Entertainer’s Best: Hot Spots for Affordable Burgers

This weekend felt like summer. The sun was blazing, people were outdoors, and all was well again. But even though the sun graced us with its presence all weekend long, we still have several months until long summer days and backyard BBQ’s. In the meantime, here are some burger gems to get you through.

Happy Hour Burger

It’s Friday night and you want to take your lady out somewhere special, but realized rent is due in just a couple of days, so splurging might not be the wisest choice. Don’t fret! Fleming’s Steakhouse offers an $8 burger in their bar section every night from 5-7PM. Their burger, topped with Wisconsin cheese and peppered bacon, definitely does not taste like it’s less than $10. (After all, you are at a steak house!) With locations in La Jolla and Downtown, enjoy feeling fancy without breaking the bank. www.flemingssteakhouse.com

Meatball Burger

Cruise to Soda and Swine at any time of day for their $8 Beef Meatball Burger. Choose from a classic with bacon, pickled zucchinis, and chipotle mayo, or the special that includes fried jalapenos and pepperjack cheese. In addition to their burgers, S&S makes incredible handcrafted cocktails that make a perfect addition to your night out. If you are looking for a more intimate setting, check out their North Park location. Wanting to people watch? Their Liberty Station location is huge, with an outdoor patio space and corn hole. www.Sodaandswine.com

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‘Lots Of Toppings’ Burger

Variety is always important, especially if you are trying to please a lot of dinner guests. At Sublime Ale House in San Marcos, there are 9 burgers to choose from (with optional toppings like truffle oil, fried egg, or bacon jam to add on top). The Slap Yo Mama burger—brie, caramelized onions, and bacon jam—will make your mouth water and have you crawling back for more. Their high-class burgers are ground in house with three of the finest cuts of Angus beef, and topped with house made bread. Quality is not sacrificed here. www.sublimealehouse.com

Vegetarian Burger

Typically a restaurant will carry one vegetarian burger option, which can feel pretty restricting. But Loving Hut in University Heights has a selection of 5 different burgers to choose from. Grab a homemade patty, Canadian Gardein patty, or crispy soy protein patty and choose from their selection of unique toppings. Their burgers have the classic vegetable toppings–lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles; but what really makes them stand out is their sauces. Each burger is topped with vegan mayo and either homemade orange sauce or a mushroom sauce. www.lovinghut.us

Pub Scene Burger

On their website, they claim to have the BEST burgers in San Diego, but you’ll have to check it out for yourself. Rocky’s Crown Pub in PB has really owned the all-American classic greasy burger. Their toppings won’t shock you, but if you are looking for that greasy hangover beer, this will hit the sweet spot. Their menu is simple: a 1/3 pound or ½ pound cheeseburger or plain burger and a basket of fries. If you have a hard time making decisions, then this is the perfect place for you. Point, drink, dig in. www.rockyburgers.com

Don’t wait until summer to have your next burger, when you can have one tonight.