Santa Maria’s iconic hamburger stand reopened in 2024 after a three-year closure, bringing back the Billy Burger and deep-fried burritos that locals missed desperately.
The Barragan family has owned this spot since 1974, creating five decades of memories in the distinctive red-and-white building that earned “Object of Historical Merit Award” from the City of Santa Maria Landmark Committee.
When it reopened, hundreds of people lined up for more than three hours, proving this place holds special significance far beyond just food. 🍔
View this post on Instagram
The 1950s-era drive-in style architecture transports customers back to simpler times when cruising Broadway meant stopping for a Billy Burger fix.
Operating since 1974 at the corner of North Broadway and West El Camino Street, this family-run institution serves original recipes that haven’t changed in 50 years.
The menu hasn’t expanded into trendy territory—just honest fast food done exceptionally well at prices that won’t wreck your wallet.
The Billy Burger: Simple, Delicious, Legendary
This signature burger keeps it refreshingly simple, avoiding the “big and messy” trap that plagues modern burgers. Fresh beef, quality ingredients, and affordable pricing create something special without unnecessary complications.
View this post on Instagram
Customers who’ve eaten Billy Burgers for 50 years still come back, bringing their children and grandchildren to share the experience. Reviewers praise the unique taste and nostalgic flavors that trigger memories of cruising Santa Maria’s Broadway in the ’70s and ’80s.
This is the burger that made people wait three hours in line on reopening day.
Deep Fried Burrito: The Hangover Hero
The deep-fried burrito remains one of the most ordered items, earning legendary status among regulars. Customers specifically mention this alongside the Billy Burger as their must-order item, creating memories that last decades.
The crispy exterior gives way to savory filling that hits differently than a standard burrito. Paired with fries and a large Coke, it becomes the ultimate comfort meal. The frying process creates textural contrast—crunchy outside, soft and flavorful inside—that makes each bite satisfying. Reviewers note the food stays “always consistent and fresh”, proving the Barragan family’s commitment to maintaining quality standards across five decades. 🌯
Weekend Menudo: Family Recipe Worth Waking Up For
Every Saturday and Sunday, Bill’s serves menudo made from the Barragan family’s own recipe, opening at 7:30 AM on weekends specifically to accommodate the breakfast crowd. Locals affectionately call it “the hangover menudo”, and for good reason.
The traditional Mexican soup comes with all the proper accompaniments—onions, cilantro, lime, and fresh bread for dipping. This family recipe has been perfected over generations, creating the kind of authentic flavors you can’t fake or shortcut. The weekend-only availability makes it special, giving people a reason to wake up early and make Bill’s part of their Saturday or Sunday ritual.
Atmosphere
The classic 1950s drive-in architecture features that iconic red-and-white exterior that screams vintage Americana. The building itself earned historical recognition, cementing its place in Santa Maria’s cultural landscape.
The vibe stays true to old-fashioned fast food where you order at the window and take your food to go or eat at outdoor tables. After a complete refurbishment, the restaurant maintains its original charm while meeting modern standards. Families create memories here across multiple generations—grandparents who cruised here in the ’70s now bring their grandkids. The nostalgic atmosphere enhances every meal, making it about more than just food. 🎶
Bottom Line
-
Family-owned and operated since 1974 celebrating 50 years in business
-
Original recipes unchanged for five decades maintaining authentic flavors
-
Historic landmark building recognized by City of Santa Maria for architectural significance
-
Weekend menudo made from family recipe served Saturdays and Sundays starting at 7:30 AM
-
Soft serve ice cream blends and Billy Bars to take home
Address: 523 N Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454
📞 (805) 922-6116
🕔 Mon-Thu: 10 AM–8 PM, Fri: 10 AM–8:30 PM, Sat-Sun: 7:30 AM–8:30 PM