You know that feeling when you just want a massive burger that doesn't cost thirty bucks or come with a side of pretentious truffle oil? That's the vibe at Arry's Burgers in Montebello. It is a local staple. It’s been sitting there on West Whittier Boulevard for decades, serving as a sort of culinary anchor for the community. If you grew up in or around Montebello, you probably have a memory of sitting in one of those booths, staring at a mountain of zucchini fries.
It’s not trying to be a Michelin-star destination. Honestly, that’s why people love it. In a world where every new burger joint feels like a carbon copy of a corporate franchise, Arry's feels like home. It’s got that classic SoCal "A-frame" adjacent energy—even though the building itself is a more standard, functional diner shape—and a menu that is way more expansive than the name implies. You can get breakfast, dinner, and everything in between.
What makes Arry's Burgers in Montebello actually different?
Most people go for the Colossal Burger. It is huge. It basically defines the "old school" style of California burgers where the goal isn't just flavor, but sheer, unadulterated volume. We’re talking about a burger topped with pastrami. It's salty, it's greasy in the best way possible, and it requires multiple napkins.
But here is the thing: the pastrami is the secret sauce of the whole operation. In Los Angeles and the surrounding San Gabriel Valley, pastrami isn't just a deli meat; it’s a culture. Arry's leans into this. They don't just put it on burgers. They put it on fries. They put it in sandwiches. They probably would put it in a milkshake if you asked nicely enough, though I wouldn't recommend it.
The menu is a bit of a chaotic masterpiece. You’ll see Greek influences because, like many of the legendary burger stands in Southern California (think Astro Burger or Everest), the roots often trace back to Greek-American families who revolutionized the fast-food landscape in the mid-20th century. This is why you can find a gyro or a chicken plate right next to a chili dog. It’s a beautiful mess.
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The Fried Zucchini Factor
We have to talk about the zucchini fries. Seriously. If you order a side of these at Arry's Burgers in Montebello, you aren't getting a little paper sleeve of veggies. You are getting a literal basket. They are sliced thick, battered heavily, and fried until they are basically weapons-grade crispy.
People travel from towns over just for the zucchini. It's usually served with a side of ranch that is clearly made in-house—thin, peppery, and cold. If you don't dip the zucchini in the ranch, you’re doing it wrong. That’s just a fact of life. There is something about the contrast between the boiling hot, soft zucchini and the cold dressing that just works. It's comfort food at its most primal.
The atmosphere is a time capsule
Step inside and you’ll see what I mean. The interior isn't "retro-themed." It's just... old. In a good way. The booths have that specific color palette that screams 1980s or 90s, and the lighting is bright. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see city workers in neon vests sitting next to families with three kids, all of them silent because they’re too busy face-planting into their food.
It’s fast. Sorta. It’s "diner fast," which means your food is cooked to order. You aren't getting a heat-lamp patty here. You’ll hear the sizzle of the flat top from the counter. You’ll smell the onions grilling. The service is usually no-nonsense. They aren't going to ask you about your weekend plans for ten minutes, but they’ll get your order right and keep the soda fountain running.
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Why locals keep coming back
Montebello has changed a lot over the years. New developments come in, old shops close down. But Arry's remains. It’s a landmark. When people move away and come back to visit their parents, this is often the first stop. It represents a specific type of California nostalgia that isn't about Hollywood or the beach—it’s about the suburbs, the boulevards, and the late-night hunger that only a chili-cheese fry can fix.
The prices have gone up over the years, sure. Inflation hits everyone. But compared to the "boutique" burger places in Silver Lake or Downtown LA, you’re still getting way more bang for your buck. You can feed a whole family here without needing a second mortgage.
Navigating the Menu: A Pro Tip
Don't just look at the pictures on the wall. The real gems are often the breakfast specials. If you’re there before 11:00 AM, the breakfast burritos are massive. They’re tightly wrapped, grilled on the outside for a bit of crunch, and filled with enough protein to make you want to take a nap by noon.
If you’re a first-timer, stick to the basics:
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- The Colossal Burger (obviously).
- A side of half-fries, half-zucchini (if they let you do the split, which they usually do).
- A large horchata or an orange bang.
The horchata here is surprisingly solid. It’s sweet, cinnamon-heavy, and cuts through the grease of the pastrami perfectly. It’s the quintessential Eastside pairing.
Addressing the "Grease" Elephant in the Room
Is it healthy? No. Absolutely not. If you’re on a keto diet or counting every calorie, Arry's Burgers in Montebello is your final boss. But that’s not why you go. You go because the char on the burger is perfect. You go because the buns are toasted just enough to not fall apart under the weight of the toppings.
Some people complain that it’s too oily. To those people, I say: you’re at a burger stand. The oil is where the flavor lives. It’s authentic. It’s the result of a seasoned grill that has seen thousands of patties over the decades. That seasoning is something you can't fake in a brand-new restaurant.
How to get the most out of your visit
Parking can be a bit of a pain during the lunch rush. The lot isn't huge, and Whittier Blvd is always busy. If you can, go during the "off-hours"—maybe 2:00 PM or after the dinner rush. You’ll get your food faster and you won't have to stalk someone for their table.
Also, be prepared for the portions. Most people over-order on their first visit. If you think you want a large fry, get a small. If you think you want two burgers, you probably only need one. The "small" drink is usually plenty. Everything at Arry’s is scaled up.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
- Bring an appetite. This isn't a place for a light snack. Come hungry or be prepared to take home a box.
- Check the specials. Sometimes they have deals on specific days or for certain combo meals that aren't highlighted on the main board.
- Cash or Card? They take cards now, but it's always smart to have a few bucks on you just in case the system is acting up—standard old-school diner rules apply.
- The Drive-Thru. It exists, but it can get backed up. If you see more than five cars, you’re probably better off walking inside and ordering at the counter.
- Location. It's at 1012 W Whittier Blvd, Montebello, CA 90640. It’s easy to miss if you’re driving too fast because it blends into the landscape of the street, so keep your eyes peeled for the sign.
Arry's Burgers in Montebello isn't just a place to eat; it's a piece of the city's identity. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best food isn't the most expensive or the most photographed—it’s the stuff that’s been there all along, served on a paper plate with a side of ranch. If you want a real taste of the area, skip the chains and head to the boulevard. You won't leave hungry.