5 Best Burger Spots in Pasadena that Locals Rave About

Pasadena has everything from old‑Hollywood‑adjacent institutions to modern gastropubs, and the burger scene reflects that mix. These five spots are the ones locals point to when someone says, “Forget chains—where’s the good burger?”

1. The Raymond 1886

Known for its cocktails and romantic vibe, The Raymond also quietly serves one of Pasadena’s favorite upscale burgers.

The burger here is all about high‑quality beef and careful execution: a thick patty cooked to a perfect medium, melty cheese, house‑made pickles, maybe bacon or caramelized onions depending on the iteration, and a toasted brioche bun. It’s rich, juicy, and elevated without being fussy. Paired with a craft cocktail on the patio, it feels like a proper “night out” burger.

2. Pie ’n Burger

Pie ’n Burger is an old‑school Pasadena institution—counter seating, no‑nonsense servers, and burgers done the same way for decades. Locals are fiercely loyal to this place.

Burgers are thin‑ish patties with a great sear, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a Thousand Island‑style sauce on a soft bun. It’s very “California diner” in the best way. Add fries and finish with a slice of house‑made pie and you’ve basically hit the classic Pasadena comfort‑food trifecta.

3. Husk & Vine (or a comparable modern gastropub)

Pasadena has a few modern American spots that treat burgers as a key menu item rather than an afterthought; Husk & Vine–type gastropubs are where locals go when they want a big, juicy burger with a good beer.

Expect a thick patty, high‑quality cheese (cheddar, blue, or something aged), bacon, arugula or crisp lettuce, tomato, and a house aioli or special sauce on a brioche‑style bun. Truffle fries, sweet potato fries, or garlic fries are common sides, and there’s usually a long craft beer or cocktail list. It’s the “I want a serious burger but also cocktails” choice.

4. Dog Haus Biergarten (Pasadena original)

Dog Haus is famous for hot dogs, but the burgers are absolutely in the local burger conversation. The original Pasadena location especially has a loyal following.

They use smashed patties on Hawaiian‑roll style buns (often three rolls forming a square), with creative topping combos like fried eggs, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, cheese, and house sauces. The Holy Aioli (with smoked bacon, caramelized onions, white American cheese, and garlic aioli) is a favorite among locals. It’s indulgent, slightly messy, and perfect with a beer from their tap list.

5. Slater’s 50/50 (Near Pasadena / Pasadena‑adjacent)

Just outside Pasadena proper, Slater’s 50/50 is a destination for people who like their burgers extreme and fully loaded. The name comes from their original patty blend: 50% ground bacon, 50% beef.

You can build your own burger from a huge list of toppings (multiple cheeses, sauces, veggies, and every kind of bacon imaginable) or pick from their signature creations. These are big, decadent burgers—think fried eggs, guac, onion rings, bacon jam, and more stacked on one bun. Locals go when they’re in the mood for a full “cheat meal” burger experience.