San Diego might be fish taco territory, but locals are just as serious about their burgers. From beachside grills to neighborhood gastropubs, these five spots regularly land in the “best burger in SD” debate.
1. Hodad’s (Ocean Beach & Downtown)
Hodad’s is the legendary, surf‑punk burger joint that everyone talks about. It’s loud, messy, and pure San Diego.
Burgers are gigantic—thick patties, mounds of lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, cheese, and sauce all stacked on a toasted bun. The bacon cheeseburger is famous, with huge, crispy laces of bacon that basically form a second patty. You’ll want to share fries or onion rings; portions are massive. For many locals, this is the classic San Diego burger experience.
2. Rocky’s Crown Pub (Pacific Beach)
Rocky’s is a small, no‑frills neighborhood bar with a very short menu—and the burger is the whole point.
They do a simple, griddled patty with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayo on a basic bun, cooked to a perfect medium rare or medium. No fancy toppings, no substitutions, just a nearly perfect bar burger. Locals love the old‑school vibe: cash‑only, minimal décor, a pool table, and a burger that tastes like it’s been dialed in over decades.
3. Burger Lounge (multiple locations)
Burger Lounge is the “feel‑better‑about‑your‑burger” chain that started in SoCal and has a ton of San Diego cred. They focus on grass‑fed beef, organic ingredients, and a clean, modern vibe…