The Friendly Tavern

2632 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104, United States
+1 619-294-7675
$$$ Hamburger restaurant
(700 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

The Friendly Tavern is a straightforward burger joint tucked along University Avenue in North Park, known for its no-frills, smash-style cheeseburgers that draw a steady local crowd. The focus here is on delivering well-seasoned, crispy-edged patties with a satisfying messiness that appeals to anyone craving classic American comfort food elevated by precise execution.

The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, with an open-air seating area that blends into the neighborhood’s eclectic vibe. It’s the kind of spot you might stumble upon on a quieter weekday evening or on a stormy afternoon seeking shelter under a tree-covered patio, as regulars do. Friendly, approachable staff add to the laid-back feel—there’s none of the formality or fuss you might find at trendier burger places.

Menu highlights include the signature OG Dirty Flat Top Cheeseburger, which has earned a fan base for its crispy bun and juicy, flavorful patty. The fries and particularly the onion rings get solid mentions from visitors who often throw an onion ring inside their burger for an extra layer of texture. There’s also a diverse beer selection featuring local and craft options like Hamm’s and Two Hearted Ale, making it a good stop for pairing a cold drink with a hearty bite.

This spot suits people who appreciate well-made smash burgers without a lot of fuss, and those who don’t mind getting a bit messy in the process. It’s a good late-afternoon or early evening destination, especially if you want a casual hangout in a lively neighborhood without the crowd or noise of the most tourist-heavy spots nearby.

  • Best for burger lovers who appreciate crispy edges and thoughtful seasoning
  • Ideal for casual hangouts with friends or a low-key dinner stop
  • Great choice when paired with local craft beers or simple classic brews
  • Open-air seating fits well with San Diego’s mild weather and neighborhood vibe
  • Less suited for large groups or formal dining occasions
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves spirits
Best for
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Difficult to find a space

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

700 Reviews
hughtube88 official

18 Dec 2025

Definitely some of the tastiest burgers I've ever had. Burgers with an S because I got a second one. Crispiest bun I've ever eaten, and the seasoning was immaculate. I walked right past this place because of no labels on the building, but the outside open area is pretty chill and the workers are very friendly (no pun intended). Get onion rings as your side, and throw one in the burger. Theyre super delicious and I'm definitely coming back here in the near future. Loved this place

Dawn Bright

17 Dec 2025

Had the oxtail burger special today and a fall hazy IPA. FREAKING PHENOMENALLY COOKED AND DELICIOUS! the outside is so nicely done up even though it was stormy weather we found a spot under a tree.

Jeremy Alfano

02 Nov 2025

Heard it was one of the best burgers in San Diego so had to give it a try. Cool spot and good prices. You get a well cooked smashburger with a nice crisp and tons of flavor. The onion rings and fries were nice add ons with the beer on the menu. Definitely worth going to

Tushar Mali

28 Oct 2025

Coming to the Friendly in SD has become the norm. However we don’t come to this location. Both places are equally as good when you’re going to have just the “OG Dirty Flat Top” cheese burger. This location offers a few other burger options as well as fries and onion rings. No pizza at this location. The other location offers only “OG Dirty Flat Top” cheese burger and Pizza. So if you want pizza the other location with limited seating. If you want more burger options and more space to sit, then it’s this location. Food is always great. Never miss on any trip down here.

Jacob Thrasher-Watson

18 Oct 2025

Can't beat them smashed burgers. The Friendly Tavern is an awesome little spot if you’re craving a solid smash burger. The OG Dirty Flat Top was crispy, juicy, and super satisfying. Onion rings and dipping sauces are on point too. cant beat the beer selection and the heavy pours of booze. Definitely a very greasy burger, but well worth the mess.

Jorge Gonzalez

03 Oct 2025

Very cute place, very clean and kind of hidden. We got lucky and beat a rush, gets busy so appreciate if you get there with no line. Food was quick to come out and the burgers were delicious. Onion rings were on point, just the right amount of batter. Only thing I didn’t care for was their ranch lol

Andrew Rogers

13 Sep 2025

Worth the hype. Got the OG Dirty Flattop and it was exactly the hangover cure I needed. They use a ton of butter so the buns melt perfectly with the greasy burger patties. The onion rings were also a major hit. Crispy and made to order. Check this place out!

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