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When I tell you this place is a whole vibe and unique experience. We went in on a casual Tuesday lunchtime and boy was I pleasantly surprised. I ordered their burger while my girlfriend ordered a couple of pizza slices. The burger is so simple but let me tell you, that tastes leaving you feeling like you're ready to order that second burger! Their garlic aioli with the onions combo is chefs kiss. I love how the meat is so tender and buttery at each bite. It made me really want to savor the taste and make it last longer. The service was great, our order was out fairly quickly. The workers definitely know what they're doing back there and I hope to make it down here again soon.
The legend himself, Mr. Anthony Bourdain, once said "good food is very often, even most often, simple food." In this case, The Friendly deserves its recognition as a no nonsense establishment that embodies Bourdain's wisdom. Let's get into it. Cuisine: 5/5. The Dirty Flat Top Cheeseburger and any of their pizzas by the slice merit waiting in a short line. Who would have thought that a medium size smash burger could pack in the flavor without breaking the bank? It's simple. It's flavorful. And it's affordable. You can enjoy the burger while your pie is being prepared. I've tried a few of the pizzas and they're all solid, and still better than Lou Malnati's in Chicago. Look, when you're jaded from overpaying for whack burgers in L.A. (Wally's & Marvito come to mind), it's easy to be shocked back into reality by good food at reasonable prices. Beverages: 4/5. Beer. Sodas. $1 off if you shotgun the beer. Say less. Service: 5/5. No frills. No performative friendliness. Just a direct style of communication and the efficiency of the staff. Thank you! Buen provecho
Smash burger!! Parking: challenging streer pay parking Restroom: 1 gender neutral restroom Seating: small indoor and outdoor patio. This is mostly for quick bites type of place. We got: Dirty Flat top
Legit cheeseburger! I have been meaning to come here for a while now and finally was in the area. Super hip and grungy local pizza and burger joint. People were super friendly and the burger was delicious. I think they use some sort of garlic aïoli on it. I will be back!
Good, Fast and Reasonably Priced. The staff and environment screams hole in the wall but they make it a welcoming experience with loud music that really creates the experience! Its almost always busy but they staff is always helpful and patient! Their flattop burger is a great bite for the price and their slices are amazing, I almost always get a different slice every time I go! If you're a beer drinker, I recommend shotgunning a beer for the vibes!
This place is perfect. Just your everyday casual solid people and vibe place. Urban... it's dope!! Loud music and good food! Show up in sweats kinda place... The food!!!!! So good.. it's simple. The burger is a must don't change it, how it comes is perfect and they ain't kidding it needs nothing! The pizza by the slice is good too. Not sure what a whole pie is like but the other stuff is good.. I can't rate it 5star only cause it's simply not the best pizza I've ever had... but it's still up there in quality don't hesitate on it. The service is fast and the people are friendly..
This spot HITS. The workers are chill and the have a pretty straight forward menu - pizza, burgers, and bevies. The Pizza is pretty solid - thin, crispy, and the toppings are tasty. I've gotten the mushroom ricotta slice and the cheeseburger and boy is it's greasy and scrumptious all in one. A nice spot to stop by for a quiet bite and you don't have to wait too long. Definitely a spot to check out for a beer and slice.
Walking into The Friendly for the first time feels like stepping into a clubhouse where everyone already knows the rules except you. I made the rookie mistake of asking for ketchup with my burger and the entire staff reacted like I had just asked for a fork at a sushi bar. Heads turned. Fingers pointed. Laughter broke out. It was like I had revealed myself as an outsider in a single syllable. Apparently ketchup is contraband here. Who knew. But once you get past the inside baseball energy, the burger itself is a revelation. Monumental. A sandwich that does not need ketchup because the garlic aioli they use is doing the heavy lifting of an entire condiment department. It transforms the whole thing into something beyond a standard burger. This is not your backyard grill moment. This is its own category. A sandwich with swagger. The weirdest part is that they do not offer sides and they do not allow modifications. You get what they make and that is the end of the conversation. Normally that kind of rigidity would annoy me but here it almost works. It is like they are saying trust us we know exactly what this is supposed to be. And annoyingly they are right. The Friendly is chaotic, loud, a little smug, and absolutely worth it. Even if they roast you for asking for ketchup, you will walk out thinking about that burger long after the embarrassment fades.
Great smash burgers and beer selection. It's all outdoors and pretty chill. Will definitely be going back
Here for the one and only Dirty Flat Top Burger before leaving San Diego, and thankfully it didn't just meet expectations--it exceeded them. The vibe at The Friendly is as laid-back as it gets: chill atmosphere, staff blasting great music, and everyone clearly having fun while turning out killer food. Sometimes simple is the hardest thing to get right, but they absolutely nail it here. The $8 cheeseburger is an insane value--juicy, perfectly seasoned, and cooked exactly how a flat-top burger should be. Nothing fancy, no gimmicks, just flawless execution that somehow tastes totally unique. Huge kudos to the crew for doing something so simple so well. If you're in San Diego and don't stop here, you're doing it wrong.
