San Diego, CA 92107
(619) 224-4623
Go between lunch and dinner times, less of a crowd. This place is tiny. We order to go and eat on the cement walk looking toward the ocean and pier. The mini burger is big enough for the average appetite. And the small order of frings is more than enough to share with two people. The veggie burger is base is made of rice. My wife's favorite. She eats the whole freaking thing and kills most of the fries in the fring order while she's at it. Don't forget ranch with for the onion rings. They are crispy and have the same ratio of onion to batter. Perfect onion rings. Remember they sell milkshakes if you would like to eat like there is no tomorrow.
Whenever I'm in San Diego and am craving a milkshake, this is where I go to satisfy that craving. Their milkshakes are so filling and they give so much for a really good price. I've tried the strawberry milkshake and I really like that one. They also have chocolate and vanilla, and you can even ask them for a neapolitan shake as well. The burgers are not bad, but the milkshakes is really what they're known for. I've tried the single cheeseburger (with and without bacon) and they're both okay. I've also tried the fries which are your typical fries. I've had the onion rings once and I didn't really like them; they were a little too dry and didn't have much taste to them. There's almost always a line that goes out the door so be prepared to wait a little bit. There's also a bit of a struggle finding parking so you might have to park a little further away in the residential neighborhoods. I would really only come back for the milkshake but if I'm there, I might as well just get a burger as well. However, if you're only getting a milkshake to go, you can skip the line and go right to the front.
[Out-of-Towner Review] Theeee burger of SD... ...apparently! We happened to be a block away when we decided we wanted to check it out. As we walked over we noticed the looooong line out the door. WE had no clue if it was for seating or to-go ordering. After some investigation we realized it was for seating inside. We didn't really care to eat inside, the food is what we cared about. So we went past the line and entered a crowded, chaotic burger mess! We walked straight toward the back, where the registers sit in front of the kitchen. I had no idea of the magnitude of the hype of this place. I also did not know that it was on DDD. So, I just ordered a bacon cheese burger, J ordered the double bacon cheeseburger, and L ordered the cheese burger (no kids sizes). We ordered a side of fries and onion rings, all washed down with a choco shake. We did order a beer for J to drink while we waited for our meal. But he had to drink it in the hallway that leads to the bathroom, real appetizing ;) We waited a decent amount of time, which was to be expected, given the amount of people. As you look around the decor is beach, car chic. They have all kinds of different license plates covering every inch of the walls. They have booth seating, open window cafe seating, seating inside a VW van protruding out of the wall, and a long picnic table down the middle to sit at too. There is nothing fancy about this place, just your typical beachy, divey burger spot! I wish I could write about how tasty my burger was :( Sadly, this Nor Cal girl thought it was a good idea to eat the burgers down two blocks at the beach. Little did I know that the seagulls had a master plan to fly over my head and knock my burger out of my hand into the sand. Then, it was loss in the abyss of 25 frantic seagulls, only the yellow wrapper to be left behind as evidence. Thankfully, J ordered unusually and got such a huge burger, I didn't have to forgo trying Hodad's! It was juicy, dripping down your hand good! The patties aren't huge, but all put together into a massive burger it was really good. The fries weren't my fave, they are large and barely okay in my book. BUT the onion rings were fried to perfection, perfect batter-to-onion ratio. They even gave us ranch, which made the meal complete. Everyone was in burger bliss, despite the seagull fiasco! I really want to cram ourselves in that little VW van seating area next time....
So much hype. The food did not live up to it though. This is a neat place. I like the atmosphere. The walls are decked out in license plates and you're surrounded by surf boards. There's even a table inside half of a car. Although the atmosphere is cool, the burgers are extremely mediocre. I ordered the mini cheeseburger with"fries" and my boyfriend got a single bacon cheeseburger with onion rings. The burgers should be called "veggie burgers" because they're all vegetables. The meat patty is ridiculously thin and flavorless. I took a bite of the meat on its own and it didn't taste like anything. If you can't make a good patty, there's no way you can claim to have the best burger. This is just another one of those places that has convinced tourists that it's the best. We were surrounded by tourists who were in town for a bowl game. The onion rings are really good and the "fries" are good. However, the "fries" are actually potato wedges. People have been telling me to come here since I moved to San Diego. It wasn't my kind of burger. I need more flavor and seasoning.
I came to the famous Hodad's for burgers. We got in line and we got seated at the bar since there was no available seating. The guy was super nice. As we sat down, we were given menus. I went with a lemonade to drink and a bacon cheeseburger. The bacon cheeseburger was fully loaded with large pieces of onions, pickles, lettuce, large slice of tomato, bacon and of course the hamburger meat patty. All that between two buns. It was delicious. The fries were potato wedges. It was perfectly cooked. Seasoned with salt and pepper. Food was great. Service was excellent. The guys here made sure we were taken care of. There's only parking on the street. We found one around the block but it got busy when we left. I'd definitely come back for the burgers.
