30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Burgers in North Beach
Best French Fries in North Beach
Best Burgers in North Beach
Master Critic Review
Sam's Burgers
8.5
Old-school counter spot slinging classic griddled burgers deep into the night. No-frills build, quick ticket times, and that satisfying post-midnight bite keep locals returning since 1966.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cheeseburger (shredded lettuce, onion, tomato), Double Cheeseburger, Chili Cheeseburger
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A late-night SF classic serving straightforward, satisfying burgers since 1966.
Who should go: Night owls craving classic burgers fast
When to visit: After 10:30pm for shortest lines
What to order: Cheeseburger, Double Cheeseburger, Chili Cheeseburger
Insider tip: Ask for extra grilled onions—they nail the flat-top sear.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking on Broadway and Columbus; best to walk or use rideshare late at night.
Dress code: Ultra-casual—hoodies, ballcaps, and post-bar attire all welcome.
Noise level: Moderate buzz from the griddle and late-night chatter but easy enough for casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during late-night rush around midnight.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick counter turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—grilled cheese and fries are reliable options, but limited beyond that.
Vegan options: Very limited—can modify fries or salad if available, but not a vegan destination.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated prep area; burgers can be served without a bun upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your idea of romance is late-night nostalgia—fun for low-key, spontaneous nights but not a dress-up date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-up counter service only; grab a stool or stand if it’s full.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids due to late hours and bar-adjacent crowd, but fine for teens grabbing burgers early evening.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and more authentic old-school flavor than chain spots nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for craft toppings, beer lists, or sit-down comfort—this is classic greasy-spoon simplicity.
Hours
Monday1pm - 12am
Tuesday1pm - 12am
Wednesday1pm - 12am
Thursday1pm - 1am
Friday2pm - 2am
Saturday2pm - 2am
Sunday1pm - 12am