Tried the new HiHo Cheeseburger in Santa Monica, and I think we have a keeper.
Ordered the namesake HiHo Cheeseburger, which comes with two 1/3 lb patties of grassfed beef, American cheese, ketchup, onion jam, lettuce, and pickles. It’s clearly modeled after the In N Out Double Double, right down to the bun (more on that later) and mustard-grilled patties. It’s outstanding.
The flavors all melded perfectly and I was particularly tickled to see a hint of pink when I bit into my patties. That’s exceedingly rare (no pun intended) for a fast food burger.
Really, my only complaint was the bun, which was a little too large and just kind of blah. If you told me they got it at Costco, I wouldn’t argue. I wish it were a nice, firm sesame seed bun like they use at Super Duper Burger up north. My buddy got the lettuce-wrapped version, and I may try that next time.
Still, it’s a minor quibble.
They give you the option of ordering the burger ala carte or with fries, and I highly recommend you get the fries, as they’re outstanding too. They come with skins on like In N Out fries but are slightly thicker, with a crisp exterior and soft, almost mashed potato like, interior. Just excellent.
P:Q ratio peeps will be particularly pleased with this place. The burger plus fries costs $9.75 and is worth every penny imo. However, the secret is out. When we got there around noon, the place was busy but there was no line. By around 12:30, however, there was a line to the door, so go early.
