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Hinano Café
Master Critic Review
Hinano Café
8.4
Hinano Café is a classic Venice dive bar just off the pier, famous for its flat-top cheeseburgers, cold beer in frosty mugs, and pool tables that run late into the night. Since the early 1960s it has stayed cash-friendly, loud, and decidedly unfussy, making it a go-to for late-night burgers after the boardwalk crowds thin.
Must-Try Dishes:
World Famous Hinano Cheeseburger, Breakfast Burrito with Bacon, Chili Cheese Dog
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: Old-school beachfront dive bar slinging legendary cheeseburgers until the wee hours.
Who should go: Night owls craving burgers, beer, and a true Venice dive.
When to visit: After 9pm for peak bar energy and late-night burgers.
What to order: World Famous cheeseburger, bacon breakfast burrito, chili cheese dog.
Insider tip: Order your burger medium with grilled onions, then snag a pool table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking near Venice Pier; spots get tight after 8pm, so expect a short walk. No valet.
Dress code: Ultra-casual. Hoodies, beachwear, and flip-flops are all normal.
Noise level: Loud — jukebox, bar crowd, and pool tables make conversation secondary.
Weekend wait: Usually no formal wait, but seats can fill between 8–11pm; expect to hover a bit.
Weekday lunch: No wait — daytime is mellow compared to nights.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — basic grilled cheese or sides.
Vegan options: Minimal to none — not ideal for vegan diners.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free menu; some items can be modified but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves dive bars. It’s loud, casual, and unapologetically gritty — better for laid-back, fun nights than romantic intros.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they don’t take reservations. Grab any open table or post up at the bar; turnover is steady even late.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really. It’s a classic dive with a strong late-night bar scene. Best for adults 21+.
Best For
Better for: A true Venice dive experience with legendary burgers, cheap drinks, and late-night energy you won’t find at more polished pier spots.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, healthy options, vegan-friendly menus, or a family-oriented atmosphere — this isn’t built for that.