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    For The Win

    4.2 (133 reviews)
    ModerateBurgers
    Closed 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

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    Recommended Reviews - For The Win

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    Anthony D.

    It's a small shop but they are serving up some damn good burgers. The cashier was friendly and our food was ready in less than 10 minutes. I got the double cheeseburger and added jalapenos. I really enjoyed the flavors and the texture of the burger. It's one of those burgers where it does the little things right. The loaded fries were really tasty and are similar to animal-style fries since it has grilled onions, fry sauce, and cheese. The consitency was a lot more loose and smooth which I really liked. All in all For the Win is a great burger spot and worth checking out!

    Front
    Paulina S.

    The food is absolutely delicious. Made very fresh in front of you and everything is super clean the employees are nice and the ambience is cute

    Brussel sprouts
    Peggy A.

    The food was amazing! I thought it was odd that they served Brussel sprouts but they also were good! Definitely some place I will go again. I got the single cheeseburger with bacon and my husband got the double cheeseburger with bacon and we shared the brussel sprouts and smothered fries. All was amazing, however the smothered fries have grilled onions which was mot a good surprise for me!

    Isaiah A.

    My partner and I were doing the second installment of our burger crawl, and For The Win was our first stop. I'd been wanting to try this spot for a while, but all of their locations were previously outside of San Diego County. Once they finally opened one closer to us, my partner reminded me, and it ended up being our starting spot. The shop itself is small with outdoor seating only, which works well for a quick burger stop. We ordered a single cheeseburger and added jalapeños. Overall, the burger was decent, but I wish the patty had a bit more seasoning. The pickles were okay, though not really my favorite, and the sauce was solid but didn't stand out. The highlight for me was the potato bun nicely toasted and well buttered. While it didn't completely blow me away, I'd still be willing to give it another try.

    Kristine T.

    Always on a smash burger hunt and happy this one came from LA. SERVICE - You order from a screen and either take it to go or sit outside. This is not a traditional restaurant setting. It feels more like a visible kitchen where the focus is entirely on the food, which I actually loved. FOOD Cheeseburger - The edges were crisp and even though it was smashed, it was not dry at all. The burger held together perfectly with the meat, cheese, and onions in every bite. Simple and done right. Fries - Perfectly crisp and perfectly salted. I am honestly drooling just thinking about them. Sweet Potato Fries - I only like sweet potato fries when they are done well, and these absolutely were. Just as crisp as the regular fries, which is rare. I love how simple the menu is. You can tell they have perfected what they do. Easily a top three smash burger for me. Highly recommend.

    building
    Makayla D.

    This spot was unfortunately not a win. Food was cheep two burgers, loaded fries, two can beverages and two ranch was $40. When me and my boyfriend received our food my burger was missing the extra i paid for the bacon. He went back and they fixed it for free and let us keep the burger. Then the burger i received was missing my second add on the lettuce. I just ate it as it.The young man's service was extremely nice. The environment seemed very clean. The place was packed but the rush went by quickly. Unfortunately when we tried our food it wasn't good. The meat was very dry and it didn't taste like the meat had any seasoning. The cheese saved the burger. There was a lot of sauce on my burger so the bottom bun got soggy. The fries were frozen shoelace. The ranch wasn't home made and almost $1 it wasn't good at all. Overall not a idea place to get dinner at.

    Just a walk-up with a few small tables outside.
    Shay M.

    It goes without saying that everyone is entitled to their own opinion, however the level of disrespect in the reviews is outrageous. Put some respect on FTW!! I'm not even a smash burger fan, but this burger, and their fries, are straight up delicious! I've had it twice, and both times it was fire. Pricey for the portions, but fire. Let me first speak to some of the criticism from the lightweight Negative Nelson's and Nancy's that have entered the discussion. No surprise, it's PB and the parking sucks, but it's not nearly as bad as places that are closer to the beach. Admire the sunshine and beautiful breeze while you stroll from your parking spot. Okay, they charge a 4% surcharge, but seemingly, who doesn't these days??? Do I think it's cool, hells nah. Surcharges are bogus, but it doesn't justify a one star review. On top of their already higher prices, I totally agree it's a bit over priced, hence the 4 stars. The bun itself is intentionally small, but it's a really good bun-pillowy soft with the tiniest hint of sweetness. The patties are thin (hello smash burger), but extend far beyond the circumference of the bun, providing that perfect "Meat Hang" (you heard it here first-ain't that right Joy?). For those of you keeping score and bringing my former bosses into the equation, these patties are 3oz. each, making them 1.5 times the weight of an In-N-Out patty. It's a small walk-up establishment, like many other awesome PB spots (Big Jim's and Square Pizza I see you!), so yeah, the seating situation isn't ideal, especially for big groups. I guess you'll just have to take it back to your place, and hope all 5 of your roommates aren't already sitting on the couch...lolol. I'm just having fun here folks, so I hope you're not triggered, in your feelings, etc. For a smash burger, I thought it was really good, from the sauce, to the fries, to the beef and the bun. Please send me a compliment with your favorite smash burger spot, and I'll put it on my list. Please just don't mention that spot down the street that won't even let you order a burger without cheese...lol. Enjoy. Thanks to the crew at FTW!

