Seemor
HiHo Cheeseburger | Santa MonicaB+Worth Trying
1320 2nd St Ste. B, Santa Monica, CA 90401
· Hamburger restaurant, New American restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1996 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Destination-worthy smash burgers with Wagyu patties and standout fries; quick counter service, fair prices, minor policy rigidity and occasional service-charge surprises.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
HiHo Cheeseburger delivers excellent burger quality with crispy-edged Wagyu smash patties and hand-cut fries that justify its Santa Monica location and loyal following. However, inconsistent execution—occasional undercooked patties and variable fry doneness—and rigid service policies on customizations prevent a higher grade. For burger purists seeking quality ingredients and quick service near the Promenade, it's a solid neighborhood choice, though not among the region's premier burger destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Steps from the Promenade, this spot hums with fast-casual energy as trays of smash burgers and hand-cut fries fly over the counter. Staff are often friendly and helpful, though policy rigidity pops up now and then. One diner summed it up: "The pastrami double was a jaw-dropper—crispy edges, juicy center." Cooking leans classic rather than flashy: think Wagyu smash patties, gooey cheese, tangy pickles, and a potato bun that holds. The move for big appetites is a double or triple, and pastrami fries make it a splurge. Matty sauce adds zip without gimmicks—this is comfort first, not fusion theater—ideal for burger purists who want quality ingredients and quick service. Families do well here: there is a kids cheeseburger, grilled cheese, simple fries, and shakes mentioned in reviews. Portions run modest, so order accordingly. Note a small service fee on some checks and expect counter ordering; if your kid prefers plain food, the Classic or Kids items are safe picks.
At a Glance
- Wagyu smash burgers with crisp edges and juicy centers
- Hand-cut fries and indulgent pastrami fries win frequent praise
- Fair pricing for quality in a high-rent area
- Rigid on customizations (bunless, raw onions, extra lettuce requests denied)
- Service fee (~6%) appears on some bills and is not always communicated
What Sets It Apart
- wagyu_smash_patties
- pastrami_add_on
- service_charge_no_tip_model
What People Love
- Crispy-edged smash patties with rich beef flavor
- Pastrami add-on that amps up savoriness
- Hand-cut fries that hit the spot
- Fast, efficient counter experience near the beach
Points of Concern
- Occasional undercooked or burnt patties reported; request preferred doneness if sensitive
- Fryer outages or delays have disrupted service on isolated nights
- Smallish burgers; some guests feel one is not enough
- Review patterns show no manipulation but tourist-heavy context can inflate superlatives
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$22-33 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For simpler palates: Classic Double ($9.45) or Kids Cheeseburger ($7.45)
- Sharing: Pastrami Fries ($9.50) or Ashton Fries ($12.25)
- Vegetarian/vegan: Vegetarian HiHo ($10.45), Caesar salad (gluten-free)
Perfect For
- Quick bite before or after the Pier
- Casual lunch with friends
- Solo burger fix
- Family dinner with simple kid options
Location Insights
Area: Busy coastal downtown near the Promenade and Pier; tourist-heavy with steady local foot traffic.
Safety: Well-trafficked, generally safe area with active nightlife and good lighting.
Nearby: Near Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, retail, theaters, and public parking structures.
Downtown Santa MonicaDowntown Santa Monica is a bustling commercial and cultural hub featuring a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual eateries and fast-casual spots to upscale restaurants, attracting a broad demographic including locals and visitors seeking beachside dining experiences.
2nd Street2nd Street is a lively retail and dining corridor known for its pedestrian-friendly atmosphere, boutique shops, and casual dining venues. It is popular for quick bites and casual meals, often frequented by shoppers and tourists exploring downtown.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–22:00
Saturday11:30–22:00
Sunday11:30–22:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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