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ZipPicks Awards
Best Burgers in Los Angeles
Master Critic Review
The Oinkster
8.1
Since 2006, Andre Guerrero's fast-casual concept has maintained a cult following for Belgian fries cooked in peanut oil and burgers made from hormone-free beef. The retro diner aesthetic with modern sensibilities creates a family-friendly environment where pastrami and burgers share menu space with craft sodas and rotating beer taps. Consistent execution across nearly two decades has earned The Oinkster a place in LA's casual dining canon.
Must-Try Dishes:
Royale with Cheese Burger, Ube Taro Belgian Fries, Pulled Pork Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Belgian fries cooked in peanut oil paired with quality hormone-free burgers
Who should go: Families and casual diners seeking reliable comfort food
When to visit: Lunch on weekdays for quicker counter service
What to order: Royale burger, ube fries for sharing, craft root beer
Insider tip: The rotating fry flavors change seasonally—try whatever special is running
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot on-site with 15-20 spaces, fills quickly during lunch/dinner rush. Street parking on Eagle Rock Blvd usually available within 1-2 blocks
Dress code: Casual - jeans, t-shirts, sneakers all fine. This is a counter-service spot
Noise level: Moderate-high - busy fast-casual environment with music and kitchen sounds, fine for family conversation but not intimate dining
Weekend wait: 15-25 min from order to food during peak (6-8pm), lines can be 10-15 people deep
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min typical, shorter lines around 2pm after rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie burger, garlic fries, several salad options available
Vegan options: Limited - can modify veggie burger (no cheese/sauce), fries cooked in peanut oil are vegan
Gluten-free options: No - buns available but shared fryer for fries and breaded items creates cross-contamination risk
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 3rd+ dates - the casual counter-service format and noise level make it more suited for established couples who can relax and enjoy good food without needing intimate ambiance
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations - it's counter-service seating. Arrive before 6pm on weekends or after 1:30pm weekday lunches for easiest table availability
Is it kid-friendly? Very - all ages welcome, simple menu kids love (burgers, fries), casual vibe means noise is fine. High chairs available, no kids menu but portions are shareable
How does it compare to In-N-Out or Five Guys? Higher quality ingredients (hormone-free beef) and more creative fries than In-N-Out, less greasy than Five Guys. Price point sits between them at $12-15/burger vs $8-10
Is it worth the hype after 18 years? Yes if you value consistency and quality ingredients over innovation. They do the basics exceptionally well rather than chasing trends
Best For
Better for: Families wanting quality fast-casual without sit-down pricing, fries enthusiasts (Belgian-style with creative flavors beat standard options), weekday lunch when you want reliable good food in 20 minutes
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet romantic dinner, need extensive vegetarian options, expect full table service, or are looking for cutting-edge burger innovation - this is proven classics done well, not experimental
Hours
Monday11am - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 9pm
Thursday11am - 9pm
Friday11am - 9pm
Saturday11am - 9pm
Sunday11am - 9pm