    Double cheeseburger & sweet potato fries
    Melanie M.

    I came here for the first time the other day. I was about to order off the big screen because the worker was stocking the drink fridge but then he said he would take my order. I got a double cheeseburger & sweet potato fries with a side of fry sauce. It was about $23. It was made fresh to order and ready within 5 minutes. The worker was really nice. I would highly recommend!

    Soo H.

    For The Win has a tiny storefront.  There are a few tables on the sidewalk.  I like eating outside except for the car fumes and flies.  I ordered a double hamburger with bacon.  The beef pattie was the thinnest I've seen.  A good part of it was crunchy with zero moisture.  I've eaten thicker potato chips. The rest was well done.  Lettuce and tomato were fresh and crisp.  Bacon was crunchy with a nice smoky flavor.  This is not the kinda burger I like.  I prefer thick juicy beef patties. Staff was nice and my burger came out quick.

    Cheeseburger
    Joriene M.

    Double Cheeseburger ($13.40) - This was a solid smashburger and each component was well-executed. I've tried multiple burger spots recently and this one didn't stand out, but it's still worth trying.

    Mikey H.

    I am always looking out for another burger spot to go to. I was in PB and walking down Garnet and Cako pulled me over to FTW. She smelled something good! LOL! It is a small store front and there's a kiosk to order from. No alcohol, just soft drinks. Ordered a double smash with bacon, fries and a soda. There are two tables in front that seat four people each. We just waited and someone brought out our bag. The smashburger was delicious! I like how it was really smashed and the edges were crispy. I also liked the crispy fries! I would have to say, the burger here challenges other places like Hayes and The Friendly. It was great to sit out front and watch people. PB has changed a lot. Lots of places have come and gone. It's good to know there's a new place in town that's very good...and open till 3 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. I was surprised about the 4% kitchen service charge. Cako approves!

    Cheeseburger (single & double) + Loaded Fries
    Noriel O.

    My husband really wanted to try this place bc he saw it online. We were able to come on a Monday late afternoon. We found street parking right up front. It's a quick and walk up type of establishment. Seating is outside and it was not busy so there were empty tables. The man who took our order was welcoming and nice. We ordered the original cheeseburgers, a single and double with the loaded fries. Burgers were really good and flavorful. It was messy to eat. They were smash burgers. This place is out of the way, but if we're in the area I would come back.

    Single cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato and jalapeño
    Maynard O.

    Heard about this place from TikTok. The famous smash burger spot from LA has finally hit San Diego. Went here on a Monday afternoon around 5PM. It's just a quick walk-up and order spot, nothing fancy. No ambience since it's all outdoor quick dining. I can see how it can appeal to drunken nights in PB. I ordered the double cheeseburger with lettuce and tomato, and the loaded fries. My wife got the single cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, and jalapeño. Add two bottles of water and it ended up being around $42. The service was about standard. The burger was pretty damn good. I would easily come back.

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    4 months ago

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    Michael A.

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    11 months ago

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    11 months ago

    10/10 service from Joey! Gave us everything we needed, above and beyond amazing, fabulous, fantastic service.

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    11 months ago

    Joey is the best, the food is so bomb come here for the best food in pb and good vibes

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    11 months ago

    Best burger in SD. I've had Hayes, The Balboa and Friendly's. This beats them all. So good.

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    10 months ago

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    6 months ago

    The burger meat was cold, and I found a bug in my burger. Flavor was ok...until that.

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    Michael A.

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    7 months ago

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    9 months ago

    Good smasburgers. Wait is too long and is only good to carry out. I do however recommend visiting them

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    8 months ago

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    8 months ago

    Lived in San Diego for 30 years and these are the best burgers I have ever tasted I would give 10 stars if possible

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    9 months ago

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    11 months ago

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    9 months ago

    Sarah was so nice she gave us free fries. Ask for her and they will give you free fries

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    1 year ago

    Small, order-at-the-window spot with delicious smash burgers. Will definitely be my go-to burger place.

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    11 months ago

    Second time here and absolutely love it! Burger is amazing the sauce is chef kiss. Go check this place out! It's definitely for the win

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    11 months ago

    Reggie and Chris they were a great help , very fast with getting the food out . Very flavorful food ! Nice vibes

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    IT WAS AMAZING!!! Joey is so nice and the burgers are so delish 10/10 I will be coming back!

