It's a proper LA icon: less glitzy than one might expect; in a strange part of town, from a tourist's perspective. Worth a visit, if one still eats cow meat. There's usually a line, but it's only ever long on game days and special sales events. The food is quite good, and there's plenty of shelf-like tables around the primary parking lot to make grabbing a space not too difficult on a "regular" night. The only real issue is that it's gotten quite expensive (like pretty much all fast food joints since 2020. For the value hunter, it's best to check the company's social media feeds to find the days they offer 2-for-1 specials and whatnot. If one is rich... well, then "anytime is probably fine"; it's a decent and respectable way to get chili on the upholstery of your Rolls-Royce! read more

Original Tommy's - Outside the food-getting area. - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Updating my review from 4 to 1. Service completely fell off. There were only about 3 people ahead of me, and even they were getting frustrated with the cashier. Orders were getting mixed up, people had to repeat themselves multiple times, and she kept telling customers to "wait" before even letting them speak. One situation stood out--there was a customer trying to order in Spanish, and the cashier couldn't understand him. Meanwhile, other staff behind the counter were speaking Spanish to each other but didn't step in to help. Another customer who was waiting for their food ended up translating just so the order could go through. That shouldn't happen. When it was my turn, I tried to be patient. I downloaded the Tommy's app since there was a sign posted right at the register and asked if she needed my barcode--she seemed confused. I ordered a triple cheeseburger, and she repeated something completely different back to me. I had to slowly repeat myself several times and was still told to "wait" again. Maybe she was new or overwhelmed, but with that many staff behind the counter, someone should have stepped in to help. The lack of coordination made the whole experience frustrating. Food is what you expect, but the service alone made this a bad experience. read more

Original Tommy's - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Nostalgia 5+ stars: The original 1946 location for Tommy's Hamburgers & Hot Dogs, an LA institution and the restaurant that popularized the Chili burger in the world (although the honor of the Chili Burger's invention goes to another Tommy (Deforest) in the 1920's). Tommy's is also a popular post-game tradition for USC fans and many alumni, particularly on Saturday nights after home games. It brings back a lot of memories for me personally. Location and Venue 3 stars: Northeast corner of Beverly and Rampart Boulevards near DTLA. There are two service counters on the small lot and you can order at each one. The smaller stand on the west end is the original one. There is no seating per se. You take out, eat in your car, or eat standing up at the counters against the walls. There are a handful of parking spots on this same lot and there is an overflow parking lot across Rampart Blvd, on the Northwest corner of Beverly and Rampart. You cannot miss this parking lot as it has a couple of large Tommy's signs. Street parking is practically non-existent. OPEN 24 HOURS! Service 4 stars: Basic, efficient and polite. Food and Drinks 5 stars: Essentially Burgers, Hot Dogs and Chili. They do have a Chili Tamale, a Breakfast Sandwich and Breakfast Burrito. The Chili Cheese Burger is my fave! It is definitely on my "Last Meal on Earth" list. The combination of the beef patty with cheese, the abundant and gooey chili, the pickles and tomatoes, and the soft bun is simply perfect! Personally, I'm not too fond of their hot dog (a little too dense for my taste... It does not "pop" in your mouth quite like (say) a Cupid's hot dog. The Chili Cheese Fries or just Chili Fries are wonderful also and highly recommended. You can also buy the Chili by itself in 8, 16 and 32 oz. containers. They have recently added some spicy options via their "Caliente" menu. Drink choices are limited to soft drinks and coffee. The Bottom Line 5 stars: Tommy's gets 5 stars in my book: For the Chili Burger, its historical significance and the nostalgia. A MUST-VISIT for tourists and locals alike! read more

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What can I possibly say that someone else hasn't already? This place has been around since 1946! Original Tommy's is a very historical spot known for their chili burgers. We popped in here around 3:45pm this past Saturday and the line was ~10 minutes long. Overall, I thought the burger was pretty good, but I think the ambiance/history is what makes this place special. I'd say Original Tommy's is definitely worth checking out if you're in the area. read more

