The Best Cheeseburger Joint in Mountain View and Beyond
When it comes to enjoying a classic cheeseburger in the tech hub of Mountain View, California, there are several options you can explore. Beyond the well-known chains like In-N-Out and Five Guys, there are numerous independent and chain restaurants that offer unique and delicious burger experiences. Here’s your guide to the best cheeseburger joints, both within and near Mountain View.
In Mountain View Cheeseburger Options
Mountain View is home to two In-N-Out Burger locations and a Five Guys outpost. While these are popular choices, you might want to consider venturing a little outside the main city for more diverse options.
For a taste of the classic, head to St. John's in Sunnyvale. This institution has served hearty burgers for decades and is a reliable option. In Palo Alto, Palo Alto Creamery is another great choice, offering an old-school diner feel with excellent burgers.
If you're feeling adventurous, try Armadillo Willy's in Los Gatos. This restaurant is located close to the Mountain View border and offers more than just burgers. As you cross over, you might as well enjoy their famous brisket sandwich.
Latte Time: Vietnamese Coffee to Savor
Dig a little further out in Santa Clara and you’ll find Mikayla’s Cafe. Known for its surprisingly good burgers, this place also serves an iced Vietnamese coffee that complements the meal perfectly.
Outside of Mountain View
For those looking to venture beyond the borders of Mountain View, there are also plenty of other options. San Mateo offers Jack’s Prime, known for its wickedly delicious burger that can be customized to your liking. They offer a variety of toppings, from grilled pork belly to bacon, to elevate your experience.
Meanwhile, in San Jose, you can satisfy your burger cravings at the Super Duper Burger. The Sunnyvale St. John's restaurant also makes decent tri-tip burgers, but for a more unique option, try the tacos for a lunch that is less carb-heavy.
Unique Burger Experiences
Steins Beer Garden in downtown Mountain View offers a unique burger experience. Their burgers are stacked high with all the traditional toppings and can be customized with cheese, grilled onions, mushrooms, or over-easy eggs. The addition of pork belly is a must-try. For those who enjoy both burgers and craft beers, this place is a true gem.
Nearby, Bierhaus on Castro provides a delightful burger experience. Known for their quality local beef, their burgers are complemented by premium buns and fries. With excellent draft beer offerings and even outdoor seating with heaters, it’s an ideal choice for chilly winter days.
In Los Gatos, Clarkes Charcoal Broiler offers a traditional cruising burger cooked over charcoal, providing a simple yet satisfying meal at half the price of Bierhaus. For those who want a more upscale experience, The Counter near the San Antonio Shopping Center offers variety and quality, but keep in mind that unless you’re accommodating vegetarians or those with specific dietary needs, you might want to try other options.
Nearby Faultline Brewing Company in Sunnyvale also offers decent sit-down burgers. Their sliders are especially good, and the restaurant provides pleasant patio seating right by a lake, an unexpected oasis in the heart of Silicon Valley.
In summary, Mountain View and the surrounding area offer diverse and delicious options for enjoying a cheeseburger. Whether you're seeking classic fare or a unique twist, there's something for everyone in this vibrant tech industry hub.