Seemor
The SmokehouseB-Worth Trying
3115 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705
· Hamburger restaurant, American restaurant, Fast food restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1685 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Classic Berkeley burger stand with char-grilled burgers, vegan shakes, and low prices; great value on-site, but service accuracy and delivery issues are common.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
The Smokehouse delivers solid neighborhood burger fare with strong char-grilled burger quality and exceptional value for Bay Area pricing, earning its status as a Berkeley staple with decades of loyal patronage. However, inconsistent execution on sides and order accuracy alongside recent quality control critiques prevent a higher grade. Best experienced in-person where the classic patio setting and quick service shine brightest.
Restaurant Summary
A classic Berkeley burger stand with smoky-char burgers, buzzer pick-up, and plenty of indoor-outdoor seating. Reviews paint a lively, student-friendly scene: "The burger had that smoky sear and the shake hit the spot." Expect busy rushes and occasional waits, but prices stay kind to the wallet. The cooking is straightforward American comfort food, leaning traditional with a few inclusive twists like Impossible patties and dairy-free shakes. The culinary approach leans classic and accessible: familiar burgers, dogs, and chili over novelty. On-site quality trends better than delivery; fries and onion rings draw mixed notes depending on timing and seasoning. Families fit right in thanks to kid-friendly staples like grilled cheese, hot dogs, and simple burgers. Portions of fries are generous even in small sizes, and prices allow a full family meal without sticker shock. No kids menu is cited, but the actual menu covers typical picky-eater needs.
At a Glance
- Char-grilled flavor on burgers earns repeat visits
- Strong value for Bay Area pricing (mains mostly $6-9)
- Order accuracy and delivery/refund issues recur
- Sides (fries/onion rings) can be inconsistent
- Best results in-person; third-party orders risk mistakes and slow fixes
What Sets It Apart
- charcoal_like_grill_flavor
- dairy_free_shake_options
- free_topping_customizations
What People Love
- Smoky sear on the patties
- Budget-friendly combos
- Dairy-free and veggie options
- Big portions of fries
Points of Concern
- Order accuracy mistakes reported; check items before leaving
- Refunds problematic through third-party or website orders
- Inconsistent doneness and side quality during rush hours
- One harassment incident reported; staff did not intervene per reviewer
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$14-18 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair a cheeseburger ($7.79) with regular fries ($3.89) for a value combo
- Vegetarians: Impossible Cheeseburger ($8.99) and onion rings ($4.49)
- Kids: Hot dog ($5.59) or grilled cheese ($3.39) with shared fries
Perfect For
- Late-night burger cravings after a show
- Casual family dinner on a budget
- Solo quick bite between classes
- Nostalgia fix for longtime locals
Location Insights
Area: Student-heavy corridor near UC Berkeley with casual eats, late-night foot traffic, and budget-friendly options.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; occasional discomfort reports from customers suggest situational vigilance.
Nearby: Near campus housing, small shops, and other casual restaurants; popular late-night stop.
SouthsideSouthside is a lively neighborhood centered around the UC Berkeley campus, featuring a mix of casual eateries, cafes, and bars catering primarily to students and academics. The dining scene is eclectic and affordable, with a youthful and energetic social atmosphere.
Telegraph Avenue CorridorThis micro-neighborhood along Telegraph Avenue is known for its bohemian vibe, street vendors, and diverse food options ranging from quick bites to ethnic cuisine. It is a bustling pedestrian area with a strong countercultural history and a focus on affordable, casual dining.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:30–23:00
Tuesday10:30–23:00
Wednesday10:30–23:00
Thursday10:30–23:00
Friday10:30–00:00
Saturday10:30–00:00
Sunday10:30–22:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →