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Irv's Burgers
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Irv's Burgers
8.3
Irv’s Burgers is a historic West Hollywood burger stand reborn, serving griddled patties, fries, and shakes with classic roadside energy. The focus is on simple, well-executed burgers and cheerful service rather than frills, making it a go-to for quick, nostalgic American fast-casual.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic cheeseburger, Double burger with grilled onions, Fries with special sauce
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A revived classic burger stand that keeps the focus on griddled patties, fries, and old-school charm.
Who should go: Burger purists wanting fast, affordable West Hollywood nostalgia.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for the quickest turnaround.
What to order: Classic cheeseburger, double burger with onions, fries with sauce.
Insider tip: Order at the window and grab a sidewalk table to soak up neighborhood energy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Santa Monica Boulevard; spaces turn over fairly quickly during the day but tighten up during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Totally casual; come as you are in shorts, tees, or post-gym attire.
Noise level: Moderate outdoor bustle from the boulevard, but still easy enough for casual conversation at the sidewalk tables.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours if a rush hits, mostly due to walk-up lines.
Weekday lunch: Often no wait or a short 5-minute line during the noon window.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but reliable—grilled cheese, fries, and customizable toppings.
Vegan options: Minimal; fries and a few sides work, but no dedicated vegan burger.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free buns; patties and toppings can be ordered protein-style but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something casual and low-pressure. It’s counter-service and sidewalk seating, so it’s fun, quick, and nostalgic—but not a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations and it’s all walk-up. Seating is first-come, first-served, with fast turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menu, quick service, and outdoor tables make it easy for families with kids of any age, though space is limited for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Fast, nostalgic burgers with friendly service and a true neighborhood feel at an affordable price.
Skip if: You want gourmet toppings, plant-based entrées, or indoor seating with a more polished dining experience.
Irv's Burgers
8.5
Irv’s Burgers is a decades-old roadside stand reborn on Santa Monica Boulevard, turning out thin, griddled patties, chili cheese fries, and shakes with old-school counter energy. With hundreds of reviews and nearly 80 years of history behind the name, it’s the neighborhood’s go-to for fast, nostalgic burgers that still feel made to order.
Must-Try Dishes:
Irv's Original Roadside Single or Double, Chili cheese fries, Pastrami-topped burger or sandwich
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: A historic West Hollywood burger stand serving fast, hand-built patties since the mid-20th century.
Who should go: Burger purists who want classic roadside flavors on a budget.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner before peak nighttime traffic builds.
What to order: Roadside Single or Double, chili cheese fries, a shake.
Insider tip: Stick to the core burger-and-fries combo to experience Irv’s at its best.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Santa Monica Boulevard is the primary option; spots turn over quickly during the day but become scarce after 6pm. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Completely casual — T-shirts, hoodies, shorts, and everyday wear are all standard.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively outdoors due to boulevard traffic; still easy enough to hold a casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours, especially if a wave of takeout orders hits.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with food coming out fast even during a mild rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — fries, shakes, and a few sides are available, but there is no dedicated veggie patty.
Vegan options: Very limited — only certain sides (like plain fries) qualify; no vegan burger option.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free buns or prep area; fries are a safer option but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if the vibe you want is ultra-casual, fast, and nostalgic. It’s more burger-stand charm than date-night ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service only. Outdoor tables are first-come, first-served and usually turn over fairly quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — quick service, approachable food, and outdoor seating make it easy for families. Best for ages 4+ due to street proximity and limited space.
Best For
Better for: Fast, made-to-order classic burgers with nostalgic charm at a lower price point than most West Hollywood competitors.
Skip if: You want a gourmet burger, indoor seating, or robust dietary accommodations — other spots offer more variety and comfort.
Irv's Burgers
8.6
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Pet Friendly Paradise
Irv’s Burgers is a classic roadside stand on Santa Monica Boulevard where hand-pressed patties share equal billing with thick-cut, ultra-crispy fries. Since 1946 it’s been a Route 66-era counter that locals hit for patties, chili cheese fries, and a laid-back slice of old-school West Hollywood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Thick-Cut French Fries, Chili Cheese Fries, Irv’s Double with Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Historic Route 66 burger stand with old-school, thick-cut fries.
Who should go: Burger and fry fans who love classic roadside spots.
When to visit: Afternoons or early evenings before the dinner rush hits.
What to order: Irv’s Double, thick-cut fries, chili cheese fries.
Insider tip: Grab a counter stool and pair fries with a classic patty melt.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along Santa Monica Boulevard and nearby side streets; spaces turn over but can be tight during peak meal periods.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are; outdoor seating and counter service mean no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate; outdoor seating near the boulevard brings steady traffic noise but conversations remain doable.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on walk-up crowds and takeout volume.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though a short line can form right at the noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable—fries, grilled cheese, and some non-meat sides.
Vegan options: Very limited; fries are the main vegan-friendly option.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free menu; fries are naturally gluten-free but cross-contact is possible due to shared kitchen equipment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re going for a fun, low-key, old-school roadside vibe; not ideal if you want a quieter, more polished setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations here. Seating is first-come, first-served with quick turnover due to counter service.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes; casual outdoor seating and simple burgers-and-fries menus work well for families, though it can be busy during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Classic thick-cut fries, nostalgic Route 66 charm, and fast-turnaround burgers at a budget-friendly price.
Skip if: You’re seeking gourmet toppings, extensive dietary accommodations, or a quieter indoor setting.