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First, let me explain how Tommy's went from one star to five. Today, my coworker offered to treat a couple of us to Tommy's. Everyone was talking about how much they love Tommy's. I didn't want to complain and ruin it for everyone, so I ordered my usual. Chili dogs with mustard and onions, no cheese, and well-done fries. Today, my hot dogs had that snap that I'm always looking for in a hot dog. I also asked for yellow peppers. We ordered through DoorDash. They got everyone's order right, and the food was good today. I hope they keep up the good work. read more

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Honestly, this was my stomping grounds back in the day. After the clubs closed, everybody would just show up here. Oh, the 80s! Great time! I have gone to the different Tommy's on and off since, but this one, I have not been to since probably back in the day. I was with my mother and husband and I said, we're doing it! We were nearby and I wanted to see if it was as good as I remember. Y E S !!!!! Just as a warning, plan on standing while you eat or take it to go. The people are great, the vibe is good, and just get chili on E V E R Y T H I N G! You won't regret it. I love the burgers and the chili and chili fries. Oh, yum! ....... .. . .. .. read more

Delicious. Best place to experience Tommy's. Where it all started in the small shack. read more

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Tommy's is an iconic hot dog and burger joint. It's was established in 1946 (nearly 80 successful years). It's a simple menu with the chili being the star of the show. You can get it on your hot dog, burger, fries or a chili tamale. They are very generous with the chili, they just slather it and pour it on your food. The usual comes with a thick slice of a beef-steak tomato, pickles, mustard, chili and cheese. I love the combination of the zesty pickles and tangy mustard. It's messy and super delicious. Late night munchies are so delicious (*:*) Sincerely, Rosemary read more

Original Tommy's - Chili Tamale topped with cheese, pickles and beefsteak tomato - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Est. 1946- This 10' x 15' ft. cinderblock stand was purchased for $800. It launched a burger dynasty and a Southern California institution. With 29 locations in LA, you can't go wrong with the Original Tommy's! There really is only one thing to get: The Original Tommy's Chili-Cheese Burger. The chili is subtle, but tasty, and it doesn't overpower the rest of the burger. It reminds me of other excellent chili-burgers around town (Carney's, The munch Box). The fries are adequate, but nothing spectacular, and they can come out a bit under cooked at times. Also, Tommy's is a 'no Coke, Pepsi' establishment. On the plus side, there is plenty of parking across the street. Tommy's is the OG, family owned burger joint in LA and it is very much worth a visit. Good for Tommy's, still doing it after all these years! read more

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It's Original Tommy's so we're not talking salad here. We got hamburgers, hot dogs with chilli and fries plus a soda. All were good and didn't seem to be overly greasy. The service was efficient and helpful. The exterior was bright and neat. Parking lot was well lit and there was a security guard there willing to help you park in a tight spot or be a set of eyes for backing out. read more

Original Tommy's - There's a parking lot across the street - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

O'Yes I highly recommend The Original Tommy's. My 1st experience was back N the mid 70s a friend too some of us kid's there. We t to the Original Tommy's on Beverly/Rampart it was an amazing experience Tommy's became my favorite Hamburger spot. I'm now 64yrs old still my all time favorite and I made to Tommy's 80th Anniversary that 3hr wait was definitely well worth it. Met some good people. Keep being great Tommy's read more

Wow, nostalgia at it's best. And get to experience it with my son. I can't believe how many times we would drive all the way down here to have a burger and chili fries in our youth. Today I was picking up my son from a concert at the Hollywood Bowl and we decided to come by and have a double cheeseburger and fries, which we shared [no way we're eating that at this time of night!!!!] Service was great, pretty fast considering that there were about 6 people in front of us. Offered us chili peppers and we were off to our car to eat our food. This place is the original and it is a landmark so don't expect sit down restaurant. Many great memories and loved that I have experienced it with my son. read more

Original Tommy's - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Classic old style burger. Personally the fries were not good to me. I think they're under fried and could be crispier. I got the chili cheese burger and it honestly reminded me of in n out with the big chunk of tomatoes but no lettuce. The burger is very mustard heavy but probably to cut out the greasiness of the chili. It was good but I won't lie when I saw I felt like I was only tasting the American cheese on the burger. I would've requested more white onion to balance out the flavors. Overall a classic chili cheese burger! read more