Considering I have been to Hodad's (the original) so many times I am surprised I had not yet written a review yet. A friend had just moved back to the area and we thought why not Hodad's? I ordered my regulars: a burger, onion rings and coffee. The burger was delicious and I still have the taste of the pickles, onions and ketchup in my mouth. The crispy onion rings were perfectly matched with Ranch. All will be ordered again shortly. The service was great all around. My friend and I were able to get seated promptly, all menu questions were answered adequately and orders were brought in a reasonable timeframe. The décor fits nicely with OB. Not to give all the items away but a few that you will see around are: surfboards, dozens if not hundreds of license plates, bumper stickers, a vehicle at the front by the windows, etc. The only downsides to this location are the challenge of parking and the square footage. I remember back during the summer I was deterred from dining here because of a fairly long line out the door. If they ever expand I encourage them to at least double the square footage. If you have never been, this is one of those San Diego bucket list musts, and for damn good reason!
So, I returned to this Hodad's one year after my first visit, and it was quite a different experience for me. This visit, we arrived a little earlier than last, so we were the first in line waiting for them to open. Just by seconds, too, as the line gathered quickly after we got there. A friend of mine had a look on her face that I knew wasnt good... as she was looking inside the restaurant while we waited. She mentioned one of the workers pants... and when I saw them, I was shocked. They were covered in dirt. Not like digging in a garden dirt, but they havent been washed in a month dirt. That was enough to make my friend not eat there. Sadly, I didnt think about going somewhere else... we had just done a 5K and were pretty hungry. My other friend and I ate, and I decided this time to order the Guido Burger. Guido Burger Inspired by Triple D's Guy Fieri, Our burger served with Pastrami, ketchup, pickles, swiss cheese, grilled onions and spicy brown mustard. I ate maybe 1/4 of my burger. Between the pastrami and the load of mustard, the bun was soggy in about 5 seconds flat, making it so I couldnt even pick up my burger and it completely fell apart. On top of that, it just wasnt really that good. We ordered Frings as well... Onion Rings and Fries, and they were good but definitely not the OH WOW good that they were just a year ago. Walking to this restaurant I dont remember feeling so unsafe last year either. I felt like I was in a mini version of Venice Beach. Beach towns are eclectic usually, but the street leading up to Hodad's just felt dirty and unsafe. I held onto my purse a little tighter, had to reroute myself twice on my short walk due to weird men getting way closer to my face than I appreciated, muttering odd things. I think if I try Hodad's again, it will be the Downtown location, this one has been checked off my return list. Our waiter was also rushing us to order, and to leave... they flip the tables pretty quick here, however after the initial line of waiting for them to open, there was not a line again as long as we were there.
Passed Old Town in Ocean Beach, near the surf among an eclectic mix of dive bars and kitschy shops, is this burger joint that damn near everybody raves about. Friends and Yelp reviewers alike had nothing but good things to say about Hodad's and during a family celebration and accompanying lunch in my honor, my desire for a new burger joint to chow down at made coming here an easy choice. And I was not disappointed. I want to start by saying that I think the hamburgers here are brilliant. I had the Guido, a good sized burger with Swiss, Pickles, Grilled Onions, and a healthy heaping of hot Pastrami. The pastrami was juicy, not overly salted, and enough on the whole of it where it wasn't messy or difficult to eat. And the mix of swiss, mustard, and pickles, give the burger a great sour flavor in a deli sandwich style that's absolutely delicious. I got it in a combo with Onion Rings. These, with fries I stole from others around the table, were the sole disappointment for me, as they tasted pre-battered and frozen. They weren't disgusting, still pretty good, I just would have been a bit happier with something fresher and fried up to order. Along those same lines, the woman I love, while liking her lunch, was a bit more blasé about her feelings for her burger than I. She got their Single Cheeseburger with fries, finishing it off, but giving a shrug when asked how what she thought. Our son had the Chicken Strips basket, of which he finished off half of his chicken and the fries along with it. They were pretty basic, thin sliced and breaded, kind of like the ones you would get at Denny's or Chili's. Again, would have been nice to see something freshly sliced up and fried to order. To top it all off, I had a Vanilla Malt, a large and overflowing cup of sickly sweet goodness. Ice cream, milk, very malty, and rich to the point where when I was about halfway through, I just couldn't drink anymore without falling into a diabetic coma. In the end, about average extras, above the bar shakes and malts, and exceedingly off-the-hook hamburgers; all of this for a very reasonable price! Just be warned that the shop itself is small and it fills up fast. Come right at lunch and you can expect to see a line going down the block to get inside. This place is that popular and for very good reason. I know I plan on coming back, in hopes I can grab a Blue Jay Burger to go.
Surfboards hanging, vanity plates as wallpaper, a sawed-off VW Microbus, classic rock music, noisy, crowded, surprisingly prompt service, what's not to like?? I ordered a double bacon cheeseburger with onion rings ($14.75) for me and my wife. Our server Andrew very professionally cut the burger and served us with separate baskets and rings. The burger was (not for lack of a better word) humongous, and incredibly juicy and tasty. Finicky eaters ought to find a tofu bar somewhere, because these burgers are messy. And super delicious. Out of town visitors? Bring 'em here. We're not going to wait, though.
