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Beep's Burgers
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Beep's Burgers
8.6
Classic drive-in slinging griddled burgers, shakes, and fries since 1962 across from City College. Lines move fast and patties land hot with crisp edges and melty cheese.
Must-Try Dishes:
Half-Pounder with Cheese, Rocket Burger, Chocolate Shake
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: Old-school roadside stand with space-age sign and reliably great smash-style burgers.
Who should go: Burger traditionalists and late-night snackers
When to visit: Evenings before peak rush or after 9pm
What to order: Half-Pounder, Beep’s Special, fries with house sauce
Insider tip: Ask for extra-crisp edges on the patty for maximum sear.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small on-site lot with limited spots and metered street parking nearby along Ocean Avenue. Usually easy to find after 8pm.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are. Hoodies and jeans are the norm for students and locals.
Noise level: Moderate—busy during peak hours with drive-thru chatter, but outdoor seating allows for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak; faster for takeout orders.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, quick turnaround for drive-thru or pickup.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—veggie burger and grilled cheese available upon request.
Vegan options: Minimal—no dedicated vegan options, but can omit cheese and mayo.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free buns; fries are fried in shared oil.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for nostalgic or low-key charm—think milkshakes under neon lights rather than fine dining. Great for a casual or retro-style meetup.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, it’s first-come, first-served. Most guests eat in their cars, grab takeout, or find a spot at the outdoor tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—kids love the shakes and fries. Plenty of space for families to eat outside or in parked cars.
Best For
Better for: Classic smash burgers, quick service, and nostalgic roadside atmosphere that beats newer gourmet spots on character and value.
Skip if: You’re after craft beer, table service, or modern burger-bar vibes—this is more vintage drive-in than gastropub.
Beep's Burgers
7.9
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Classic 1962 drive-in turning out crisp curly, garlic, and sweet potato fries alongside griddled burgers and shakes. Orders move quickly and portions deliver strong value for Ocean Avenue regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Curly Fries, Garlic Fries, Sweet Potato Fries
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Ocean Avenue fixture since 1962 known for fry variety done right.
Who should go: Burger-and-fries purists on a budget
When to visit: Mid-afternoon lull for fastest ticket times
What to order: Curly fries; garlic fries; sweet potato fries
Insider tip: Ask for extra-crisp on curly fries and add ranch for dipping.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small private lot with limited spaces behind the drive-in and metered street parking along Ocean Avenue; spots turn over quickly outside of lunch rush.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are in jeans, hoodies, or even workout gear.
Noise level: Moderate outside from passing traffic; indoor counter seating allows normal conversation but expect background chatter.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak burger-and-fries hours; expect a short line at the window.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait except brief surges from nearby City College crowds.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—regular and curly fries are vegetarian-friendly, and grilled cheese or veggie burger options exist.
Vegan options: Limited—fries can be ordered without sauces, but no dedicated vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated prep area; fries are cooked in shared oil with breaded items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for nostalgic or playful—think drive-in charm over candlelight. Great for casual meetups, not formal dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-up only. There’s limited counter seating and outdoor tables; most guests eat in their cars or take out.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—families frequent it for quick meals. Kids love the milkshakes and classic drive-in vibe, though seating is limited.
Best For
Better for: Classic curly fries, fast service, and nostalgic drive-in atmosphere that beats chain alternatives for authenticity.
Skip if: You want gluten-free prep, vegan choices, or indoor seating with table service.
Beep's Burgers
7.9
Classic drive-in (since 1962) that still turns out soft-serve cones, thick shakes, and root beer floats late into the night. It’s an easy, affordable stop when you want a swirl cone after burgers or on its own.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soft-serve cone (vanilla/chocolate/swirl), Oreo milkshake, Root beer float
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Old-school soft serve, shakes, and floats till late.
Who should go: Late-night dessert seekers
When to visit: After 9pm for shortest lines
What to order: Swirl cone, Oreo shake, root beer float
Insider tip: Grab your cone and walk Ocean Ave when weather cooperates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking on Ocean Ave; usually available within a block after 8pm.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; it’s a drive-in with mostly outdoor seating.
Noise level: Moderate; expect street traffic and music from passing cars but fine for conversation outdoors.
Weekend wait: 10–15 minutes for shakes and cones when burger orders are busy.
Weekday lunch: No real wait; dessert counter moves fast.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ice cream and shakes are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—non-dairy options not standard; some floats can be adjusted if you skip the soft-serve.
Gluten-free options: Minimal—cones contain gluten; opt for cup servings to avoid cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a laid-back, nostalgic vibe—grab shakes and sit outside for a retro, low-pressure hangout.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed—everything is counter service with limited outdoor tables and car-side spots.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—families stop by often; kids love the cones, neon signage, and quick service.
Best For
Better for: Late-night dessert runs and nostalgic soft-serve cones—few places in SF serve ice cream this late.
Skip if: You’re looking for artisanal gelato or vegan-friendly options—this is classic soft serve, not a modern creamery.
Beep's Burgers
8.1
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Classic drive-in (since 1962) that turns out speedy burgers, fries, and shakes with ample counter and outdoor seating. Perfect for a quick, no-frills lunch when timing matters and budget is tight.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beep Burger, Bacon Avocado Burger, Root Beer Float
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Speedy, old-school burger counter ideal for tight lunch windows.
Who should go: Busy pros craving classic burgers fast
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30–1:00 to beat school rush
What to order: Beep Burger; Onion Rings; Oreo Shake
Insider tip: Order online for pickup to skip the line at peak lunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking along Ocean Avenue and side streets, but limited during school hours; quick pickup zones available curbside.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; many patrons arrive in work attire or everyday clothes.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch rush with drive-in traffic; easy conversation at outdoor tables or counter seating.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes; faster if ordering online for pickup.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, but lines form around 12:00–12:45pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited options—grilled cheese, fries, and milkshakes available.
