Hands down the best burger spot in East County! My husband and I come here at least once a week, and it just keeps getting better since they first opened. The burgers are always fresh (they grind their meat on-site) and flavorful, the fries and tots are crispy and delicious, and the milkshakes are a good sweet treat. Their breakfast sandwiches are also seriously underrated! One of the best parts is how friendly and welcoming the owners are! You can tell this is a true family-run business because the whole family works there and treats customers so well. The restaurant is always super clean and has a great atmosphere. Just a heads up, there are no bathrooms, but honestly the food and service more than make up for it. We're so happy to have this place in East County! read more

Got the sizzle burger with fries and a drink. The fries were thin and lacking in quantity - the beef here was tasty but yes, extremely thin because they're smash burgers essentially! If I come back, I would probably get something heftier. They only had bottled drinks here and parking was plentiful. read more

The reviews were right, this place is great. Definitely one of the best burgers in San Diego ... in the middle of nowhere!! Definitely worth the drive. I ordered online and the food was hot and ready when I arrived about 10 minutes later. This unassuming hole in the wall place was clean and minimalistic...the focus is on the food and not a lot of extravagant decor. Sizzle Burger (double) 5 out 5 stars Tater Tots 5 out of 5 stars read more

The place was nice and clean. No public bathroom even for customers. The sizzle burger was tasty. Hit the spot while I was doing laundry. The chicken sandwich was good too BUT it wasn't really a chicken patty but one chicken tender. I don't have a problem with them using tender instead of a patty but just a single one wasn't enough for the sandwich. Way too much bread. Either use 2-3 tenders to fill the whole bun OR serve it as a chicken tender hot dog in a hot dog bun. read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Original Chicken Sandwich - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

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MOVE OVER, In 'n OUT!!! Sizzle Shack has moved IN & came to impress!!! Not a drive-thru, not a chain, and not a frozen patty in sight! Mike, the owner, talked to me about how important it was to him to find quality ingredients that tasted good. He took his time to create a sit down burger spot that stands out in quality and flavor. From the hand-scooped milkshakes, to the freshly ground (in house) beef and lightly breaded (not frozen) chicken to the hand made Sizzle sauce, everything was curated for a no-frills, yet yummy experience. The simple dining room is clean and inviting. No soda fountain, but if you decide against the milkshakes, there are bottles of Coke products. The menu isn't overloaded with unnecessary items, just enough to make your mouth water. There is a burger of the month for something different. Today, we chose the California burger, the chicken sandwich, Sizzle fries, a vanilla milkshake, and a chocolate chip milkshake. Everything was so tasty, I had to ask questions. Which is how I learned about Mike's search for the right ingredients. Let me tell you, nothing was greasy or overdone. Everything was tasty & perfectly cooked. Even the pickles were perfect. The chicken surprised us, it was so light. Most chicken sandwiches are overbreaded, over- seasoned, or are greasy. This was lightly and not the slightest bit greasy. He buys them pre-made, but not frozen. According to my wife, this was the best chicken sandwich she's ever had. The smashed patties in the burger were a perfect touch. Happily, my burger was delicious and the right amount of messy, meaning, they don't skimp on anything. There was enough smashed avocado to have some in every bite. The Sizzle fries were crispy, cheesy, messy goodness from the first fry to the last. The sauce is also made in-house. Crispy fries, grilled onions, cheese, and Sizzle sauce make this a yummy sidekick for your burger or sandwich. Even with the milkshakes, our taste buds & tummys were completely satisfied! read more

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We have passed by this place so many times and finally decided to try it out! Let me tell you.....easily as good if not better than In and Out!!!!! Plus the fries and shakes are DELICIOUS! I love to support local businesses and this one is IT! Definitely try it out!!!! read more

Great burger! Tasty, cooked perfectly and a very clean location. The service was quick as well. Please support small business. Will come back. read more

This is a great hidden gem in San Diego County! While hamburgers may appear ordinary, this place makes them special. We were told they fresh grind all their meat, and that attention to detail shines through in the final product. You can taste the actual beef along with their "sizzle sauce," and condiments. My mom and I had the "sizzle burger," the entry-level burger, but it was hugely satisfying. My husband opted for the monthly speciality, the jalapeño popper burger, which he said lived up to its name. There's also the option to add more patties, which we may consider next time. Seeing as all the fast-food places are charging double digits for their burgers and are mass-produced, this is where you want to put your money - and support a small, local business. The French fries were thin and fried perfectly. We saw other customers ordered milkshakes, which were blended upon request - we'll have to try them next time! Seeing as all the fast-food places are charging double digits for their burgers and are mass-produced, this is where you want to put your money - and support a small, local business. They're kind of tucked away in the corner of a tiny strip mall and behind a gas station, but definitely worth seeking out! read more