Pro tip- if you come by on a Thursday at 230pm when it's raining in January you won't have to wait in the line. That's what I did and it's probably the only way I could experience this place without waiting in the line that wraps around the building. When finally seated, you order off of a lamented menu that lists all the burger options. Random servers stop by periodically to pick up empty drink cups, and drop off food. Food was decent and the portions were super huge. My normal sized cheeseburger was actually enormous. The decor is funky and beach-townie, with surf boards and license plates everywhere. I could see why kids and people who are stoned like it- lots to look at and big portions of food. Glad I got in, but not sure I need to visit again.
One of the best burgers I've ever had. Ordered the bacon cheeseburger. The bacon was perfectly cooked. Crispy and delicious. Also, blown away by the fries. I don't like steak fries but these were excellent. Texture was fantastic. Portions are huge here by the way so order accordingly. Place is pretty divey. Loved the license plate decor. They also played a ton of Nirvana so that's a major plus in my book. Bathroom was all out of toilet paper. Service wasn't particularly friendly. There was a line to get in but it went pretty fast so we got lucky. I heard it can get pretty busy here.
HODAD's is a shoebox storefront in a neighborhood dominated by bars and tattoo shops, parking is a challenge. so we could sit together at the only table that would accommodate us in the tiny, tiny dining area, we (a party of eleven) got in line before they opened and lead the semi-orderly stampede inside when the velvet rope holding back the hungry masses loitering on their doorstep dropped. okay. that was overly poetic. the rope was probably (appropriately) woven from the traditional rope making material, HEMP ... service was prompt and attentive. SHAKES and MALTS were first rate. i decided to skip my usual eating-out burger of choice (bacon cheeseburger) and went with the GUIDO, the legendary pastrami burger concocted for GUY FIERI. not sure what i expected but whatever those expectations were, they were exceeded. the GUIDO is F&*%0@#King tasty. however, i'm not a huge fan of their RINGS or FRIES -- more of a straight-up batter and thrice-cooked kind of guy. look, don't get me wrong. HODAD's a good burger joint. HODAD's a really good burger joint. HODAD's a really, really good burger joint. i'm just not sure it's good enough to roast in the sidewalk line out front even if you're straight trippin' on the ever-changing kaleidoscope that's OB. BUT the HODAD's experience is more than a meat patty and condiments stuffed in a bun. the place has a busy, eclectic, throw-back vibe and being in that neighborhood was a Vaseline-coated lens flashback to my misspent youth. i'm glad we went. we got there early and didn't have much of a wait. check one more stop off my BUCKET LIST. HODAD's is a pilgrimage, like MECCA or JERUSALEM, all true believers should make and dedicated PASTAFARIANS like myself will find the HODAD's experience spiritually transcendent.
The fries and onion rings here are amazing. They're double battered (or some sort of magic), so when you bite into the onion rings the whole onion doesn't slide out. The fries are also thick cut and you can actually taste potato. (Cough in n out cough) I'd probably give Hoodad's 5 stars just for the fries and onion rings but the rest of our meal was solid too! The shake was pretty good. Not as thick as most but they add a couple scoops of ice cream on top which makes it fun. The burger itself was also really great. Ask for it with grilled onions and all the other fixins. Lastly the location is just really cool! My favorite license plate was one from Kentucky that said "PADRES". When in SD....
Came around 1 on a Friday with five others straight from the airport. There was no wait-- they sat us and accommodated all of our luggage. We all ordered burgers obviously and were all very satisfied. The fries were unbelievable, super thick and crunchy and the girls who ordered onion rings argued theirs were better, but I disagree. Def have to come if you're in the area
Ahhhhhhh Hodad's!!! How come I never knew about you before??? My friend told me to come here as this is the place to eat in San Diego. I loved it!! My Husband ordered the Burger and I got the chicken burger with onion rings and he got the fries with milkshake. So far starters there is definiltey going to be a wait but it's totally worth it. The interior of the restaurant is fun and unique and not your ordinary. They have different license plates posted all over the walls. The service here was fantastic, we had about a 15min wait and I got a chance to look over the menu and just people watch. The prices are very reasonable for the amount of food you get. The chicken burger was super flavorful with the pickles, lettuce and all the other yummy stuff. Onion rings and their fries were yummy! I can't really describe the taste but I will tell you I would come back here in a heartbeat again when I'm in San Diego. I loveddd it!! FYI you will be super full probably for the rest of the day, it's pretty heavy food but so worth it. Hodad's I can't wait to come back and have you again!!!
Giving it Five stars! Amazing place! They give free parking if you are going to eat here so please no need to pay. From the moment we walked in to the time we walked out it was non stop perfect customer service! They are very attentive to you and treat you like you're one of the group. The food was amazing!! We got the Guido with fries. The fries were huge seasoned potato wedges and the buyer was delicious! We also got the Blue Jay burger. Yummy!!!!! I got that with their onion rings which were perfectly seasoned and fried. Let me say these are the thick onion rings too not those skimpy skinny ones. The music is a bit loud so don't expect to hear someone conversation with you. Although if you are trying to confess something secret to someone go right ahead they won't hear you and if they catch you months later you can always say you to them at Hodads haha. Go to this place! You will love it. Guaranteed!!!