I came here around 6 pm and they only have street parking so I parked for free two blocks down. I walked over and there was a short line. I think they only sell one burger and that is the flat burger? So that is what I ordered. It was $8 and really delicious. Very greasy, beefy, and cheesy, so I enjoyed it a lot. It was not very big though, especially compared to the other pictures I saw online. I sat outside because the weather is nice and the music was too loud inside.
Amazing smash burger!!! No fries, no shakes. Great smell of meat on the grill as we entered. The OG Dirty Flat Top Cheeseburger has 2 thin patties (soft on the inside with crispy edges), caramelized onions, garlic aioli and two slices of gooey American cheese on a toasted bun. No modifications allowed and none necessary. Good price point. Direct service. Nice countertop, but it gets super smokey. Can't wait to go back. read more
5 days ago
Best Smash Burger in San Diego. 2 thin patties with crispy edges, buttery caramelized onions, slice of American cheese, on a fluffy toasted bun... ZERO MODS... simple - executed to perfection!! Also had a slice of their pepperoni and Jalapeño pizza -- equally delicious. Thin and crispy! Service was super fast! They had a few tables inside and some barstools. They also had some seating outside on the street and an area to just lounge outside and have a slice or grab a burger. Prices were pretty reasonable slices were under five bucks. I think the pepperoni and jalapeño was under four and the burger was eight bucks. Parking in this area always sucks so good luck to that. read more
1 month ago
When I tell you this place is a whole vibe and unique experience. We went in on a casual Tuesday lunchtime and boy was I pleasantly surprised. I ordered their burger while my girlfriend ordered a couple of pizza slices. The burger is so simple but let me tell you, that tastes leaving you feeling like you're ready to order that second burger! Their garlic aioli with the onions combo is chefs kiss. I love how the meat is so tender and buttery at each bite. It made me really want to savor the taste and make it last longer. The service was great, our order was out fairly quickly. The workers definitely know what they're doing back there and I hope to make it down here again soon. read more
The legend himself, Mr. Anthony Bourdain, once said "good food is very often, even most often, simple food." In this case, The Friendly deserves its recognition as a no nonsense establishment that embodies Bourdain's wisdom. Let's get into it. Cuisine: 5/5. The Dirty Flat Top Cheeseburger and any of their pizzas by the slice merit waiting in a short line. Who would have thought that a medium size smash burger could pack in the flavor without breaking the bank? It's simple. It's flavorful. And it's affordable. You can enjoy the burger while your pie is being prepared. I've tried a few of the pizzas and they're all solid, and still better than Lou Malnati's in Chicago. Look, when you're jaded from overpaying for whack burgers in L.A. (Wally's & Marvito come to mind), it's easy to be shocked back into reality by good food at reasonable prices. Beverages: 4/5. Beer. Sodas. $1 off if you shotgun the beer. Say less. Service: 5/5. No frills. No performative friendliness. Just a direct style of communication and the efficiency of the staff. Thank you! Buen provecho read more
15 days ago
Legit cheeseburger! I have been meaning to come here for a while now and finally was in the area. Super hip and grungy local pizza and burger joint. People were super friendly and the burger was delicious. I think they use some sort of garlic aïoli on it. I will be back! read more
2 months ago
Good, Fast and Reasonably Priced. The staff and environment screams hole in the wall but they make it a welcoming experience with loud music that really creates the experience! Its almost always busy but they staff is always helpful and patient! Their flattop burger is a great bite for the price and their slices are amazing, I almost always get a different slice every time I go! If you're a beer drinker, I recommend shotgunning a beer for the vibes! read more
3 months ago
8 days ago
I love this place. What's not to love about a classic dirty flat top burger with Wu Tang blaring on the speakers while the guy next to you is shot gunning a Tecate. I love that this place has burgers and slices as well as an occasional bomb and unique daily special! read more
This place is perfect. Just your everyday casual solid people and vibe place. Urban... it's dope!! Loud music and good food! Show up in sweats kinda place... The food!!!!! So good.. it's simple. The burger is a must don't change it, how it comes is perfect and they ain't kidding it needs nothing! The pizza by the slice is good too. Not sure what a whole pie is like but the other stuff is good.. I can't rate it 5star only cause it's simply not the best pizza I've ever had... but it's still up there in quality don't hesitate on it. The service is fast and the people are friendly.. read more
This spot HITS. The workers are chill and the have a pretty straight forward menu - pizza, burgers, and bevies. The Pizza is pretty solid - thin, crispy, and the toppings are tasty. I've gotten the mushroom ricotta slice and the cheeseburger and boy is it's greasy and scrumptious all in one. A nice spot to stop by for a quiet bite and you don't have to wait too long. Definitely a spot to check out for a beer and slice. read more
