15 Plant-Based Burgers In California That’ll Blow Your Mind

Plant-based burgers are taking the spotlight in California, transforming the way we think about fast food. Across the state, chefs are pushing the boundaries of flavor and creativity, crafting mouthwatering patties that are just as satisfying, if not more, than their meat counterparts.

With inventive toppings, perfectly seasoned patties, and that irresistible juiciness, these 15 plant-based burgers are proof that you don’t need meat to have a truly epic burger experience. Get ready to discover your new favorite go-to spot.

1. Monty’s Good Burger

Walking into Monty’s feels like stepping into a California dream where sunshine meets serious burger craftsmanship. Their signature burger features a house-made patty that’s so perfectly seasoned, you’ll find yourself wondering how they packed so much flavor into plants.

Located at 516 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020, this spot has mastered the art of the smash burger technique with their plant-based twist. The edges get crispy and caramelized while the center stays tender and juicy.

What really sets Monty’s apart is their commitment to simple, quality ingredients without any fake meat vibes. The special sauce is tangy and creamy, complementing the fresh vegetables and soft potato bun perfectly.

Their shoestring fries are addictive too, making this a complete California burger experience that’ll have you coming back weekly.

2. Burgerlords

Punk rock attitude meets plant-based perfection at this Chinatown gem that refuses to take itself too seriously. Burgerlords has been slinging creative vegan burgers since before it was trendy, earning serious street cred among locals who appreciate bold flavors and even bolder personalities.

You’ll find them at 1520 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, serving up burgers that look like they belong in a food magazine. Their patties have a substantial, meaty texture that satisfies even the most skeptical carnivores.

The menu rotates with seasonal specials, but their classic options always deliver with creative toppings like crispy onion rings, tangy pickles, and house-made sauces. Everything here is made from scratch, and you can taste the difference in every bite.

The vibe is casual and welcoming, making it perfect for anyone curious about plant-based eating without the preachy atmosphere.

3. Plant Power Fast Food

Imagine if your favorite fast-food joint went completely plant-based and somehow became even better. That’s exactly what Plant Power accomplished, creating a menu that feels familiar yet completely revolutionary at the same time.

With multiple California locations including 1730 Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas, CA 92024, they’ve proven that fast food can be both convenient and conscious. Their burgers come loaded with all the fixings you crave, from melty cheese to crispy bacon, except everything is 100% plant-based.

The texture of their patties is impressively close to traditional beef, with a satisfying char and juicy interior. Beyond burgers, their menu includes chicken sandwiches, milkshakes, and even breakfast items.

It’s perfect for road trips, quick lunches, or when you’re craving comfort food without compromising your values. The prices are reasonable too, making plant-based eating accessible to everyone.

4. Next Level Burger

Sustainability meets incredible taste at this eco-conscious burger chain that’s raising the bar for what plant-based fast food can be. Every ingredient is organic, every decision is made with the planet in mind, and somehow the burgers still taste absolutely amazing.

Their Oakland location at 501 16th St, Oakland, CA 94612 serves up burgers that prove you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for environmental responsibility. The patties are thick, juicy, and packed with umami flavor that makes your taste buds sing.

What I love most is how they’ve perfected the classic American burger experience while keeping everything plant-based and organic. The buns are soft and slightly sweet, the vegetables are always crisp and fresh, and their signature sauces tie everything together beautifully.

They also offer gluten-free options, making this spot inclusive for various dietary needs. It’s fast food you can actually feel good about eating.

5. Veggie Grill

Casual dining gets a plant-based makeover at this California-born chain that’s been changing minds about vegan food since 2006. Their menu goes way beyond burgers, but their burger offerings are absolutely worth the trip alone.

With locations throughout California including 1888 Century Park E, Los Angeles, CA 90067, they’ve become a reliable go-to for consistent, delicious plant-based meals. The Beyond Burger here comes perfectly cooked with a slightly pink center that mimics a medium-rare beef patty.

Their secret weapon is the variety of sauces and toppings they offer, letting you customize your burger exactly how you like it. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it great for introducing skeptical friends or family to plant-based eating.

Portions are generous, and the quality stays consistent across all locations. Their seasonal menu items keep things interesting, so there’s always something new to try alongside your favorite burger.