Vegan options: Minimal—fries and drinks only; no dedicated vegan patty.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free menu or prep area; cross-contact likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic setting, but fun for a nostalgic, casual meet-up or quick bite before a walk.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—this is a counter-order spot with open outdoor and window seating; no reservations accepted or needed.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—kids love the retro drive-in vibe, milkshakes, and outdoor space; note limited indoor seating.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and classic burger nostalgia compared to modern gourmet burger chains.
Skip if: You’re looking for table service, alcohol, or dietary flexibility beyond the basics.
Beep's Burgers
8.4
Classic Ocean Avenue drive-in turning out griddled Angus burgers, shakes, and fries deep into the night. Lines move quickly and late service is consistent, especially with post-game crowds from City College.
Must-Try Dishes:
1/2 lb Beep's Burger, Bacon Avocado Cheeseburger, Garlic Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A 1960s-era drive-in serving until the early morning with steady quality.
Who should go: Night owls and students near City College
When to visit: After 10pm for faster counter lines
What to order: 1/2 lb Beep’s Burger; bacon avocado cheeseburger; garlic fries
Insider tip: Ask for a well-seared patty and add a shake to skip a second line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small private lot on Ocean Avenue fills up quickly; metered street parking available along Ocean and Lee Avenues after 8pm.
Dress code: Casual — hoodies, tees, and sneakers are the norm; drive-in vibe means no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate outdoors; mild car and street noise but fine for casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak late hours; drive-thru can be slower after 11pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 1pm; brief line mid-afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — grilled cheese, fries, and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited — fries and some sides qualify but no plant-based patties yet.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated prep area; fries are shared-oil and buns contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Fun and nostalgic if your date enjoys retro diners or car-side eats; not ideal for formal first impressions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service and outdoor seating only; grab any open spot or eat in your car.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — plenty of outdoor space, simple menu, and milkshakes kids love; just expect a bit of car traffic.
Best For
Better for: Late-night burger cravings and nostalgic drive-in charm unmatched by nearby fast food spots.
Skip if: You want craft-burger customization, cocktails, or indoor seating — head to a gastropub instead.
Beep's Burgers
8.2
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Late Night Legends
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Classic drive-in flipping griddled burgers and late-night shakes since the Space Age. The throwback neon and quick counter service make it a go-to for affordable, satisfying American staples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beep’s Burger (Angus, special sauce), Super Burger with bacon, Hand-spun strawberry shake
Scores:
Value: 9.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Old-school drive-in energy with well-executed burgers and shakes.
Who should go: Late-night burger traditionalists
When to visit: After 9pm for fastest lines and parking
What to order: Beep’s Burger; Super Burger; strawberry shake
Insider tip: Request extra-crispy fries and a side of fry sauce.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot on-site plus limited free street parking along Ocean Avenue; fills up fast after 8pm.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — jeans, hoodies, and sneakers fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; outdoor order area can get noisy from traffic and music, but still easy for conversation in your car or nearby tables.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak late-night rush, especially after 10pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually under 5 minutes; orders move quickly at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — grilled cheese, veggie burger, and fries available.
Vegan options: Limited — no dedicated vegan patty, but fries and shakes can be customized.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free buns or fryers; best to avoid if sensitive.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Fun and nostalgic for casual first dates — neon lights, drive-in vibes, and shareable shakes create an easygoing setting. Not ideal if you’re looking for a quiet, sit-down atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s all first-come, first-served counter service. Most guests eat in their cars or at outdoor picnic tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely — families often stop by for burgers and milkshakes. There’s outdoor seating but no high chairs or play area, so best for older kids.
Best For
Better for: Classic drive-in nostalgia, quick service, and photogenic late-night eats.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, table service, or modern healthy fare — it’s pure old-school Americana here.
Beep's Burgers
8.4
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Old-school drive-in flipping juicy, made-to-order burgers and classic shakes since 1962. Locals line up for half-pound patties, crinkle or curly fries, and a neon-signed slice of Ocean Avenue history.
Must-Try Dishes:
Half-Pounder Burger, Curly Fries, Oreo Milkshake
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: 1960s drive-in energy with big, freshly griddled burgers.
Who should go: Burger lovers and nostalgia seekers
When to visit: Mid-afternoon lull avoids peak lines
What to order: Half-Pounder; curly fries; thick shake
Insider tip: Order a well-done sear for extra caramelization on the patty.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking along Ocean Avenue; metered spots fill quickly during lunch rush but turnover is frequent. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual—tees, hoodies, and sneakers fit right in at this retro drive-in.
Noise level: Moderate outdoors and inside car seating; can hold a conversation but expect lively background chatter and passing traffic.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak evening hours, especially when weather is nice.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal—5–10 minute wait for orders at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie burger and fries available; grilled cheese on request.
Vegan options: Limited—veggie burger can be made vegan if ordered without cheese and sauce.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated prep area; fries are fried in shared oil and buns contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if your date enjoys nostalgic, low-key charm. Sharing shakes in the car under neon lights has old-school appeal, though it’s casual rather than romantic fine dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations accepted—it’s counter service with outdoor picnic tables and carhop-style eating. Arrive slightly before meal rushes for best seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely. Families frequent Beep’s for its quick service, parking convenience, and classic menu. High chairs and covered outdoor tables make it easy for younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Classic, nostalgic burgers and thick shakes served fast with a vintage Bay Area vibe unmatched by newer gourmet spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking gourmet toppings, craft beer, or indoor dining—this is about throwback Americana, not upscale dining.