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Best Burgers in Sawtelle Japantown
Best Breakfast in Sawtelle Japantown
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Best Sandwiches in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Ray's
8.2
A 1977-vintage takeout window — one of the last original burger stands in West LA — that quietly pivots between charbroiled burgers, teriyaki plates, and breakfast burritos with equal conviction. The chicken teriyaki over rice is the anchor order: white-meat breast, grilled vegetables, and a restrained sauce portioned well beyond the under-$15 price tag. Expect a sidewalk wait, free agua fresca samples, and a meal built for the car ride home.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Western Cheeseburger, Mushroom Swiss Burger, Patty Melt
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Neighborhood grill burgers that taste like L.A. used to.
Who should go: Locals craving classic charbroil comfort.
When to visit: Mid-morning to early lunch hours.
What to order: Double Western Cheeseburger, patty melt, fries.
Insider tip: Pair your burger with a breakfast side for a sleeper combo.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—no lot. Side streets off Corinth usually have spots, but the block can fill up during the lunch rush. Arrive early or expect a short walk.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—Grilled Cheese ($8.25) is the only meatless entree. Side salad available ($2.75). This is a burger-and-teriyaki stand, not a vegetarian destination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No — Ray's is a walk-up burger and teriyaki shack with counter-window ordering and a few outdoor stools. There's no indoor dining, no table service, and no romantic ambiance. It's a great spot for a super-casual daytime hangout where you both grab food and eat outside, but not a traditional date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Reservations don't apply here — it's a walk-up counter window. Just show up, order, and grab one of the few outdoor stools or take your food to go. Lines can form during the lunch rush, but the wait is typically short. Note they close early: 4 PM on weekdays, 3:30 PM on Saturdays, and they're closed Sundays.
Is it kid-friendly? The food works well for kids — burgers, fries, teriyaki bowls, and burritos are all straightforward crowd-pleasers. The casual walk-up format means zero stress about noise or behavior. However, there are no high chairs, no kids menu, and no restrooms on-site, so plan accordingly with younger children. Best for quick bites rather than a lingering family meal.
Is it good for groups? Not really — seating is limited to a handful of outdoor bar stools along the building. There are no tables, no indoor space, and no private areas. A group can absolutely order together at the window, but you'd need to eat standing, on the stools, or take it to a nearby park. Keep it to 2-3 people if you want to sit.
Is there outdoor seating? Limited — there are a few bar stools along the outside of the building, but no proper patio, tables, cover, or heating. It's sidewalk-adjacent perch seating at a walk-up counter, not a dining area. Most people grab their food to go.
Best For
Better for: A fast, cheap, massive-portion lunch you eat in your car or walking. Chicken teriyaki plate under $15 is the move—huge pile of rice, grilled veggies, and well-sauced chicken from a no-frills takeout window.
Consider Alternatives If: You want to sit down. There's no dining room—it's a walk-up window with no seating. Also closed Sundays and done by 4 PM on weekdays, so not an option for dinner.
Hours
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday11am - 7pm
Thursday11am - 7pm
Friday11am - 7pm
Saturday11am - 7pm
Sunday11am - 7pm