6. Veggie Grill By Next Level

Two powerhouses of plant-based dining joined forces to create something truly special. This collaboration brings together Veggie Grill’s menu expertise with Next Level’s commitment to organic, sustainable ingredients.

Found at select California locations, this hybrid concept offers the best of both worlds for burger enthusiasts. The burgers here benefit from Next Level’s organic sourcing while maintaining Veggie Grill’s flavor profiles that have won over thousands of fans.

What makes this partnership exciting is how they’ve combined their strengths to create menu items you won’t find anywhere else. The burgers are juicier, the ingredients are fresher, and the overall experience feels elevated.

They’ve kept prices reasonable despite the premium ingredients, making organic plant-based eating more accessible. The service is quick and friendly, and the atmosphere strikes a nice balance between casual and contemporary.

It’s proof that when two great concepts come together, magic happens on your plate.

7. Nice Burger

Sometimes simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, and Nice Burger proves this with their straightforward approach to plant-based burgers. They’re not trying to reinvent the wheel; they’re just making really, really good burgers that happen to be entirely plant-based.

Located at 3407 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405, this neighborhood spot has built a loyal following by focusing on quality over gimmicks. Their classic burger features a well-seasoned patty with a satisfying texture that holds together perfectly.

The menu is refreshingly uncomplicated, letting the quality of their ingredients shine through. Fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, crunchy pickles, and their signature sauce create a balanced flavor profile that doesn’t overwhelm your palate.

The buns are always fresh and lightly toasted, adding just the right amount of texture. Prices are fair, portions are generous, and the staff genuinely cares about your experience.

It’s the kind of place that becomes your regular spot.

8. Mr. Charlie’s Told Me So

Cheeky humor meets serious burger skills at this plant-based parody that’s taking aim at a certain golden arches competitor. Mr. Charlie’s doesn’t just mock fast food; they completely reimagine it with compassion and creativity.

Their San Francisco location at 598 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94105 serves up familiar favorites made entirely from plants. The Not a Big Mac is their showstopper, featuring two patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions on a sesame seed bun.

What’s brilliant about Mr. Charlie’s is how they’ve captured the nostalgic flavors we remember while making everything better. The patties are juicier, the ingredients are fresher, and you don’t feel sluggish after eating.

They’ve nailed the fast-food experience without any of the guilt. The playful branding and tongue-in-cheek menu descriptions make ordering fun, and the prices are incredibly affordable.

It’s perfect for satisfying those late-night cravings or introducing fast-food lovers to plant-based alternatives.

9. Evolution Fast Food

Comfort food gets a compassionate upgrade at this San Diego institution that’s been serving plant-based fast food since 2009. Long before vegan burgers became trendy, Evolution was perfecting their recipes and building a dedicated fan base.

Visit them at 2965 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 for burgers that taste like they came from your favorite childhood drive-thru, except better. Their patties have a homemade quality that sets them apart from chains using processed meat alternatives.

The menu is extensive, offering everything from classic cheeseburgers to creative specialty burgers with unique topping combinations. Their fries are perfectly crispy, and their milkshakes are thick and creamy despite being dairy-free.

What really stands out is how they’ve maintained their quality and values while growing their business. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about plant-based eating, always happy to make recommendations.

It’s fast food that actually nourishes your body while satisfying your cravings completely.

10. KINDRED

Upscale dining meets plant-based innovation at this stunning restaurant that’s redefining what vegan food can be. KINDRED isn’t just serving burgers; they’re creating culinary art that happens to be entirely plant-based.

Located at 8300 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069, this is where you go when you want to impress someone or celebrate something special. Their burger is a gourmet creation featuring house-made patties with sophisticated flavor profiles.

Everything here is thoughtfully crafted, from the artisan bun to the carefully selected toppings that complement rather than overwhelm. The presentation is Instagram-worthy, but more importantly, the taste backs up the beautiful plating.

Prices reflect the upscale experience, but the quality justifies every dollar. The atmosphere is elegant yet welcoming, with attentive service that makes you feel valued.

Their cocktail program is equally impressive, offering creative drinks that pair perfectly with your meal. It’s proof that plant-based dining can be just as refined as any traditional fine dining experience.

11. The Butcher’s Son

Irony reaches delicious heights at this plant-based deli that’s flipping the script on traditional butcher shops. Instead of meat, they’re serving up incredible plant-based versions of classic deli favorites, including some seriously impressive burgers.

