Best Burgers in Los Angeles (2025)

Since 1947, this U‑shaped counter has defined L.A. burger nostalgia with its Steakburger and Hickoryburger. Celebrated by the Los Angeles Times and long admired by national critics, it remains family‑run in spirit and fiercely local.

Born from a driveway pop‑up and now a local mini‑empire, Heavy Handed’s short‑rib smashburger with jammy onions and house “heavy sauce” draws consistent raves. Featured by the Los Angeles Times and Time Out for dialed‑in flavor and technique.

Chef Alvin Cailan’s Chinatown butcher‑counter turns out stellar burgers from custom blends, from thin Classic doubles to the dry‑aged DH. Applauded by Eater LA and The Infatuation; a lively Far East Plaza fixture tied closely to the community.

A Watts landmark with roots back to 1939, Hawkins serves towering, griddled patties and community hospitality. Frequently spotlighted by local journalists and Eater LA as a quintessential South L.A. burger experience.

A tiny Valley counter dating to 1965, famed for straightforward, perfectly seasoned burgers served with chips. Praised by Time Out and Eater LA; still locally operated and cash‑only, with lines that prove the enduring appeal.

Lincoln Heights’ Texas‑style pitmasters craft a smoked, peppery “thicc” burger that counters the smash trend. Consistently highlighted by Eater LA and barbecue editors as one of the city’s most compelling non‑smash patties.

From backyard legend to Silver Lake fixture, BNSD nails the ultra‑thin, lacy‑edge smash with pickles, onions, and classic condiments. Endorsed by Time Out and widely cited by local critics for pure fast‑food nostalgia done right.

A Venice pier‑adjacent bar slinging char‑griddled cheeseburgers since 1962. Lauded by Eater LA, Time Out, and The Infatuation for its unfussy backyard style, sawdust floors, frosty mugs, and deeply local beach culture.

DTLA’s Skidrokyo roadhouse pairs live music with playful burgers, including the famed doughnut‑bun Fat Albert. Time Out and Eater LA have highlighted its irreverent spirit and community vibe—very L.A., very independent.

Jeremy Fox’s Birdie Burger—an eight‑ounce house‑ground patty with havarti, Al’s steak sauce, and Manischewitz‑kissed onions—earned a recent Los Angeles Times shout as a must‑order. A polished, uniquely Angeleno take on the genre.