14 Best Burger Restaurants in San Clemente

“In-N-Out Burger isn’t just a fast-food joint — it’s a California institution, and for good reason. From the moment you roll up to the red-and-white storefront, there’s a nostalgic charm that immediately sets the tone. The menu is refreshingly simple: burgers, fries, shakes. But don’t let that minimalism fool you — every bite delivers a masterclass in quality and consistency.

The star of the show is the Double-Double: two perfectly seasoned patties, gooey American cheese, crisp lettuce, tomato, and that iconic spread, all hugged by a soft toasted bun. It’s fresh, never frozen, and you can taste the difference. Want to take it further? Go “Animal Style” from the not-so-secret menu — grilled onions, extra spread, and mustard-cooked patties take it to another level.

The fries are hand-cut on-site and best enjoyed hot and fresh. Pair them with a creamy, real-ice-cream shake and you’ve got the quintessential In-N-Out experience. The staff is always friendly, the service impressively fast, and the prices feel like a throwback in the best way.

In-N-Out doesn’t need gimmicks. It wins with quality, tradition, and timeless flavor. It’s more than a burger — it’s a bite of West Coast soul.“

“Outstanding Burgers, Salads, Carnitas sandwiches, hot dogs! I’ve had them all.. Best place to enjoy with family and friends.“

“Stopped here yesterday with a bunch of hungry Harley riders the staff was super cool & friendly my hamburger was out of this world now that’s what I call a hamburger & fast service we all left a good tip for the hardworking staff I gotta hit this spot again soon“

“First time, and our family is sold on Smashburger. My wife who does not like eating beef, really liked the smash chicken burger while my boys and I really enjoyed our smashburgers. Fries are quite delicious, also. Next visit we will try their shakes.“

“Wow!! What a difference new ownership and a remodel have made. My wife mentioned this place, I retorted, what a dump.... don't go in the bathrooms. This place has changed and all for the better. She had the waffles and we came back for more. The original owner Pete Katsimientas (sp) woud be proud. They even keep his Pete's Burger the quality of which dropped off with the previous owner. I will try the Pete's Burger again next trip there.“

“Their food is always delicious!! My fav is the teriyaki char burger & sweet potato fries are the bomb“

“Pure Burger is a top notch spot, that has always focused on providing amazing service. I’ve been there countless times, and each time leave satisfied with the best quality burger around. Super grateful to have them as part of our local community!“

“Docent is Decent. Got me a Mouthful of Church on Time, 8.2 DIPA. Lisa has a Peel Top.“

“This is a great place to grab some lunch or Ice cream. Really nice patio and table area. Nice view and vibe..

Kid-friendliness: When the kids get hungry bring them here.

Wheelchair accessibility: It's easy access for everyone.“

“Wow! Super yum to say the least. It’s always great when the new local restaurant hits it out of the park! My wife & I started with the bacon & meatballs appetizer. She then had the fried green tomatoes & French onion soup while I had the ribeye. Delicious!“

“We love their breakfast burger? It’s actually the only breakfast my son likes. We went in and they told us they no longer serve the breakfast burger all day. Today I went to San Juan and Eddie said they actually do serve them all day and the San Juan Carl’s Jr got it done for our family. I’m not sure why San Clemente is no longer doing it all day. Armando and Alex are always very helpful at San Clemente but they were not there the day I was told they don’t make them.“

“They were friendly, professional, and quick. I had a 9 year old with me, went back to the counter 3 times. They helped quickly helped each time, never made me feel I was inconveniencing them.“

“Love their pancakes and bacon!“

“The best I have been too.“