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Omg the crispiness!!! Add a hash brown to the breakfast burger, you won't be disappointed! Always fresh beef and eggs! Delish! read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Br Breakfast Cheeseburger - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

This amazing little burger shop may be small, but it's packed with flavor! Today I tried the sizzle fries, and they were absolutely delicious--honestly even better than In-N-Out. The staff is always so kind and does their best to accommodate exactly what you want, whether it's choosing one or two patties or customizing how thick you'd like your Oreo shakes. They truly go above and beyond, and it shows in both their food and service. Even though they haven't been here long, I already couldn't imagine this area without them! read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Sizzle Fries - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

Craving burgers but not the same old places. Went to yelp and Sizzle Shack was the first one not sponsored on the list. And it was right around the corner. I've driven by this often but never noticed it. Strange. The burgers were great! Lacy and thin. My daughter is a vegetarian and they do offer a falafel burger but she went for the breakfast burger with just eggs and cheese. She said it was the best she's ever had. The fries and the tots were great. I was disappointed in my burger a little though I requested avocado and was given guacamole instead. I'm not a huge fan of certain guacamoles and this one was that kind. I wish a smash burger type restaurant would make a pizza burger. There's a place in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina called Second Street that makes one and I miss it. read more

Have you ever received something and you can tell it came from a professional? Like, the craftsmanship just speaks for itself. Strange to think of a burger like that, but you can taste the freshness. The burger and fries were cooked to perfection. The burger was so good, that after I was done, I wished I was still hungry so I could go order another burger, but, alas, I was full. I will definitely return. 5/5 does not do it justice, this is a 10/10!!! The restaurant is clean and has a small area for seating. The grill/kitchen area looks very clean as well. Staff is very friendly, she said they have been open for five months (as of Oct. 2025) and the beef is ground fresh in house, also all the sauces are made fresh In-House. You can taste the difference, I thought I had fresh stuff before, but maybe not. Since this is my first visit, I will have to try a few more times before I can say "this is the best Smashburger" and take the title from Friendly Tavern. For those coming from San Diego you may say to yourself the drive is not worth it, but after that first bite, you will change your mind. read more

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This place is great! The staff were friendly and happy to have us there. The smash burgers were delicious and cooked perfectly. The meat, bun, topping ratio was great. Don't forget about the fries they were crispy with a hint of salt. They grind their own beef in house and make their our ranch. You can definitely tell and it makes all the difference in an awesome burger. The restaurant itself is nice and clean. Nothing fancy but exactly what I'm looking for in a great burger spot. They have burgers, sides, shakes, and they even serve breakfast! We will definitely be back. Thanks Sizzle Shack for a great burger! read more

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Update to add a photo of the actual food! (Which, we came back only two days later. Just couldn't stop thinking about it, and it's so close by for us!) We went a little closer to lunch time, and so there were more people coming and going to pick up their orders for take out. Got the same sizzle burger combo but this time with double patties. Tots and ranch were so good. The owner recognized us for coming back so soon, and he was cutting up some steak so he let us sample it. So good! They're so friendly. Hope they stay a long time! read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Six Sizzle Burger Combo Tater Tots - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

This spot was definitely great. The food and service were amazing. It was clean. As soon as we walked in we were greeted. They offered suggestions and answered any questions we had. We will definitely be back. read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Single California Burger - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

I had a nice breakfast sandwich and iced coffee from this new burger joint in Lakeside. I had the ham and eggs on brioche for $5.49 plus tax, and the regular iced coffee with no sugar for $3.99. The breakfast sandwich was simple yet tasty. I liked it. Both the ham and eggs were cooked and seasoned well. I do wish that they expand their cheese offerings outside the choice of American Cheese. The iced coffee was good. It reminded me of a medium roast. It was smooth and easy to drink. The service was very friendly. They offer a good amount of inside seating. They specialize in burgers but also offer a variety of breakfast sandwiches and burgers. read more

