The Friendly
Burger · San Diego
Sink your teeth into San Diego's best burger, near La Casa de Cortés
About The Friendly
At The Friendly, we're a neighborhood slice shop serving up more than just pizza – our daily-changing specials and juicy burgers are a staple of San Diego's food scene. Our no-frills space is where locals come to hang out with friends, and we're honored to be a part of the community. We've heard rav...
At The Friendly, we're a neighborhood slice shop serving up more than just pizza – our daily-changing specials and juicy burgers are a staple of San Diego's food scene. Our no-frills space is where locals come to hang out with friends, and we're honored to be a part of the community. We've heard rave reviews from customers who rave about our crispy crust, flavorful toppings, and attentive service that always puts a smile on their face – like our famous "Frenchie" burger, which has become a fan favorite.
What Customers Say About The Friendly
The Friendly is known for its incredible smash burgers, especially the Dirty Flat Top, which many reviewers claim is the best in San Diego. While the pizza is considered okay, the burgers and chill vibes, including music and beer, make it a popular spot.
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Tip: The Dirty Flat Top burger is a must-try, but be aware that no modifications are allowed. Also, the music can be loud, so consider ordering to go if you prefer a quieter experience.
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Frequently asked questions about The Friendly
The Friendly San Diego Reviews
This is exactly what you want when you're looking for a slice. Thin NY style crust. Nothing complicated for the toppings. It will fill your pie-hole. I was surprised to find Hamm's beer available. I hardly ever see that in the wild. As a side note, you get $1 off your order if you slam your beer first. I didn't attempt, I know my limits.
This place is a gem. Sternly friendly service that keeps the line moving. Three 6 Mafia bumping, and of course, one of the best burgers I've had I'm a while. Done quick, done right. I drove back today for another. Pizza is good as well. Pizza by the slice and a smash burger. Top notch.
I stopped by The Friendly and it definitely lived up to the hype. The burger was simple but incredibly flavorful, with perfectly melted cheese and a crispy smash-style patty. The place has a laid-back, no-frills vibe that feels very local. It’s a great spot in San Diego for a quick and seriously satisfying burger.
Baked potato burger special might be the best one yet. They absolutely kill it every time.
Love their pizza!! Good price for pizza by the slice. Loud music and great vibes!
Here for the one and only Dirty Flat Top Burger before leaving San Diego, and thankfully it didn’t just meet expectations—it exceeded them. 🍔 The vibe at The Friendly is as laid-back as it gets: chill atmosphere, staff blasting great music, and everyone clearly having fun while turning out killer food. Sometimes simple is the hardest thing to get right, but they absolutely nail it here. The $8 cheeseburger is an insane value—juicy, perfectly seasoned, and cooked exactly how a flat-top burger should be. Nothing fancy, no gimmicks, just flawless execution that somehow tastes totally unique. Huge kudos to the crew for doing something so simple so well. If you’re in San Diego and don’t stop here, you’re doing it wrong. 🔥
If you’re looking for the ultimate San Diego "if you know, you know" spot, look no further than The Friendly on 30th Street. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a full-on mood. From the second you walk in, the vibe is electric—early 2000s hip hop is bumping, the cooks are locked in with that focused "cook vibe," and the energy is pure North Park cool. Whether you’re grabbing a seat at the bar top to watch the magic happen or snagging one of the two-person tables inside or out, the flow is seamless. Even with customers trekking in from LA and all over SoCal, we sat right down with no wait. It’s the kind of place where everyone—from the staff to the crowd—just seems genuinely happy to be there. The Main Events 🍔 The "Dirty Flat Top" OG Cheeseburger This burger is a legend for a reason. I went with the double meat and original cheese, and it’s easily one of the best in the city. The patties are smashed thin on the flat top until the edges are crispy and caramelized, then smothered in gooey American cheese, buttery onions, and garlic aioli. It’s salty, savory, and hits that primal "perfect burger" spot. No modifications needed—it’s perfect as is. 🍕 The Slices (Flavor of the Month & OG Favorites) The Friendly proves you can do burgers and pizza at an elite level simultaneously. The Feature (Flavor of the Month): This month was a Beef, Cheese, and Tomato slice. It arrived hot, fresh, and packed with bold, savory flavors that worked perfectly with their signature thin, New York-style crust. The OG Favorite: You can’t go wrong with the Pepperoni and Jalapeño. The heat from the peppers cuts right through the salty pepperoni and rich cheese. These aren't just "good for a quick bite" slices—the quality and freshness rank them higher than almost any other slice shop in the area. The Verdict The Friendly is a total San Diego gem. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like a local the second time you visit. Between the "no-frills" attitude, the killer soundtrack, and food that actually lives up to the hype, it’s officially moving to the top of my "go-to" list. Pro Tip: If you see a "Chef Collaboration" special on the board, grab it. They frequently host top-tier chefs for limited-run items that are always mind-blowing. Would you like me to find their current "Flavor of the Month" or check if they have any upcoming chef collaborations scheduled?
