The Standing Room

Since 2011, this no-frills counter has served some of L.A.'s juiciest, best-tasting burgers from inside an unassuming liquor store in Redondo Beach. (There's also a newer location in Torrance.) The Napoleon—a mix of hand-packed patties topped with bacon, caramelized onion, three kinds of cheese, fried egg, short rib AND a tangle of Parmesan fries—might win in the over-the-top category, but we prefer the Cash, which gilds the lily with bacon, shishito peppers, “only” two kinds of cheese, gochujang aioli, hoisin barbecue sauce and a crispy peppered onion ring. Not only is it easier to eat, but the flavors gel together better. Then again, you can't go wrong with a classic burger here, or the Chance (jalapeño, sautéed chili onion and habanero cream coleslaw).