In the heart of Oakland, TrueBurger at 146 Grand Ave burst onto the scene in 2010, founded by local Bay Area chefs Greg Eng and Jason Low.
They spotted a gap for quality burgers beyond fast-food chains like In-N-Out, offering all-natural, pasture-raised beef ground daily with no hormones or antibiotics.
Affordable prices and diner-style smash burgers on soft egg buns quickly drew crowds hungry for something real.
Word spread through rave reviews about juicy patties and crispy fries, turning this spot into a local legend.
Over the years, loyal fans returned for the consistency and friendly vibe that feels like home.
How TrueBurger won locals’ hearts
Back in 2010, Oakland’s burger scene leaned heavily on fast-food giants, leaving room for something better.
TrueBurger stepped up with hand-formed patties from premium beef, seared diner-style on the griddle.
Founders Greg Eng and Jason Low, both local cooks, nailed the mission: great food at reasonable prices.
Customers raved about the juicy, consistent quality that beat chain burgers every time.
One fan called it “SO SO SO GOOD” after grabbing a bacon cheeseburger and fries, while others obsessed over the garlic mayo as the secret weapon.
This hole-in-the-wall charm, paired with fast service, won over neighborhoods craving authenticity amid economic recovery.
TrueBurger became the go-to for late lunches and satisfying meals, building a cult following through sheer deliciousness.
Word-of-mouth turned first-timers into regulars, with many declaring it Oakland’s best burger joint.
The simplicity—no preservatives, just quality—resonated, especially as smash burger trends later exploded.
Food Highlights
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True Burger: Classic 1/3 lb patty with garlic mayo, lettuce, and tomato; a must-try for its juicy simplicity and as the top-ordered item per reviews.
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True Deluxe: Upgraded True Burger with add-ons like cheese; popular for extra flavor punch that keeps fans coming back.
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Mushroom Burger: Features crispy portobello mushrooms stuffed with smoked mozzarella on egg bun; loved for the hearty, meaty vegetarian twist.
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Double Cheese Burger: Two beef patties with melted cheese; a Yelp favorite for its filling, messy-good satisfaction.
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Bacon Cheesy Trueburger: True Burger loaded with bacon and cheese; raved about for smoky, indulgent perfection in every bite.
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Double Burger: Double patties for ultimate hunger-busting; reviewers call it fluffy-bunned juicy bliss.
Atmosphere
TrueBurger rocks a vibrant, mural-decorated space that buzzes with energy.
It’s a no-fuss hole-in-the-wall perfect for quick grabs or casual hangs. Fast, friendly service keeps lines moving, though some note cleaning could amp up.
Inside seating adds to the lively local vibe.
Bottom Line
Visit for juicy smash burgers, crispy garlic fries, affordable quality, friendly speed, and that unbeatable local love. Under 50 words of pure burger heaven!
Address: 146 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94612
📞 (510) 208-5678
🕔 Tue-Sun 11AM-8PM (varies; closed Mon)