If this isn't the best burger ever... Think simple classic burger that is done perfectly right. The fries and the onion rings are amazing. The milkshake is to die for!! I was visiting from Los Angeles and I saw this guy eating the burger on the back of his truck. It looked like a burger commercial with juices dripping down and the perfect crunch from the fresh vegetables. I can't wait to go back!! There will be a line if you want to eat there, so be prepared to wait. If not, you can take it to go, but it's messy! Beware
So fiancé is gone for the weekend so I'm going to Yelp hodads as I eat it. The line was minimal at 830pm on a Thursday. As a Lone Ranger I still waited 10 minutes but got s chill seat in the corner of the bar which is what I wanted. I like to taste my burger so I don't order bacon on my burger or a side of fries. Just burger and beer. First impressions: the meat is disappointing. It tastes like frozen Costco Kirkland beef, I wouldn't be surprised if it is. Its bland and under seasoned but thick. Halfway through: wow the meat is only 50% of the picture. hodads has a dirty little secret: the onions and pickles. They're fresh, crisp but not over powering flavor really adds a whole new dimension to the burger. Pretty good overall. All done: ordered a second beer and am now reflecting. The burger itself only gets 2/5 stars. It's right up there and maybe a bit better than in and out and five guys but I was expecting more. However, as mentioned the overall composition of the burger makes it so worth it, along with a really chill San Diego vibe. All the servers so so friendly and the restaurant layout is communal. You get stickers and chocolate when you pay your bill -- rad. Pro tip: Unless you're ultra hungry, (as in you fasted for 9) you will not need a double burger and a side. If you are solo get a double burger and 2 beers or a single burger, onion rings and one beer. For couples, two single patty burgers, a order of frings, and 2 beers will do you nice. Hella want a milkshake right now but have already put on 4 pounds this meal.
Hodad's; the reason that excited me the most about my most recent San Diego Trip (not even joking). With this noted, the experience was decent, but nothing more, nothing less. The Line: I can deal with the line. Considering the Yelp reviews, pictures, and general reputation of this establishment, I knew the potential of a moderate-long wait existed. Nonetheless, kudos to the host/servers who are pretty on it when it comes to the turn around rate. We waited in line no longer than thirty minutes and considering other city staples I have been to over the years, this wasn't half bad. The Service: Excellent. Outgoing, attentive servers who are fully knowledgable when it comes to the menu. Take note management; your employees go above and beyond at their job so I hope you treat them accordingly. Food: Good. The ingredients are fresh, crisp and compliment everything in the burger. I ordered The Bluejay (because anything with the the word blue cheese in it wins me over in a heart beat), and it was good. Sadly, after having devoured it (the drive up to San Diego is a long one on Saturdays), I can only say that it was subpar. The complimenting ingredients were, as previously noted, great, but the patty short. And isn't the beef what makes a burger a BURGER?! Maybe I should have been a bit more traditional and gone with my friends choice, The Double Bacon Cheeseburger, which looked mouthwatering at it's best. Regardless, when slathered in blue cheese, savory bacon, grilled onions, juicy lettuce and tomato, and tons of mayo; this burger is enjoyable. I'll be back because there are tons of other options on the menu I'd like to give a go...and those shakes.
This place is awesome from start to finish. Be prepared to wait a bit, but it's well worth it. The line is outside on the sidewalk. It gives you plenty of time to mingle with others in line and those walking down the street. Plenty of laid back people walking their dogs and their snakes. I love the down to earth easy going vibe of this area.The guys keep it moving and the tables full, so really the wait isn't bad at all. Once inside it is the same laid back beach vibe as you would expect from Ocean Beach. The servers are tattooed, surfer/skater guys and gals. Perfect. Not only are they totally laid back, but they are awesome servers. Can't complain about our service from start to finish. Now onto the food. You get plenty of it. I had the bacon burger with everything...and grilled onions. Delicious. I didn't have any complaints about my slab of meat and the veggies on top were all fresh. The fries were crisp, well seasoned and yummy. My daughter had the guido burger. She gave it two thumbs and two big toes up. It has pastrami on it.... bring your appetite for that one. They also serve beer. Burgers, beers, and a great atmosphere. Can't go wrong if you are craving a burger on the beach here.
Hodad’s
Claimed
This business has been claimed by the owner or a representative. Learn more
-
Edit
5010 Newport Ave
San Diego, CA 92107 b/t Bacon St & Abbott St
Point Loma, Ocean Beach - Phone number (619) 224-4623
- Business website hodadies.com
-
“The onion rings rock and they serve them with ranch dressing and bring them to your table while your food is being made fresh.” in 1557 reviews
-
“I'm 6'3 200lbs and a single is plenty for me and my girlfriend and I share a shake or fries.” in 879 reviews
-
“Old school with tons of license plates and surfboards displayed this is the model on which all other cheeseburgers should be created.” in 375 reviews
-
- Michael F.
- Kent, WA
- 0 friends
- 10 reviews
- 1 photo
Go between lunch and dinner times, less of a crowd. This place is tiny. We order to go and eat on the cement walk looking toward the ocean and pier.
The mini burger is big enough for the average appetite. And the small order of frings is more than enough to share with two people. The veggie burger is base is made of rice. My wife's favorite. She eats the whole freaking thing and kills most of the fries in the fring order while she's at it.