Walking into The Friendly for the first time feels like stepping into a clubhouse where everyone already knows the rules except you. I made the rookie mistake of asking for ketchup with my burger and the entire staff reacted like I had just asked for a fork at a sushi bar. Heads turned. Fingers pointed. Laughter broke out. It was like I had revealed myself as an outsider in a single syllable. Apparently ketchup is contraband here. Who knew. But once you get past the inside baseball energy, the burger itself is a revelation. Monumental. A sandwich that does not need ketchup because the garlic aioli they use is doing the heavy lifting of an entire condiment department. It transforms the whole thing into something beyond a standard burger. This is not your backyard grill moment. This is its own category. A sandwich with swagger. The weirdest part is that they do not offer sides and they do not allow modifications. You get what they make and that is the end of the conversation. Normally that kind of rigidity would annoy me but here it almost works. It is like they are saying trust us we know exactly what this is supposed to be. And annoyingly they are right. The Friendly is chaotic, loud, a little smug, and absolutely worth it. Even if they roast you for asking for ketchup, you will walk out thinking about that burger long after the embarrassment fades. read more
4 months ago
Great smash burgers and beer selection. It's all outdoors and pretty chill. Will definitely be going back read more
4 days ago
Here for the one and only Dirty Flat Top Burger before leaving San Diego, and thankfully it didn't just meet expectations--it exceeded them. The vibe at The Friendly is as laid-back as it gets: chill atmosphere, staff blasting great music, and everyone clearly having fun while turning out killer food. Sometimes simple is the hardest thing to get right, but they absolutely nail it here. The $8 cheeseburger is an insane value--juicy, perfectly seasoned, and cooked exactly how a flat-top burger should be. Nothing fancy, no gimmicks, just flawless execution that somehow tastes totally unique. Huge kudos to the crew for doing something so simple so well. If you're in San Diego and don't stop here, you're doing it wrong. read more
5 days ago
4 days ago
I came here around 6 pm and they only have street parking so I parked for free two blocks down. I walked over and there was a short line. I think they only sell one burger and that is the flat burger? So that is what I ordered. It was $8 and really delicious. Very greasy, beefy, and cheesy, so I enjoyed it a lot. It was not very big though, especially compared to the other pictures I saw online. I sat outside because the weather is nice and the music was too loud inside. read more
14 days ago
13 days ago
One of the absolute worst burgers I have ever had super greasy too much aïoli which turned into a wet bun and a greasy mess flavor was so so but not very appetizing with all that grease. For something that's cooked on a top grill don't understand. read more
2 months ago
My friend told me about this spot--she called it a pizza place with good burgers. Funny enough, it's actually more of a burger joint, but this is the only location that also serves pizzas. AMBIANCE: Parking: It's in the North Park/University Heights area, so parking can be tricky. Best bets are metered spots, 2-hour parking, or nearby street parking. Seating: Indoor booths and counter space, enough for 20-30 people. Vibes: On the quieter, southern strip of North Park--close to houses and plenty of other eateries. Inside, it's casual and no-frills: simple signage, a few photos on the wall, and a laid-back diner feel. Great for chilling or grabbing food to go. FOOD/DRINKS: Dirty Flattop Burger (Recommend): Ooooii! Classic double smashburger done right--melty cheese, grilled onions, and buttered buns. Flavor bomb. Mushroom Ricotta Pizza (Recommend): Crisp crust, generous cheese, and a savory umami kick from mushrooms + ricotta. Hits the spot. Drinks are straightforward--think sodas, beer, and a few basics. CUSTOMER SERVICE: John was awesome! He even mentioned he's the only one who can whip up a heart-shaped pizza. TL; DR OVERALL: 4.5 Stars. Good prices, simple menu, delicious bites, and a chill experience. Nothing too flashy, which makes it easy to decide and enjoy. I'll definitely be back. TIPS: *OG spot! *This spot also is the only one that serves pizza. read more
I finally tried this place after hearing all the hype!! We visited on a Tuesday night. The parking lot is TINYYYY so be careful or park elsewhere! There were 4 of us and we sat at the counter. For 2 regular cheeseburgers and 1 fry it came out to $25 so a bit pricey. They don't offer free water so be aware! The shop is small and a little dirty, tables weren't wiped. The burgers came out quickly. They were very crispy and fresh! I loved the thin fries. I wish there were vegetables in them to cut the fat, but overall good burger. Their ranch is SOOOO good though! read more
Such a great local spot! $8 super large double patty smash burgers, $3.50 large pizza slices (over 15 options). The best deal though is all beer is sold in a can and if you get it shot gun it's $1 off making takate's ($4) normally just $3!! Year round not happy hour all the time pricing! The food was excellent though! Nice heavy greedy burger. No modifications aloud, made with beef, cheese, onions and garlic aloi. Service was super fast and friendly but more New York friendly quick and to the point to get the food as fast as possible. Awesome atmosphere they were blasting music, it's an open kitchen so you can see the chefs cooking, tall bar seating and a few small tables indoor and outdoor. A lot of Togo customers too. read more
