The Best Burger and Brewery Pairings Across San Diego

It’s summertime, and the living is easy. It may seem like a cliché but the old adage rings true, especially in San Diego, where that perpetual sunshine gets us outside in these crisp, dry months. When it heats up and hunger strikes, there’s only one solution. It’s not a complex cocktail, and it’s certainly not a plated meal with clumsy utensils. The solution, like most things in these summer months, is simple: a burger in one hand and an icy-cold brew in the other.

There’s a lot to be said for a backyard bash with burgers and brews, but again, we like to keep it simple this season—that means no cooking and no clean-up. And why stay cooped up at home when there are so many beautiful neighborhoods, a bevy of breweries and a bounty of burger joints to explore?  

This summer, head to one of these hidden ‘hoods for our burgers and brews scavenger hunt. We found our favorite neighborhoods’ best burgers and paired them with a nearby brewery for a full day of fun in (and out) of the sun. Explore the alleys and byways of a new neighborhood, cool off with a fresh and local brew then top it off with a juicy cheeseburger. It’s summertime, and satisfying your cravings just got easier. 

Wavelength Brewing Company and Chili Coast Burgers

Vista may not be your first choice when it comes to summertime destinations, but it shouldn’t be your last, either. The tiny town has a lot going on these days, including the scientifically-superior Wavelength Brewing Co. Head brewer James Petti (known for his work with Karl Strauss) teamed up with home brewer Hans Haas back in 2014 to start Wavelength Brewing. They boast some serious brews, including a Czech Golden Ale and an Orange Wheat perfect for the summer season, but what really sets Wavelength apart is their endearing yet dorky devotion to science. The brewery frequently hosts speakers whose IQs outshine the best of us. From astrophysicists to chemists, these special guests give lighthearted lectures over those tasty beers.

Once you’ve indulged in a little learning and a couple of brews, head to our favorite greasy burger joint, Chili Coast Burgers. Tucked away in an innocuous shopping center, Chili Coast Burgers certainly isn’t glamorous—but burgers aren’t supposed to be, are they? Go all out and order a Hockey Burger, a greasy patty topped with chili (of course) and sliced hot dogs. Finish with a side of crispy onion rings and your cravings will surely be satisfied. 

Stone Brewing Tap Room and Hodad’s

Is there anything more iconically San Diego than a freshly-brewed pint of Stone? If there is, it’s surely a Hodad’s burger. Combine the two in the Gaslamp Quarter, and you’ve got the local trifecta. Hodad’s is an O.B. mainstay, but their location Downtown, which opened in 2011, is just as quintessentially classic. Grab a Guido Burger, inspired by Guy Fieri (who favored the restaurant on his San Diego visit back in 2007), with pastrami, ketchup, pickles, swiss cheese, grilled onions and spicy brown mustard. Chow down, and then take to the streets Downtown for some serious people-watching (might we suggest making this pilgrimage during Comi-Con?).

When thirst strikes, pop into Downtown’s extension of our most famous brewery at the Stone Brewing Tap Room. It might be a smaller version of the other Stone locations, but the flavors are all here: 16 rotating taps give you access to special releases, collaborations and even unique casks. Sling back a pint before hitting the streets again. 

Smashburger and Vigilante Brewing

Del Mar has long been a destination for tourists, surfers and foodies, but beer connoisseurs have long been left lacking when it comes to the seaside city— until this summer. Vigilante Brewing is opening this season and promises to bring a crop of fresh and fun brews to one of San Diego’s favorite neighborhoods. Vigilante will steer away from the heavy, hoppy beers of the past few years, offering instead flavorful and drinkable options perfect for summer.

Once you’ve quenched your thirst, head to the Del Mar Plaza for the best of burgers from the famed chain Smashburger. Although it’s certainly not unique to San Diego, Smashburger does offer culinary creations crafted specifically for their locations. In Del Mar, that means the San Diego Burger with chipotle mayo, lettuce, tomato, avocado, cilantro, sour cream, red onion, pepper jack cheese and a big ol’ patty. Burn off those calories with a stroll around the Del Mar Plaza—some of the best shopping in town. 

Crazee Burger and Belching Beaver

North Park may be known for its hipsters and hideouts, but there’s a burgeoning beer scene in the neighborhood that we can’t ignore. There are plenty of micro-breweries to choose from in this hip ‘hood, but none is tastier than Belching Beaver. On a hot summer day, Belching Beaver has the perfect solution: beer floats. Decadent ice cream concoctions paired with their famous beers are sure to please any palette (peanut butter stout with chocolate ice cream? yes please!).

If you’re still hungry after your chilly treat, walk around the block to Crazee Burger, a San Diego icon. They don’t call ‘em "crazee" for nothing; here you’ll find some of the most delicious, off-the-wall burgers in San Diego. For a funky twist, try the Muddy Pig, a burger with Nutella, crispy bacon and caramelized plantains. Crazee Burger also offers exotic meats, including gator, ostrich, camel and elk, so there are endless options for adventurous eaters. No matter your neighborhood, burger preferences or beer bias, there’s certainly a perfect pairing waiting for you. Take to the streets with an appetite and this guide in hand, and you’ll fill your belly with burgers and brews!