4505 Burgers & BBQ

If you’re gonna call a burger “The Best Damn Grass-Fed Cheeseburger,” it’d better actually be the best damn grass-fed cheeseburger, which 4505’s truly is (or at least one of the best) thanks in large part to the perfectly grilled grass-fed patty, effortlessly meltable Gruyère, secret sauce, and a buttery, grilled sesame and scallion bun. We don’t want to tell you what to do, but you can make it a double for four more bucks, and it would be a shame to pass up on an opportunity like that, don’t you think? Know before you go: Parking isn’t exactly easy in this neighborhood, and 4505 is counter service with heated outside seating only.

4505’s Divisadero patio is a long-time go-to for warm days and barbecue cravings, with plenty of picnic tables on their fenced, dog-friendly patio. The counter-service model remains, and you can also order online for pick-up ahead of time. Don’t forget to get a pitcher of cold local beer to go with your Brisket Fries.
How to book: Walk-ins available on a first-come, first-served basis. Order takeout and delivery online.

If you’re going to own and run a meat-centric restaurant in SF, you’d better do so as ethically as possible, which is exactly what chef Ryan Farr, who specializes in whole animal butchery, does at this counter-service burger and barbecue joint that’s home to one of SF’s last historic wood-fired barbecue pits. Go on a sunny afternoon to maximize your enjoyment of sitting at an outdoor picnic table (there are a few seats indoors, but the heated patio is where it’s at), sipping a cold beer, and feasting on meat, meat, and more meat. Our go-tos include the ribs, pulled pork, and the burger which comes with gruyere and a Thousand Island-inspired secret sauce on a buttery, griddled bun.
How to order: Walk-ins only for dine in. Order takeout or delivery online.

Those chicharrones. Yes, they’ve gotten huge to the point of being available in big bags at grocery stores, even Costco at times. But straight from the source is best, and there are a few other pantry goodies to pick up from 4505, as well. Fried pork aficionados know that there is a difference between chicharrones (light and airy) and cracklings (hearty and crunchy), and 4505 started to offer both a few years ago, with the newer Cracklins in sea salt and spicy green chili and lime flavors. Feeling saucy? Get squeeze bottles full of the signature Sweet & Thick barbecue sauce; House White sauce made with pickled jalapeños and a secret blend of spices; or a Mustard & Vinegar blend with a hint of cayenne. You can also get four ounces of pickles, in addition to some local brews and bottles of wine.
How to order: Walk in, or order online for delivery/pick-up; national shipping is via Goldbelly.