The Friendly might be known as a pizza joint, but the real surprise is just how incredible their smashburgers are. I ordered one on a whim and ended up having my very first smashburger ever—and wow, it did not disappoint. Crispy edges, juicy center, perfect flavor… I’m still thinking about it. They also have a quirky little deal: if you shotgun a beer, you get a dollar off. I’d never shotgunned a beer in my life, but I went for it—and honestly, it made the whole experience even more fun. The vibe is casual, lively, and a little chaotic in the best way. The only downside is the parking… it definitely sucks in that neighborhood. Just pick a time of day when it’s less crowded and you’re golden. Overall, I’d totally go back for the smashburger alone. Great food, good energy, and an experience you don’t forget.
I moved away from San Diego and still dream about this place. The absolute perfect smash burger. No alterations allowed because they are simply not needed. Plus, they serve Hamms tallboys and a dollar off if you shotgun. Get one to sip and one to shotgun, maybe even another for the dudes on the grill. I am extremely jealous of their recent chef collabs because I would house every single one. I always looked forward to their Thanksgiving burg with the stuffing croquet. The tastiest food with the best playlist blasting through the speakers. It's a meal, a destination and a vibe. This place is a gem and the main reason I miss Normal Heights. They simply have no business being this tasty, affordable and real. I will never not pop in when I return to San Diego for a visit.
This was our first time here and we got lucky it wasn’t packed. The place is pretty small, but we were able to get a table pretty quickly . The cashier was very nice . We ordered the hamburger and a few slices of pizza to try. We got the pizzas slices first. I had the spinach ricotter, my sister had one with pepperoni and jalapeños and my husband had one that looked Hawaiian ,( didn’t pay attention to the names). They were A MAZING! We all shared and non of them disappointed. Then we got the burgers , also delicious . The burgers have two Patties, cheese and grilled onions , the meat is juicy and well cooked. You don’t even need ketchup! You Definitely should try!!
I love a classic pizza shop that sells by the slice and has only 1 other thing on the menu (the burger). It was all great. The burger was rich with great textures and uniquely a hint of garlic (i'm assuming aeoli).
Dude, this place has the BEST pizza by the slice and a burger that’ll leave with future cravings. Tucked in a residential zone on 30th street in San Diego, you can’t miss it - just look for the line outside. These guys hustle, whipping out a basic but ballistic burger - fresh double smash patty cheeseburger with grilled onions. No tomato, no lettuce, no substitutions and no need for it. This burger was a great, late night treat (we came in at 11:00pm on a Sat night. The pizza was so impressive! Perfect cracker but tender crust so you can fold it New York style. We have a slice of the Hawaiian and the jalapeño & ricotta. So so good. Club tunes filled the room of 6 bar stools and 6 mini table and the whole crew did a shotgun together. LOVE the guys and stoked that my hubby suggested it. We’re locals but virgins to this spot - it’s now on our favorites list!
easily hands down the best smash burger in the area. i read some reviews and figured i give it a shot and it absolutely paid off. in my couple months of staying in SD we made sure to come here often. delicious, and the staff is incredible.
Top contender for the best burger in San Diego. Simple, well executed, and downright slamming deal at $8 per burger. Greasy, yes. Delicious, also yes. The vibe inside is also unmatched - go get a burger there now.