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If I blinked wouldn't know this place was here. Great welcoming customer service with a smile. Really cool that they grind their own beef. That is a huge plus. The only thing they don't make fresh are the buns. For sure will come back as this place is nice, clean and well organized with a simple menu read more

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We were so excited to see that sizzle shack finally opened, since we live close by. We decided to place an online order and pick it up. We ordered a single Sizzle Burger and a double sizzle burger. We also ordered Bacon Cheese Fries and a mocha Iced Coffee. We arrived and they looked pretty busy. I did not see a sign for pickup orders, so I just went up to the register and told them who I was. They handed me a bag and my iced coffee that was sitting right by the register. The restaurant had seating available and was very clean. Both burgers were very tasty and pretty large. The Bacon Cheese Fries were good, but they were very squished in the container, so it was awkward to eat them. We would definitely try sizzle burger again, maybe next time we will try breakfast. read more

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We all enjoyed our burgers. I got the falafel burger. It was delicious and tasty much like a typical falafel just in a different form factor. They are fast and service was friendly. It's a small strip mall location so there isn't a ton of room inside. More of a take out sort of spot. read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Smashed Falafel Burger - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

The burgers are so amazing! They use the best meats, and have a great variety of burgers, breakfast sandwiches, etc. We also ordered the tater tots animal style! Really clean inside and parking is easy. read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Ms Badpenny and I both ordered the California Burger - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

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I stopped by because yelp recommended this place and I was craving a good burger. All I could say was, "fo sizzle my nizzle." The smash burger was smashing and they have a tots option. I just lie love tots. I took my date there and she loved it as well. It was clean but had an overwhelming onion smell throughout the restaurant. However, the service was devine along with the food. I want to try the fries and breakfast burger next time. I'm sure it won't let me down. read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Burger with tots - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

Ok finally trying out this place. Parking is good plenty of it. Now the place is a little small with some indoor seating. Very clean. Employees hands down the best very friendly , answers questions walk in with a smile . Small menu which makes it easy to order and hopefully come back and try other items. Prices ok . The burgers were AMAZING!!! I purchased for three people and they all loved it. The sizzle sauce is different but creamy lots of flavor. I was surprised a burger could taste that good. We did combos so fries looked like McDonald's without all the salt. And you get a good amount. They make their own ranch dressing which also was very good. I literally can't say anything bad. Definitely stop by and try it out. Everything was cooked and fresh and tasted great. read more

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The burgers here are great!! Pretty simple but good burger!! The fries and tater tots are just ok. The people are nice and the prices are pretty good. We've been here like three times in the last couple of months. read more

Went on a random Thursday afternoon, I had seen it reviewed (on TikTok?) and had put it on my list. The place itself is bright and clean, with some tables, a fridge with bottled sodas, and a counter with a view of the kitchen. My husband got a burger and I got the special which was a Ruben, he got fries I got tots. We could hear and smell (yum) the food being freshly prepared. It was done quickly and came out piping hot. The tots were 10 out 10! The fries were the right kind of skinny, the burger was delicious the patty nice and smashed with crispy bits, the Ruben was fine, but not enough of any one thing, not bad just not great. That being said we will definitely go again, I'll just get a burger. read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - burger and fries - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

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Had the Cali burger and sizzle fry's very good fresh.. comparable to in-N-Out if not better burger was like a double double with bacon and avocado sizzle fry's were comparable animal style fries maybe a little more crispy.. met the owners son he was working the register he was friendly and made good suggestions on what to order.. if your looking for a quality fresh burger and support a local family owned business this is you place.. read more

Finally a good burger spot in El Cajon !!! Came here with two of my buddies here right when they opened. I got the sizzle burger made it a double and it tasted just like in n out ! So bomb ! My friend got breakfast burger and loved it ! My buddy got the falafel burger, which I have never seen ! He loved it as well. We all got shakes from their secret menu. Chocolate chip cookie shakes ! We ended up sharing sizzle fries and those were spectacular as well ! Lots of seating inside the restaurant. The staff was nice and it was clean which is always a plus. When I come back definitely trying the falafel burger ! read more

