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The Oinkster
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Oinkster
8.3
The Oinkster delivers house-cured pastrami, juicy Angus burgers, and standout Belgian fries in a playful, modern space. Chef Andre Guerrero brings fine-dining chops to fast-casual classics, earning the spot a cult following and regular lines out the door.
Must-Try Dishes:
Belgian Fries, Oinkster Pastrami Burger, Garlic Aioli Fries
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Signature Belgian fries with housemade sauces and creative burger pairings.
Who should go: Fries fans and burger lovers seeking quality comfort food
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner, avoid peak weekend lines
What to order: Belgian Fries, Oinkster Pastrami Burger, Ube Shake
Insider tip: Ask for a side of garlic aioli or try the off-menu specials.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking lot on-site and some street spots; lot fills quickly at peak times, street parking can be tight after 6pm .
Dress code: Casual attire is perfect here – jeans, T-shirts, and sneakers fit right in .
Noise level: Moderate – steady buzz but you can hold a conversation without shouting .
Weekend wait: Expect a 20-40 minute wait during prime hours, especially after 6:30pm .
Weekday lunch: Most weekdays, walk-ins don’t wait more than 5-10 minutes .
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie burgers, fries, salads, and customizable sandwiches are available .
Vegan options: Limited – vegan options include fries (sans aioli), salads, and can modify a burger with a veggie patty and no cheese .
Gluten-free options: Few options – fries are gluten-free, but burger buns and most sandwiches contain gluten; ask staff about modifications .
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It's great for casual hangouts, but the lively vibe and counter service are better for fun, low-pressure first dates than intimate ones .
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – The Oinkster does not take reservations. Just walk in, order at the counter, and grab a table when your food is ready .
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely – plenty of high chairs, kid-approved menu items, and a relaxed atmosphere. Best for ages 2 and up; strollers fit easily .
Best For
Better for: Standout Belgian fries and house-cured pastrami that are fresher and more creative than most neighborhood burger joints .
Skip if: Skip it if you’re seeking quiet fine dining, gluten-free pastries, or rare craft beers – try Little Beast or Cindy’s for full-service dining and broader drink lists instead .
The Oinkster
8.5
The Oinkster draws crowds for its Nebraskan Angus burgers, house-cured pastrami, and daily specials, all crafted under chef Andre Guerrero since 2006. Locals appreciate the casual, retro-diner vibe and unfussy late-night comfort food with elevated ingredients. Consistent crowds, over 4000 reviews, and a commitment to scratch-made condiments highlight its enduring appeal in Eagle Rock.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oinkster Burger, Pastrami Burger, Chili Cheese Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Family-run, chef-driven burgers with scratch-made condiments.
Who should go: Burger fans seeking upgraded classics without frills.
When to visit: Late evenings for a casual bite or weekend lunch.
What to order: Oinkster Burger, Pastrami Burger, Chili Cheese Fries
Insider tip: Order the house-made spicy ketchup to elevate any burger.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be competitive during weekend evenings; a small onsite lot fills up quickly and there is no valet service.
Dress code: Casual attire is perfect; jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are common among regulars.
Noise level: Moderate—music and dining chatter, but easy to hold conversations, even with families around.
Weekend wait: Expect waits of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner rush, especially after 6pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically, walk-ins are seated quickly with minimal or no wait before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several vegetarian-friendly choices, including meatless burgers and salad options; staff can customize toppings.
Vegan options: Limited vegan options—request modifications, but dedicated vegan specialties are not a focus.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free prep area, but lettuce wraps and salads can be made gluten-free on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Ideal for casual, fun dates—laid-back setting, playful comfort food, and retro charm make it memorable, but not suited for formal occasions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, The Oinkster doesn’t take reservations; tables are first come, first served, and solo/small groups typically find seating within 20 minutes except during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly—expect booster seats, a crowd of families, and a menu with plain burgers and fries for younger kids; best for ages 3 and up.
Best For
Better for: Late night burger cravings, consistent quality, and chef-driven upgrades to comfort classics set it apart from chain diners.
Skip if: If looking for vegan burgers, ultra-quiet ambiance, or upscale dining, alternatives like local vegan cafes or dressier bistros may be preferable.