In the heart of La Mesa, a burger revolution quietly took place when Frank Schulz brought a taste of Oklahoma to Southern California. 🍔
Duke’s Old Fashioned Onion Burgers delivers a unique burger experience that transforms the humble hamburger into something extraordinary through a simple yet brilliant technique—cooking thinly sliced onions directly into the patty.
How they won La Mesa/San Diego hearts
Frank Schulz, a San Diego native who spent 34 years in Oklahoma, returned home with a mission to introduce his beloved onion burgers to his hometown.
He started with pop-up restaurants to test the waters and discovered that locals immediately fell in love with this Depression-era creation. 🧅
The restaurant’s commitment to freshness captivated La Mesa residents from day one—Duke’s uses only fresh Angus beef shipped from Tennessee and makes nearly everything in-house, including their zingy pickles that add the perfect punch to each bite.
The restaurant quickly earned a reputation for exceptional quality and generous portions, with many customers raving about the family-like atmosphere. Duke’s popularity soared as word spread about their juicy, flavorful burgers that offer a taste experience unlike any other burger joint in town. 🌟
The restaurant’s name comes from Frank’s beloved dog, adding a personal touch that resonates with the community.
Food Highlights
- Single Onion Burger: A juicy six-to-eight-ounce Angus beef patty smashed with caramelized onions, creating a flavor bomb that melts in your mouth 🤤
- Double Onion Burger: For serious eaters, this substantial burger doubles the beef and onion goodness—a true value for those with hearty appetites
- Triple Onion Burger: So massive the menu asks “What were you thinking?”—a challenge for even the hungriest customers
- Chili Cheese Burger: A perfect combination of their signature burger topped with house-made bean-free chili and melted cheese
- Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sandwich: Hand-breaded chicken breast topped with hot honey butter and pickles—a sweet and spicy alternative to their beef offerings
- Chili Cheese Fries: A mountain of fresh-cut, double-fried potatoes smothered in their famous chili—nearly perfect enough to visit for these alone! 🍟
Atmosphere
Duke’s creates a warm, welcoming environment that feels like a mom-and-pop shop rather than just another burger joint. 🏡
The aroma of sizzling beef and caramelized onions fills the air, making mouths water upon entry. With both indoor and outdoor seating available, the casual setting invites families and friends to gather and enjoy exceptional food.
The friendly staff provides attentive service that makes customers feel right at home, creating a dining experience that’s as enjoyable as the food itself.
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Bottom Line
Duke’s Old Fashioned Onion Burgers delivers an authentic taste of Oklahoma that has successfully won over San Diego palates. 🏆
The combination of high-quality ingredients, house-made components, and the unique onion-infused patties creates a burger experience worth seeking out.
Address: 5020 Baltimore Dr, La Mesa, CA 91942
đź“ž (619) 439-6177
🕔 Open Everyday 11 AM – 9 PM