Hawkins House of Burgers in Watts opens with a bold claim that’s easy to verify and even harder to ignore: it proudly calls itself the “Home of the Best Burger in Los Angeles and Beyond.
The restaurant serves customers daily from morning until early evening, giving locals and visitors plenty of time to stop by for one of its legendary burgers or hearty comfort food favorites.
That level of confidence isn’t just marketing—it reflects the long-standing reputation Hawkins has built over the years.
Reviewers regularly describe it as a legendary Los Angeles institution, especially in the Watts neighborhood, where generations of customers have made it their go-to spot for oversized burgers and satisfying comfort food. 🍔🔥
How Hawkins House of Burgers Won Locals’ Hearts in Los Angeles
Hawkins House of Burgers earned its loyal following the old-fashioned way: by consistently serving generous portions and flavorful comfort food that keeps people coming back.
Customer reviews often mention that families have been visiting for years, praising the restaurant’s massive burgers and food that’s well worth the drive.
Many first-time visitors quickly become repeat customers after seeing just how large and satisfying the burgers really are.
Part of that loyalty also comes from the restaurant’s surprisingly diverse menu, which offers far more than its famous burgers.
Beyond its signature burgers, Hawkins also serves wings, breakfast plates, tacos, burritos, sandwiches, and other comfort food favorites, making it easy for every guest to find something they’ll enjoy.
This variety allows families, groups, and returning customers to order something different while still enjoying the same generous portions the restaurant is known for.
Instead of relying on just one signature item, the restaurant has built its reputation by offering consistently high-quality meals and friendly neighborhood service.
Its commitment to serving hearty food and maintaining reliable quality has helped build lasting trust with both locals and visitors.
Many guests appreciate that the menu stays true to classic comfort food rather than constantly chasing new trends.
That combination of quality, variety, generous portions, and decades of community support has helped Hawkins House of Burgers remain one of Los Angeles’ most beloved burger destinations.
Food Highlights at Hawkins House of Burgers
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Fat Burger: Reviewers call this the go-to for a big, juicy burger with plenty of toppings; several say to add bacon and cheese for the full experience. 🍔
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Whipper Burger: Coverage and reviews repeatedly name this as one of the signature orders, and outside praise points to Hawkins making one of the city’s best cheeseburgers.
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Turkey Burger: Popular-dishes lists put this on the shortlist, and diners mention it as a solid alternate route when you want the Hawkins experience without the classic beef route.
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Chicken Wings: The wings are on the menu and come up in reviews as a shareable add-on, making them a smart second order when you’re not here just for burgers. 🍗
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Chili Cheese Fries: Tripadvisor reviewers call these out specifically, which is usually a good sign that the fries are doing real work, not just background duty.
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Hot Link: Another popular menu item, and a reminder that this is a broader diner-style stop, not just a burger-only operation. 🌭
Hawkins House of Burgers’ Atmosphere
This is a counter-service spot with a no-frills feel, and one review thread even notes there is no seating, so the vibe is more grab-and-go than linger-and-lunch.
The energy sounds loud, busy, and very much in the rhythm of a neighborhood institution. Some reviewers love the buzzer system; others mention waits, so patience appears to be part of the ritual. ⏱️
Bottom Line
Go for the huge portions, the burger reputation, the extra menu variety, and the plainspoken, old-school Watts energy. It’s a place people argue about, which is often how you know a local classic is still doing something right. 🍟
Address: 11603 Slater St Los Angeles, CA 90059
📞 (323) 563-1129
🕔Open daily Mon–Sun: 8:00 AM–6:30 PM