The Astronomer and I first noticed Fair Oaks Burger while dining al fresco across the street at Pizza of Venice. Its promise of all-American burgers as well as Chinese and Mexican fare piqued our collective stomachs, so we agreed to stop in for a bite soon. I like to support local businesses.
Our family strolled to Fair Oaks Burger for dinner last Friday night. I was craving a cheeseburger, June was in the mood for noodles, and The Astronomer was up for anything, per usual. Three cuisines under one roof is certainly convenient!
As we lined up at the counter and placed our awesomely diverse order—one cheeseburger, a plate of chow mein, and a carne asada taco—I kept thinking to myself that this was an “only in L.A.” kinda moment.
My cheeseburger combo ($6.19) was good, but not exceptional. Super Burger still makes my favorite cheeseburger in the neighborhood. The quarter-pound patty was cooked through, while the single slice of American was melty enough. It was served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, grilled onion, pickles, Thousand Island, and mayonnaise.
June and I agreed that highlight of the basket was the onion rings. So crispy, so golden…
June and The Astronomer shared the Grilled Tiger Shrimp chow mein ($8.29) with carrots, broccoli, cabbage, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and bean sprouts in a “homemade teriyaki sauce.” June was pleased with her choice, and The Astronomer was pleased that the shrimp were cooked well.
And finally, a carne asada taco ($1.69) with all the toppings—onion, tomato, cilantro, and cheese. Similar to my burger, the taco was good but not exceptional.
While no one particular dish blew us away this evening, we’re super-stoked to have such variety within walking distance of home. Who says nobody walks in L.A.?
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Fair Oaks Burger
2560 Fair Oaks Avenue
Altadena, CA 91001
Phone: 626-398-3630
One year ago: Suburban Years: Lessons Learned in Home Buying
Two years ago: Knuckle & Claw – Los Angeles (Silverlake)
Three years ago: Flour + Water – San Francisco
Four year ago: Xiao Long Bao in Shanghai: Xiao Jin Ling
Five years ago: Proof Bakery – Los Angeles (Atwater Village)
Six years ago: Dinner at Farmshop – Los Angeles (Santa Monica)
Seven years ago: Flour Bakery + Cafe – Boston
Eight years ago: Corton – New York City
Nine years ago: Cơm Gà Xối Mỡ – Vietnamese Fried Chicken
Ten years ago: Chuối Nếp Nướng
Eleven years ago: Irish Pub – Philadelphia
I’ve been here a couple of times over the years. It’s a fun place… but not a particularly good place. I think it exists mostly to give folks a quick and inexpensive lunch option.
Justin – The neighborhood adores this place. It was pretty busy at dinner too!
You should have had the Fair Oaks Burger! Also for gluten fre, they make it lettuce wrapped that doesn’t fall apart while eating. Many of their sauces are homemade. One of the sisters that own it is a cordon Blue graduate. Try it again
Nice! I will certainly try it next time, Susan.