2 months ago
The best smash burger I've had in SD! The meat is high quality, flavorful, and tender. The burger comes with two patties, garlic mayo, grilled onions, and melted cheese. It's all cooked to perfection. This burger does tend to be on the oilier side, but not a big deal for an occasional "cheat meal." There are no modifications allowed, so if you have any preferences or allergies, this may not be the spot for you. The pizza is solid, though I wouldn't necessarily come for the pizza. The only reason I'm giving it 4 stars is because each time I've come the burger tastes slightly different, so there's a little bit of inconsistency, but it's still good every time. The service is also lacking sometimes, and it can feel like they just want to get you out of there as fast as possible, but I understand as it does get busy. Expect a wait and there's very limited seating, so we take our food to-go. All worth it for how flavorful their burgers are though! read more
Second time stopping in this unicorn, and yet again it exceeded all Expectations!! The staff is amazing, $1 off beers if you shotgun them, and the dirty flat top burger for $8 is a guilty pleasure that I can't wait to indulge in again!! Next time you're in, buy a cold Tecate for the chef and he may shotgun one with you! Such a Vibe!! read more
26 days ago
24 days ago
i love the friendly!!! was a classic smash burger joint and exactly what i was hoping for. their burgers were scrumptious and i love a good shoe string fry. it can get busy but when we went, there was only a small line. there was plenty of outdoor seating and we found a table pretty easily. there is loud music but not to the point where you cannot hear one another. can't wait to come back. read more
Had the Dirty Flattop Cheeseburger, a slice of cheese pizza and a slice of pepperoni pizza. The burger? The best smash burger in town. Simple yet delicious. My surprise was the pizza. The crust was lite and thin. Sauce to cheese ratio was equal which makes this pizza almost perfect. Welcoming staff. This location (1 if 2) is located of 30th. You will need to find parking around the establishment. Only 4 tables and roughly 6 stools for inside seating. This is now one of my "go to" spots for sure. If you have not been here before, it's a must try! read more
29 days ago
8 months ago
Top 5 burgers all time. Very rugged place. They know they're great and don't need your business, so service kinda short and direct. No modifications allowed, but don't need em. If there's no line, GO. Even if there's a line go! read more
Classic smash burger. Super greasy and hits the spot after a couple drinks. They also have pizza but and cheesy bread. A couple of seats and beers. Next door is a brewery place if seating its rough that allows yea to bring food over. Staff is pretty friendly. read more
A long awaited visit to The Friendly! Didn't realize how quaint the original location is, and enjoyed its homey-divey atmosphere with just a few tables to sit and eat. We took our burgers to go, and they were incredible!!! Definitely lived up to the hype. The garlic aioli, the American cheese, the perfect smash-- phenomenal hangover food hahah. Didn't realize this location only sells their classic burger, so if you want an array of burger options you'll need to visit their location on University Ave :) Trying their pizza for sure next time! read more
3 months ago
The food was pretty good. I really liked the pizza and they had a lot of varieties. The burger was good too but it was a little greasy for me. The staff was very friendly and nice. The inside was pretty cool too. read more
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More info about The Friendly
4592 30th St
San Diego, CA 92116
University Heights, North Park
Directions
(619) 892-7840
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Ask the Community - The Friendly
What all comes on the burger?
Two patties, grilled onions, American cheese, and garlic aioli
How's the parking?
From what I recall, it's just street parking. I went on a Saturday around lunch and had no problem. I've been on a Saturday night and while I didn't drive, it didnt seem all that crowded.
How much are slices or combos?
What is the most popular pizza slice here?
My friend says i have to try this burger, but everything i see has grilled onions. I believe there are no substitutes even for allergies correct? So you couldn't get a plain one or one without the onions?
Nope, no substitutions no matter what.
Are you still open and operating?
Yup, ate there last night. Still burgers and pizza.
What are their vegan options? Any vegan pizza?
They have a soyrizo burger option on the menu
Do they have the truffle pizza everyday?
Not everyday but follow their insta @thefriendlysd to keep up on their specials (:
Can they do lettuce wraps on the burgers? Any options for gluten free folks?
Haha, they do it one way and one way only.. no substitutes. The pizza is great too ..
Is this place dog friendly?
Unfortunately it is not dog friendly inside due to the open kitchen. They do have a table outside for you and your pup!
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