Many pilots are familiar with the “$100 dollar hamburger”, which refers to (generally shorter) flights to surrounding airports with the purpose of grabbing a meal at the destination. In this blog post we want to introduce some great options in proximity to KVNY for those with an appetite to both fly and eat!
Camarillo (KCMA):
Camarillo Airport is home to the Waypoint Café, likely the most popular restaurant on our list. The restaurant itself is busy, especially on weekends, and is famous not only among pilots, but also with locals due to its great indoor/outdoor environment. If you end up visiting, don’t forget to try one of their famous shakes and burgers!
Santa Barbara (KSBA):
While Santa Barbara Airport doesn’t have an on-field restaurant like Camarillo, many FBOs (fixed based operators) allow use of a crew car at no cost or with the purchase of fuel. We recommend parking at Signature, grabbing a crew car and exploring your options around the city. The Clipper team’s favorite spot is Nikka Ramen – try their ramen burritos, we know it sounds strange but trust us it’s worth it!
San Luis Obispo (KSBP):
San Luis is a great option for weekend or day trips north of LA. The Spirit of San Luis restaurant is on-airport and has a great ambience (a sports bar with Sunday brunch vibes). For explorers, we recommend parking at the ACI Jet FBO, grabbing a crew car and finding a beautiful lunch spot at Pismo Beach.
Catalina (KAVX):
Also known as the “airport in the sky”, Catalina has a charming restaurant and gift shop called DC-3. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, with the outdoor patio providing amazing views of the mountains and cliffs surrounding the airport, which is located at one of the highest points of the island. Our favorite is the buffalo burger, which is well worth the $35 landing fee.
Riverside (KRAL):
Check out The Riverside Airport Café, with their amazing food and great family environment. Particularly well-suited for quick getaways or brunch with the family, make sure not to miss the excellent live music on weekends!
McClellan-Palomar (KCRQ):
Located in Carlsbad, Palomar Airport’s The Landings restaurant offers a great scene. Despite it being small, the food and service are incredible. With live music a common feature, waiting for your food will feel quick as you are spot some of the world-class jets landing every few minutes.
There you have it, those are some of our picks for the best $100 burgers in proximity to KVNY. We encourage you to get out there and explore new options – if you do please keep us updated so we can revise our list!