What Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks Costs and What You Get

Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks is a casual dining chain where you order at a counter or table and pay per item rather than per meal. Most burgers run between $12 and $16, sandwiches between $10 and $14, and sides like fries or onion rings between $4 and $6. Drinks are typically $2 to $4 for soft drinks and $5 to $8 for alcoholic beverages. The total for one person eating a burger, side, and drink usually falls between $18 and $28 before tax.

Islands distinguishes itself from other burger chains by offering made-to-order burgers with toppings you choose, fresh-cut fries, and a full bar. The restaurant operates in California, Nevada, and Arizona, with locations in both standalone buildings and shopping centers. Hours vary by location but typically run 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and later on weekends.

Key Takeaways

  • A typical meal at Islands costs $18 to $28 per person before tax, making it mid-range casual dining rather than fast food.
  • Islands operates only in California, Nevada, and Arizona, so availability depends entirely on your location.
  • You can customize burger toppings and order sides individually, which means your final bill depends on what you choose.
  • Islands serves alcohol, so the restaurant is designed for adults and families rather than quick lunch stops.

How Ordering and Payment Work

At Islands, you either order at a counter and pick up your food or order at your table if the location has table service. Counter service is faster and is the standard at most locations. You tell the staff how you want your burger prepared — which toppings, how the meat is cooked, what type of bun — and they prepare it fresh. This takes longer than a fast-food burger, usually 10 to 15 minutes.

Payment happens when you order at the counter or when the server brings your check to the table. Islands accepts cash and all major credit cards. There is no membership program or loyalty card, though some locations may offer discounts through third-party apps or local promotions. You pay for each item separately, so you can order just a burger and drink if you want, or add fries, a second sandwich, or appetizers.

Menu Options Beyond Burgers

While Islands is known for burgers, the menu includes chicken sandwiches, fish sandwiches, and salads. Chicken sandwiches typically cost $11 to $13, and fish sandwiches (usually beer-battered) run $12 to $15. Salads with protein cost $12 to $16. The restaurant also serves appetizers like nachos, wings, and fried pickles, which range from $7 to $12.

Sides are ordered separately and include fresh-cut fries, onion rings, sweet potato fries, and coleslaw. Most sides cost $4 to $6. Desserts like milkshakes and ice cream are available and typically cost $5 to $7. The full bar means you can order beer, wine, or cocktails, which adds $5 to $10 per drink to your bill.

How Islands Compares to Other Casual Burger Restaurants

Islands occupies the middle ground between fast-casual chains like Five Guys or Shake Shack and traditional sit-down restaurants. Prices are slightly lower than Five Guys but higher than McDonald's or In-N-Out. The main difference is that Islands has a full bar and a broader menu, so it functions as a place to drink and socialize, not just grab food quickly.

If you are looking for the fastest option, fast-food chains are cheaper and quicker. If you want a full restaurant experience with table service and a server, traditional casual dining chains may feel more comfortable. Islands works best if you want a made-to-order burger in a relaxed setting where you can also have a drink, and you are willing to wait 10 to 15 minutes for food.

What to Know About Location and Availability

Islands has roughly 50 locations, all in California, Nevada, and Arizona. Most are in Southern California, particularly in the Los Angeles and San Diego areas. If you live outside these states or in a rural area, Islands may not be an option for you. You can find locations and hours on the Islands website or through Google Maps.

Because Islands is a regional chain, it does not have the same presence as national burger chains. If you are traveling or moving, you cannot assume there will be an Islands nearby. Checking the location finder before planning a visit saves time.

Dietary Restrictions and Customization

Islands allows significant customization because burgers are made to order. You can request no onions, extra pickles, different cheeses, or any combination of toppings. You can also order a burger without a bun if you follow a low-carb diet, though you should confirm this is available at your location before ordering.

The restaurant does not have a dedicated vegetarian menu, but you can order a veggie burger or a salad with protein. Gluten-free options are limited; the buns are not gluten-free, and cross-contamination is possible in the kitchen. If you have a severe gluten allergy, call ahead to ask what the location can safely prepare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to tip at Islands?

At counter-service locations, tipping is optional and many people do not tip. At table-service locations, tipping 15 to 20 percent of your bill is standard. The payment screen or check will show a tip line, but you can decline.

Can I order Islands online or through delivery apps?

Some Islands locations offer online ordering for pickup, but availability varies. Third-party delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats may serve some locations. Check the Islands website or call your nearest location to confirm what ordering methods are available.

How long does it take to get food at Islands?

Counter service typically takes 10 to 15 minutes from order to pickup because burgers are made fresh. During busy times, it may take longer. Table service is slower because the server must take your order, pass it to the kitchen, and bring the food to you.

Are there any Islands locations outside California, Nevada, and Arizona?

No. Islands operates only in those three states. If you are looking for a similar burger experience in other areas, chains like Five Guys, Shake Shack, or local burger restaurants offer comparable food and pricing.

What is the difference between Islands and In-N-Out?

In-N-Out is faster, cheaper, and drive-through only. Islands is slower, more expensive, has a full bar, and a broader menu. In-N-Out is better for quick, budget-friendly meals. Islands is better if you want to sit down, customize extensively, and have a drink.