Why Long Beach Locals Are Obsessed with This Underrated Midwestern Burger Joint

Tucked away on 4th Street near Retro Row, Sideburns has quietly become one of Long Beach’s most beloved burger destinations since opening in 2019. 🍔

What started as a pandemic-era takeout operation has transformed into a full-fledged burger sensation that’s got locals choosing it over the city’s other solid burger contenders.

This isn’t your typical California burger joint.

This Tiny Long Beach Burger Spot Has the City’s Most Die-Hard Fans

Sideburns serves up Midwestern-inspired bar food classics with a serious commitment to quality that keeps people coming back week after week.

The sister restaurant to the famous Stache Bar next door, this compact spot has earned a reputation for serving what many consider the best burger in Long Beach.

The secret to their success?

perfectly smashed patties that deliver maximum flavor with every bite, generous portions that won’t break the bank, and a menu so inclusive that vegans and omnivores can actually share a meal together without anyone feeling left out.

It’s the kind of place where first-time visitors find themselves still thinking about their burger months later, dreaming about that crispy edge and juicy center.

From their signature smashburgers to creative specialty options loaded with unexpected toppings, Sideburns has mastered the art of the American burger without all the pretension, proving that you don’t need white tablecloths and sommeliers to create something truly memorable.

The formula is simple: take bar food classics from across the country, add Midwestern authenticity, and execute everything with precision.

The result is a menu that pairs perfectly with craft beers from next door while standing strong on its own merits, offering something for virtually every craving and dietary preference under one roof.

What really sets this spot apart is their full vegan menu that runs parallel to their traditional offerings, because it’s incredibly rare to find a burger joint where plant-based eaters get the same level of attention and creativity as meat lovers, but Sideburns delivers on both fronts without compromise. 🌱

The kitchen cranks out crowd-pleasers like traditional poutine, cheese curds, Chicago dogs, and fried chicken sandwiches alongside their burger lineup, but make no mistake—the burgers are the real stars here.

Reviewers can’t stop gushing about the quality of the smash technique, with many noting that ordering a double patty gives you the perfect bun-to-meat ratio that elevates the entire experience and creates that ideal balance of textures and flavors.

Even the sides get major love, especially the hand-cut fries and those addictive tater tots that some say deserve five stars all on their own. 🍟

Food Highlights

• The Italian Stallion Burger: This showstopper features burrata cheese, sun-dried tomato pesto mayo, grilled tomato, and fresh arugula piled high on their signature house-made patty, creating an elevated burger experience that tastes like Italy crashed into the Midwest in the best possible way.

• Smashburger: The foundation of everything great about this place, Sideburns’ classic smashburger delivers that crispy, caramelized edge on a thin patty that burger purists dream about, and locals swear it’s an absolute must-try for first-timers.

• Vegan Works Burger: Proving that plant-based doesn’t mean boring, this fully loaded vegan option has earned devoted fans who claim it rivals any meat burger in town, making it a game-changer for vegan visitors.

• Backyard BBQ Burger: A crowd-favorite that brings classic American BBQ flavors to every bite, this burger satisfies those craving smoky, tangy goodness without leaving Long Beach.

• Poutine: This traditional Midwestern staple comes loaded with cheese curds and gravy, and reviewers call it the surprise star of the menu that you absolutely can’t skip.

• Mushroom Swiss Burger: Simple but executed to perfection, this classic combination earns high marks from diners who appreciate straightforward flavors done exceptionally well.

Atmosphere

Sideburns rocks a casual, neighborhood walk-up counter vibe with high school cafeteria-style booths that feel nostalgic and unpretentious. 🎯

The small, understated space connects directly to The Stache Bar next door, so you can grab your burger and post up with a craft beer in the bar area if you want.

It’s the kind of charming, diner-style spot where comfort reigns supreme and nobody’s trying to impress you with fancy decor.

The focus stays laser-locked on what matters most: seriously good food served without attitude.

Bottom Line

Absolutely killer smashburgers that live up to the hype, a rare full vegan menu that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, Midwestern bar food classics executed with precision, late-night hours perfect for post-bar cravings, and prices so reasonable that two people eat well under $30. 🙌

Address:

939 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90802

📞 Contact via The Stache Bar