The Best Burger Joints in Town

Burgers— the quintessential American conception that has now spread throughout the world to feed the hungry masses. They are not only cheap and filling but also (most will agree) delicious, fast food or gourmet alike. The best thing about burgers is the versatility of it— that there is never one right way to make a great burger, which ends up bringing us a diversity of flavors and versions. We believe these are some of the best burger joints worth trying out here in California and in other states:

1. In-N-Out

Of course, this one’s a classic that most of us know and have probably tried at least once by now. People from other states most likely won’t understand the love Californians have for In-N-Out, but this is truly the comfort junk food for a lot of us. The menu there is very sparse, but that’s only because there’s a secret menu you can look up online and order at your convenience. In-N-Out’s Animal Style sauce is their signature style, though in reality, it’s really just Thousand Island dressing smothered in chopped up, grilled onions.

2. Shake Shack

Like In-N-Out, this is another giant chain restaurant, though Shake Shack originally started out in New York, not California. But unfortunately for any bay area people, Shake Shack is only available in Southern parts of California— in areas within Los Angeles, El Segundo, Santa Monica, and in San Diego. They have a small but neat selection of both beef and chicken patty burgers that aren’t too big but just the right size for a perfect meal. They’ve also got other sides and meals like chili cheese fries and chili cheese dogs, which are quite amazing.

3. Umani Burger

This is an originally Californian burger joint that has spread to other big metropolises like Chicago and New York City. Umami Burgers specialize in gourmet burgers and they’ve even got their own bar in the back of the store. Along with the one-of-a-kind, signature Umami Burger they’ve also got thirteen other options of delicious burgers to try and choose from— a portion of them being Asian themed. There is a good range of other sides and greens on their menus, which are just as yummy and which nicely compliment the burgers.

4. Eggslut

Once a truly local brand, Eggslut is expanding. Their franchise established back in 2011 and can be found in either Southern California or Vegas. So Socal people can check this place out in Venice, downtown Los Angeles, or Glendale. A foodie paradise, Eggslut is quite renown for its "true love for eggs" (big surprise) and their array of signature breakfast burgers as well as a regular cheeseburger and other breakfast foods involving more eggs. Eggslut is truly for those who want to try out something hipster, original, and super tasty.

5. Stout Burgers & Beers

Another Southern California native franchise, Stout Burgers & Beers has been consecutively listed out in articles as one of the best options for its vegan burger options in Southern California. Located in Hollywood, Santa Monica, Studio City, and even all the way in Louisville, Kentucky, Stout Burgers & Beers offers a variety of choices for meat patties such as chicken and beef but has been a favorite spot for many vegans and those looking for meat-free burger options. They currently offer only two choices of veggie burgers: Bollywood and Chutney Fresh made of entirely plant-based patties. Though the prices for these burgers are much pricier than most of the other burger joints, this is a definite must try for both vegans and non-vegans alike.