Los Angeles knows burgers, and these smash burger spots prove that crispy edges, juicy patties and messy bites are the real stars of the city’s burger scene.
Hammy’s Smash Burgers
Hammy’s Smash Burgers keeps things simple and seriously satisfying. The patties are smashed just right, giving them those crispy caramelized edges while staying juicy inside. Grab a seat in one of the black booths after ordering at the counter and dig in. The bacon smash with grilled onions is a favorite, and the jalapeño-loaded version brings some heat. Don’t skip the Hammy Fries topped with a smash patty and special sauce, or the Nutella-stuffed OMFG cookie.
Smashburger
You can’t talk smash burgers without mentioning Smashburger. This counter-service favorite is known for its crispy-edge patties, stacked burgers and thick shakes. Try the double cheesy mac smash loaded with mac and cheese or the truffle mushroom burger for something richer. Tots make the ideal side, but the menu goes beyond burgers with all-Angus big dogs, crispy chicken sandwiches and even a shrimp roll tucked into a buttery bun.
Super Smash Burgers
Parked along Olympic Boulevard, Super Smash Burgers is a food truck worth tracking down. The burgers are made with 100 percent grass-fed, Zabiha Halal beef and smashed until the edges get perfectly crisp. Add their special sauce, and you’re set. You can also pile smoked brisket onto your burger or onto the loaded smash fries. It’s a great stop for a quick lunch or when those late-night, after-the-club cravings hit.
Valley Smash Burgers
Valley Smash Burgers keeps things casual with Wagyu smash burgers and a small patio dotted with bright yellow and red tables. Order at the counter and be ready for a crowd; this tiny spot fills up fast, so takeout is often the move. The loaded smash fries are a must, and the house-made potato chips are surprisingly addictive. Not feeling a burger? The falafel sandwich offers a solid change of pace.
Lets Smash
Let’s Smash focuses on never-frozen beef smashed until the edges crisp up just right. The burgers land on sweet King’s Hawaiian buns, giving each bite that perfect sweet-and-savory combo. Want some heat? Add jalapeños. Sides include Cajun or sweet potato fries, but the real showstopper is the Doggy Style Fries topped with a smash patty, grilled onions, pickles, cheese and smash sauce. They even serve breakfast smash burgers with eggs.
WAX Smash Burgers
WAX Smash Burgers rolls through L.A. as a food truck serving smash burgers made fresh to order. Each patty hits the grill until the edges crisp and caramelize, then gets finished with house-made sauces. The menu covers the classics along with loaded fries and plant-based options. There are halal choices available too, plus vegetarian and vegan burgers, making it an easy stop whether you’re craving beef or something lighter.
Burgers Never Say Die
At Burgers Never Say Die in Glendale, the hype is real. This tiny, no-frills spot draws serious burger fans who will happily drive hours for a taste. The move here is simple: order two. Their smash burgers come with juicy centers and perfectly crispy edges that keep people coming back. Nothing fancy, just classic burgers with the fixings, but the house cheese sauce is a standout and perfect for dipping.
Smash Masters
Smash Masters lives up to the name with patties smashed thin so the crispy edges stretch past the bun. The burgers come loaded with sweet-and-savory smash sauce and perfectly seasoned fries on the side. Stick with a classic or go double if you’re hungry. Feeling adventurous? Try the burger egg rolls, which pack all the flavors of a smash burger into a crunchy wrapper.
