Now I’m trying to think what is more American than a burger. The first thing that came to mind is apple pie, of course. And I gotta say, there isn’t anything much better than a slice of apple pie and a dollop of ice cream. However, I haven’t had the joy and adventure of finding some of the finest apple pies served in Lake County. But I have had the pleasure of eating some mighty fine burgers! And with all the running around you’ll be doing this holiday weekend, there’s a good chance you might want to grab a bite to eat while you are out and about or entertaining friends and family.
Here are five places that serve great burgers:
- Gaslight Grill: Located on Main Street in Lakeport, the Gaslight is known for its amazing, mouthwatering burgers. These burgers are built tall, juicy, and delectable, made with care and love. Try the Mushroom or Bacon Blue Burger for a flavorful treat, or for something over the top, order the Chili Burger. It’s served open-faced, and overflowing with spicy, meaty flavor. You won’t leave hungry, that’s for sure.
- The Old Mill: If you’re ever in Lower Lake, you have to stop by The Old Mill Restaurant. They’ve got a full selection of menu items to choose from, but their burgers stand out. Their Bacon Cheeseburger (BCB) and Mushroom Swiss Burger (MSB) are both impressive, but if you want to pull out the stops, order the Old Mill Burger. Complete with ham, cheese, grilled onions, and pineapple slices, it’s dripping with flavor.
- Stein and Wein: One of the few restaurants you can swing by on a boat, Stein and Wein is located on Lakeshore Drive in Clearlake. Of course, they’ve got an all-American hamburger that they offer, but they specialize in uniquely flavored burgers. If you’re looking for something different and tastebud-filling, try their Stein Burger, served on a Kaiser roll with obazda cheese, bacon, and sauerkraut. It’s unlike any burger you’ve ever enjoyed. Plus they have two vegetarian options available: a Black Bean Burger and the Pilsburger, made with portobello mushrooms. And if you show up on Tuesday evening, all burgers are buy one, get one free. You can’t beat that!
- The Blue Wing Saloon: In Upper Lake, there’s no better place to get a bite to eat than at the Blue Wing. Of course, this restaurant offers a full, varied menu with many healthy, Blue Zones-approved options. One is their veggie burger, a house-made beet, garbanzo bean, and black rice patty topped with whipped feta, pickled red onion, arugula, and roasted red pepper aioli. You’ll be amazed at the flavor profile. And, if you’re still craving meat, the Blue Wing Cheeseburger checks off all the boxes for a crisp, flavorful meal.
- Greenview Bar and Grill: Located on the golf course in Hidden Valley Lake, the Greenview has a full selection of unique, taste-filled burgers for you to enjoy. Try the GV BBQ Mac Burger, complete with mac and cheese, bacon, and house-made barbeque sauce. Or, if you’re really adventurous, try the Fuego, topped with Oaxaca cheese, jicama and cilantro slaw, avocado creme fraiche, and panko-fried jalapeños. It doesn’t just sound good–it tastes good, too.
Okay, maybe I should have added a sixth location that serves a great burger, and that would be in your backyard! But, hey, who’s to judge if you have more than one burger this holiday weekend? Happy, safe, fun-filled 4th of July, everyone!

