Sure, the rest of the world thinks we’re juice cleansing granola heads, however, we can’t get enough of the humble burger. Which is most definitely why Pasadena Cheeseburger Week exists. As an annual January fest, this week long celebration of meat and cheese between two buttery buns is a great way to blow your January detox. But why should Pasadena have all the fun? Here are some of the best burgers in Los Angeles—from over-the-top indulgent to classic:
The Local Peasant
This Valley gastropub has two locations (Sherman Oaks / Woodland Hills) along Ventura Blvd. They not only have fab drinks and a beer selection to die for, but also a vibe that eeks coolness. The subway-tiled walls and atmospheric lighting give way to one of the best cheeseburgers in all of LA. Just look at this cheesy, meaty goodness, guys … take it in for all its gooey glory.
Peasant talk.
Image by Instagram user @colleenuh
Father's Office
What can be said about Father's Office that hasn’t already been said? That each burger is cooked to bloody perfection? Or that each decadent bite is better than the last, even if they won’t give you ketchup no matter how much you beg? Or that I need one now? Quickly, to the Westside! Both the Santa Monica and Culver City locations hit the spot.
Rawviously Delicious.
Photo by Intagram user @sydneycurates
Umami Burger
Sometimes, you just gotta put an egg on it. And a parmesan crisp. And truffle mayo. Oh Umami, you know the way to our hearts.
#drool
Photo by Intagram user @umamiburger
The Oinkster
This big badass burger deserves some serious homage. The Royale is a one-third pound of pure angus beef topped with bacon, chili and pastrami that’s slathered in Thousand Island and cheese. Yeah, that’ll show ‘em for all those that think LA is only the land of green juices and vegan food.
The Royale Burger
Photo by Instagram user @justinlovesburgs
Petit Trois
What happens when Chef Ludo decides to make a hamburger? Why he goes over the top of course. One look at this hunk of a Big Mec and I think I just came a little.
Good lawwwd, Ludo.
Photo by Instgram user @bradhoss
Belcampo
Belcampo might be known for their fine dining style meaty offerings, such as the lamb burger and grilled beef heart, but one of their best takes on beef is actually a basic burger. A riff on an In-N-Out double-double, the Fastburger is a gorgeous interpretation of the drive-thru classic.
Fast Burger
Photo by Instagram user @hungryinla
The Hat
And speaking of classics, what’s more classic than The Hat. Around since 1951, the landmark food stands in Pasadena and North East LA serve not only their famous pastrami but also pastrami topped burgers. How great is that?
Photo by Instagram user @thehat_restaurant
Pie'n Burger
Pasadena’s Pie'n Burger is a 43-year-old institution, so you might as well just go. Not to mention that the joint’s menu of pie, milkshakes and burgers is damn near perfection.
Photo by Instagram user @infatuation_la
In-N-Out Burger
What kind of list would this be if we didn’t include In-N-Out Burger? Well, it would simply be a crime against humanity. What are you still doing here? Go get a double double animal-style already.
A typical California staple, said everyone, ever.
Photo by Instagram user @trevormorrow
Featured image of In & Out Burger courtesy of Trevor Marrow
