What initially began as a burger pop-up in 2018 has become a go-to burger joint for Los Angeles synonymous with the smash burger movement that has not yet slowed. With three brick-and-mortar locations in Los Feliz, Highland Park, and Granada Hills and recognition on many lists of the best burgers in town (including Eater’s own), Goldburger has become emblematic of what a high quality, affordable burger in Los Angeles can be. The trick at Goldburger — if it can even be called a trick — remains the goodness of the ingredients, which includes grass-fed beef from California, locally baked buns, and sauces made in house.
A fast, solo meal; a quick bite for two; or burgers to go. The space at the Highland Park location doesn’t have a lot of room for dining in (the walk-up window has been around since this location opened during the pandemic), although the covered outdoor seating does bump 2000s hip-hop songs — a soundtrack I always welcome.
If chili cheese fries — a special that often appears — are available, be sure to swap out the regular fries for curly fries. Curly fries cup more of the chili and the extra seasoning adds even more dimension. Request extra onions and chiles to offset the meatiness of the chili.