Undisputed fact: Smith & Berg Partners love all things real estate. What may be disputed: our picks for the very best burger in LA. But we don't think so. As dedicated as we are to the real estate biz, we love good eats, and nothing screams LA more than a killer burger. Whether you’re craving a mouth-watering classic style from a laid-back beach shack or a high-end gourmet twist at a swanky spot, we’ve done the hard work (tough job, we know) of tracking down the very best burgers on LA's Westside. No dispute necessary. Consider this your go-to guide for all things beefy, cheesy, and downright delicious. Dig in here.
Featured photo: SBP flagship artwork courtesy of @jeffvespa
For the Gourmet Burger Lover
Dudley Market
Nestled in the heart of Venice, Dudley Market's burger is a testament to simplicity done right. Their dry-aged beef patty is a flavor bomb, topped with caramelized onions and a secret sauce that'll have you licking your fingers. The brioche bun adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory meat. It's a must-try for any burger aficionado.
“Mouthwatering, juicy, and bursting with burger flavor on a perfectly toasted bun.” — Sewit Eshetu, Associate Partner
Heavy Handed
True to its name, Heavy Handed doesn't mess around when it comes to burgers. Their smash burgers have gained some serious notoriety over the last two years, with crispy, lacy edges that provide a satisfying crunch. The classic cheeseburger is a work of art: two patties, American cheese, grilled onions, and their signature "HH sauce" on a potato roll. It's indulgent, it's messy, and it's absolutely delicious.
Great White
Great White's “Tremendous Burger” lives up to its name, no doubt. This Venice hotspot (with two other locations in WeHo and Larchmont Village) serves up a mouthwatering double-patty masterpiece, layered with caramelized fennel, American cheese, and zesty burger sauce. Served with a side of fries, it's a flavor explosion that'll keep you coming back for more.
📸: @kelimccarthy
Father’s Office
Chef Sang Yoon's Father's Office burger is the stuff of LA legend. This isn't your typical burger — it's a carefully crafted blend of dry-aged beef topped with caramelized onions, bacon, gruyere, Maytag blue cheese, and arugula. Served on a French roll, it's a no-substitutions allowed masterpiece that has converted even the most ardent ketchup lovers.
“I’m a big fan of a classic cheese burger with fresh toppings but when I’m looking for something a bit more gourmet, the mix of arugula, gruyere, and caramelized onions on The Office Burger at Father’s Office melts in your mouth.” — Courtney Welsh, Director of Operations
For the No-Frills Aficionado
The Win-Dow
The Win-Dow on Rose Avenue in Venice proves that sometimes less is more. Their flat-top grilled double cheeseburger is a testament to burger simplicity. Topped with grilled onions, American cheese, pickles, and house sauce, it's a perfect harmony of flavors that lets the quality of each ingredient shine through.
“The double cheeseburger at the Win-Dow in Venice is heavenly.” — Robert “Morty” Morton, Associate Partner
Tower 12
Mosey on down to Hermosa Beach and you’ll find one of LA’s best no-frills burgers at Tower 12. This modern beach bar is serving up an unexpected gourmet burger delight: two premium patties, American cheese, honey dijonnaise, diced red onion, and classic condiments on an artisanal sesame bun. It's a sophisticated twist on the American classic, with a view of the Hermosa Beach pier to boot.
Barney’s
A Westside institution, Barney's has been serving up epic burgers for decades. While they offer a dizzying array of options, the original “Barney's Burger” remains a standout. Made with premium beef and topped with a tangy special sauce, it's a classic that never goes out of style (pro tip: don't forget to pair it with their legendary curly fries).
“I’m all about the Barney’s bacon cheese burger with a side of sweet potato fries.” — F. Ron Smith, Founding Partner
📸: @barneyshamburgers (left), @courtneygwelsh (right)
Apple Pan
Step back in time at The Apple Pan, a West LA landmark since 1947. Their “Hickoryburger” is a slice of burger history, featuring a quarter-pound of beef smothered in a tangy-sweet hickory sauce. Served on a traditional bun with lettuce, pickles, and mayo, it's a no-frills burger that lets quality ingredients shine. Don't leave without trying a slice of their famous apple pie.
Marty’s Hamburger Stand
For a classic LA burger experience, you can’t miss Marty's on Pico. Since the 1950s, this unassuming shack has been serving up mouthwatering burgers that are nothing short of legendary. Their expertly grilled burgers, paired with perfectly crispy fries or onion rings, make Marty's a must-visit for any burger lover. Pro tip: they’re cash only!
“Marty's may seem like a humble shack, but the moment you approach, the sights and smells will tell you why this spot has stood the test of time.” — Krista Masella, Marketing Manager
📸: @krista.masella
When Drive-Thru Calls
In-N-Out
No LA burger list would be complete without mentioning In-N-Out. This California chain has achieved cult status for good reason. The Double-Double “Animal Style” is the way to go: two patties, two slices of cheese, grilled onions, extra spread, and pickles. It's fast food elevated to an art form, proving that sometimes the classics are classic for a reason.
📸: @davebergla (left), Tada Images (right)
