It’s no surprise Tustin boasts a stellar burger scene—our sunny days practically beg for a juicy patty between buns. But honestly, we’d crave these smashburgers, classic cheeseburgers, and gourmet stacks even during a rare drizzle. These 10 spots deliver perfect crusts, legendary toppings, and, of course, crispy fries, creamy shakes, and towers of hand-formed beef. Here’s how to savor every bite at each destination.
Tustin Brewing Co
$$ | (714) 665-2337 | WEBSITE
We love this burger spot in Tustin for its wood-fired pizzas, but a lesser-known secret is that they also have excellent craft beer. Available in a pint ($7) or flight ($15), their Red beer is your base for a mostly pub menu of burgers and other grub, plus some shareable items like wings and nachos. All of the flavor gets extra concentrated in the communal atmosphere throughout the evening, so take advantage of the dog-friendly terrace to enjoy every last bit of sunshine when you’re done.
It’s lively in here, and the occasional kitchen clatter may echo, so save this place for casual dinners or beer-fueled weekend hangs.
Oscar’s Deli & Grill
$ | (714) 838-3378 | WEBSITE
Oscar’s Deli & Grill gets points for having individual plates—you won’t have to jostle with your elbows to grab a stray fry, or spend the entire meal standing up in order to reach a shared basket of chips. But aside from being the most conducive to solo diners, this Tustin spot is also just really damn good. Their hearty breakfasts, like the Sausage burrito and classic eggs, pair perfectly with the range of sides, like mac salad, house chips, and fresh fruit.
It’s not fine dining, so choose your meal (the Roast Beef sandwich for $12 easily fills you up) and go to town at the condiment-heavy counter of your dreams.
American Grub
$ | (714) 505-3500 | WEBSITE
At American Grub in Tustin, you’ll devour a burger the size of your head while sinking into their comfy booths. The burger joint is a prime family destination with kid-friendly menus, keto options available, and an atmosphere that’s as clean and cute as a freshly scrubbed kitchen.
The Wyatt Earp burger runs about $16, but if you’re not ready to commit to that mountain of perfectly cooked patty, crunchy onion rings, and crisp bacon, you can still build your own with their reasonable à la carte options (they range from $12 to $18). And save room for the pleasant downtown view from their outdoor seating—it’s the perfect cherry on top of a delicious meal.
STOWAWAY
$$ | (657) 208-2088 | WEBSITE
If you simply can’t decide between a tropical cocktail or a flaming rum drink, get both at STOWAWAY. This Tiki bar-friendly spot in Orange County has bamboo furniture, comfy stools, and a Skull Cave creating a dark, fun atmosphere. For about $16, choose from a variety of rums and order a large shareable drink like the Tropical Margarita or Cococano served in fun ceramic sculptures (the Cococano with its ceramic presentation is a must).
One thing to note is that STOWAWAY’s drinks are delicious and not overly sugary, so there is some strategy involved. If you miscalculated and get a little peckish, or need an activity to fill the time, ask the friendly bartender about the Tiki ceramics and glassware or turn around and get a few plates of coconut shrimp and curry fries. If you’re not the sharing type, STOWAWAY also has attentive service that checks on you frequently, ensuring you never want for another drink.
Ruby’s Diner
$ | (714) 838-7829 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a spot that feels like a warm hug, Ruby’s Diner is your place. This classic American joint in Tustin offers straightforward comfort food, and everything is reasonably priced—most burgers and shakes come in around $12-15. You’ll walk into a clean space with retro booths and chrome accents, where 50’s music plays softly in the background.
The menu features tasty options like the RubyMelt, Fish and Chips, and decadent desserts such as strawberry cheesecake and double chocolate chip shakes. After you order, the friendly staff will check on you regularly, making sure your experience is pleasant from start to finish. It might take a visit or two to settle on your favorite dish—thankfully the shakes are so good they’ll make any choice feel right.
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews
$ | (714) 258-7657 | WEBSITE
For those craving a no-fuss burger that hits the spot every single time, make your way to Red Robin. The American restaurant in Tustin has a lineup of gourmet burgers that arrive stacked high with both classic and creative toppings—think bacon, avocado, and pepper jack cheese. We like the tavern double, which has two juicy patties, plus lettuce, tomato, and pickles to round out the beefiness, and will run you $16.
Also know that no visit here is complete without grabbing a basket of their bottomless steak fries.
Eat Fantastic
$ | (714) 852-3623 | WEBSITE
Looking for a fantastic burger in Tustin? Look no further than Eat Fantastic. Grab a seat on the clean patio at this walk-up restaurant for a chance at the Fantastic Burger, the smash-style masterpiece that comes with perfectly cooked patties, melty cheese, and fresh toppings for around $12. Then pair it with hot chili fries or a chicken wrap for a complete meal. Drive-thru service means you can enjoy quality takeout without leaving your car.
For those who hate making decisions, get the Fantastic Burger combo (it left our table so satisfied we could barely finish our shakes) with the free ketchup. The friendly staff and fair prices make this spot a great alternative to fast food chains, though some wish the shakes were thicker. Whether you’re dining in for breakfast with their perfectly fluffy pancakes or grabbing takeout, Eat Fantastic delivers a consistently delicious experience that keeps customers coming back.
The Stand – American Classics Redefined
$ | (714) 477-5900 | WEBSITE
Anyone craving a classic American burger experience with a thoughtful twist should head to this consistently impressive spot in Tustin (expect to spend $14-22 per burger, depending on your choice). Each plate comes with meticulous attention to detail—when in doubt, go for the French onion burger and the must-have chili fries. As with any burger joint worth its weight in beef, everything is fresh and well-prepared.
Keep the delicious Cookie Butter shake coming, along with the crisp salads that you can see being assembled with care right behind the counter. And save room for the efficient online ordering and catering services, a much-appreciated convenience after all that amazing food.
Burger Boss
$ | (657) 245-3080 | WEBSITE
Burger Boss’s claim to fame is their smash burger, but the Tustin favorite also serves up solid vegetarian and keto options at lunch. For $15, you get a grass-fed beef patty with caramelized onions, fresh toppings, and a side of Boss Fries—or you can go for the black bean burger.
Sinking into one of the clean, comfortable booths with a halal beef burger is a great way to elevate a casual lunch break—but really, stop by anytime you need a meal with enough tasty, fresh ingredients and super friendly service to remind yourself that good food and happy staff still exist.
In-N-Out Burger
$ | (800) 786-1000 | WEBSITE
The consistent quality at In-N-Out Burger is what makes grabbing a burger here a reliably satisfying experience. For about $10 per person, you can enjoy their signature protein-style options—including the lettuce-wrapped burger with all the extras like fresh lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles, served with sauce on the side. Their straightforward menu feels like a trusted classic as burgers are prepared with only fresh ingredients, never frozen or cooked on gas ranges.
Never get tired of the basics thanks to the friendly staff who greet customers warmly and sometimes bring food right to your table. And while many burger spots in California focus on elaborate toppings, there’s something special about their focus on freshness and great value that keeps loyal fans coming back.