Irv's Burgers
8.7
Irv's Burgers is a historic roadside-style stand dating back to the 1940s, now serving its smash-style burgers, patty melts, and chili fries deep into the night on weekends. The compact counter, sidewalk stools, and hand-drawn tray art keep the experience firmly rooted in classic LA burger culture.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Roadside Single Burger, Patty Melt Sandwich, Chili Cheese Fries
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: A decades-old LA burger institution reborn on Santa Monica Blvd with late-weekend hours.
Who should go: Burger purists who care about history as much as flavor.
When to visit: Friday or Saturday after 10pm when bar crowds roll through.
What to order: Original Roadside Single, Patty Melt, Chili Cheese Fries.
Insider tip: Sit at the sidewalk counter to watch burgers come off the flat-top in real time.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along Santa Monica Blvd and nearby residential streets; can be tight after 9pm due to bar traffic, so plan a short walk.
Dress code: Completely casual — come as you are. Streetwear, jeans, and post-bar outfits all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively depending on the hour; outdoor stools can get loud with passing traffic but still workable for casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for walk-up orders, slightly longer after midnight when bar crowds spike.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick counter service throughout the afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — veggie burger and fries are available, plus customizable toppings.
Vegan options: Limited — can do a veggie patty with modifications, but not a dedicated vegan build.
Gluten-free options: Minimal — no gluten-free buns; fries are available but the kitchen is not a GF facility.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you're aiming for a fun, low-stakes, nostalgic burger date. It’s casual and sidewalk-based, so better for someone who appreciates classic LA charm over ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service only. Seating is first-come on sidewalk stools; standing or walking while eating is common during rush hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick bites — kids who like burgers and fries will be happy, but note that seating is limited, outdoors, and right on a busy street.
Best For
Better for: Classic LA-style smash burgers, late-night counter energy, and a nostalgic experience you won’t get at modern burger chains.
Skip if: You want full indoor seating, a quieter sit-down meal, or extensive vegan/gluten-free options — other WeHo spots will serve you better.
Irv's Burgers
8.6
Irv's Burgers is a historic roadside-style stand where smashy griddle burgers, patty melts, and chili fries are served at a tight counter and sidewalk stools. Generations of locals use it as a quick, affordable stop before or after nights out along Santa Monica Blvd.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Roadside Single, Double Cheeseburger, Patty Melt
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Decades-old burger stand serving classic roadside-style burgers on a busy corner.
Who should go: Burger purists who love old-school counter service
When to visit: Evenings and late nights when the grill and sidewalk buzz
What to order: Original Roadside Single, Double Cheeseburger, Patty Melt
Insider tip: Grab a sidewalk stool and eat hot off the tray for peak texture.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots run along Santa Monica Blvd but fill quickly after 6pm. Side streets offer additional spaces but can require a short walk.
Dress code: Totally casual—tees, hoodies, and shorts are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate street noise from Santa Monica Blvd; conversation is easy but expect traffic hum and pedestrian buzz.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on bar and club foot traffic.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait—1–5 minutes during the peak rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian burgers and sides like fries and onion rings.
Vegan options: Limited—request modifications but no dedicated vegan patty.
Gluten-free options: Partial—no gluten-free bun; fries and some sides can work for low-gluten diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if the vibe you want is casual, quick, and nostalgic. It’s charming but very no-frills—best for low-pressure hangs rather than romantic outings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—everything is counter service and first-come, first-served, though stools are limited. Most guests eat standing or take their food to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families stop by for simple burgers and fries. No high chairs or indoor seating, but casual outdoor stools work for older kids.
Best For
Better for: Faster, cheaper, and more historic than most WeHo burger options—ideal for quick eats with real LA roadside character.
Skip if: You want indoor seating, full meals with sides beyond diner standards, or a more upscale burger experience.
Irv's Burgers
8.5
Irv’s Burgers is a historic roadside stand turned modern counter spot where smashed burgers, patty melts, and simple sandwiches still come out fast on paper plates. It’s more burger institution than sandwich bar, but the patty melts and pastrami sandwiches carry decades of Los Angeles nostalgia in each bite.
Must-Try Dishes:
Irv's Original Roadside Single Burger, Pastrami sandwich, Chili cheese fries
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Classic LA burger stand serving old-school patties and melts.
Who should go: Fans of nostalgic roadside burgers and melts.
When to visit: Afternoons and early evenings before late-night rush.
What to order: Roadside Single, patty melt, chili cheese fries.
Insider tip: Grab a counter seat; food tastes better right off the grill.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Santa Monica Boulevard is the main option; usually manageable during the day but tight after 6pm. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Totally casual—tees, jeans, and walk-up attire are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate; outdoor street noise can be present, but counter seating still allows easy conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak burger rush.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or a short 5-minute queue.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but available—grilled cheese and customizable sandwiches without meat.
Vegan options: Very limited—no dedicated vegan patty; best for sides only.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free buns; salads and some sides are the safest options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates old-school LA charm and casual counter dining. It’s fun and nostalgic, but not a traditional date-night setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's a walk-up counter with limited outdoor seating. Arrive slightly off-peak if you want a guaranteed seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menus, quick service, and casual outdoor seats make it easy for families with kids 5 and up.
Best For
Better for: Classic smashed burgers, patty melts, and nostalgic LA roadside vibes served fast and affordably.
Skip if: You want upscale sandwiches, specialty bread options, or extensive dietary accommodations.