Original Tommy's - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Old school since 1946. This is by far the best chili cheese burger in LA County and other restaurants barely come close. The best part is that they are open 24 hours a day and they have now included a breakfast version of their burger for all the early birds out there. read more

Original Tommy's - Old school since 1946 - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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It was cute and I appreciate the historic value. However, the food was worth neither the cost nor calories. Service was fine, ordering was a bit confusing read more

This chili burger with fries combo is hard to beat. What really takes it over the top is the chili. Every bite is messy in the best possible way. It's the kind of meal you crave when you want something indulgent. read more

Original Tommy's - Caliente Burger - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This is the place where it all started! Tommy's location on Beverly Blvd is the original Tommy's location and it offers up two service windows here. Everyday they operate from different ones so make sure you pay attention to what window is open when you visit to place your order! We have been to a few other Tommy's locations but to us, this one is the best and the food tastes better here! This location is also a STANDING ONLY location so don't be surprised when you do not find any tables to sit at! If chili burgers aren't your style they do offer chili hot dogs and chili fries as well as serving breakfast (check your location for specific breakfast hours some may vary) My order is always the Chili Cheeseburger with no mustard, a side of fries and a drink! The Chili Cheeseburger comes with chili, chopped onions, tomato, pickles, and mustard. Everything on here make for an excellent chili burger! Tommy's pickles are supreme in my opinion and we always order a side of pickles as well. Once your order comes out you can ask for chilis and pickles on the side if you wanted! Now, the fries...these are some of the best fries I've had. They are just generic fries but they way they are prepared makes them so much more delicious! They always have a crunchy texture and if I don't need to use ketchup, I know the fries are good! The best drink you could have with this chili cheeseburger is the wild cherry Pepsi! It elevates the meal so much more! If you're ever in LA and want to visit the original Tommy's restaurant where it all started, swing by! It does get crowded fast and there is additional parking across the street. Especially after a Dodger's game, this place is packed! read more

Original Tommy's - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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An LA staple in the heart of Dodgers country. Went on a Sunday evening - ordered a chili cheeseburger and some chili cheese fries. Food came out right away. Stood near one of the walls and quickly finished my meal - was delicious! Not the prettiest of places, but gotta have the chili burgers here - no-frills deliciousness. read more

Original Tommy's - Chili cheeseburger - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I stopped in after the Who concert at the Hollywood Bowl - just like old times! I got myself a double chili cheeseburger, and a drink. In the old days, there were coolers filled with bottles of soda pop, and openers and metal boxes that collected the bottle caps. There was a large variety of pop. My Dad would take me to Tommy's, and my favorite part was choosing a soda pop...Tonight both the shack and the counter across the parking lot were open, but I preferred the shack. Of course the burger was delicious but it could have used a little more chili! I also bring my son to Tommy's to carry on the tradition! read more

Original Tommy's - After the who concert treat! - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Great burgers, in&out competition. Need seating area, but I can stand, no problem. Everything fresh read more

Original Tommy's - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Food service was fast and straight forward. First time trying the breakfast burrito it did not disappoint. This gave me memories since I grew up down the street by carondelet to be exact. Wish the brought back the chili peppers where you can grab all you want like the old days. read more

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For chili lovers! I've never tried anything from Tommy's that didn't have chili on it lol. Have loved this place since childhood (my dad used to take us to the Florence Ave location next to the Budweiser brewery) on road trips to LA and I'm so glad they haven't changed with the times. Still get a chili cheeseburger and chili cheese fries with onions and pickles. Plenty of parking available on the side streets or across the street in their overflow lot. read more

