Top Honors for The Habit Burger Grill
USA Today’s list, published Wednesday, named The Habit Burger Grill’s Double Char as the nation’s best fast-food burger.
Source: The Habit
The simple, yet reportedly delicious sandwich features two grilled beef patties, caramelized onions, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise on a toasted bun. Customers can also add cheese for an extra indulgence.
The Rise of The Habit
Founded in Santa Barbara in the late 1960s, The Habit Burger Grill has steadily grown its reputation.
Source: Julian Myles/Unsplash
The chain’s focus on quality ingredients and flame-grilled burgers has helped it stand out in the competitive fast-food market, with the spirit of Santa Barbara being central to The Habit’s identity.
In-N-Out's Second Place Finish
Despite its iconic status, In-N-Out Burger’s Double-Double took second place in the survey. Known for its fresh ingredients and secret menu, In-N-Out has a loyal following.
Source: In-N-Out
However, the competition has become fiercer as other chains innovate their menus.
Other Top Contenders
Florida-based BurgerFi secured third place with its BBQ Rodeo Burger, featuring crispy onions and tangy barbecue sauce.
Eater San Diego
San Diego-based Jack in the Box ranked fourth with its Jumbo Jack Cheeseburger. These chains demonstrate the diverse and creative options available in today’s fast-food landscape.
Jack in the Box and Carl's Jr. Shine
Two other California-linked chains made the top ten: Jack in the Box and Carl’s Jr. Jack in the Box’s Jumbo Jack Cheeseburger earned the fourth spot, while Carl’s Jr.’s Double Western Bacon Cheeseburger ranked ninth.
Source: Freepik
Both chains have deep roots in California’s fast-food history.
Ranking Methodology
To determine the best fast-food burgers, USA Today relied on its Best 10 Readers’ Choice Awards for 2024.
Source: Lukas/Pexels
A panel of experts nominated chains across various categories, and readers voted for their favorites. This democratic approach highlights the public’s love for quality burgers.
The Habit Burger Grill's Menu
Beyond its award-winning Double Char, The Habit Burger Grill offers a variety of options.
Source: The Habit
The menu includes chicken bites, sandwiches, salads, onion rings, fries, and even tempura green beans — not exactly something you see at every fast food establishment. Desserts such as shakes, sundaes, and ice cream add a sweet touch to the dining experience.
Innovative Flavors and Combinations
Today’s burger menus are far from the simple offerings of the past. USA Today noted that modern menus are packed with creative combinations of flavors.
Source: RDNE Stock project/Pexels
This trend allows diners to enjoy custom-tailored burgers that cater to their tastes, making the fast-food experience more exciting.
California's Burger Legacy
California’s influence on the fast-food industry is undeniable, even though the minimum wage hike has certainly thrown a wrench in the industry as a whole.
Source: Eric Chan, Wikimedia
From In-N-Out Burger’s fresh, simple approach to The Habit’s innovative flavors, the state continues to shape the national burger scene.
A Burger Lover's Paradise
For those seeking the best burgers in the country, California is a must-visit destination. The state’s diverse and high-quality offerings ensure that burger enthusiasts can enjoy a range of flavors and styles.
Source: Freepik
The 2024 USA Today survey confirms that California remains a leader in the fast-food burger world.
The Future of Fast-Food Burgers
As burger chains continue to innovate and evolve, the competition for the top spot will only intensify.
Source: Gerson Repreza/Unsplash
The success of The Habit Burger Grill shows that dedication to quality and creativity can pay off.