The Best Burgers in LA

In order of preference:

Stout (Santa Monica, Studio City, and Hollywood)
An upscale Gastropub that serves unique burgers and craft beers. I got the Six Weeker Burger that has fig jam, arugula, Brie, and caramelized onions. Make sure to order a side of sweet potatoes fries and dipping sauces. You can tell the basil is fresh in the lemon basil aioli. I paired my burger with a cream ale called summer solstice. The beer was light and creamy. It tasted like vanilla. Great burger. Great beer. Definitely recommend. Atmosphere: It has an industrial but trendy LA-feel. The Santa Monica location turns into a bar at night. It’s open until 4 am. Tip: They will sample any of the beers on the menu so be sure to ask if you are unsure on what to order! (5 taste, 5 atmosphere, 5 service)

Father’s Office (Santa Monica and Culver City)

Small Gastropub with 35+ craft beers on tap. You cannot leave LA without eating the Office Burger— caramelized onions, gruyere, applewood bacon served on a brioche bun. If you like stouts or porters I recommend the Old Rasputin Imperial Stout. Atmosphere: Lively, dark, and small. Tip: Go early to get a table. The Santa Monica location is tiny but the other location is bigger. You must be 21+ to go inside. They also sample their beers. (5 taste, 4 atmosphere, 5 service)

Plan Check (Sawtelle, Fairfax, and Downtown)

High-end burger place known for their ketchup leather. I got the Plan Check Burger and the sweet potato fries. Delicious burger but not as good as Stout or Father’s Office. It’s also $12 for the burger and an additional $6 for fries. Atmosphere: casual, cozy, trendy. Tip: They sing on your birthday and bring a free dessert. (4 taste, 5 atmosphere, 5 service)