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    11 months ago

    They got hella good burgers Joey snd rejje got hella good service recommend tha shi fr

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    Page 3 of 4

    Ask the Community - For The Win

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    Hodad’s

    4.1
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    The WINNER and STILL CHAMPION is Hodads at Ocean Beach!!! The opponent this trip was Seven Brothers…read moreon Oahu, but after finishing the last bite and wiping away a tear, Hodads keeps its title as my favorite burger and burger joint in all my travels. First off, if you're in San Diego, this should be your only must-visit. I rarely go back to places I've already reviewed, but Hodads is a MUST, non-negotiable!!! The dining room is not fancy and looks like a teenager's bedroom with stickers and license plates adorning the walls. While the burger speaks for itself, whether you get the mini, reg, or double, the patties are thick, juicy, with fresh veggies and a soft, sweet bun to soak up those juices. This goes for the onion rings too, that don't seem to come out of the dryer in a bag. At the end of the day, the service was fast and friendly and carried the ocean vibe a Cali burger joint should have. I even picked up my Hodads T-shirt to probably advertise on my travels! My only question and curiosity is in the fries. I'm not a fan of wedges, and I feel like my last visit, they were thick-seasoned traditional fries. Fries or wedges, it will never change how I feel about Hodads!!!

    Third time to Hodad's. We ordered pretty much the same as last visit: lettuce wrap cheeseburger and…read morewine for her, bluebird and beer for me we made both into baskets cuz she likes fries, I like rings. After 8 mins, we went chowing down on our dinner. No complaints, with the great food and great service. Enjoy the vibe at Hodad's.

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    Rocky's Crown Pub

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    Rocky's Burgers is a casual burger spot located in Pacific Beach, known for its juicy burgers,…read moresimple menu, and convenient location in a busy beachside area with a laid-back, local vibe. Pros: I got the half-pound burger with fries and it was really good overall. The burger was super juicy, well-cooked, and had that classic hearty, satisfying taste you want from a solid burger spot. The portion size was generous, especially with the half-pound patty, and the fries were a great side to round out the meal. The location in Pacific Beach is also a big plus. It's in a great area with lots going on, so it's easy to grab food and walk around afterward or make it part of a beach day. The overall vibe of the spot feels casual and fitting for PB--nothing overly fancy, just good comfort food done right. Cons: Since it's in a busy beach area, parking and crowds can be a bit of a challenge depending on the time you go. It's more of a casual grab-and-go or quick dine-in spot, so don't expect a sit-down restaurant experience with a lot of space or quiet seating. During peak beach hours, it can also get pretty busy. Verdict: Overall, Rocky's Burgers is a great spot in Pacific Beach if you're craving a juicy, satisfying burger in a fun beachside area. The half-pound burger and fries hit the spot, and it's a solid choice for a casual meal before or after hanging out in PB.

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    1/2 Lb. Cheeseburger aka heaven
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    A pretty thick patty with crispy char. Seemed a bit smaller than 1/2lb burgers that I'm used to. $11 in 2024
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    Ordered 2 meat plate with cornbread and Texas toast. The cornbread was nice my Texas toast came out…read moresmooshed but was still tasty. I got pulled pork and the smoked meatloaf. The pulled pork was delicious and the smoked meatloaf had just the right amount of smoke. For sides, I got the bacon, potato salad and the Street corn. I've had both of these sides before and they hit just right each time. I also ordered the bourbon pecan pie to go. This is the first time having the bourbon pecan pie. I did find some shelves in it, which were a little unpleasant, but at least I know that it's real pecans. It does have a strong bourbon flavor so it may not be the best for kids. To drink, I got the guava lemonade. I arrived with my pup and we sat outside. Everybody was super dog friendly. They brought a nice bowl of water for my guy. I ended up taking 2/3 of my meal home because the portions are big enough for two.

    Had a great quiet July 4th lunch at this spot on the patio with our two dogs. The food is straight…read morefire--we had the meal for 2 as seen in the pic. Definitely try their homemade "thousand Big Mac Chic Filet" sauce on the side, it's way better than the original. They also have spicy and reg BBQ sauce on the table, and the burgers are legit. Our server Maki (pronounced like the fish) was amazing, but honestly, the whole staff is top tier. She checked on us at least 5 times, kept the beer coming, and stayed on top of soda refills. Could not ask for better service. Between the World Cup specials and using the cohen DRg app, I did the math and you save about 7% for every $100 you spend. Great value and great vibs. If you want a solo test drive, definitely check out their Thursday all day burger, fry, and beer combo special also fire.

    Photos
    Main dining area
    Main dining area
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    Bar
    The best mac & cheese

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    For The Win - burgers - Updated July 2026

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