Where There’s Smoke, There’s Flavor: The Habit Burger Brings California Heat to South Florida Streets.

April 3rd, 2025

In the ever-growing culinary landscape of South Florida, Habit Burger & Grill stands out by blending Californian soul with local charm. Tucked amidst the region’s vibrant food scene, this West Coast transplant goes beyond serving meals—it serves up a story, one steeped in tradition and sizzling with authenticity.

I recently had the pleasure of diving deeper than the menu. Guided by District Manager Paulina Cabrera—who’s spent 13 years growing with the company from San Francisco to South Florida—I got a firsthand look into the values and vision fueling this brand. Her personal journey mirrors the company’s ethos: deeply rooted, yet always evolving.

A Legacy You Can Taste

Founded in 1969 by two brothers in Santa Barbara, California, Habit Burger has always embraced its humble beginnings. The original location still stands as a culinary time capsule—and a magnet for celebrities, from Harry and Meghan to beloved local figures. But that kind of heritage isn’t just a backdrop; it’s embedded in every flame-grilled bite.

Despite being acquired by Yum! Brands in 2020 (the corporate parent of Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut), Habit has remained fiercely loyal to its core values—freshness, quality and flavor over fast-food shortcuts.

Flame-Grilled, Flavor-Packed

Forget the greasy flat tops of traditional burger joints—Habit does things differently. Their signature Double Char Burger is cooked over an open flame, delivering a smoky, caramelized richness that instantly elevates it above competitors like Five Guys or In-N-Out. Even diehard fans of those chains might find themselves reconsidering allegiances.

Our visit featured a broad sampling of the menu. One standout? The Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Avocado. Even self-proclaimed avocado skeptics were impressed. Slightly charred, juicy and complemented by the creamy richness of avocado—it was a balance of textures and flavors that felt thoughtful and indulgent.

Sourdough melts, vibrant salads with customizable dressings, and unexpectedly craveable sides like Tempura Green Beans and crisp Onion Rings showcased just how much effort goes into making every item more than just “fast food.”

And it’s not just about taste. Everything is prepped fresh—twice daily. If the produce doesn’t meet their standards, it’s sent back. No compromises.

Behind the Scenes: Freshness in Action

One of the most memorable parts of our visit didn’t involve a bite of food—it was a simple conversation about something deceptively tricky: avocados. Anyone who’s waited on an avocado to ripen knows the drill: “It’s almost ready… almost… oh no, it’s overdone.” That relatable moment sparked laughter—and revealed the meticulous process behind the scenes.

At Habit, boxes of avocados arrive each morning. Team members sort through them by hand, choosing only those at their peak. “We have to be selecting daily,” one employee explained. “Which ones are ready to go, then come in another box, selecting whatever is ready to go.” The level of care almost makes you imagine someone on staff with the unofficial title of Chief Avocado Whisperer.

That same attention is given to every ingredient. It’s thoughtful. It’s precise. And it makes a difference.

Community-Driven, Family-Friendly

Though Habit doesn’t make direct monetary donations, its community presence is deeply felt. They support local events, donate achievement certificates to schools like Morikami Park Elementary, and engage with families through school programs and mobile app promotions.

The app itself is a great tool—offering buy-one-get-one-free deals, family bundles, and shorter wait times at busy drive-thru locations. It’s convenience with a side of generosity.

Final Bite: A Brand with Substance

Habit Burger & Grill is not just a run-of-the-mill quick stop for a bite—it’s a brand built on legacy, flavor and community spirit. The flame-grilled difference is real, and the intentionality behind every detail, from produce sorting to outreach efforts, proves that quality doesn’t need to be sacrificed for speed.

Whether you’re a burger purist or looking for a lighter option with bold flavor, there’s something here for everyone.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Double Char Burger – juicy, smoky and unforgettable

• Avocado Chicken Sandwich – crisped and balanced to perfection

• Side of Tempura Green Beans & Onion Rings – a crisp flavorful alternative to fries

• Sourdough Grilled Cheese with Mayo – unexpected, but trust the process

Pro Tip:
Download the mobile app for exclusive deals, rewards, and a smoother dining experience—especially at high-traffic locations.