Since 1974, Jack’s Hamburgers has been flipping burgers in downtown Santa Cruz, serving generations of locals and beachgoers looking for authentic California burger joint vibes. 🍔
This family-owned restaurant specializes in perfectly grilled burgers with fresh ingredients, thick-cut crispy fries, and specialty creations that keep Santa Cruz residents coming back decade after decade.
The current owner has been serving the City of Santa Cruz for 28 years as the third proprietor, maintaining the tradition of fast food served in a clean environment at fair prices. ✨
How Jack’s Hamburgers won Santa Cruz’s hearts
Jack’s Hamburgers opened in 1974 and quickly established itself as the go-to burger spot for Santa Cruz locals craving classic American comfort food done right.
The restaurant earned its reputation through consistently delicious burgers cooked to perfection, with patties grilled until crispy around the edges while staying juicy inside. 🔥
The laid-back atmosphere perfectly captures Santa Cruz’s casual beach town spirit, with outdoor seating that lets you enjoy California sunshine with your meal. ☀️
Jack’s has maintained its classic burger joint appeal through five decades, resisting trendy changes while staying true to what made them special from day one.
The proximity to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk makes it the perfect stop before or after beach adventures, with plenty of seating inside to enjoy your meal comfortably.
Customers consistently praise the crispy, thick-cut fries that are considered some of the best around, perfectly complementing every burger on the menu. 🍟
Food Highlights
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Swiss & Mushroom Burger: A specialty hamburger topped with sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese, creating an earthy, rich flavor profile. 🍄
- Western Burger: A BBQ-inspired creation that brings smoky, tangy flavors to the table, capturing the spirit of classic American cookouts.
- Bacon Cheeseburger: The crowd favorite features thick, flavorful bacon strips layered with melted cheese on a perfectly grilled patty.
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Chipotle Burger: Grilled beef patty with chipotle sauce that brings smoky heat to every bite, served with lettuce, tomatoes, and grilled onions on a sesame-seeded bun. 🌶️
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Flyin’ Hawaiian Burger: This tropical specialty combines sweet and savory elements with grilled pineapple.
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Diablo Burger with “The Works”: Loaded with all the fixings, this specialty burger delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction in every bite. 🔥
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Double Cheeseburger: For serious burger enthusiasts, this double patty masterpiece delivers twice the beef and twice the cheese. 🍔
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Salmon Burger: Grilled salmon patty topped with citrus mayonnaise and mango salsa, offering a lighter yet equally delicious alternative.
Atmosphere
The casual, laid-back vibe creates a welcoming environment that embodies Santa Cruz’s relaxed beach town culture, where everyone feels comfortable regardless of what they’re wearing.
Outdoor seating lets you soak up California sunshine while enjoying your meal, perfect for people-watching in downtown Santa Cruz before hitting the beach.
The clean and safe environment maintains classic burger joint aesthetics without feeling dated, striking the perfect balance between nostalgic and well-maintained. 😊
Bottom Line
Visit for perfectly cooked burgers that are crispy on the edges and juicy inside, and particularly specialty burgers like Swiss & Mushroom and Chipotle.
The thick-cut crispy fries are legendary and considered some of the best in Santa Cruz.
Over 50 years of tradition means they’ve perfected the art of classic American burgers.
Address:
202 Lincoln St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
📞 (831) 423-4421
🕔 Open Mon-Thurs 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Fri 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Sat 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Closed Sun