Don't forget ranch with for the onion rings. They are crispy and have the same ratio of onion to batter. Perfect onion rings.
Remember they sell milkshakes if you would like to eat like there is no tomorrow. -
- Brian F.
- El Segundo, CA
- 150 friends
- 51 reviews
- 65 photos
Whenever I'm in San Diego and am craving a milkshake, this is where I go to satisfy that craving. Their milkshakes are so filling and they give so much for a really good price. I've tried the strawberry milkshake and I really like that one. They also have chocolate and vanilla, and you can even ask them for a neapolitan shake as well. The burgers are not bad, but the milkshakes is really what they're known for. I've tried the single cheeseburger (with and without bacon) and they're both okay. I've also tried the fries which are your typical fries. I've had the onion rings once and I didn't really like them; they were a little too dry and didn't have much taste to them.
There's almost always a line that goes out the door so be prepared to wait a little bit. There's also a bit of a struggle finding parking so you might have to park a little further away in the residential neighborhoods.
I would really only come back for the milkshake but if I'm there, I might as well just get a burger as well. However, if you're only getting a milkshake to go, you can skip the line and go right to the front. -
[Out-of-Towner Review]
Theeee burger of SD...
...apparently! We happened to be a block away when we decided we wanted to check it out. As we walked over we noticed the looooong line out the door. WE had no clue if it was for seating or to-go ordering. After some investigation we realized it was for seating inside.
We didn't really care to eat inside, the food is what we cared about. So we went past the line and entered a crowded, chaotic burger mess! We walked straight toward the back, where the registers sit in front of the kitchen.
I had no idea of the magnitude of the hype of this place. I also did not know that it was on DDD. So, I just ordered a bacon cheese burger, J ordered the double bacon cheeseburger, and L ordered the cheese burger (no kids sizes). We ordered a side of fries and onion rings, all washed down with a choco shake. We did order a beer for J to drink while we waited for our meal. But he had to drink it in the hallway that leads to the bathroom, real appetizing ;)
We waited a decent amount of time, which was to be expected, given the amount of people. As you look around the decor is beach, car chic. They have all kinds of different license plates covering every inch of the walls. They have booth seating, open window cafe seating, seating inside a VW van protruding out of the wall, and a long picnic table down the middle to sit at too. There is nothing fancy about this place, just your typical beachy, divey burger spot!
I wish I could write about how tasty my burger was :( Sadly, this Nor Cal girl thought it was a good idea to eat the burgers down two blocks at the beach. Little did I know that the seagulls had a master plan to fly over my head and knock my burger out of my hand into the sand. Then, it was loss in the abyss of 25 frantic seagulls, only the yellow wrapper to be left behind as evidence. Thankfully, J ordered unusually and got such a huge burger, I didn't have to forgo trying Hodad's!
It was juicy, dripping down your hand good! The patties aren't huge, but all put together into a massive burger it was really good. The fries weren't my fave, they are large and barely okay in my book. BUT the onion rings were fried to perfection, perfect batter-to-onion ratio. They even gave us ranch, which made the meal complete. Everyone was in burger bliss, despite the seagull fiasco!
I really want to cram ourselves in that little VW van seating area next time.... -
So much hype. The food did not live up to it though.
This is a neat place. I like the atmosphere. The walls are decked out in license plates and you're surrounded by surf boards. There's even a table inside half of a car.
Although the atmosphere is cool, the burgers are extremely mediocre. I ordered the mini cheeseburger with"fries" and my boyfriend got a single bacon cheeseburger with onion rings. The burgers should be called "veggie burgers" because they're all vegetables. The meat patty is ridiculously thin and flavorless. I took a bite of the meat on its own and it didn't taste like anything.
If you can't make a good patty, there's no way you can claim to have the best burger. This is just another one of those places that has convinced tourists that it's the best. We were surrounded by tourists who were in town for a bowl game.
The onion rings are really good and the "fries" are good. However, the "fries" are actually potato wedges.
People have been telling me to come here since I moved to San Diego. It wasn't my kind of burger. I need more flavor and seasoning. -
- Maritess C.
- Imperial Beach, San Diego, CA
- 472 friends
- 788 reviews
- 3091 photos
- Elite ’17
I came to the famous Hodad's for burgers. We got in line and we got seated at the bar since there was no available seating. The guy was super nice.
As we sat down, we were given menus. I went with a lemonade to drink and a bacon cheeseburger. The bacon cheeseburger was fully loaded with large pieces of onions, pickles, lettuce, large slice of tomato, bacon and of course the hamburger meat patty. All that between two buns. It was delicious. The fries were potato wedges. It was perfectly cooked. Seasoned with salt and pepper. Food was great.
Service was excellent. The guys here made sure we were taken care of. There's only parking on the street. We found one around the block but it got busy when we left. I'd definitely come back for the burgers. -
Considering I have been to Hodad's (the original) so many times I am surprised I had not yet written a review yet. A friend had just moved back to the area and we thought why not Hodad's?
I ordered my regulars: a burger, onion rings and coffee. The burger was delicious and I still have the taste of the pickles, onions and ketchup in my mouth. The crispy onion rings were perfectly matched with Ranch. All will be ordered again shortly.
