9 Hidden California Burger Joints Serving Double Cheeseburgers Worth Every Bite
California isn’t just about fancy farm-to-table spots and celebrity chef restaurants.
Some of the best burgers in the Golden State hide in unassuming corners, where locals line up for double cheeseburgers that’ll make you forget every chain restaurant ever existed.
I’ve spent years hunting down these burger treasures, and trust me, they’re worth the detour.
1. Hole In The Wall Burger – Lake Forest, CA
Last summer, I drove forty minutes out of my way just to try this place, and honestly? Best decision ever. Tucked away in Lake Forest, this tiny spot lives up to its name with zero pretension and maximum flavor.
Their double cheeseburger comes piled high with perfectly melted American cheese that drips down your fingers in the best way possible. The beef patties get smashed on a hot griddle, creating crispy edges while staying juicy inside. You’ll find hand-cut fries on the side that actually taste like real potatoes.
The owner greets every customer like family, remembering orders and asking about your day. Local high schoolers pack the place after games, and families stop by for weekend treats. Cash only, so hit the ATM first!
2. Super Burger Drive-In – Gilroy, CA
Rolling into Gilroy means garlic everything, but this retro drive-in serves burgers that’ll make you forget about stinky breath for a minute. Operating since the 1950s, Super Burger keeps things old-school with car hops and trays that hook onto your window.
Their double cheeseburger features fresh-ground beef seasoned simply with salt and pepper, letting the meat quality shine through. Two thick slices of cheese blanket the patties, melting into every crevice. The secret sauce adds tangy sweetness without overpowering anything.
Order from your car or grab a picnic table outside, watching classic cars cruise by on weekends. My favorite move? Pairing the burger with their strawberry milkshake for the ultimate throwback experience. Prices remain shockingly reasonable for the portion sizes you get.
3. Fair Oaks Burger – Altadena, Los Angeles, CA
Nestled in Altadena’s quiet streets, Fair Oaks Burger operates from a converted house that you might drive past without noticing. Once you smell those burgers cooking, though, your car practically steers itself into the parking lot.
The double cheeseburger here gets assembled with care—two hand-formed patties cooked to order, never frozen, with cheese that pools around the edges. Fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crisp onions add crunch and brightness. Their special spread tastes like Thousand Island had a glow-up.
Regulars know to arrive before noon or after two to avoid the lunch rush when the line snakes out the door. The patio seating offers mountain views that make your meal taste even better. Pro tip: add grilled onions for fifty cents and thank me later!
4. Burger She Wrote – Los Angeles, CA
Named after the classic TV show, this burger pop-up turned permanent spot brings murder mystery vibes to your lunch break. The owner started slinging burgers at farmer’s markets before opening a brick-and-mortar location that burger fanatics now worship.
Each double cheeseburger gets treated like edible art, with perfectly seared patties that develop a caramelized crust. American cheese melts into a gooey blanket while pickles add necessary tang. The potato buns get toasted with butter until golden and slightly crispy.
I’ve watched this place grow from a tiny operation to a cult favorite, and the quality never dipped. Lines form fast during peak hours, but the wait moves quickly. Their rotating special burgers keep the menu exciting, though the classic double remains undefeated in my book.
5. Grinderz – Huntington Beach, CA
Surf culture meets burger excellence at this Huntington Beach hideaway where locals fuel up after morning sessions in the waves. The walls display vintage surfboards and faded competition posters, creating an authentic beach town atmosphere you can’t fake.
Grinderz makes their double cheeseburger with grass-fed beef that actually tastes different—richer and more complex than regular patties. Thick cheddar cheese replaces the standard American, adding sharp flavor notes. Everything gets piled on a brioche bun that holds together despite the juice factor.
The portions here lean generous, so come hungry or plan to share. Counter service keeps things casual, and the staff knows their regulars by name and order. Grab a spot on the outdoor patio where you can smell the ocean between bites of burger perfection.
6. Michael’s Burger – Canoga Park, Los Angeles, CA
Michael himself still works the grill at this Valley institution, flipping burgers the same way he has for decades. His no-nonsense approach means focusing on what matters: quality ingredients cooked perfectly every single time.
The double cheeseburger arrives simple and honest—two beef patties, melted cheese, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauce on a sesame seed bun. Nothing fancy, nothing trendy, just pure burger satisfaction. The meat gets seasoned during cooking, developing flavor as it sizzles on the flat-top.
Prices remain stuck somewhere in the early 2000s, making this spot a incredible value for broke college students and budget-conscious families. Cash only policy keeps things moving fast. I’ve never had a bad meal here, even on their busiest days when orders pile up like crazy.
7. The Apple Pan – West Hollywood, CA
Operating since 1947, The Apple Pan feels like stepping into a time machine where burgers cost reasonable prices and counter seats encourage conversation with strangers. The horseshoe-shaped counter remains the only seating option, creating an intimate dining experience.
Their hickory burger—essentially a double cheeseburger with special sauce—has achieved legendary status among Los Angeles burger lovers. Paper plates and wax paper wrapping keep things delightfully old-fashioned. The beef patties cook on a well-seasoned griddle that adds decades of flavor to every bite.
Expect to wait during peak hours, but watching the short-order cooks work their magic makes the time fly. The pies deserve mention too, though you’ll probably be too full from your burger to care. Cash and cards accepted, unlike many spots on this list.
8. The Habit Burger Grill – Encinitas / San Diego, CA
Before becoming a chain, The Habit started right here in California, and the original Encinitas location still captures that neighborhood burger joint energy. Surfers and families pack the place for burgers that balance quality with convenience.
Their double char burger features beef patties cooked over an open flame, creating smoky char marks and incredible flavor. Melted cheese, caramelized onions, pickles, tomatoes, lettuce, and mayo pile high on a toasted bun. The char-grilling method sets them apart from typical fast-casual spots.
Order at the counter, grab a number, and find a seat while they prepare your food fresh. The tempura green beans make an excellent side if you’re feeling adventurous beyond fries. Even though they’ve expanded, this original location maintains the quality that built their reputation across California and beyond.
9. Father’s Office – Santa Monica/Los Angeles, CA
Controversial opinion: Father’s Office serves the most polarizing burger in California because they absolutely refuse to let you customize anything. No substitutions, no exceptions, no ketchup bottles in sight. Their way or the highway, burger purists might say.
The Office Burger technically isn’t a traditional double cheeseburger, but their approach to burger-making earns them a spot here. Dry-aged beef, caramelized onions, Gruyere and blue cheese, arugula, and bacon compote create flavor explosions in every bite. The meat quality speaks for itself without needing modifications.
This gastropub atmosphere attracts a different crowd than typical burger joints—craft drink enthusiasts and foodies who appreciate the chef’s vision. You’ll either love the strict no-changes policy or find it pretentious. I respect their commitment to serving burgers exactly as intended, even if I sometimes miss plain old ketchup.