As local carnivores know, there are some pretty incredible burgers to be had in San Diego. Back for a third helping, this latest burger guide from Yelp fires up the tasty topic again (read part 1 here and part 2 here), highlighting local burger joints that must be added to your dining bucket list. Let’s dig in!
Anny’s Fine Burger (Kearny Mesa)
With over 35 different burgers to choose from, you could be here a while. Settle in and scarf down a straightforward California Burger with fresh avocado, or channel the beaches with the Sand Dune: made with battered onion rings and a smokey teriyaki sauce with cheddar. There’s also a Hangover Burger perfect for aiding in your morning recovery, made with battered potatoes and a fried egg.
Public House (Temecula)
The menu here may boast a variety of treats, but the Kobe burger is a standout making this a burger destination not to be missed. You’ll get 10 ounces of ground Waygu beef on a traditional toasted bun with cheddar, lettuce, fresh tomato and candied bacon with a side of French fries. And don’t ask for it to be cooked over a medium temperature: they just won’t do that kind of injustice!
Twist Sanwiches & More (North Park )
There may be tempting sandwiches on the menu at Twist, but put your burger blinders on and remember, you’re here for the beef. Try the signature Twist burger, which features goat cheese, prosciutto, arugula, caramelized onions, balsamic syrup and the delicious, signature Twist sauce. Pair it with a side of Twist’s Swine Fries: seasoned fried topped with pulled pork, bacon, green onions, pico de gallo, guacamole, feta cheese and a chipotle guava cream sauce.
Urge American Gastropub (Rancho Bernardo)
Devour a burger selection from the meaty mind of Chef Marc Liautard. We suggest you grab the Garbage burger: a grass-fed beef and wild boar bacon patty topped with sautéed mushrooms and onions, white cheddar, lettuce, tomatoes and horseradish aioli. Also worth a try: Burger Of The Gods, a grass-fed beef patty with Applewood smoked bacon, basil pesto, Green Goddess aioli, lettuce tomato and red onions. This place also has a drool-worthy selection of craft beer at its bar.
Red Rooster (Oceanside)
Love a solid burger in a “dive bar” vibe? This is the North County spot for you, complete with a fire pit and plenty of brews on tap. Polish off a Rooster Burger – it comes with lots of toppings and is highly-rated by patrons who tout the off-the-grill flavor here. Locals say there’s a cash only policy at this spot, so bring some cash if you’re looking to chow down.
Bare Back Grill (Pacific Beach)
This New Zealand-influenced location grills up juicy, flavorful, “Gnarly Big Burger” options that have locals raving online. Go for the Maui Waui with pineapple, bacon and the famous BBG sauce or the unique Sheila’s Cracked, with a fried egg, aioli and – believe it or not – beets, among other fixings. For seriously hungry, the menu offers an upgrade option dubbed “Size Matters Mate!” which allows you to make any burger a double stack for an extra $4.
Local
Bonus: for more of San Diego's best burger joints (i.e. Hodad's, Slater's 50/50), check out this guide to grilled greatness, as well as this one.
Trish Sanderson is the community manager and marketing director for Yelp North County San Diego. She leads the local community of Yelp reviewers both online and off.