The Experience: Tucked in North Park with fun, hippy vibes, this spot gives off fun and laid-back energy. When I arrived, the all-female staff was vibing to early 2000s hip hop, setting the tone right away. It’s a small space with about 4-5 tables and 5-6 counter seats, so expect a cozy setup. You order at the counter (they take credit cards), and the service was super friendly and efficient. The Food: I went with a slice of pepperoni ($3.50), which was thin, crispy, and flavorful. I could’ve used a touch more sauce, but overall it hit the spot. I also grabbed their smash burger ($8) and a soda, bringing the total to about $15. The burger was surprisingly substantial for a smash, not paper thin, which I appreciated. The burger tasted well-seasoned and juicy. Solid portions and fair prices across the board. The Rating: 4.6/5 – Fun vibes, friendly staff, and tasty food. Some folks might not love the limited seating or loud music, but honestly, it adds to the charm. I’ll definitely be back.
The Friendly is a great place for a simple, but amazing, slice of pizza and a simple, but amazing, burger. I had the Hawaiian slice (other styles available), the Dirty Flat Top burger (only option) and Hamm’s. The service was great and the people working looked like they having a great time working. Give it a try, you ont be disappointed!
Looking for a quick bite to eat while in north park? Or had a few beers with friends and need something amazing to fill you up? The Friendly is the place to go. The Dirty Flat Top smash burger is a work of art (no modifications to the burger allowed) Special food items pop up via their social media from time to time that should be jumped on, as they are very limited offerings. Variety of pizza to choose from by the slice, or a whole pie. often slept on are the cheese sticks with fresh house made dipping sauces. This is an alcohol friendly pizza joint, with a small variety of import beer, and local craft beers available in cans. ($1 off of you shotgun the beer.. sometimes a staff member may join you) But the amazing staff, and food keeps me coming back
I had no idea what I was about to get into when ordering a burger at The Friendly. Walking around North Park this place looks simple, no frills but means business. service was good and they are qui…
I had no idea what I was about to get into when ordering a burger at The Friendly. Walking around North Park this place looks simple, no frills but means business. Service was good and they are qui…
I went to the friendly last night after watching the Super Bowl. The burger I got was very very good. I also had a piece of their pizza. I think it had spinach and ricotta. I wasn't expecting to get …
OMG! Awesomeness stuff great food ! Have a beer Hamm's yummmmm! Lovely cashiers great cook's\nThank You!
I went to the friendly last night after watching the Super Bowl. The burger I got was very very good. I also had a piece of their pizza. I think it had spinach and ricotta. I wasn't expecting t…
OMG! Awesomeness stuff great food ! Have a beer Hamm's yummmmm! Lovely cashiers great cook's\nThank You!
I went to the friendly last night after watching the Super Bowl. The burger I got was very very good. I also had a piece of their pizza. I think it had spinach and ricotta. I wasn't expecting to ge…
I went to the friendly last night after watching the Super Bowl. The burger I got was very very good. I also had a piece of their pizza. I think it had spinach and ricotta. I wasn't expecting to ge…
OMG! Awesomeness stuff great food ! Have a beer Hamm's yummmmm! Lovely cashiers great cook's\nThank You!
Top 5 burgers all time. Very rugged place. They know they're great and don't need your business, so service kinda short and direct. No modifications allowed, but don't need em. If there's no line, …
Top 5 burgers all time. Very rugged place. They know they're great and don't need your business, so service kinda short and direct. No modifications allowed, but don't need em. If there's no line, …
So good! Best burgers around, you won't regret trying them. The white pizza is also very good!
Best slice and burger I've ever had I'm not joking. service is solid the place is usually quite loud and makes ordering difficult but if you just order to go and find a place to sit and eat it's gr…
Dirty Flat Top Burger was bussin \nReally good burger.\nEnvironment was chill vibes, car music playlist
probably the best no frills smash burger in san diego. the service is friendly and quick. the pizza is also pretty good. the music was super loud so i couldn't hear if they didn't sell fries or jus…
Always a vibe! This place is the best burger in town and it's also just a great place to hang. music is always fire and the staff is wonderful! I highly recommend this place!
