taste.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the delicious sea bass sandwich."

"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.

05
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

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.

Grilled swordfish stands out in the sandwich options, served on house-made rolls and brioche buns. The menu also features a Thai satay sandwich and a shrimp po' boy, all with pickles made in-house.

People are saying

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

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

"The steak sandwich had actual steak, not shaved."

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.

06
George's Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Classic diner with retro-inspired decor and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere. Seating includes simple benches and booths, some showing wear, with both indoor and outdoor tables. The space feels unpretentious and familiar, offering step-free access.

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.

Pastrami sandwiches come with generous portions of meat, enough for multiple sandwiches. The menu includes steak sandwiches and egg cheese bacon breakfast sandwiches, all consistently solid choices.

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."

"I found the pastrami sandwich to have an excellent amount of meat."

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.

07
Cafe Zella image 1

Small cafe with cramped interior tables and limited outdoor seating creates a cozy atmosphere. Menu offers large portions with a focus on breakfast and lunch items, attracting locals and nearby workers. Service requires ordering at the counter, and wait times can be noticeable during busy periods.

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

Sandwiches come with great price points, around six dollars each. Options include an Avocado with Egg-White sandwich and egg sandwiches on croissants. The menu also offers a variety of breakfast items alongside sandwiches.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"I found the avocado with egg-white sandwich to be great."

"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.

08
Snug Harbor image 1

1940s-style diner with vintage decor and original bar stools creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Cozy indoor booths and a dog-friendly patio with private dividers offer varied seating. Intimate space fills with lively energy, blending classic charm with relaxed outdoor vibes.

Very solid burgers come with options like a double patty and sides such as curly fries. Weekday burger specials offer variety and value.

Cilantro chicken stands out as a flavorful sandwich option. Breakfast sandwiches come with fries and salads pair well with the sandwich menu.

People are saying

"The food here felt like a home-cooked meal in an untouched-by-time diner."

"I had a very solid burger and planned to come back for the special."

"The breakfast burrito sandwich was excellent with spicy salsa."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually easy to find in the neighborhood behind the restaurant.

2

The menu features a diverse selection of traditional American diner dishes.

3

Daily specials and fresh juices are offered regularly.

09
Urban Skillet image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with industrial/hipster decor and limited indoor seating complemented by outdoor tables along the sidewalk. The vibe stays friendly and upbeat, creating a welcoming space 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.

Fresh, flavorful sandwiches include buffalo, brisket, and smash burger options. Halal hot dog sandwiches and satisfying burger sandwiches add variety.

People are saying

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

"The food here is packed with flavor."

"You have to try the brisket sandwich; it's so tasty."

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.

10
Pier Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Retro style and ocean views create a unique Californian vibe with plenty of outdoor seating on the terrace. The atmosphere is lively and sometimes noisy, with loud order announcements and occasional chaos. Vintage flair and great music add to the energetic, casual dining experience.

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.

Crispy chicken sandwich stands out for its very crispy texture and tasty flavor. Grilled fish sandwich features sautรฉed onions and delivers a very tasty experience. Breakfast sandwiches also impress with strong flavor, though prices exceed 15 dollars.

People are saying

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

"I thought the hot dogs here were outstanding."

"The crispy chicken sandwich here is really tasty."

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

Outdoor seating fills driveway and backyard with a quiet courtyard and pleasant patio featuring heaters. Atmosphere stays chill and cool, inviting relaxed hangouts without indoor dining. Menu highlights include crispy, juicy chicken and creative sandwiches praised for freshness and flavor.

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

Spicy and fried chicken sandwiches stand out with bold flavor and good value. Grilled and roasted chicken options offer healthy, flavorful choices, often paired with red cabbage slaw.

People are saying

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

"I really enjoyed the spicy chicken sandwich."

"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.

12
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively atmosphere with loud music and a DJ at night. The space includes a game room nook and TVs showing sports, attracting groups who enjoy social and energetic vibes. Outdoor seating on terraces enhances the experience with sunset views and a bar-focused environment.

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

IPA battered cod sandwich stands out with a fantastic flavor. Other options like the burger and fried chicken sandwiches are small and ordinary, while the pulled pork sandwich is decent.

People are saying

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

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

"The servers here are so friendly and accommodating."

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.

13
Jamesonโ€™s Pub image 1

Irish pub with authentic decor and many TVs creates a lively sports bar atmosphere. Live music and karaoke add to the energetic vibe, while indoor and outdoor spaces offer a beachside feel without sand. The crowd varies from chill on weekdays to busy and spirited on weekend nights.

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.

Portobello Mushroom sandwich features roasted veggies and pesto on sourdough. The crispy chicken sandwich stands out for its flavor. The Philly Sandwich also comes highly recommended.

People are saying

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

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

"I'd order the crispy chicken sandwich again, it was delicious."

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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