Even if you’ve perfected your backyard grill technique or found that trendy spot with the artisanal brioche, sometimes you just need a proper burger joint. No worrying about whether the cheese will melt just right, if the bacon is crispy enough, or if your homemade special sauce will live up to the hype. So we hit the streets and found the best burger spots in Vacaville—where every bite is worth the trip.
Falafel & Gyro
$ | (707) 689-5665 | WEBSITE
After a long day of errands around Vacaville, you usually face one of two predicaments: the endless strip-mall sameness or the crowded chain-restaurant lines. Instead, make the quick detour to Falafel & Gyro. The clean, spacious, no-frills spot has plenty of tables, a friendly owner who remembers regulars, and such generous portions you’ll think your wallet is actually getting a workout.
It’s the exact place you should spend a relaxed half-hour savoring $12 combo plates and crispy falafel while enjoying the kind of gracious service that feels increasingly rare.
Shula’s Kitchen 707
$ | (707) 305-6258 | WEBSITE
Shula’s Kitchen 707 isn’t just a taco spot—it’s a destination. It’s been serving up delicious Mexican dishes since before quesabirria tacos became a trend (the real good old days) and, despite its popularity, has a bunch of fresh toppings with all of the savory flavors you crave but rarely find elsewhere. Shula’s gets pretty busy during lunch hours, especially when the birria tacos come out hot at noon, so showing up early is encouraged if you want to snag one of their family-friendly tables.
University of Beer – Vacaville
$$ | (707) 474-7545 | WEBSITE
University of Beer is where Vacaville heads to catch a game, order a plate of nachos, and ignore them for the third quarter of the Warriors broadcast. The menu here is far more elaborate than you might expect at a sports bar, and it’s all pretty skippable (except for the pulled pork mac and cheese). Go for a mangonada margarita, but heads up–you may flinch when you take a sip of the Tajin-rimmed cocktail.
It’s a shock to your palate that reminds you the rest of the world exists, including whatever you ordered.
Buckhorn BBQ + Grill
$ | (707) 452-0648 | WEBSITE
Some barbecue spots are quiet, have a single smoker, and a few people chatting softly about the latest sports scores. Then there are the lively joints where everything from the rustic wood decor to the aroma of smoked meats makes you feel like you’re at a Texas cookout. Buckhorn BBQ + Grill in Vacaville falls into the latter category. It has all the markings of a classic barbecue haven: weathered signage outside, a long wooden bar stocked with local brews, and lots of warm lighting inside.
They make some of our favorite tri-tip in town, so whether you’re there to celebrate with friends over burnt ends or meet up for an IPA-paired Happy Hour (they have solid combos), prioritize the pulled pork and waffle fries.
Burger City
$ | (707) 448-3377 | WEBSITE
When you walk into Burger City on a game day, you’ll quickly realize that you’ll be taking home leftovers by the time you leave. That’s because the popular local restaurant is one of the most generous in the neighborhood. It’s one of those classic diner spots where you’ll see people run into their childhood neighbors or high school science teachers and share a basket of sweet potato fries.
When it comes to food, go for an order of the Nutty Burger with peanut butter and fried onions or fish and chips, and consider watching the game with your English teacher at the sports bar.
Burger King
$ | (707) 448-8681 | WEBSITE
A lot of fast-food chains feel generic and have about as much personality as a cardboard box, but this Burger King in Vacaville is none of those things. It’s a popular spot that’s considered one of the best in Solano County, and it has fresh tea that stands out from other locations. The staff situation is a little more mixed than other places on this list, and orders can sometimes take longer than expected, but we shouldn’t have to wait in the parking lot for over ten minutes anyway.
Despite occasional delays, the cashiers are generally friendly and ask how you’re doing, and Nick has been especially patient and kind with developmentally delayed clients. The Whopper with cheese is solid, and overall, it provides a satisfactory dining experience even if quality can vary across visits.
Five Guys
$ | (707) 447-1477 | WEBSITE
Burger joints come in all shapes and (patty) sizes. Take Five Guys in Vacaville, for example—it serves consistently good food, provides a welcoming atmosphere, and has friendly, accommodating staff who go the extra mile to make customers feel special. The place is kept clean and organized, but what the cashier does at the register shouldn’t have all your attention.
Save that for the beautifully crafted burgers with large, thick, flavorful patties, the plentiful and tasty fries that are a highlight, and families enjoying the quick service experience that leads to repeat visits. Come in and enjoy a meal that’s well worth the cost or your child’s smile when they get special treatment. Whichever comes first.
Fosters Freeze
$ | (707) 448-1400 | WEBSITE
If you’re still searching for the nostalgia you’ve been missing since childhood road trips, Vacaville’s Fosters Freeze is for you. In addition to the charming vintage diner atmosphere, there’s a clean and adorable interior, and one employee who’s been there for around 40 years, making every visit feel special. And with quick and friendly service, there’s no better place to grab a hot and tasty burger or a must-try ice cream treat when you’re looking for a quick stop after shopping.
There’s a welcoming spot with delicious burgers and excellent ice cream, and they serve pretty good Vanilla Malts, twisters, shakes, and sundaes, all at reasonable prices under $10.
Nation’s Giant Hamburgers & Great Pies
$ | (707) 446-8881 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving a classic burger in Vacaville, you can find plenty of spots with decent patties and standard toppings. But if you want something truly memorable, your options narrow considerably. Among the local favorites, Nation’s Giant Hamburgers & Great Pies stands out as the clear winner. Unlike many burger joints that stick to the basics, Nation’s offers a full menu that includes not just their signature burgers but also a rotating selection of seasonal pies.
You can expect to enjoy juicy burgers with crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes, golden onion rings that crunch with every bite, and slices of pie that change with the seasons. Bring the whole family here, and since they’re wheelchair accessible with wide aisles, everyone can settle in for a satisfying meal in their clean, welcoming dining room.
IHOP
$ | (707) 317-1304 | WEBSITE
Vacaville’s go-to breakfast and brunch spot landed on a convenient corner, and it’s packed with friendly servers, efficient service, and a clean location that’s perfect for special occasions like Mother’s Day, where the staff handed out roses. There’s not a huge menu at IHOP—Belgian waffles, chicken and pesto crepes, and other satisfying meals. But the food is tasty, the parking is ample and free, and whether you’re starting your day or celebrating with family, these dishes suffice.
Get there early on weekends for a chance at a table, though be aware that an unpleasant sewage-like smell from outside can occasionally affect the dining experience.