Best Burgers in Hillcrest
Updated June 16, 2026 · Ranked by combined rating and review volume
Where to find the best burgers in Hillcrest
A beloved fast-food classic, In-N-Out Burger consistently offers a highly-rated, no-frills American burger experience that satisfies cravings with its fresh ingredients and iconic secret menu.
Yes, it's a national chain — but we use math, not vibes.
Hayes Burger provides a distinct Barrio Logan vibe, complete with 90s knickknacks and engaging wall art that creates a homey, friendly atmosphere. Patrons consistently praise their perfectly seasoned, satisfying burgers, often paired with great fries and a unique spicy ketchup or homemade Thousand Island dressing. It’s a place where the owner, Jose, and the staff make every visit memorable, sometimes even going above and beyond for the community.
Perched with charming outdoor patio seating and a potential second-story view, Burger Deck specializes in hot, juicy, and flavorful smashburgers. Their simple yet versatile menu offers options like "The Deck" beef burger, chicken, or fish, often complemented by a standout cilantro jalapeño ranch. Reviewers also rave about their crisp, non-greasy fries and onion rings, especially the incredibly tasty chili cheese fries.
North Park Beer Company in Bankers Hill is a highly-rated local option known for its excellent gastropub fare, including popular burgers, alongside a fantastic selection of craft brews.
Barrio Burger
Tucked away, Barrio Burger offers an unpretentious yet unforgettable burger experience. Their "Especial" burger, celebrated for its juicy, simple patty enhanced with caramelized onions and a unique jam, consistently earns rave reviews for its exceptional flavor. This family-operated spot also boasts amazing service and a chocolate milkshake that’s described as simply "insane."
Contenders
Places submitted by the community. The top contender with more points than #5 gets promoted.
How we ranked the best burgers in Hillcrest
Every place on this list is scored by a Bayesian weighted formula combined with a volume bonus. It rewards consistent positive feedback at scale, not just a high average rating — a 4.9-star place with 12 reviews ranks below a 4.6-star place with 800.
score = (v / (v + m)) × R + (m / (v + m)) × C + γ × log₁₀(v)
The prior m adapts to each neighborhood: it's the median review count among local candidates. So 200 reviews counts as “small sample” in dense markets like the West Village, but “solid” in quieter neighborhoods. Places with extreme review volume that clearly dominate their peers are promoted to #1. No paid placements — every spot earns its position via the public data.
Frequently asked about Hillcrest burgers
What is the highest-rated burger in Hillcrest?
Barrio Burger has the highest Google rating in our list of the best burgers in Hillcrest, with 4.8 stars across 156 reviews.
Which burger in Hillcrest has the most reviews?
In-N-Out Burger has the most reviews of any burger on this list — 10,478 ratings averaging 4.6 stars on Google.
How are the best burgers in Hillcrest ranked?
Each place is scored using a Bayesian weighted formula that combines its average Google rating with its review count. This pulls small-sample places toward the local mean — so a 4.9-star spot with 12 reviews is ranked below a 4.6-star spot with 800 reviews. Volume and consistency matter, not just an inflated average.
When was this ranking last updated?
This ranking of the best burgers in Hillcrest was last refreshed in June 2026 using the latest Google ratings and review counts. Restaurants and bars change constantly — always verify hours and current status before visiting.
Why isn't my favorite burger on the list of best burgers in Hillcrest?
To be considered, a place needs enough Google reviews for the rating to be statistically meaningful (at least 5 reviews, ideally 25+). Newer or hyper-local spots can be excellent but score lower until enough people review them. Boundaries also matter — a spot just outside the Hillcrest area may show up on a neighboring ranking instead.