Craving burgers? I have got you covered! As a San Diego native, I have tried out quite a few burger restaurants across the county. Danny is also a huge fan of burgers and that’s probably he’s number 1 requested meal any time we go out to eat. Nati is also a huge meat lover so she can’t turn down burgers either. Ari, on the other hand, doesn’t eat meat so we always have to check for vegetarian options when choosing a burger-only spot.
I love to try different jams, sauces, topping when it comes to my burgers but I always ditch the bun. It just fill me up so quickly and I honestly feel like it takes away from the flavor with all that bread. I love restaurants that serve protein/salad options because it makes for a full meal. Luckily, most places do these days.
Danny is all about the traditional burger so he’s easy- you know the American cheese, tomato, lettuce and onion order– he rarely switches it up unless I have to force him to try something new.
San Diego has quite a few options for burgers but I rounded up some of the most popular restaurants and my favorites below. I will say- there is one restaurant on this list who made the cut, yet it’s definitely not a top pick for me.
The Counter
Located at Fashion Valley mall, it’s super central to pretty much anywhere. I had tried it out and LA quite a few years back and was happy to see they are local now. You can completely customize your burger and they are all so good. They even have beyond burgers-which is a major bonus making it a vegetarian friendly spot.
Hodad’s
An iconic restaurant in Ocean Beach (you can also find them Downtown and a few other locations these days) and for a good reason- they are delicious. It’s simple burgers/fries/shakes type of place but worth the hype if you’ve never tried it. Prepare to wait in a line during peak times so plan ahead!
Monster Crafts
If you are looking for delicious burgers and some really really good fries, this is your spot. I always order the Crazy Fries and it never disappoints. Actually a food truck so you’ll need to track them down on social media to find their next stop.
Slater’s 50/50
Unpopular opinion here but I am NOT a fan. However, they are super popular so I put them on my list. They are known for their 50/50 burgers which are half ground beef and half bacon, and even though I do love bacon, it’s a pass for me.
In-n-Out
Not a San Diego local, although it is a west coast thing. You absolutely need to try the animal style fries and animal style burgers if you haven’t yet. We are so spoiled have easy access to this year-round!
Crazee Burger
If you are looking for a really unique burger, look no further. The menu is a little to “out there” for me as I am more of a traditional type of order but if you are looking for an exotic flare of different meats, this is your spot. Don’t believe me? Check out their menu.
Balast Point
Looking to pair a cold beer with your burger? Ballast Point has a really good menu and their burgers are delicious. Paired with one of their signature beers and you are set.
7 Mile Kitchen
If you find yourself in North County, you’ll have to check out the 7 Mile Kitchen in Carlsbad. I tried out a protein style burger there, topped with bacon and blue cheese and it was so good. A must try!
With so many options on this list, you will not go wrong with any of these picks. Still not convinced? You can always go for tacos instead, you can find my taco guide here.
A “San Diego’s Best Burgers” list that doesn’t include Rocky’s Crown Pub?? To be fair, it’s a tough place to visit when you have kids, but it definitely deserves a place on the list! Also, thanks for your post on Santa’s Village. I remember going when I was about 5 and got my first loose tooth on a lollipop from the Candy Kitchen. It’s nice to see it back in business!