This beloved Los Angeles-based eatery has just been crowned the world’s 9th best burger restaurant — and the overall best in California

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Sofia Delpueche

 –  Staff Writer

 ·  June 23, 2026

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SoCal has a strong claim to being the birthplace of the cheeseburger, a food that has grown from a humble roadside staple into one of the world’s most beloved comfort meals… So it’s no surprise that some of the planet’s most celebrated burgers can be found right here in the city.

Now, one local favorite has earned a major international distinction. According to the newly released World’s 101 Best Burger Places ranking, Los Angeles’ own Amboy has been named the best burger restaurant in California and the ninth-best burger destination in the world. 

Amboy, one of the world’s best burger restaurants

Founded by chef Alvin Cailan, Amboy first opened in Chinatown and quickly became one of the city’s most talked-about burger destinations. Cailan, who is also known for hosting The Burger Show, built Amboy around a simple philosophy: premium ingredients, expertly cooked beef, and a deep respect for burger craftsmanship.

The restaurant has become famous for its dry-aged beef burgers, smashburgers, and house-developed buns. Among its most popular menu items are the Amboy Classic, featuring smashed patties, American cheese, caramelized onions, pickles, and burger sauce, as well as the massive DH Burger, a thick dry-aged beef creation that has developed a cult following among burger enthusiasts.

How Does the World’s 101 Best Burgers Ranking Work?

Upper Cut Media House, the organization behind several international restaurant rankings, produces the World’s 101 Best Burger Places ranking. The 2026 edition marks the launch of an expanded list that recognizes 101 burger destinations worldwide.

According to the organization, restaurants are evaluated on factors including ingredient quality, sourcing, technical execution, consistency, originality, overall guest experience, and the restaurant’s contribution to burger culture. 

Here’s a look at the complete top 10 ranking for 2026:

1. Bleecker Burger (London, United Kingdom)
2. Black Bear Burger (London, United Kingdom)
3. Café Margaret (Sydney, Australia)
4. The Diplomat (Hong Kong)
5. Gasoline Grill (Copenhagen, Denmark)
6. Sip & Guzzle (New York City, United States)
7. Hawksmoor St Pancras (London, United Kingdom)
8. Nowon (New York City, United States)
9. Amboy Quality Meats (Los Angeles, United States)
10. The Grill at The International (Sydney, Australia)