This week, we visited The Habit Burger Grill in Fullerton for a bacon cheeseburger and fries. | Laura Cook/THE CHIMES
The Habit Burger Grill in Fullerton has made a routine habit of crafting quality, charbroiled hamburgers since 1969. But seriously, with all cheesy puns aside, The Habit’s reputation of consistency and a friendly atmosphere make for a grand burger-eating experience.
Menu offers signature items, desserts
Since its original opening in Santa Barbara, The Habit has offered its signature Charburger with an array of fresh toppings and side choices. Its homemade buns, which are made fresh and toasted to perfection for a crisp, buttery taste, are unique to the Charburger.
The well-crafted menu features other delectable options besides the Charburger, including a chicken, tuna, tri-tip or pastrami sandwich, served on a choice of French roll, sourdough or wheat bun. Side orders of French fries, onion rings, sweet potato fries or a side salad can complement your meal as well.
In case you’re looking to splurge to satisfy your sweet tooth, The Habit offers a few tasty desserts that will do just that. Milkshakes and malts are offered in the usual flavors, as well as a chocolate sundae. However, the greatest of all the desserts is the exceptionally priced $1 soft serve vanilla cone, which is well worth the buck considering its quality and quantity.
Distance from campus is only downside
Rivaling The Habit’s quality food is its excellent atmosphere. Complete with friendly service and an artsy, modern design, the restaurant’s feel compares to Chipotle, but with a Southern California beach feel. On a hot, sunny day, the outside patio serves as a perfect place to enjoy a meal.
The pricing at The Habit is reasonable, with an original Charburger meal complete with French fries and a soda totaling a little more than $6. Tacking on just a few extra quarters for cheese, bacon, avocado or mushrooms can add to the already flavorful hamburger.
The only downside to this delicious eatery is its distance from campus. With the closest location to school a 9.5-mile jaunt away, you might want to carpool with a few other hungry friends. Despite the drive, its location is directly across the street from Cal State Fullerton, surrounded by other eateries in a nice part of town.
Ultimately, The Habit lives up to its motto, which, like its burger-making process, has gone unchanged since 1969: “There’s no substitute for quality.” And nothing really needs to be changed. Its quality is evident.