Their Berkeley location at 1468 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94709 feels like stepping into a vintage deli, complete with the friendly banter and mouthwatering smells. The burger here comes with all the deli-style fixings you’d expect, elevated with their house-made ingredients.

What makes The Butcher’s Son special is their commitment to making everything from scratch, including their seitan-based patties that have incredible texture and flavor. The portions are generous, often requiring both hands to manage your burger properly.

Their sides, especially the potato salad and coleslaw, are perfect complements. The vibe is casual and community-oriented, attracting everyone from Berkeley students to longtime vegans.

Prices are reasonable considering the quality and portion sizes, making this a fantastic value for your money.

12. Umami Burger

Flavor complexity reaches new heights at this burger chain that’s obsessed with umami, that savory fifth taste that makes food irresistible. While not exclusively plant-based, their Impossible Burger options are absolutely mind-blowing.

With California locations including 852 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014, Umami Burger brings gourmet sensibility to every aspect of their burgers. The plant-based patties here are cooked to perfection with a beautiful char and juicy interior.

Their signature umami sauce adds depth and richness that elevates the entire experience beyond typical burger joints. Toppings are carefully selected to enhance rather than mask the patty’s flavor, with options like shiitake mushrooms, truffle cheese, and house-made pickles.

The buns are custom-made and perfectly complement the fillings. While slightly pricier than fast-food options, the quality and flavor innovation make it worthwhile.

The modern, sleek atmosphere makes it great for casual dates or meals with friends who appreciate thoughtful food preparation.

13. Hopdoddy Burger Bar

Craft beer culture collides with serious burger craftsmanship at this Texas-born chain that’s won over California burger lovers. Their plant-based options show the same attention to detail and quality as their traditional burgers.

Find them at locations like 1 Paseo Shopping Center, Del Mar, CA 92014, where they’re serving up Impossible Burgers with creative topping combinations. The patties are cooked on a flat-top griddle, developing that essential crispy crust that makes burgers irresistible.

What sets Hopdoddy apart is their commitment to fresh, never-frozen ingredients and buns baked daily in-house. You can taste the difference immediately in the soft, slightly sweet bun that holds up perfectly to juicy patties and generous toppings.

Their extensive beer selection makes pairing your burger with the perfect brew easy and fun. The atmosphere is lively and social, perfect for groups or watching games.

Service is consistently friendly and efficient, even during busy lunch and dinner rushes. It’s elevated burger dining without pretension.

14. Slater’s 50/50

Bold flavors and creative combinations define this burger bar that’s known for pushing boundaries. While famous for their 50/50 beef-bacon blend, their plant-based options prove they understand how to make any burger absolutely delicious.

Their California locations, including 7929 Orangethorpe Ave, Buena Park, CA 90621, offer Impossible Burger options that can be customized with their extensive topping bar. The beauty here is the freedom to build your perfect burger exactly how you want it.

From bacon alternatives to creative sauces and premium cheeses, the customization options are nearly endless. The atmosphere is energetic and sports-bar friendly, making it perfect for game days or casual hangouts with friends.

Their fries and onion rings are excellent accompaniments, and they offer loaded versions if you’re extra hungry. The staff is knowledgeable about their plant-based options and happy to make recommendations.

While the menu can feel overwhelming at first, that variety means everyone in your group will find something they love, regardless of dietary preferences.

15. Super Duper Burgers

Bay Area pride shines through at this local chain that’s all about fresh ingredients and straightforward deliciousness. Super Duper keeps things simple, focusing on quality burgers made with care and served with genuine hospitality.

Visit their locations like 98 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94105 for plant-based burgers that prove simple done right beats complicated done wrong every time. Their veggie patty is house-made with real vegetables and grains you can actually see and taste.

Unlike many veggie burgers that fall apart, theirs holds together beautifully while maintaining a satisfying texture that’s neither mushy nor overly processed. The toppings are always fresh, the buns are soft and lightly toasted, and their special sauce adds just the right tangy kick.

They source ingredients locally whenever possible, supporting California farmers and ensuring peak freshness. The prices are fair, the service is quick and friendly, and the overall vibe is welcoming to everyone.

It’s the neighborhood burger spot done exactly right, proving that quality and simplicity never go out of style.