Did someone say burgers in the Barrio? There are only a few burger joints in Barrio Logan, but the ones that call this neighborhood home are all chingón. I have always been a big fan of Hayes Burger, just over the bridge on Logan Avenue. If you have not tried a Hayes burger, it is a smash-type burger that feels like a cool first cousin of The Friendly’s Dirty Flattop Burger. Hayes Burger has done so well in its first location that it opened a second spot on Adams Avenue in Normal Heights. If a griddled smash burger can bring guests to Barrio Logan, what about a chargrilled burger? I recently answered this question.
Barrio Burger, the newest addition to the Barrio Logan burger scene, is making waves. Located in the former Mish Mash spot, diagonally opposite TJ Birria 664 on the corner of Newton and Bradley, Barrio Burger brings a fresh twist to the neighborhood. Instead of a flattop griddle, Barrio Burger cooks its offerings on a grill, infusing a distinct charred flavor that sets it apart. The unique taste of the char cuts through Barrio Burger’s bright, delectable sauces, adding a new dimension to the classic burger experience.
I popped in on a recent Friday at lunch to check it out, and I am so glad I did. A line was forming, and it appeared to be populated by those who work in the neighborhood, on their lunch break.
The menu is short but sweet: a selection of burgers, milkshakes, fries, rings, apps, and salads. There is no alcohol, but I would not be surprised if they added beer and wine later.
There are three burgers on the menu. Let’s start with La Trompuda, picture an al pastor taco made into a burger. This burger starts with an al pastor pork patty, which is dressed with mixed cheese, grilled pineapple, and guacamole, then topped off with a bacon cheese serrano pepper. I am unsure what a bacon cheese serrano pepper is, but I will return to find out. The Barrio Burger is an Angus prime beef patty with white cheddar cheese, bacon jam, and Barrio Sauce. Lastly, the Barrio Cheese Burger is an Angus prime beef patty with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles.
Barrio Burger offers some fun sides, like Corn Ribs dressed in chipotle aioli and topped with Cajun spices, cilantro, and parmesan cheese. El Mac is what it sounds like: four-cheese macaroni topped with bacon, panko crust, and cilantro bread crumbs.
They also have two versions of loaded French fries: Papas Del Barrio starts with crispy-coated fries, then piles on al pastor pork, mixed cheese, grilled pineapple, guacamole, and chipotle sauce. Papas Sucias comes with fries topped with cheese, bacon, pink sauce, and grilled onions. Is anyone else getting hungry?
Have I mentioned Barrio Burger makes milkshakes and a root beer float? For shakes, you can choose vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry with fun add-ins like mazapan, Gansito, or Pingüino. Gansito is a Mexican snack, a strawberry-flavored jelly and cream-filled cake with a hard chocolate coating. A Pingüino is just a Mexican version of a Hostess cupcake. Mazapan is a popular Mexican candy made of peanuts and powdered sugar. I have never had Gansito or Mazapan, and it has been a hot minute since a Hostess cupcake crossed my path, but sign me up. A shake with one of these is in my near future.
There is not a lot written about Barrio Burger, and when I went, they were busy, so I didn’t want to bombard them with questions as the line behind me grew. I did read that a mother-daughter team runs Barrio Burger. When I went, a lovely lady behind the counter was so friendly she could hardly contain her smile. Nothing about our interaction felt rehearsed; she seemed genuinely happy to be there, which is rare today.
I ordered a root beer float, a Barrio cheeseburger, and some French Fries. The root beer float came with one of my favorite IBC root beers, so we were off to a good start. When my burger and fries arrived, they were a feast for the eyes, and when I tucked into my meal, everything was on point. I wasn’t even three bites in before I started planning my next visit. What do I want to order next time?
Barrio Logan, our neighboring community, has undergone a remarkable transformation since my childhood. The vibrant culture, unique businesses, and friendly locals make it a place I love to visit. Barrio Burger’s local charm and delicious offerings testify to the neighborhood’s growth. I encourage you to experience this local gem next time you crave a burger. You’ll feel right at home.
