Move over, In-N-Out: Americas best burger has been crowned again

California may have a reputation for sunshine, celebrities and impossible-to-afford real estate — but the Golden State’s true crown jewel might just be its burgers.And once again, one Santa Barbara-born chain is proving it doesn’t need a huge following or a trendy secret menu to take the throne.The burger battle has a repeat winner: Habit Burger & Grill’s Double Char reclaimed the top spot in USA Today’s annual ranking for the second year running, flipping past big-name rivals like Five Guys, Shake Shack and Cali’s cult favorite, In-N-Out.The victory marks a major upset in the never-ending West Coast burger wars.In-N-Out has long been the state’s reigning burger heavyweight — and for good reason. As The Post previously reported in 2025, the Animal-Style chain was crowned America’s best fast-food burger by Yelp, with its iconic Double-Double earning praise from legions of devoted fans.But Habit Burger & Grill has been quietly building its own burger empire.  California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story It previously landed just behind In-N-Out in Yelp’s ranking, with its signature Charburger — topped with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles and mayo on a toasted bun — earning a spot among America’s most beloved fast-food burgers.Now, Habit has officially flipped the script.The winning burger earned USA Today’s top spot thanks to thousands of votes from readers and food experts, proving that the little flame-grilled contender can still out-sizzle the fast-food giants.Sorry, Double-Double fans.The burger battle has a new champ.Their secret sauce? Keeping it simple. The Double Char stacks two flame-kissed beef patties with caramelized onions, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomato, pickles and mayo on a toasted bun — wit...