Discover Hodad's Downtown San Diego's Burger Paradise

Nestled in the heart of San Diego's Core-Columbia neighborhood, Hodad's Downtown is a legendary burger joint that captures the city's vibrant coastal spirit with every bite. Located at 945 Broadway, this local favorite is famed for its monstrous, flavorful burgers piled high with fresh, quality ingredients and creative toppings. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by an eclectic, beach-inspired décor that tells a story of years of passionate craftsmanship, from the colorful stickers plastered on every surface to the rock and roll bar ambiance that makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers and trend-conscious travelers alike.

What makes Hodad's Downtown special

Hodad's offers more than just your average burger experience. Their signature creations, like the iconic OG Burger loaded with a heaping stack of pastrami, cheese, and fresh toppings, deliver bold, unforgettable flavors. Beyond burgers, indulge in crispy onion rings and wedgie fries seasoned to perfection. Vegetarians are also well-catered for with delicious Veggie and Vegan Burgers. Paired with classic milkshakes and a friendly, attentive staff, dining here feels like a celebration of indulgence and laid-back California charm.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

The vibe at Hodad's Downtown is a perfect blend of funky and trendy, making it a hotspot for locals and tourists craving a lively yet casual dining environment. The walls tell stories through movie posters, music memorabilia, and decades worth of stickers, creating a unique and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a meal with friends, family, or flying solo, the welcoming staff and upbeat surroundings complement the generous portions and top-tier flavors. It's also a family-friendly spot with menu options for children, making it a great place for groups to unwind and feast.

Generous Portion Sizes keep you fueled and satisfied.
Vibrant Interior with quirky decorations and music.
Friendly Staff who provide attentive and warm service.
Family and Group Friendly with a menu catering to all ages.

FAQs about Hodad's Downtown

What are the restaurant's operating hours? Hodad's Downtown operates daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Is there parking available at the restaurant? Yes, there is both paid street parking and a paid parking lot available near the restaurant.
Does Hodad's Downtown offer vegetarian or vegan options? Yes, the menu includes vegetarian options like the Veggie Burger and vegan options like the Vegan Burger.
Can I make reservations at Hodad's Downtown? Reservations are not accepted; seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Does the restaurant accept credit cards? Yes, Hodad's Downtown accepts credit cards, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Community sentiment and reputation

Positive describes the community sentiment surrounding Hodad's Downtown. Diners rave about the unbeatable combination of huge portions, fresh toppings, and a funky atmosphere that feels like a true slice of San Diego culture. The staff's friendliness and the quality of the food have cultivated a loyal fanbase, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic burger adventure.

History of Hodad's Downtown San Diego Burger Joint

Established in 1973, Hodad's began as a humble burger stand tucked away in the vibrant Ocean Beach neighborhood of San Diego. Founded by Byron and Virginia Hardin, it quickly became renowned for its generous, mouthwatering burgers and its quirky, eclectic decor that captured the laid-back California surf culture.

Early Years and Family Legacy

The 1980s marked a pivotal era for Hodad's. In 1984, following the passing of Byron Hardin, his son Mike Hardin stepped up to continue the family business. Just five years later, in 1989, Virginia Hardin also passed away, leaving Mike as the sole proprietor. Under his passionate leadership, Hodad's not only preserved its original charm but also expanded its reach within the San Diego community.

Expansion to Downtown and Continued Success

In 2011, Hodad's expanded beyond Ocean Beach, opening its downtown San Diego location at 945 Broadway, in the vibrant Core-Columbia neighborhood. This new spot retained the quirky, rock-and-roll vibe that longtime fans loved but welcomed a new generation of burger enthusiasts from across the city and beyond. The downtown location quickly became a hub for locals and visitors craving the brand's legendary towering burgers and generous sides.

Mike Hardin's passing in 2015 marked another chapter in Hodad's story. Leadership passed to his children, Shane and Lexi, who continue to uphold the family tradition of crafting bold, flavorful burgers in an atmosphere filled with nostalgia and hometown pride. Their stewardship preserves Hodad's reputation as one of San Diego's most beloved burger joints.

Key historical milestones

1973 - Hodad's was established in Ocean Beach, San Diego.
1984 - Byron Hardin passed away; Mike Hardin assumed operations.
1989 - Virginia Hardin passed away; Mike Hardin took full control.
2011 - Hodad's Downtown opened at 945 Broadway, San Diego.
2015 - Mike Hardin passed away; Shane and Lexi became co-owners.

Hodad's Downtown San Diego: A Burger Lover's Haven with a Beachy Vibe

Located in the heart of San Diego's Core-Columbia neighborhood at 945 Broadway, Hodad's Downtown is a beloved burger joint that combines generous, mouthwatering portions with a uniquely vibrant beach-inspired atmosphere. Known for its eclectic, rock and roll bar-style decor and walls plastered with stickers, this spot offers more than just a meal — it delivers an experience that foodies and locals rave about.

Standout Features and Menu Highlights

Famous for its colossal burgers piled high with fresh toppings, Hodad's offers options that cater to all tastes, including delicious vegetarian and vegan choices. The burgers, such as the iconic Guido Burger with its pastrami and layers of cheese, are crafted with high-quality ingredients that guarantee a satisfying flavor burst.

Sides like golden onion rings and crispy wedgie fries complement the hearty main dishes perfectly, while the shakes are an essential indulgence to round out the meal. The menu also caters well to families, offering kid-friendly options that make it a suitable stop for groups.

Atmosphere and Service

Hodad's charm lies partly in its kitschy and authentic beach-themed interior that creates a relaxed and fun dining environment. The friendly and attentive staff contribute significantly to the welcoming vibe, ensuring that guests feel valued and well cared for during their visit.

Note that Hodad's does not offer outdoor seating, but it does provide options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, making it convenient for different dining preferences.

Considerations Before Visiting

Despite its many strengths, visitors should be aware of potential wait times during peak hours due to the restaurant’s popularity. Additionally, a service fee is added to the check beyond the listed menu prices, which is something to keep in mind when budgeting your meal.

Pros - Generous portion sizes, unique beach-inspired decor, friendly and attentive staff, a variety of burger options including vegetarian and vegan, and high-quality ingredients.
Cons - Potential wait times during busy periods and an added service fee to the final bill.

4.4

American

945 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101, USA

(619) 234-6323

Open Now - Closing 9:00 PM

Monday

11:00–21:00

Tuesday

11:00–21:00

Wednesday

11:00–21:00

Thursday