1/3lb of grass fed beef for $6 is straight up Bang for your Burger Buck. While the only beef I endorse is one for a fair price, I'll always give a nod for affordable quality and Shaka Shack deserves it. Also what is totally amazeballs is that this satisfying burger delivers without the need for cheese and steps up the tangy sauce game with a house made concoction vs the typical 1000 island. But man did that grass fed beef shine that sunny day in Santa Monica, it was like the cow just wanted me to eat him . . .
Hawkins House of Burgers is a legendary fixture in the Los Angeles burger scene. People make the trek to Watts like faithful Muslims make pilgrimage to Mecca; I saw freaking Macklemore there. Just bring an empty stomach as this burger was the only one I could not finish in the history of Bang for your Burger Buck. Heed my instance of shame, and for God's sake don't go double and ask em to go easy on the mayo. But don't take my word for it, well actually you have to.
Etched into my memory was a straight up Twitter warning telling me never to speak of Al & Bea's over the internet, it is that cherished. There is something about this tiny little Mexican American stand that just seems right. Lines of folks at odd hours help make that case as well. And though they are known more so for their legendary Bean and Cheese Burritos, their burgers sure do shine thanks to a well oiled griddle and rock bottom prices. Just how cheap? Seeing is believing . . .
