This SoCal Fast Food Chain Has The Best Burger In U.S. — And It's Not In-N-Out

CALIFORNIA — A California chain with a more than 50-year history in the Golden State has been named home to America’s best fast food burger of 2025 in the USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards — but it might not be the chain you’re thinking of.

The Double Char at Habit Burger & Grill snagged the No. 1 spot in the top-10 ranking, with the newspaper noting the eatery has been charring burgers since 1969, and that it first opened in Santa Barbara. Habit Burger & Grill has since grown to over 350 locations.

“Order the Double Char from the Habit's California-inspired menu and get ready for two freshly chargrilled beef patties, caramelized onions, fresh lettuce and tomato, pickles, and mayo on a toasted bun,” USA Today reported. “You can also add cheese.”

The Double Char was previously named the best fast food burger by USA Today in 2024, and it was the runner-up in 2023.

Another beloved Golden State burger — the Double-Double from In-N-Out Burger — came in fourth. The Papa Burger from A&W was second and the Jumbo Jack Cheeseburger from Jack in the Box was third.

Habit Burger & Grill also took the top spot on USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards ranking of best fast food sides of 2025, with its tempura green beans coming in at No. 1.