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Marathon Burger
Master Critic Review
Marathon Burger
8.3
Marathon Burger is a newer Fairfax District arrival tied to Nipsey Hussle’s Marathon brand, serving wagyu smash burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and shakes in a polished, music-forward room. Late hours and a strong cultural story make it as much a hangout as a burger stop, especially for fans of LA hip-hop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu smash burger, Fried chicken sandwich, Portobello or plant-based burger
Scores:
Value: 6.3
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A music-inflected burger spot where wagyu smash burgers intersect with the Marathon legacy and late-night hours.
Who should go: Burger fans who also care about LA hip-hop culture and energy.
When to visit: Evenings and late night when the room and sidewalk are lively.
What to order: Wagyu smash burger, fried chicken sandwich, a shake.
Insider tip: Plan for a line on weekend nights and consider a late, post-dinner burger run.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Fairfax and neighboring residential blocks; expect difficulty after 7pm. No valet. Ride-share is the easiest option on busy nights.
Dress code: Casual to streetwear-forward. Guests often lean stylish due to the brand connection, but jeans and basics are completely fine.
Noise level: Loud during peak hours with music-forward energy; conversations require raised voices indoors. Milder outdoors or earlier in the evening.
Weekend wait: 35–55 minutes, especially after 8pm when foot traffic spikes.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, often under 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but available; expect a veggie-style sandwich and fries as reliable picks.
Vegan options: Very limited; modify sides or check for rotating plant-based specials.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free buns; fries are typically safe but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great for a casual, high-energy first date where the vibe matters more than intimacy. If you want quiet conversation, choose elsewhere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only. Late-night visits or early evenings are easiest. Peak weekend hours may require waiting outside.
Is it kid-friendly? Fine for older kids and teens who enjoy burgers and lively music. Not ideal for toddlers due to volume and crowds.
Best For
Better for: Late-night burger cravings, cultural energy, and wagyu smash burgers with a brand-forward identity that makes it feel more like an LA hangout than a standard burger shop.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, need extensive vegan/gluten-free options, or prefer classic diner-style burgers over wagyu smash formats.