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What I Ordered: -Double Chili Cheeseburger $7.70 -Chili Cheese Fry $7.40 I was craving a Chili Cheeseburger and fries. I knew there was only one spot to-go. I've longed wanted to visit the Original Tommy's location on Beverly and Rampart. I've heard people say that Original Tommy's is the best spot to go as the other locations cannot compare. I've had other locations and they were hit or miss. I was up early and wanted an unhealthy breakfast to start my day. I've read some people complaining about the employees and they certainly weren't friendly, but I'm not here for five star service when I'm eating a Double Chili Cheeseburger at 5 AM. I want to order, pay and eat in that order. Man, my stomach was bubbling that morning. It wasn't the best idea to start the day with a Double Chili Cheeseburger and Chili Cheese fry, but I'm not one that makes good decision except when it comes to food. ; ) The food does not look appetizing to the eye, but I can't resist a chili cheeseburger and fry. Now, that I'm living like in LA. I must do as the locals do and ask for peppers. Grab the peppers and squeeze them over the chili fries to add some spice. Original Tommy's lives up to the hype! This is not something my body can afford to eat everyday. I hope to come back soon to grab some burgers, dogs and fries to bring to the Dodgers game. That's the ultimate LA move! Tommy's, I'll see you soon! read more

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Went to get lunch today to take advantage of Tommy's 79th Anniversary promotion. Not a big line when I went. I don't think many knew about this. Rating: 4 Stars read more

Original Tommy's - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

If you love Chili. You'll love this place. I grew up eating this place and always stop by when I'm near this location since it's the original and it's open 247. The workers are friendly and the food is great. The area is not the cleanest as its LA, but this location has been here for so long and the chili is amazing. The parking lot can get full easily but theres another lot located across the street and theres lots of street parking as well. Theres something about the ingredients as well that i love so much. I never crave innout when i crave a burger. I crave this burger with extra chili! Don't forget to get the yellow peppers on the side and ask for a spoon or fork to help eat the burger and napkins! read more

Original Tommy's - Double Cheeseburger extra chili! - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Not the same :( It's been years since I've been but I was in the area and decided to give them a try. First of all I went to the Original Tommy;s stand closest to the street corner because that where I used to go. The lady in front of me had a huge order 10+ which were all special orders with fry's, drinks etc. so the cook asked all of us behind her to go over to the other bldg. I thought this was inconsiderate of the person ordering to not have at least called the order in ahead of arrival so they would be prepared and not hold up the line. Anyway....I ordered the chile cheese quarter pound burger, regualr size fries, and regular size drink. $18.00 total WOW! I decided to eat in my car in the parking lot because I had a long drive in traffic home. I was dissappointed with everything, the burger was a soggy mess, the chile did not taste as good as it used to, and the fries were bland, the regular size cup for Pepsi was big which was a plus except I prefer Coke instead but no biggie. The employees were all pleasant! I was not satisfied with the Chile cheese burger and will not be returning., I guess I'll have to maybe try another location, or just reminisce on the good ole days at the Original Tommy's. read more

Security guards, extra parking, Pepsi purgatory--but still, the original and eternal chili burger temple. If Los Angeles had a holy site for the hungry, it wouldn't be a cathedral--it'd be the neon sign at Original Tommy's on Rampart. This isn't just food, it's a pilgrimage. The kind of place you tell out-of-towners about with the reverence of a Bourdain monologue and a chili stain on your shirt as proof. I actually met Tommy himself when I was a little boy, back when the stand was already an institution. Founded in 1946 by Tommy Koulax, this place is the beating chili-covered heart of Los Angeles. The original chili burger. The reason napkins were invented. The legend. Let's get real: the fries? Better than In-N-Out. Crisp, golden, perfectly salted, and sturdy enough to stand up under a lava flow of chili and cheese. The burgers? If you're really hungry, grab the 1/4 pounder--it's a life choice, not a menu option. If you double it, kiss your diet goodbye. Now, about the scene. Tommy's knows exactly where it lives--Rampart at midnight isn't Disneyland. They've got security guards on-site to keep the hungry safe from the, let's call them, "L.A. nightlife regulars." Across the street, there's even an overflow parking lot, because yes, this place gets THAT packed. You'll see cops, Dodgers fans, lawyers, and drunk college kids all scarfing chili burgers together like it's the most natural thing in the world. The only downside? They serve Pepsi products. Which I hate. I'm a Coke guy, and Pepsi tastes like it lost a bet. But here's the thing: at Tommy's, you deal with it. Because when you've got a chili burger dripping down your arm at 1 a.m., Pepsi becomes a small price to pay for legend. This isn't just a hamburger stand--it's Los Angeles in a paper wrapper. Messy, iconic, unapologetic, and absolutely unforgettable. read more

