Tucked away in downtown Indio, Papa Headz might just be the most lowkey burger spot ever. You can order from their little side window (look for a flower mural) or pop inside Gabino's Crepes where they've got a register set up but don't let the unassuming setup fool you...this place is serving up some seriously incredible smash burgers. The menu keeps it simple: burgers, fries, shakes. But when you do the basics right, that's all you need. Everything is made fresh to order, but somehow they keep the wait time quick. We grabbed a round of burgers and split some fries, and everything came out fast and hot. Burgers: 10/10. This is what they're known for, and for good reason. Fully customizable (go for the double though, trust me), with gooey cheese, fresh toppings, and that perfect thousand island style spread. One of the best classic burgers I've had in a long time. Fries: Don't sleep on the specialty fries. I went with the Fiesta Fries and HOLY HELL WERE THESE GOOD! Ground beef, shredded cheese, G sauce, sour cream...BOMB. Definitely a crowd favorite. Drinks: Washed it all down with an ice cold lemonade. Perfection. :) The hospitality was just as solid as the food. The staff here are friendly, welcoming, and all around great vibes. This spot is a gem and absolutely deserves the love. I will be back! read more

See all

Just an honest review here.. Saw this place on an IG reel and didn't even knew it existed, so thought I'd check it out. The location is actually two restaurants that operate in one building. When I got inside, the place was absolutely dead. No customers at all. That's always a sign... Cement and brick walls with nothing but a quote from Biggie on one wall and a picture of Guy Fieri on another THATS IT Took 20 min to get our food and when we did, we were VERY disappointed Portions are ridiculously small for what you pay (3-4 bite smash burger = $11) and the food wasn't anything special at all. Dropped $50 on 2 tiny burgers, 1 fry (tiny, $10 and blah) and 2 drinks Left hungry, but not enough to shell out another $50 Staff was polite, but SLOW Double the sizes or cut the prices in 1/2 and you've got something going on, but until then... We won't be back. Good luck! read more

I don't typically leave negative reviews because I like to give people the benefit of the doubt, but I'm TIRED of BAD service. So if you know about this place, you have to place your order outside of a window. In 100+ degree weather it gets HOT!! and FAST!!! Well, we were left outside in direct heat waiting for the cashier to come out and greet us, this was myself, my elderly 75 year-old mother (as seen in the video) as well as my 14-year-old Nephew. You have to push a doorbell type button to gain the staff's attention, totally cool with that, but when you leave people waiting in 100+ degree weather for 5 to 10 minutes with no shade and no misting system, that could become a problem. So the cashier finally comes out this morning and she greets me and she says it'll just be a couple more minutes before I come out to take your order. I said OK, that's fine, but can you please call me to the window? I said because it's extremely hot and I'm sweating and I don't wanna wait in direct sunlight. She said absolutely, that's not a problem. So she goes back to do whatever she goes to do. About four minutes later she proceeds to give an order to another customer that was waiting in the heat as well, then she calls me to the window. I get to the window and someone proceeds to gain her attention inside of the kitchen, so rather than ask me to hold or tell me that she just needed a minute, she proceeded to slam the window in my face and goes to talk to her coworker about who knows what. What she should've done was told her coworker, hey, I'm with a customer right now, let me get back to you as soon as I take his order, but she didn't do that. She proceeded to make her coworker her priority, not the person that was going to place a $100 order for a group of people celebrating Mother's Day. So she gets back to the window and I proceeded to tell her off. I told her exactly how I feel because at this point I think service in this country has gotten bad with this new generation. She looked like she was in her early 20s, I myself for context am not. So she says I'm ready to take your order and I said, you really just slammed the door in my face, didn't you? She was just stunned that I said something, that I actually had a voice. I said no, I'm not gonna place an order with you, you lost an order because you left me out here in 100+ degree weather. I said I should've been the priority, and I was a little upset because I did drop a couple F bombs (which I regret) but only because I was hot and I was sweating and I was frustrated and I was just angry that this new generation has no concept on how to treat paying customers, especially rational customers, with better service. Now they weren't slammed, aside from the other customer that got to receive his order, no one else was waiting for an order, so it's not like she was super busy. That's what really bothers me, I should've been the priority with my family, but yet she chose to leave us in the heat. I told her, if the roles were reversed and you were outside here waiting in this heat and I was taking your order and I did that to you, you would be extremely upset. She was puzzled and didn't say much. I think she was just stunned that I said something, but I wanted it to be known that whoever is the owner of this place needs to have a serious talk with their employees about proper protocol when waiting to place or receive an order in 100° weather with absolutely no shade or water misters. I really think you guys need to do better. My family and I walked away and proceeded to go grab iced coffee at Everbloom Coffee across the street where we were treated like kings and queens. You don't leave an elderly woman waiting in 100° weather, they could die of heat stroke, DO BETTER, Papa Head!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ read more

