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Welcome to Key & Cleaver

At Key & Cleaver, we celebrate the artistry of burger crafting in a vibrant, casual setting. This women-owned gem on University Avenue in San Diego offers a diverse menu that caters to everyone, including many vegetarian options and irresistible specials. Enjoy classic favorites like the BBQ Bacon Cheese Burger or the unique Burger of the Month, all served with rosemary salted fries. The welcoming atmosphere is perfect for families and groups alike, equipped with outdoor seating and happy hour promotions. With a commitment to sustainability through compostable containers and plastic-free packaging, Key & Cleaver ensures that each meal is both delicious and responsible.

LOCATIONS

Welcome to Key & Cleaver, a vibrant and inviting burger haven nestled in the heart of San Diego at 4727 University Ave. This women-owned gem is not just another burger joint; it embodies a philosophy of quality, sustainability, and inclusivity in a casual atmosphere that caters to everyone.

Why Choose Key & Cleaver?

  • Diverse Menu: From the savory BBQ Bacon Cheese Burger to the inventive Veggie Burger, each dish is crafted with care. The Black and Blue Burger leaves a lasting impression, while the monthly specials keep the excitement alive, inviting you to come back for more.
  • Vegetarian Options: Key & Cleaver proudly offers a variety of vegetarian dishes, ensuring that everyone finds something delicious.
  • Sustainable Practices: They prioritize the environment with plastic-free packaging, compostable containers, and reusable tableware, making your meal both satisfying and eco-friendly.
  • Amenities Galore: Enjoy outdoor seating, heated patios, and even a drive-thru for those on the go. The ambiance is casual yet lively, perfect for families and groups alike.

Key & Cleaver serves not only delicious burgers but also provides a full bar, live sports on TV, and a welcoming vibe that makes it ideal for dinner outings or happy hour specials on Fridays. With waiter service and the addition of free Wi-Fi, this is an excellent spot for both social gatherings and casual meals.

Whether you're stopping by for takeout or settling in for a hearty meal, Key & Cleaver offers something truly special. With a commitment to quality ingredients, community engagement, and customer satisfaction, this burger restaurant is poised to become a staple for locals and visitors to San Diego alike.

So, why not treat yourself to a culinary adventure at Key & Cleaver? You won’t just be enjoying a meal; you will be partaking in a dining experience that values sustainability, diversity, and above all, great food.

For inquiries, you can reach out at (619) 207-4738. Come for the burgers, stay for the ambiance – at Key & Cleaver, every bite tells a story.

START YOUR REVIEW OF Key & Cleaver
Ivonne Koblick
Ivonne Koblick

One of the best burgers Ive ever had in San Diego. It was so nice to meet Chris the owner and to be able to hear about the ingredients which are all locally sourced! Their homemade dressings are incredible, specially Chris special Chipotle Aioli!

Jerry Feitelson
Jerry Feitelson

This was a really excellent dinner experience in a small bar restaurant. Chris was super friendly and generous. Its excellent for date nights or small groups. Their fries are world class, with a wide variety of hamburgers

Pedro Melo Rodriguez
Pedro Melo Rodriguez

First time here and they had their 2 year anniversary! The black n blue burger was bomb! The fries were great, real potatoes! So good cannot wait to go back and try more burgers!

LULU LIVE Art
LULU LIVE Art

Small spot with a big bar and about five tables, all full when we arrived. Great decor and strong AC. The menu features various burgers, including seasonal specials. My husband got the Black Blue Burger, and I had the Swiss Mushroom ...

Troy Phitsanoukanh
Troy Phitsanoukanh

Fries were bomb so were the burgers, was debating between the Smash Burger and the Burger of the month, Jordan the bartender recommended the Burger Of the Month, which Im happy he did, it was a Bavarian Burger Werst with a sort of Oktober ...

Sylvia RL
Sylvia RL

Really great place! Food was delicious, the fries were especially notable. Between my group we had about every burger option. The beer on draft was varied and our server, Chris, had a great recommendation for us. The cocktails are creative and good. Well definitely be back!

Georgina Salazar
Georgina Salazar

I enjoyed the opportunity to try this place as part of the City Heights Shop Local Passport Program. Food was fabulous! I especially enjoyed the signature fresh rosemary fries cut like chips. Staff were friendly and helpful for us as long ...

Ozzy Meneses
Ozzy Meneses

Great spot overall!! The owners are awesome and the fries are amazing! Always ask for the burger of the month and you may be delightfully surprised! Also, great mission behind their work as well!