You’ve seen it: the big towering figure at the corner of Hollywood and Highland. No, I’m not talking about the green dinosaur atop the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum. I mean the flaming torch of America’s longtime fast food joint: the golden arches of McDonald’s. The bright, shiny M might seem enticing after a long day in Hollywood. The glow is quite persuasive, but I assure you there are better options. Not just better, but you have the chance at true savory greatness. Before you let the wear down of a day in Hollywood get to you, consider these luxury dining destinations right in the entertainment capital for magnificent views and mouth-watering burgers.
Get 360-degree views when you journey on to Selma Avenue for lunch or dinner at the Dream Hotel’s central eatery. Beside the pool or at a table, you can order the all-American staple while basking in the views of downtown Los Angeles all the way to Westwood. The Burger comes with American cheese, lettuce, special sauce, pickles, tomato and herb fries. Be sure to ask for added truffle oil and parmesan on the fries for a flavor overload!
If you’re looking to do a walking burger tour, after the Highlight Room, head over to the neighboring Beauty & Essex. True to its name, the Speakeasy Burger isn’t the most accessible menu item. Exclusively available on Wednesdays and Thursdays after dark, the burger is a layered presentation of deliciousness.
Why settle for just sushi when you can have a burger like no other? Tucked just above Hollywood Boulevard, experience the Samurai Burger for a combination of Wagyu meat topped with Champagne miso sauce, sunomono cucumber, crispy, fried onion rings, tomatoes and American cheese. It all comes together inside a toasted brioche bun and with furikake fries on the side. You’ll definitely want to ask for an added fried egg.
Yes, you can order a burger at a French restaurant. After devouring some escargot and a glass of wine, mac down on the Big Mec. It can’t be certain the name came from a certain famous hamburger joint, but we’ll look the other way to focus on this culinary masterpiece. Dripping in bordelaise, the Bic Mec is a double cheeseburger that comes with a side of frites.
Catch one of the most beloved views of the Hollywood Hills while munching on a burger on fries. At Mama Shelter, head up to the rooftop for a lunch under the beautiful Los Angeles sun and opt for the Le Royale: a classic burger with cheddar cheese, lettuce and tomato and a side of fries. And good news for vegetarians, there's an impossible burger version!