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Came expecting a typical cheeseburger but what I received was so much better! The meat they used for their smashburger was ground fresh at the restaurant and the burger was well flavored with crispy edges. Their sizzle sauce is house made and VERY good and puts the burger over the top. We also tried the sizzle fries and I dare say I liked it more than animal style fries from in-n-out. The owner suggested we try the house made ranch dressing which was very good and quite unique and went great with the fries. The restaurant was clean, the service was good and the food was amazing...we couldn't ask for anything more. My family will definitely be back!! read more

The food was outstanding. I had a double California burger and we got a sizzle salad as well. The burger was so huge it fell apart. An absolute monster. Generous helpings of meat, avocado, sauce, bacon, lettuce, etc. The bun was soft and still managed to not totally disintegrate despite the juicy burger and generous helping of toppings. The fries were pretty plain but fairly tasty. Nothing special there, although they do have other options as well! The staff was friendly and stated they grind their meat all in house. You can order via a kiosk or with one of the friendly staff members. Prices are on par with In N Out, which is awesome. I would 100% make this a stop over In N Out. I HIGHLY recommend stopping by here and giving it a try! I don't think you'll be disappointed! read more

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We're adding this restaurant to our roster. The burgers are delicious. The bread is pillow soft, the beef tastes like actual beef, and overall it has that home made taste that you don't get at fast food restaurants. I also got full a lot quicker than when I eat at other fast food places. I think it's because they are using quality ingredients. Customer service is great too. Can't wait to try their mushroom Swiss burger next. read more

This place is an absolute gem in East County. Tucked away in a little plaza close to a gas station and a few other restaurants, it would be easy to drive right by this place, oblivious to the delicious food (at INCREDIBLE prices) right there. Came here at 1pm on a Saturday and got a double bacon cheeseburger, egg and cheese breakfast sandwich, tater tots, French fries, and chocolate chip cookie. It all came to just $27 tax and all. In this economy, I TRULY appreciate affordable food like this. Now, what matters most, the food itself. The food was all prepared fresh while I waited (about 10 min). The meat was juicy and well seasoned, breakfast sandwich was super tasty (and only $3.99...WHAT?!?) and everything else was a hit. Be sure to go support this small business, enjoy a delicious meal, and save yourself the ridiculous fast food prices! read more

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It's amazing to see a place like this in East County Great smash style burgers!! California burger was amazing. Great service. If I absolutely had to find something that needed improvement, i would suggest something other than the basic shoestring fries. Krinkle cut fries would send this place over the edge!!!! read more

The food was so delicious! Service was fast and great customer service! I also appreciated how clean it was inside . I definitely will be coming back again and I'll be recommending this to all my friends and family ! read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Sizzle Burger Combo , Loaded Burger Fries and a OG Chocolate Chip Cookie Shake - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

Want a fresh ground beef hamburger then stop on in this spot the food is great as is the service. It's simple and clean inside definitely a good burger and worth the visit. Will be back soon read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

OMG! The best burger place in town. They have a specialty burger every month. I tried the pastrami and sauerkraut burger was so fresh and delicious. They toast the buns just perfect too!!! Will definitely be back. read more

This place is hidden but it's a place to come check out for sure ! Food was delicious and filling ! Service was great, the gentleman asked how was the meal and was very attentive to condiments. The ambiance is quite relaxing, and a great place to eat! *plus they follow food safety procedures so that's a plus lol read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

The service was good and fast. The quality of the food was okay--fresh hamburger in a round ball pressed on to the griddle. Condiments were plentiful as requested. They used an old fashioned shake maker, but no vanilla added to the vanilla shake. All in all, it was a throwback to the old fashioned way we did it in the 1950's and '60's. But nothing really special. However, it was far less crowded than the big corporate producers. The burger was better than anything at McDonald's. read more

The staff is super friendly and welcoming from the minute you walk in. They were so helpful with what we should get and all their beef is ground I'm house. Food was absolutely worthy of a repeat visit and the inside was very clean and quiet. The prices are extremely fair and made me feel like a blast from the past with what food SHOULD cost. My wife got the homemade lemonade and also said it was good. Recommend the double sizzle burger and the burger salad. read more

This new burger place in lakeside does not disappoint! The prices here are amazing. The quality and freshness of the burger makes it the best burger in east county hands down! read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Double smash burger - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

Good burgers and fries! Chocolate milk shake very thick! Also have breakfast so want to go back and try. read more

Sizzle Shack Burger - Juice Bars & Smoothies Near Me - El Cajon, California

Great to finally have a quality burger spot in East County. Good prices, family owned