Smashburger enthusiasts no longer have to cross the Bay Bridge to get their hands on the ones from Lovely’s. The beloved Oakland restaurant has landed in Cole Valley, sharing space with the Woods outpost. The family-friendly spot is a jolt of energy to the neighborhood, thanks to the crowds that spill out onto the back patio and sidewalk nightly for a chance at the lacy-edged patties.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

The menu is simple: three variations of juicy beef hot dogs, fries, and a few smashburgers (available as doubles or with Impossible patties). The burgers are some of the best you can get in the city, smashed or not. Zero in on the Drive-Thru, an extra decadent knockout with schmaltz onions, a patty blanketed in american cheese, and a squishy sesame seed roll we’d upholster an armchair with. You’ll probably have to wait for a seat—but beer and wine by Woods are on hand while you hover and enviously glare at a nearby couple scarfing down Chicago dogs.  

Food Rundown

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

The Drive-Thru

Our go-to. The smashed patty has a caramelized skirt and a coating of just-melted-enough american cheese. It’s all tied together by a creamy special sauce that drips over everything. There’s nothing better.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

The OG

As classic as it gets. This one doesn’t come with house sauce like the Drive-Thru—so for the ketchup and mustard purists out there, hone in on this one.

photo credit: Julia Chen

Chicago Dawg

Topped with the requisite pickle spear and celery salt, this is a very fine frankfurter. If you’re serious about beef, it even works as an appetizer before your burger.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

Fries

You can go cheese or chili cheese fries here, but we like to keep it simple. The regular ones are thick-cut, well-salted, and excellent.