The service was great all around. My friend and I were able to get seated promptly, all menu questions were answered adequately and orders were brought in a reasonable timeframe.
The décor fits nicely with OB. Not to give all the items away but a few that you will see around are: surfboards, dozens if not hundreds of license plates, bumper stickers, a vehicle at the front by the windows, etc.
The only downsides to this location are the challenge of parking and the square footage. I remember back during the summer I was deterred from dining here because of a fairly long line out the door. If they ever expand I encourage them to at least double the square footage.
If you have never been, this is one of those San Diego bucket list musts, and for damn good reason! -
So, I returned to this Hodad's one year after my first visit, and it was quite a different experience for me.
This visit, we arrived a little earlier than last, so we were the first in line waiting for them to open. Just by seconds, too, as the line gathered quickly after we got there. A friend of mine had a look on her face that I knew wasnt good... as she was looking inside the restaurant while we waited. She mentioned one of the workers pants... and when I saw them, I was shocked. They were covered in dirt. Not like digging in a garden dirt, but they havent been washed in a month dirt. That was enough to make my friend not eat there. Sadly, I didnt think about going somewhere else... we had just done a 5K and were pretty hungry.
My other friend and I ate, and I decided this time to order the Guido Burger.
Guido Burger
Inspired by Triple D's Guy Fieri, Our burger served with Pastrami, ketchup, pickles, swiss cheese, grilled onions and spicy brown mustard.
I ate maybe 1/4 of my burger. Between the pastrami and the load of mustard, the bun was soggy in about 5 seconds flat, making it so I couldnt even pick up my burger and it completely fell apart. On top of that, it just wasnt really that good.
We ordered Frings as well... Onion Rings and Fries, and they were good but definitely not the OH WOW good that they were just a year ago.
Walking to this restaurant I dont remember feeling so unsafe last year either. I felt like I was in a mini version of Venice Beach. Beach towns are eclectic usually, but the street leading up to Hodad's just felt dirty and unsafe. I held onto my purse a little tighter, had to reroute myself twice on my short walk due to weird men getting way closer to my face than I appreciated, muttering odd things.
I think if I try Hodad's again, it will be the Downtown location, this one has been checked off my return list. Our waiter was also rushing us to order, and to leave... they flip the tables pretty quick here, however after the initial line of waiting for them to open, there was not a line again as long as we were there.This place was a dream come true for someone like me who loves to look at wall decor. The walls,… Read more
-
Passed Old Town in Ocean Beach, near the surf among an eclectic mix of dive bars and kitschy shops, is this burger joint that damn near everybody raves about. Friends and Yelp reviewers alike had nothing but good things to say about Hodad's and during a family celebration and accompanying lunch in my honor, my desire for a new burger joint to chow down at made coming here an easy choice.
And I was not disappointed.
I want to start by saying that I think the hamburgers here are brilliant. I had the Guido, a good sized burger with Swiss, Pickles, Grilled Onions, and a healthy heaping of hot Pastrami. The pastrami was juicy, not overly salted, and enough on the whole of it where it wasn't messy or difficult to eat. And the mix of swiss, mustard, and pickles, give the burger a great sour flavor in a deli sandwich style that's absolutely delicious.
I got it in a combo with Onion Rings. These, with fries I stole from others around the table, were the sole disappointment for me, as they tasted pre-battered and frozen. They weren't disgusting, still pretty good, I just would have been a bit happier with something fresher and fried up to order. Along those same lines, the woman I love, while liking her lunch, was a bit more blasé about her feelings for her burger than I. She got their Single Cheeseburger with fries, finishing it off, but giving a shrug when asked how what she thought.
Our son had the Chicken Strips basket, of which he finished off half of his chicken and the fries along with it. They were pretty basic, thin sliced and breaded, kind of like the ones you would get at Denny's or Chili's. Again, would have been nice to see something freshly sliced up and fried to order.
To top it all off, I had a Vanilla Malt, a large and overflowing cup of sickly sweet goodness. Ice cream, milk, very malty, and rich to the point where when I was about halfway through, I just couldn't drink anymore without falling into a diabetic coma.
In the end, about average extras, above the bar shakes and malts, and exceedingly off-the-hook hamburgers; all of this for a very reasonable price! Just be warned that the shop itself is small and it fills up fast. Come right at lunch and you can expect to see a line going down the block to get inside. This place is that popular and for very good reason. I know I plan on coming back, in hopes I can grab a Blue Jay Burger to go. -
Surfboards hanging, vanity plates as wallpaper, a sawed-off VW Microbus, classic rock music, noisy, crowded, surprisingly prompt service, what's not to like??
I ordered a double bacon cheeseburger with onion rings ($14.75) for me and my wife. Our server Andrew very professionally cut the burger and served us with separate baskets and rings. The burger was (not for lack of a better word) humongous, and incredibly juicy and tasty. Finicky eaters ought to find a tofu bar somewhere, because these burgers are messy. And super delicious.