Best f***ing smash burger in San Diego! Trust me. Just get it. Cheap beer too. My daughter loved the pizza. Not really family friendly environment, so best to pick up if you have kids. But seriousl…
Second time stopping in this unicorn, and yet again it exceeded all\nExpectations!! The staff is amazing, $1 off beers if you shotgun them, and the dirty flat top burger for $8 is a guilty pleasure…
Let’s get this out of the way, the pizza is O.K., Now on to the Dirty Flat Top Cheeseburger………. this is one awesome great tasting greasy incredible cheeseburger with a huge “WOW” factor. Have plenty …
Let’s get this out of the way, the pizza is O.K., Now on to the Dirty Flat Top cheeseburger………. this is one awesome great tasting greasy incredible cheeseburger with a huge “WOW” factor. Have p…
Let’s get this out of the way, the pizza is O.K., Now on to the Dirty Flat Top cheeseburger………. this is one awesome great tasting greasy incredible cheeseburger with a huge “WOW” factor. Have ple…
Let’s get this out of the way, the pizza is O.K., Now on to the Dirty Flat Top Cheeseburger………. this is one awesome great tasting greasy incredible cheeseburger with a huge “WOW” factor. Have plent…
My son and I walked to The Friendly for a burger based on his recommendation having been there many times. Got the OG and it was excellent…thin, crunchy paddies with cheese, grilled onions and garli…
My son and I walked to The Friendly for a burger based on his recommendation having been there many times. Got the OG and it was excellent…thin, crunchy paddies with cheese, grilled onions and gar…
The pizza was really good 9/10. The burger wasnt great it was extremely oily maybe a 6/10 couldnt really taste the garlic aoli sauce or onions i think the oil from the meat was overpowering it. Would definitely come back for the pizza though!
Decent pizza spot. They had a really large array of pizza toppings and the basic cheese was great, well cooked and the service Was excellent. I wanted to make my burger my own but they don’t let you edit the burger at all. Totally fine and that’s just part of what makes the place special. Their shotgun culture is also enjoyable if you get a good group.
Ok, pizza by the slice? For less than $4? And the slices are actually at least the size of a paper plate AND they taste good??? This is hard to find nowadays, but The Friendly's got it. We got a slice of The Becky and a slice of a red pizza with bacon, pep, and jalapenos. The Becky is where it's at -- that white sauce with the ricotta and the mushrooms, yum. The red pizza was pretty solid too. The crusts were pretty inconsistent though (hence the 4 star). The Becky had THE BEST crust -- crunchy but not dried out or burnt, had a little bit of garlic flavor too. The red pizza was missing the crust in some places, and when it did have a crust, it was soggy. Both pizzas tasted so good that I'd overlook it. Would definitely come back for another pizza fix. (Also their pizza slices are actually bigger than the plate. Overachievers.)
Top 5 smash burgers I've ever eaten. They find a way to Carmelize the burger edges with the perfect heat. That flat top has seen thousands of burgers, I'm sure. Pizza is good, too. Thinner NY style, floppy pizza is the best comparison. I got the white pizza with sausage and ricotta. Been here a couple times now and I'm Certainly coming back.
Classic smash burger. Super greasy and hits the spot after a couple drinks. They also have pizza but and cheesy bread. A couple of seats and beers. Next door is a brewery place if seating its rough…
Classic smash burger. Super greasy and hits the spot after a couple drinks. They also have pizza but and cheesy bread. A couple of seats and beers. Next door is a brewery place if seating its rou…
Classic smash burger. Super greasy and hits the spot after a couple drinks. They also have pizza but and cheesy bread. A couple of seats and beers. Next door is a brewery place if seating its rough…
Pros and cons. Let's start with the good: the pizza is good, thin and crispy style. The cheeseburgers are great. Go for the cheeseburger. Everything else about this place is absurd. The restaurant feels dirty, and I'm not just talking about the flat-top griddle. There are flies buzzing around, and the tables aren't clean. But I could forgive all that if the music wasn't so absurdly loud. I'm a music fan, and I seriously couldn't even hear the server asking questions about my order. There's no reason for it to be that loud at 2pm on a Saturday. You're not at a night club. We get it. It's cool and edgy and that's how San Diego lives. But seriously turn it down a notch so we can conduct business.
I like my burgers simple: beef and cheese. Unfortunately, every burger here comes with onions, which completely overpower the taste of what could be a good burger. Because of that, I could not really enjoy any of them. I ended up having a slice of pizza instead, and it tasted like it was a day or two old. It was dry, with a burnt, ashy edge, like it had been left in the oven too long. I had high expectations coming in, and that probably made the experience more disappointing. Overall, this spot was pretty mid for me.
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4592 30th St, San Diego, CA 92116
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4592 30th St, San Diego, CA 92116
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