Papa Headz - The menu - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

Came here on a Saturday around 12-1 PM. They're right next to Gabino's Crepes. Their order window is on the right side where a bunch of outdoor tables are. But it was 100 degrees today, and we had to figure out ourselves that we could go into Gabino's to order in the air-conditioned restaurant and sit there to eat the burgers. The person who took our order didn't even tell us. The burgers, in our opinion, are very small. The meat was very thin, so a double or triple would probably be better. You can see my photo below of my single burger. My husband said his burger was flavorful, while my single tasted almost like a veggie burger because of how thin the meat was. They told us one order of fries would be enough for us, but we felt we could've each had our own. We were still hungry afterward, so we went to get more food somewhere else. Service was meh. read more

See all

The burger was really good everything was fresh and perfect but the fries were burnt but the sauce and everything else was good read more

See all

I've been here twice now. I think the food is a great value. It's hard to find a burger and fries for these prices nowadays and the sizes are good. My first experience was definitely five stars. My recent experience was three at best. The burger just wasn't as flavorful as last time, but still good. It was the service that brought the review down. The lady at the window didn't seem to understand that she's in customer service. She wasn't rude, but certainly not friendly. She seemed bothered and put out to help us. There was no greeting or 'can I help you?' She just stuck her head out and looked at us. We were standing back a bit so we weren't sure if she was looking for someone else to give food to, if that makes sense. So we tentatively approached. She then just stuck the bag out when it was ready. It was just a weird experience and in sharp contrast to our first time. Looking at some other reviews it doesn't seem like it was a one off. Maybe she was just having a bad day. I don't know, but I'd hate to see an employee push customers away because I do like the food and downtown Indio needs places like this. read more

stumbled on this great smashburger spot during a trip to Indio! the single smashburger ($10) was flavorful, and fresh, and I appreciated the variety of fries on the menu. I recommend washing it all down with their tart pink lemonade. note that it's a small charge for caramelized onions and jalapeños, and the jalapeños were raw. I didn't mind because I love spice, but it was definitely the first time I've seen raw jalapeños in a burger. fyi: you can order inside or from the window adjacent to the patio, which is dog friendly. read more

See all

This was my first time trying this place. I had first seen a photo of their burgers on IG and I had to run and try it. I took my brother with me and we each got a burger and chili cheese fries and he got a strawberry/ banana shake and I got a mango lemonade. All of it was so delicious. We were able tot sit inside of Gabinos and enjoy our food. The staff were very nice and polite. read more

Papa Headz - Cheese burgers with grilled onions and added jalapeños and chili cheese fries - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

PH all way! Really delicious and well made smash burgers...fries were very tasty...theres something refreshing about a nice simple menu and really good food...big props to the creative minds behind this one...a bit different ordering from a window but the food was hot, fast and delicious...what more can you ask for from burgers! Oddly, I was at Jackalope the night before for an event and was disappointed at their $30 burger...so had to reset my burger gauge and PH was the perfect pick! They also have a really nice outside patio area to eat if you like...burgers, fries, shakes..simple & delicious! read more

See all

Hidden place and the seem to be closed for in person orders. I placed an order online arrived and they looked like they were closed or on lunch break. Maybe they forgot to turn off online orders but as I got there the staff didn't seem like they were having the mood to make our order maybe also because it was Coachella weekend. But anyways food was pretty good just service was awkward. read more

The breakfast menu is just as great as they say it's really great food. We had the breakfast Sando we thought it was good the sauce adds a good kick to it. read more

Papa Headz - Breakfast Sando - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

The burgers here are insanely delicious! Online order and pick up was a breeze, I love that this location has inside as well as outdoor seating. Service was great, it is a shared space with the creperie , so I suggest ordering off of both menus! Generous portions, fair prices. Everything was absolutely delicious, highly recommended if you are looking for a tasty and affordable meal in the area! read more

See all

Local folks trying to help local businesses succeed but they can't manage to treat local people with good service. Food was cold, staff made us sit outside in their dirty A%* tables. Just terrible. The staff lied and said the diner was closed but allow people after us to eat inside. Management reach out to me so I we can make this right and improve this review. read more

Papa Headz - Tables to eat outside. - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