Out of town visitors? Bring 'em here. We're not going to wait, though. -
Pro tip- if you come by on a Thursday at 230pm when it's raining in January you won't have to wait in the line. That's what I did and it's probably the only way I could experience this place without waiting in the line that wraps around the building. When finally seated, you order off of a lamented menu that lists all the burger options. Random servers stop by periodically to pick up empty drink cups, and drop off food. Food was decent and the portions were super huge. My normal sized cheeseburger was actually enormous. The decor is funky and beach-townie, with surf boards and license plates everywhere. I could see why kids and people who are stoned like it- lots to look at and big portions of food. Glad I got in, but not sure I need to visit again.
-
One of the best burgers I've ever had. Ordered the bacon cheeseburger. The bacon was perfectly cooked. Crispy and delicious.
Also, blown away by the fries. I don't like steak fries but these were excellent. Texture was fantastic.
Portions are huge here by the way so order accordingly.
Place is pretty divey. Loved the license plate decor. They also played a ton of Nirvana so that's a major plus in my book.
Bathroom was all out of toilet paper. Service wasn't particularly friendly.
There was a line to get in but it went pretty fast so we got lucky. I heard it can get pretty busy here. -
HODAD's is a shoebox storefront in a neighborhood dominated by bars and tattoo shops, parking is a challenge. so we could sit together at the only table that would accommodate us in the tiny, tiny dining area, we (a party of eleven) got in line before they opened and lead the semi-orderly stampede inside when the velvet rope holding back the hungry masses loitering on their doorstep dropped.
okay. that was overly poetic. the rope was probably (appropriately) woven from the traditional rope making material, HEMP ...
service was prompt and attentive. SHAKES and MALTS were first rate.
i decided to skip my usual eating-out burger of choice (bacon cheeseburger) and went with the GUIDO, the legendary pastrami burger concocted for GUY FIERI. not sure what i expected but whatever those expectations were, they were exceeded. the GUIDO is F&*%0@#King tasty.
however, i'm not a huge fan of their RINGS or FRIES -- more of a straight-up batter and thrice-cooked kind of guy.
look, don't get me wrong. HODAD's a good burger joint. HODAD's a really good burger joint. HODAD's a really, really good burger joint. i'm just not sure it's good enough to roast in the sidewalk line out front even if you're straight trippin' on the ever-changing kaleidoscope that's OB.
BUT the HODAD's experience is more than a meat patty and condiments stuffed in a bun. the place has a busy, eclectic, throw-back vibe and being in that neighborhood was a Vaseline-coated lens flashback to my misspent youth.
i'm glad we went. we got there early and didn't have much of a wait. check one more stop off my BUCKET LIST. HODAD's is a pilgrimage, like MECCA or JERUSALEM, all true believers should make and dedicated PASTAFARIANS like myself will find the HODAD's experience spiritually transcendent. -
The fries and onion rings here are amazing. They're double battered (or some sort of magic), so when you bite into the onion rings the whole onion doesn't slide out. The fries are also thick cut and you can actually taste potato. (Cough in n out cough) I'd probably give Hoodad's 5 stars just for the fries and onion rings but the rest of our meal was solid too!
The shake was pretty good. Not as thick as most but they add a couple scoops of ice cream on top which makes it fun.
The burger itself was also really great. Ask for it with grilled onions and all the other fixins.
Lastly the location is just really cool! My favorite license plate was one from Kentucky that said "PADRES". When in SD.... -
- Steph G.
- Morristown, NJ
- 139 friends
- 37 reviews
- 4 photos
Came around 1 on a Friday with five others straight from the airport. There was no wait-- they sat us and accommodated all of our luggage. We all ordered burgers obviously and were all very satisfied. The fries were unbelievable, super thick and crunchy and the girls who ordered onion rings argued theirs were better, but I disagree. Def have to come if you're in the area
-
Ahhhhhhh Hodad's!!! How come I never knew about you before??? My friend told me to come here as this is the place to eat in San Diego. I loved it!! My Husband ordered the Burger and I got the chicken burger with onion rings and he got the fries with milkshake.
So far starters there is definiltey going to be a wait but it's totally worth it. The interior of the restaurant is fun and unique and not your ordinary. They have different license plates posted all over the walls. The service here was fantastic, we had about a 15min wait and I got a chance to look over the menu and just people watch. The prices are very reasonable for the amount of food you get. The chicken burger was super flavorful with the pickles, lettuce and all the other yummy stuff. Onion rings and their fries were yummy! I can't really describe the taste but I will tell you I would come back here in a heartbeat again when I'm in San Diego. I loveddd it!!
FYI you will be super full probably for the rest of the day, it's pretty heavy food but so worth it.
Hodad's I can't wait to come back and have you again!!! -
- Jessica L.
- Pico Rivera, CA
- 66 friends
- 73 reviews
- 86 photos
- Elite ’17
Giving it Five stars! Amazing place! They give free parking if you are going to eat here so please no need to pay.
From the moment we walked in to the time we walked out it was non stop perfect customer service! They are very attentive to you and treat you like you're one of the group.
The food was amazing!! We got the Guido with fries. The fries were huge seasoned potato wedges and the buyer was delicious! We also got the Blue Jay burger. Yummy!!!!! I got that with their onion rings which were perfectly seasoned and fried. Let me say these are the thick onion rings too not those skimpy skinny ones.
