REVIEW: Hodad's - San Diego, CA

So, I know the first question that everyone probably has regarding Hodad’s is, “What, exactly is a ‘Hodad’?” or “Why is the place called, ‘Hodad’s’? …and both are very valid questions because I asked them myself! Since I’m such a thoughtful and helpful guy, I’m going to go ahead and answer the question for you. Don’t ever say I never did anything for you guys, now…haha. From what I understand, a “Hodad” is someone who goes to the beach, dresses like a surfer, has a surf board and all the necessary things a surfer would have, buuuutttt never ACTUALLY surfs haha. Anyways, for the most part, the general public just knows Hodad’s exist and are known for their burgers,. The locals seem to be thankful this place exists and I know I sure as heck would be too! Needless to say, Hodad’s is a San Diego/Ocean Beach staple and for very good reason. So, grab your surf board, your wax, and zip up your wet suit…THIS is Hodad’s…you, Hodad… =P

The Place –

Hodad’s is located in a few places scattered around the San Diego area; however, the original is located in Ocean Beach right by the pier, along Newport Ave. There’s nothing special about the building itself and fits the typical mold that most businesses fall under in the same neighborhood. Because of this, the space isn’t too huge; however, it’s acceptable as one can tend to get immersed in the environment anyways. There still is quite a bit of room inside to accommodate a lunch time rush or Summer vacationers, but can definitely get crowded. I was in town for a conference and was able to carve out some time in the morning before sessions started. I arrived early on a Wednesday and there was a line that already formed outside their door with people waiting to get in and get their “Hodad” fix. As soon as I saw that, I knew this place was legit and the hype was going to be worth it. Inside Hodad’s, there’s a lot going on in terms of decoration. You'll see a lot of license plates and other knick knacks scattered about that showcase travel destinations. The thing I liked the most about Hodad’s, and it’s very common with the businesses and restaurants in the area, are the bar tops that face outside into the street and sidewalk. You’re able to enjoy your food and be entertained by watching the many different types of people that stroll across the storefront; everyone from tourists, locals, and frequent visitors. Whether you’re sitting inside Hodad’s or on the bar top along the sidewalk, one thing’s for sure, you’ll definitely have a great time inside!

The Service –

For being the type of place Hodad’s is, one would assume that the format would be that of a quick, casual type of place, like The Habit or other burger places in that genre; however, Hodad’s offers a wait staff and I was pleasantly surprised! I was expecting to walk in, order at the counter, wait for my food, and THEN sit down and enjoy. Instead, I was greeted at the door (along with everyone else in line haha), asked how many were in my party, given a menu and then told to sit wherever I wanted. Choosing my seat at the bar top facing the sidewalk, I was promptly greeted by someone who actually goes outside of the restaurant to look at you face to face rather than people needing to turn around in their stool to talk to the waiter who would be at your back…that would be pretty uncomfortable and was much appreciated. Now I just wanted to make sure I take this time to give a shout out to Jordan…the guy that helped me out during my first visit to Hodad’s. A REALLY cool, chill, and laid back guy that took the time to talk to me about whatever and just had an all-around great attitude. Thanks, bro! Much appreciated! Again, the service was great and Jordan helped me out with the menu and even made some recommendations. Great job, guys!

The Food –

My, oh my the food….the food was delicious and I can safely say that no matter what you get on the menu, you’ll definitely be satisfied with it. For those that don’t know, I consider myself a burger connoisseur and am always on the hunt for really good burgers. I’ve had some great burgers throughout my life; however, there might need to be room made for Hodad’s! Their burgers are EXACTLY what I look for in a one! While gourmet burgers have a special place in my heart (and stomach haha), the type of burgers that Hodad’s serves are what really get to me. There’s something about them that just please me…maybe it’s the “home grilled” feel they have to them or perhaps the complicated simplicity (yup, I said it) that they exhibit. Either way, Hodad’s has something special and I’m glad I was able to experience it! For my appetizer, I was in a quandary because I knew I wanted onion rings; however, I wanted fries too…to my surprise, as I was looking through the menu, I ran across Frings! For those that don’t know, Frings are just a combination of Onion Rings and French Fries in one basket…the best of both worlds for those that have the desire to do so. When I went to order my Frings, Jordan kindly suggested that I get a ½ order because a full order was quite gigantic and a ½ order would be sufficient and I’m glad he made the recommendation. Even with a ½ order of Frings, they definitely can still be shared with another person or two as the size is still really generous. The onion rings and fries were cooked perfectly and made for a great side dish to the burger. Speaking of which, let’s get into it. Hodad burgers are served with quite a few condiments and you can always tailor it to your liking. First, it starts with a soft bun, juicy patty, cheese (if you choose to get it) and then gets topped with mayonnaise, mustard, onions, ketchup, pickles, tomatoes, and lettuce. Now, the ingredients themselves don’t make the burger sound all that impressive, desirable, or tasty; however, the combination of everything is just magical unity. The burger by itself can speak on its own, but if you add bacon to it, like I did, you're in for another treat. Unlike conventional burger joints where they cook up the bacon in strips to a crisp and then top the burger with it, Hodad’s uses a different approach….and thank God for it! First, they take their bacon, and boil it. After the boiling process, they then shred it up, and form thin “bacon patties”, if you will. The “bacon patties” are then tossed on the grill, cooked until crisp, and THEN placed on the burger. Never seen, experienced, or tasted anything like it, but I’m glad I was able to! It gave the burger the satisfying and savory flavor of bacon all throughout the burger without having to plan out your bites so that you can attempt to get bacon in every bite. Everything jived really well together and this was one of the rare burgers that I wish never ended. It was THAT good. You guys, truly, have something special at Hodad’s!

Overall –

Although I can add Hodad’s to my list of some of the beet burgers I’ve ever had, it still makes me sad. Why? ….because there’s no Hodad’s where I’m from in NorCal. Nevertheless, the burgers are delicious, the atmosphere is something worth experiencing, and if/when you do, try and prolong every single bite of your burger for as long as you can! ….actually, what am I talking about….just order another one..!! I look forward to the day I’m back in the San Diego because “Visitng Hodad’s” will be at the top of my list of Things To Do. Thanks, Hodad’s!!