The Balboa

1863 Fifth Ave, San Diego
(619) 955-8525

Recent Reviews

Catindig sakati

Beneath the city lights, The Balboa beckons. With its eclectic menu and cozy ambiance, it's a culinary journey waiting to unfold. 10/10 experience!

Food: 5

Service: 5

Daniella S.

I've been on a burger kick so my husband has been taking me to all his favorite places. I ordered the balboa burger and it was delicious ! Along with the fries , I really enjoyed the aioli sauce. I'm excited to come back and try out the different burgers. Everyone who works here is great ! It's a pretty cool place to drink some beers and play some pool.

J K.

Matt & Zach are the best!! Burgers and fries are classic and so good! Esp late night! + beer! Thank you for making an already good night, great!!

Pisei S.

Came to Sd and had to tried 2022 Best SD hamboogers. Got the 2 bbq hamboogers, the Balboa hamboogar, and garlic fries for $60. It's was alright, couldn't taste the sweetness but can taste the onions. That's it. Also be careful walking outside on the sidewalk, there's are doo doos all over the floor.

Natalie C.

Burgers and fries were AMAZING. Super juicy meat and the fries weren't over seasoned at all. They also have a great variety of beers on tap to choose from. There's a cute arcade area in the back as well. Just an overall chill place to vibe and have a great meal!

Brian C.

Great burger that's up there with the best in San Diego. Definitely would recommend the BBQ bacon burger - and get the fries! The garlic aioli they're served with is top-notch. The space is unique and has a somewhat divey feel to it. Plenty of seating and roomier than your average bar. We ordered at the counter and the staff was upfront about the wait, as it was a somewhat busier night. It definitely took a while for the food to come, so the warning was appreciated. Food is a bit pricey compared to similar spots (like Rocky's) especially given the fries are an extra cost. And the neighborhood was fairly sketchy, especially at night.

Bhritney D.

Literally the best burger I've had, the vibes in there was super chill and relaxing. The service was immaculate. Everything was quick and delicious. My #1 fav spot to go now

Rachel E.

Self proclaimed "best burger in San Diego", and I agree! This is a true bar, dark interior, local diners, simple food.

Briana C.

Stopped in for dinner and drinks at the suggestion of a friend while waiting to pick up our son from a school dance at Balboa Park. Would have never looked twice at this place otherwise - it's in a dark and homeless ridden part of downtown- but I'm so glad we gave it a try! When you walk in it looks like a little pub you'd see in Europe. High top tables, video games, and a pool table. The burgers are cooked in a tiny kitchen off of the bar and are delicious! I had the BBQ bacon burger and my husband had the Balboa burger. We shared an order of garlic fries, which were skin on (my favorite), and were so fresh and delicious! Everything tasted homemade. The bartenders were super nice and courteous and I loved the cozy bar atmosphere. Highly recommend for a quick and easy dinner and drinks if you're in the area!

Satia M.

The food was amazing, service was incredibly attentive and welcoming, especially Nathan!

Armin Correa

Nice people great

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Brittany T.

Food: 5/5 Drinks: 5/5 Portions: 5/5 Atmosphere: 4/5 Cleanliness: 5/5 Customer service: 5/5 Speed: 4/5 Price: $$ Outdoor seating: no ADA access: yes Restrooms: yes M /F Dogs: yes Kid Friendly: no Vegetarian options: Vegan options: Pros: fries are great. drinks are creative Cons: location

お父さん

It was the super tasty burger!!

Kelly D.

This place is still as great as always! Awesome burgers, fries, drinks, and service! They expanded awhile back, and it means more seating and space to enjoy the ambiance and delicious food. We got the Balboa burger, the BBQ burger, fries, beer, and the jalapeño margarita. Everything was great, and the staff is great. Can't wait to go back to this neighborhood gem!

Lisa

This is a cool spot. Great food, we had the original burger and the garlic fries and both were just… YUM! One of the best burgers I’ve had. The bar is super cool, and the staff are friendly. Go here!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

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