The Balboa

Honestly think this is one of the best burgers I’ve had. Really enjoyed it. The bun had the perfect crisp to it and everything went well together. Fries were okay. Showed up before open and there was a line at the door already. You order first then get a number and sit. Unless you get a seat at the bar and bypass the line, they’ll help you while everyone else waits. Wasn’t a fan of that as Im sure majority going there don’t know that. Wait time was awhile as it is a pretty small crew cooking. Vibe inside was cool, there was a mini arcade and two pool tables that have seen better days. Overall, look forward to returning and having another one.

Ooh their burgers! 🍔🤤 The Balboa has a relaxed, unpretentious vibe, good drink selection, & friendly staff serving super tasty burgers & well-cooked fries late in the evening (perfect for night owls🦉). For a burger with a side of fries + a beer in the evening, it was ~$25 each (and I think I read a sign that they have lunch specials during the day). We appreciated being able to get a delicious dinner after the symphony without spending $50+ per person at a fancy restaurant or just ending up with fast food. Their burgers are cooked to medium unless you say otherwise. Just mention your preference and you’ll be fine. I like medium but my husband likes his burger well done & both of ours came out exactly as we wanted. Their house-made aioli is scrumptious! It pairs well with both the burgers and the fries. The Balboa has a couple pool tables & awesome nostalgic games, both arcade & pinball…bring your quarters or use their change machine. Free parking a block away wasn’t hard for us to find late on a Friday night though I could see parking being tricky at busier times. If you’re within walking distance, that’s ideal. I quickly picked up on them being an inclusive, non-judgmental bar & I love to see that. We will definitely be back!

If I lived in San DIego, I would be here all the time. We stopped in for lunch after the 2024 Pride Festival and it did not disappoint. It’s the nicest “dive bar” I’ve ever been in. Service was exceptional. The menu is on the wall and you order at the bar, and they bring your food out to you. The menu is basically burgers and fries, but they’re done exceptionally well. Writing this review is a problem because I’m just thinking about how I would love to eat this again! Please visit if high-quality burgers and fries plus a great bar are what you’re after. The garlic fries are VERY garlicly, beware if you are garlic sensitive!