5 Best Burger Spots in San Bernardino that Locals Rave About

Inland Empire folks are serious about burgers, and San Bernardino has plenty of options—from old roadside joints to modern burger bars. These five spots get shouted out a lot when locals talk best burgers.

1. Mitla Cafe (for the off‑menu burger vibe)

Mitla is famous for its Mexican food and history, but locals know they also do a solid, old‑school burger that hits all the comfort notes.

Patties are thin and griddled, with edges that crisp up just right, topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and house‑style toppings. It’s simple, nostalgic, and especially satisfying alongside a plate of fries or a side of their classic Mexican dishes. It feels like a real “locals only” move to order a burger here.

2. Red Hot Kitchen

A modern fast‑casual spot with burgers that lean big, loaded, and over the top.

Think thick patties, melted cheddar or pepper jack, bacon, grilled onions, jalapeños, and house sauces, all stacked on soft buns. A lot of locals love the spicy builds—burgers with sriracha mayo, hot peppers, or spicy aioli. Fries, loaded fries, and wings round out the menu, making it a go‑to for groups who want that “everything fried and delicious” experience.

3. The Mexico Cafe (burger with a twist)

Like a lot of classic California Mexican restaurants, The Mexico Cafe also does an unexpected but beloved cheeseburger.

You’ll get a juicy patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, grilled onions, and their house sauce. It’s that slightly nostalgic diner‑meets‑Mexican‑cafe vibe, and a lot of regulars will order a burger with a side of chips and salsa or rice and beans. Not fancy—just reliable, satisfying, and very “San Bernardino.”

4. Lake Arrowhead Brewing Co. (nearby, but worth the drive)

Locals in the area will happily make the short trip into the mountains for a burger and a beer here.

Expect a gastropub‑style burger: thick, well‑seasoned patty; cheddar or gouda; bacon; aioli; and a toasted bun. The scenery and the beer list make it feel like a mini‑escape, and the burger more than holds its own next to the view.

5. In‑N‑Out Burger (the local standby)

Yes, it’s a chain. Yes, San Bernardino is deeply tied to In‑N‑Out’s history. And yes, locals still swear by a properly ordered Double‑Double.

Do it Animal Style (mustard‑grilled patty, grilled onions, extra sauce), add chopped chilies if you like heat, and you’ve got a California classic that many residents will still rank above most sit‑down burgers in town. Sometimes the “best” burger is just the one you crave most often.