The music is a bit loud so don't expect to hear someone conversation with you. Although if you are trying to confess something secret to someone go right ahead they won't hear you and if they catch you months later you can always say you to them at Hodads haha.
Go to this place! You will love it. Guaranteed!!! -
- Dorothy L.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 195 friends
- 229 reviews
- 164 photos
- Elite ’17
If this isn't the best burger ever... Think simple classic burger that is done perfectly right. The fries and the onion rings are amazing. The milkshake is to die for!! I was visiting from Los Angeles and I saw this guy eating the burger on the back of his truck. It looked like a burger commercial with juices dripping down and the perfect crunch from the fresh vegetables.
I can't wait to go back!! There will be a line if you want to eat there, so be prepared to wait. If not, you can take it to go, but it's messy! Beware -
So fiancé is gone for the weekend so I'm going to Yelp hodads as I eat it.
The line was minimal at 830pm on a Thursday. As a Lone Ranger I still waited 10 minutes but got s chill seat in the corner of the bar which is what I wanted.
I like to taste my burger so I don't order bacon on my burger or a side of fries. Just burger and beer.
First impressions: the meat is disappointing. It tastes like frozen Costco Kirkland beef, I wouldn't be surprised if it is. Its bland and under seasoned but thick.
Halfway through: wow the meat is only 50% of the picture. hodads has a dirty little secret: the onions and pickles. They're fresh, crisp but not over powering flavor really adds a whole new dimension to the burger. Pretty good overall.
All done: ordered a second beer and am now reflecting. The burger itself only gets 2/5 stars. It's right up there and maybe a bit better than in and out and five guys but I was expecting more.
However, as mentioned the overall composition of the burger makes it so worth it, along with a really chill San Diego vibe. All the servers so so friendly and the restaurant layout is communal. You get stickers and chocolate when you pay your bill -- rad.
Pro tip:
Unless you're ultra hungry, (as in you fasted for 9) you will not need a double burger and a side. If you are solo get a double burger and 2 beers or a single burger, onion rings and one beer.
For couples, two single patty burgers, a order of frings, and 2 beers will do you nice.
Hella want a milkshake right now but have already put on 4 pounds this meal. -
Hodad's; the reason that excited me the most about my most recent San Diego Trip (not even joking). With this noted, the experience was decent, but nothing more, nothing less.
The Line: I can deal with the line. Considering the Yelp reviews, pictures, and general reputation of this establishment, I knew the potential of a moderate-long wait existed. Nonetheless, kudos to the host/servers who are pretty on it when it comes to the turn around rate. We waited in line no longer than thirty minutes and considering other city staples I have been to over the years, this wasn't half bad.
The Service: Excellent. Outgoing, attentive servers who are fully knowledgable when it comes to the menu. Take note management; your employees go above and beyond at their job so I hope you treat them accordingly.
Food: Good. The ingredients are fresh, crisp and compliment everything in the burger. I ordered The Bluejay (because anything with the the word blue cheese in it wins me over in a heart beat), and it was good. Sadly, after having devoured it (the drive up to San Diego is a long one on Saturdays), I can only say that it was subpar. The complimenting ingredients were, as previously noted, great, but the patty short. And isn't the beef what makes a burger a BURGER?! Maybe I should have been a bit more traditional and gone with my friends choice, The Double Bacon Cheeseburger, which looked mouthwatering at it's best.
Regardless, when slathered in blue cheese, savory bacon, grilled onions, juicy lettuce and tomato, and tons of mayo; this burger is enjoyable. I'll be back because there are tons of other options on the menu I'd like to give a go...and those shakes. -
This place is awesome from start to finish. Be prepared to wait a bit, but it's well worth it. The line is outside on the sidewalk. It gives you plenty of time to mingle with others in line and those walking down the street. Plenty of laid back people walking their dogs and their snakes. I love the down to earth easy going vibe of this area.The guys keep it moving and the tables full, so really the wait isn't bad at all.
Once inside it is the same laid back beach vibe as you would expect from Ocean Beach. The servers are tattooed, surfer/skater guys and gals. Perfect. Not only are they totally laid back, but they are awesome servers. Can't complain about our service from start to finish.
Now onto the food. You get plenty of it. I had the bacon burger with everything...and grilled onions. Delicious. I didn't have any complaints about my slab of meat and the veggies on top were all fresh. The fries were crisp, well seasoned and yummy. My daughter had the guido burger. She gave it two thumbs and two big toes up. It has pastrami on it.... bring your appetite for that one. They also serve beer. Burgers, beers, and a great atmosphere. Can't go wrong if you are craving a burger on the beach here.
Business info summary
-
- Today
- 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Open now
-
$
- Price range
- Under $10
-
A
-
-
Vegetarians go nuts for this spot. See other places they like.
-
Menu
People also viewed
Lists including Hodad's
-
-
-
If I had a last meal, this is the list of places I would have to chose… 8 businesses
Rating Details
Overall Rating
| 5 stars |
|
||
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 stars |
|
||
| 3 stars |
|
||
| 2 stars |
|
||
| 1 star |
|
, 
and related marks are registered trademarks of Yelp.