See all

Papa Headz may be considered "fast food," but it's done well. Its burgers, fries and shakes were all perfectly prepared. It's evident the burgers are made with fresh meat daily as they are very tender and the fries are perfectly salted and fried. Our new favorite burger place in the valley! The only con is that they don't serve beer. :) Tip: you can order at the outside window or inside Gabino's Creperie. read more

See all

Was in the mood for burgers and have heard great things about PH so the hubby and I decided to try it out. First off., Great location! Literally less than 10 minutes from home and Across the street from one of my favorite tap houses. You can find it by the beautiful mural they have. We were the only ones there but it was pretty early and rang the bell, and was greeted by one of the friendly cooks. Hands down great service! We were First timers , so he gave us suggestions.. I decided to go with the double pH burger with grilled onions and jalapeños, and chili cheese, fries. Let me tell you usually when you ask for jalapeños. They're bland and lack flavor... these were spicy and on the point. The only thing I did not like was the cheese. Next time I'll ask for none, since I'm not a fan of American cheese. Other than that, they were very flavorful, juicy, and very delicious! Just one suggestion is to update the prices on their menu board, the prices for the burgers were taped off so I didn't know the prices... But it was definitely worth what I paid for. Big portions of fries too. My hubby had the burger the same, but with regular fries. I'm a big foodie and have a second home in Orange County and I will say this place definitely blows one of the very popular smash burger restaurants I ate at in Anaheim, not too long ago. Much more flavor. Great food and service! read more

See all

Great food but don't expect to have your food ready when you order 1hr ahead for a certain pick up time. Still be prepared to wait a while. Just order there. Very unprofessional staff. The food isn't worth the service. read more

This is my first time here and I read a negative review that almost made me go somewhere else. I'm local and know how hot it can get and they have an outside window, but we came in side of Gambino's and we were actually able to order inside. The guy at the register was really nice and patient (it was a few of us and we didn't know what to order) over all it was good and fresh inside. He even came over and offered us free ice cream samples read more

Papa Headz - Ice cream while we wait - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

Unfortunately, I have to change my review. I came here once and it was phenomenal, I'm not sure what happened in the course of a few months. Limp french fries that were returned and then came back burnt. The bun wasn't cooked properly and was hard. Absolutely no flavor whatsoever. The server was obnoxious and told me that the potatoes were fresh hand cut and that's why they were limp. Simply cannot cook. If you're so proud of your fries, please call them by the name of your establishment, don't insult the French. Twice was enough! No need to return. #youcandobetter #striveforconsistency read more

Papa Headz - Limp french fries uncooked - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

See all

This place was amazing! The fry's were so flavorful they were still crispy and saucy. The Burger was amazing. It was worth the detour off the 10 headed to AZ from Cali. The service was friendly and they took time to recommend their faves. If im in the area I will def stop there again. read more

See all

Great food selection. All the food items ordered tasted great and packed with flavor. Great portion for the fries that you can even share one order of them. The service was attentive and quick. Great decorations to enjoy your food outside. Will come again. read more

Papa Headz - Ordering (outside) - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

See all

I love the outdoor dining experience and the weather is so perfect for this place. Woman was super sweet at the ordering window and I loved that she already knew I was not as familiar and jumped in with perfect suggestions for me! I was going to pull up photos on my phone for my order but she was one step ahead that made ordering perfect she showed me her order device with all the photos I needed to make a great selection for my evening! read more

Papa Headz - Omg the food was so good I was going to take a pre-game pic. And could not definitely fire definitely a gem in the - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

See all

Been wanting to review this place since we've been here a couple times already. The burgers are really good here and younger staff are doing such a great job. I've been ordering the double with grilled onions and jalapeños - you won't regret it. read more

Papa Headz - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

See all

Great burger on a cute little stretch of Miles Avenue in Indio. Had the single PH burger, and fries. Everything was done right. The best burger in the area hands down. And they've got a crêperie in the same space as well, which is supposed to be great. read more

Wow, a kick ass burger in Indio! Delish, we will be back. The fry's are also yummy.

