Sam’s Burgers

What you need to know

Sam’s Burgers has been on Broadway in North Beach since 1966, when it opened as the neighborhood’s first fast food burger spot. The room is small, with burgundy stools at the counter, wooden wall paneling, and decades of collaged photos and autographs from regulars and famous visitors. The current operators, Fadi, Hani, and Emad Shawa, took over from their father Mike (who himself took over from his uncle Sam at 22) and the place is recognized as a San Francisco Legacy Business.

The Food

Burgers are the headline. The menu lists Sam’s Cheeseburger, Double Cheeseburger, Triple Cheeseburger, plus Spicy Wings, Fried Shrimp, Chicken Nuggets, Fish & Chips, hot dogs (regular, Polish, corn), Onion Rings, and French Fries. No frills, no pizza, no theme. Just a counter that has been making burgers the same way for 60 years.

The Story

Anthony Bourdain featured Sam’s on The Layover and called it one of the top three burgers in the world. Mike Shawa, the namesake “Sam” of the modern era, ran the counter for nearly 50 years before passing away in 2016. His three sons run it now.

Practical Info

Address: 618 Broadway, North Beach
Hours: Mon-Wed 1pm-12am, Thu 1pm-1am, Fri-Sat 2pm-2am, Sun 1pm-1am
Reservations: Walk-in only
Order online: samsburgers.com
Getting there: Walk from the Broadway tunnel or take the 8 Bayshore on Kearny.