Our definitions of what a burger is have exploded during the last decade. It no longer raises an eyebrow when a chef tosses something outrageous on top of that beef patty. Or maybe it’s a turkey patty, or lamb, chicken, veggie, ostrich, or whatever else didn’t get out of the way fast enough. You can’t stand out on novelty alone, but you can on the dexterity with which you combine flavors. Many burgers at Standing Room have a distinct Asian fusion influence, with sweet, spicy, and herbal notes that pair off superbly. The standard burgers are formidable too. They’re huge, with the thick meat patty cooked just as you like it. The Standing Room serves much more than burgers, but that’s where they built their reputation.
The Standing Room Restaurant
1320 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach
(310) 318-1272
thestandingroomrestaurant.com
Runner-up: Hennessey’s Tavern
8 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach
(310) 372-5759
313 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach
(310) 546-4813
1712 S. Catalina Ave., Redondo Beach
(310) 540-8443
hennesseystavern.com