Tried this place because a friend mentioned it was "like In-N-Out but local." Unfortunately, it's more like In-N-Out's awkward cousin who never quite figured out how to cook. First off, the branding is almost a direct ripoff -- from the red-and-yellow color scheme to the "secret" menu. But don't let the familiar look fool you. The burgers are bland, the buns are dry, and the patties taste like they were pulled out of a freezer last week. Whatever they're using to imitate In-N-Out's "spread" is more like watered-down mayo with a weird tang. Fries? Absolute disappointment. Soggy, underseasoned, and somehow both greasy and dry at the same time. I don't know how you mess up fries that badly, but they managed. To top it all off, the staff looked confused the whole time. I ordered "animal style" and got a blank stare followed by a burger with raw onions and nothing else. Clearly, they know the words but not the meaning. I get wanting to recreate the magic of In-N-Out, but if you're going to copy a legend, at least do it well. This place is all style, no substance. Save your money and your appetite. read more

Super simple window ordering for good food. I loved the BBQ French fries with shredded chicken and my boys said the burger tasted like their favorite burger joint. So definitely a win. Getting the food does take a bit with so many call in orders so bring your patience. read more

My favorite burger place. I have lived in the valley my whole life and this place smacks. Always get a double with the buffalo fries. I wish they were open longer buttttttttttt it is what it is. read more

Me and my wife have been to a lot of burgers joints, however; this place by far rivals in and out (my favorite burger joint). Reasonable prices, delicious fries and a simple burger that has good taste! Overall, reccomend to try out this place. read more

Swung by Papa Headz for dinner and let me tell you, this place knows how to do a smash burger right. I went for the double cheeseburger and added grilled onions and jalapeños, and it was hands down the standout of the night. Juicy, perfectly smashed patties with crispy edges, melty cheese, and just the right kick from the jalapeños, it hit every flavor note I was craving. The buffalo fries were a solid side: crispy, saucy, and paired perfectly with ranch. And I couldn't resist the strawberry shake, which was thick, creamy, and super refreshing. It tied the whole meal together in the best way. Everything came out fresh and full of flavor, and now I'm seriously eyeing Papa Headz for catering at my next event. If you love a good burger and want something that delivers big flavor and good vibes, this is your spot. read more

Mid and overpriced. It was fun to try though. The loaded chilli cheese fries were good, their burgers are small. Staff is friendly:) read more

My favorite smash burger in town. You can taste the quality and it's affordable. I highly recommend a double phixed (grilled onions and fresh jalapeños), you won't regret it. Stop by they are located in Downtown Indio out of the Gabino's window or get them for your next party. Customer service is always excellent and service is fast. Sit in the patio to enjoy great burgers. read more

Papa Headz - Double Phixed and Fries - Burgers Near Me - Indio, California

Went to buy burgers and fries on a hot Sunday afternoon. Made a big order to go. We asked if we could wait inside for our food. He told us that the eating area closed at 3 pm (13 minutes ago). We had to wait outside in the heat for a while even though the dining area was open and empty and we were not going to eat there. We finally went to sit in our car to cool down. Unfortunately I will not be coming back to this place even though the food is good, they have no consideration for their customers! read more

See all

Always have had a great experience from in-person service to online delivery orders. My family owns a local florist across Miles/Oasis and the staff loves the food. Love their fresh specialty fries. Every customer that comes in our shop looking for a quick bite, we always recommend Papa Headz! Thank you for bringing your location to downtown Indio. read more

Found ourselves hungry and in Indio, so did a quick Yelp search and chose Papa Headz. It's in a cute part of town with an outdoor ordering window, confortable patio, and cool employees. The burgers were perfect!! Really flavorful and on nice soft buns. We shared an order of bbq ranch chicken fries that were delicious. 10/10 recommend. read more

Family came we ordered the PH burger, buffalo chicken fries, Gambinos chicken pesto crepe, & Nutella/banana crepe. EVERYTHING WAS customer service was also amazing. Front counter took the time to explain the entire menu since we had never been there before read more

The food is great exactly what you want from a smash burger, the fries are amazing they don't skimp on the protein choice. Service is great they stick to their word and respond to customer service quick. The seating area is great good for kids and brining let's along. Once a week doesn't hurt read more

Meh. If you get a burger just know one single patty won't cut it. Too thin to even taste. Order a double. Like I said it was --"meh."

Smash burger heaven. Not crazy different options--just simple, clean, good food. The buffalo chicken fries are amazing. And we love the shakes. We have been here multiple times and never had a bad experience. The service is always so sweet, and helpful. For sure we will be regulars for life. read more

I would go as far as saying that this is the best burger in the whole Coachella Valley. The double PH burger was amazing, packed with flavor, and topped with the freshest ingredients. The chili cheese fries were exceptional. Fries were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Service was also great. Location made me feel like I was in Los Angeles. You will NOT be disappointed. Go get yourself some Papa Headz! read more

I got the food to go. It was delicious, but probably would've been even better if it was eaten there. I'll be back for sure.