Have heard sooo many good things about about this place and finally got to try it. I’ll say I’ve had my fair share of smash burgers in SoCal and the best one is still Lunch Bang in OC. This one is a fair burger but for the price, i don’t see myself coming back too often. The soft serve w/ cookies & cream dip eatssss though and I’d come back for the ice cream.

📍Heavy Handed - Santa Monica, CA

#food #foodie #foodtok #burger #LA

4/27 Edited to

... Read moreIf you’re a fan of smash burgers like I am, trying out different spots across SoCal is always a fun adventure. Heavy Handed in Santa Monica offers a unique twist on classic burgers with their short rib options and combo meals including fries, sauce, and drinks. While their burger flavors are solid, what really stood out to me was their soft serve ice cream. Their soft serve comes in chocolate, vanilla, or swirl, and you can enjoy it in a cup or cone. But the real treat is the dipped option in cookies & cream, which perfectly balances creamy texture and sweet crunch. Priced around $6.50, it's a delightful indulgence that I’d return for without hesitation. The burger prices range from roughly $9.92 for a single short rib burger to $21.00 for a triple combo, which can feel steep compared to other local favorites like Lunch Bang in Orange County – still my top pick for best smash burger in SoCal. For those exploring LA’s burger scene, Heavy Handed might not become your go-to for burgers alone, but their ice cream desserts add great value. One tip I found helpful is to consider their combo deals which include fries and sauce; it enhances the meal experience without breaking the bank. The heavy sauce and pickles add nice flavors, but the burger’s softness and overall portion left me wishing for a bit more substance for the price. Overall, if you’re in Santa Monica and craving a quick burger with an exceptional soft serve dessert, Heavy Handed is worth a visit. Just keep your expectations moderate on the burger and save room for their standout cookies & cream dipped soft serve – it’s a sweet way to end your meal or simply enjoy on its own.