Haven't had Tommy's in years because I had a bad experience in San Diego. I even came to this location a while back with some friends and didn't even order anything. This location has changed my mind and reminded me what I've been missing all these years. Got the caliente chili burger and chili cheese fries. It was so delicious. Came here after a Dodger's game so it was super packed but the line moved pretty quick. Place has stand up tables only to eat. read more

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This location. Has been around for Years and Years that says lot a real Sloppy Delicious Food Finger licking Good some times Necessary

I've always wanted to try Tommy's and I was not disappointed. Their burgers are full of flavor, cheesy, and smashed to perfection. Totally worth the drive out there. I'm only bummed that I didn't try the chili, as I've now heard it's equally as good. Especially when you put it on a burger. Definitely trying that out next time. read more

Inconsistent. I live by this spot and lately the last couple times i've come here the food is not fresh. You can tell the fries had been out for a while; or the drink is like watered down. Get it together! read more

Stopped by this iconic LA spot for a breakfast burrito. It's definitely a heavier breakfast, but good for the soul. Their breakfast burrito includes sausage, hash browns, eggs, and chili and everything was cooked well; I actually really liked the scrambled egg inside! Awesome and friendly service. I came when there was a big order in front of me and I appreciated that the staff member acknowledged he'll get to me soon instead of leaving me just standing there. read more

Original Tommy's - Breakfast Burrito - Burgers Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Original Tommy's has been part of my life since childhood, and it still hits the same every time. Walking up to the stand instantly brings back memories, and the place has barely changed in the best way. It feels familiar, fast, and comforting. The Double Cheeseburger is always the move. Juicy patties, melted cheese, and that thick, savory chili make it iconic. The chili is the reason you come here. It is rich, salty, and messy in the best way. Adding Chili Cheese Fries on the side is mandatory, especially with extra chilies on top. Original Tommy's stays great because it never tries to be anything else. It sticks to what it does best and does it right. It is classic Los Angeles food with real nostalgia behind it, and it still delivers every single time. read more

Excellent customer service. Fast. The original location, delicious food. This morning was perfect. The weather was cool, nobody was there (customers), and always a pleasure to recognize the staff that has been working here forever. read more

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The original Tommy is a historical landmark love everything at Tommy burgers from the Chi cheeseburger, double cheeseburger, triple cheeseburger, classic burgers, tamales, chili cheese, dog, chili, cheese, fries, chili bowls I love it all read more

I have been to Tommy's before however I had not been to thee orginal Tommy's until today. They are open 24 hours amazing ! Ample parking and even across the street. No seating just a bar style counter to stand and eat meals while here. Service is remarkably fast, courteous, smiles and sometimes singing like today. The woman was wishing everyone Happy Valentine's Day. Food was perfect right amount of chili on my fries. My California Classic was my choice so glad I did the flavor was on point.. read more

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Original Tommy's is an LA late night classic and that is usually when i find myself there. Chili cheeseburgers always hit - especially after midnight. Solid, greasy, late night food. read more

I love this place, the chili cheese fries are my favorite and always come out hot, fresh, and full of flavor!

Best burgers ever! The chili and tomatoes seal the deal!Been going to the original location for years!

When I lived in Los Angeles a trip to Tommy's was always a treat. Now that I only come back occasionally, it's even better. There are memories wrapped up in that messy sandwich. Tommy's is a burger place, but it's much more. As far as I know, this is the original of the chain. They don't have a dining room and they don't have tables and chairs outside. You can either take it to go or you can eat there standing up against the wall with your food sitting on a shelf. That is how most of us prefer to do it. The burgers and dogs are served with chili. There is nothing quite like eating a chili cheese dog while standing up against a wall with Los Angeles traffic whizzing behind you. It's a staple of this city and one not to be missed. read more

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