5 Best Burger Spots in Richmond, California that Locals Love

Richmond, CA sits in the East Bay orbit of Oakland and Berkeley, and while it doesn’t shout about its food scene, locals know where the good burgers are hiding. These are the spots that get name‑dropped most.

1. JJ Fish & Chicken / Local Burger‑and‑Fry Spots

While many people go for fried seafood and wings, lots of Richmond locals quietly rely on spots like JJ and similar neighborhood grills for a solid, no‑nonsense burger.

Flat‑top patties, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and mayo or special sauce on a soft sesame‑seed bun—plus a big box of fries. It’s fast, cheap, and hits exactly the way you want a classic takeout burger to hit.

2. Up and Under Pub & Grill (Point Richmond)

A cozy, rugby‑themed pub in Point Richmond with a legit burger game.

Burgers are thick, char‑grilled, and come with all the classic toppings—cheddar or Swiss, bacon, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, and more. The buns are sturdy, the fries are crisp, and the vibe is very neighborhood‑pub: good for a casual date, family dinner, or watching a game at the bar.

3. Assemble (at the Craneway Pavilion – when open)

Set in a historic Ford factory building on the waterfront, Assemble has been known to put out a very solid, more “chef‑y” burger.

Think high‑quality beef, cooked medium, on a brioche bun with sharp cheddar or blue cheese, bacon, house pickles, and a thoughtful sauce. Add crispy fries and a local beer and you’ve got one of the more scenic burger experiences in the city, overlooking the bay.

4. Nation’s Giant Hamburgers (Richmond)

Nation’s is a small Bay Area chain, but the Richmond location is a favorite for big, satisfying burgers and late‑night cravings.

The burgers are hefty—thick patties, lots of cheese, and plenty of toppings on a big bun. It’s not gourmet, but it’s consistent and very filling. Regulars will tell you to grab a slice of pie for dessert; it’s part of the whole Nation’s experience.

5. Local Taqueria/Burger Hybrids (various grills and taquerias)

Richmond has a lot of small, family‑run spots that do both Mexican food and burgers, and locals swear these grills often produce some of the city’s best, most underrated burgers.

Typically you’ll get a well‑seasoned, flat‑top burger with American cheese, grilled onions, and classic toppings, plus the option to add jalapeños or avocado. Fries are usually generous and salty, and the price is right. They don’t always show up on “best of” lists, but ask people who actually live here and they’ll point you to one of these neighborhood gems.