The Happy Hound of Los Gatos — Restaurant in Los Gatos

Tried this place out on a co-worker's recommendation. Not a huge fan. If you like juicy burgers, might be a good pick for you, but I don't appreciate it when a burger drops a quarter cup of liquid as I bite into it and then the bun starts to degrade halfway through. I had a "happy" burger with Swiss and mushrooms; the wife had a turkey burger. We agreed that the burgers had good flavour, that the fries were just okay (she held that they were too salty), and that the food was overpriced overall. Two burgers, a medium fry, and two medium shakes came to about $32. I don't mind a pricier burger, but it has to be better than a Habit burger and this didn't cut it, IMO. I was a bit miffed that the chocolate shake was $5.25 and turned out to be poorly mixed (could see the chocolate syrup separate from the ice cream) and mostly taste of vanilla. They do serve hotdogs and corndogs here, if you're into that. I know they're a little harder to find. I really liked the feel of the place and the staff seemed nice enough. It's tiny - maybe five tables and some bar seating. You have the option to order from the outside and you have to walk around the outside for the single restroom. The toilet is nowhere near level and I resent that. Restroom was a bit messy, but I got the impression this was recent inconsiderate usage and that it is stocked and scrubbed regularly - floor and sink were actually very clean. Private lot with only a handful of parking spaces and two entrances, which are very narrow, so look out for that, particularly in the dark. I had to 3-point and go out the other way because some little old lady started to pull in as I was leaving and then just stopped and sat there, even when I reversed for...

If you’re in the mood for quick and tasty lunch, skip the usual fast food chains and head to The Happy Hound in Los Gatos. They’ve been serving good-old-fashioned burgers, hot dogs, fries, sandwiches, and shakes at this little family-owned roadside shack for more than 50 years.

I always opt for the Happy Hound and fries. You can just get a traditional hot dog or top it with huge gobs of everything from relish, onions, tomatoes, cheese, sauerkraut, chili, or whatever makes your mouth water. INSIDER TIP: ask to have your hot dog and bun grilled like I do. It doesn’t cost extra and it’s much more flavorful than steamed.

I like the fact that burgers are cooked to order so you can specify the degree of doneness. Side orders of fries are huge and cooked perfectly with just the right amount of salt. Vegetarians, vegans, and the gluten-free crowd have a few menu choices too. If you’re adventurous, there are a couple of items that I haven’t tried, like the Mexi Hound in a flour tortilla and the Hell Hound with Spicy Angry Sauce. Yikes!

You can order outside at the side window or inside at the counter. There are outdoor tables in two separate seating areas (one on the side and a new one in back) and limited seating inside (small tables and a few bar stools). Parking spaces are scarce, either in their tiny lot or on the street.

The very friendly, well-trained, and welcoming staff keeps the place squeaky clean. Bring lots of patience if you show up at lunchtime (especially on weekends) since lines tend to be long, or just order online and your food will be ready when you arrive. They also deliver.

The totally retro Happy Hound is a pure nostalgia trip for me and I recommend it for kids...

I found happy hound way beck in the late 80's early 90's after graduating from leigh high school. I started out by working there and then it became a habit. I had to eat there no matter what. Happy hound is where I got my start with burgers. I've tried tons of other burger places, even really expensive ones that claim the best burger. No one compares. I always get a medium rare swiss burger only, light sauce with sauteed mushrooms. You have to throw in the fries and a shake with it. I have brought others there who wind up living the place as well. I now live in another state but every time I come to California I go to happy hound. You won't regret going if you never have. The service is spot on perfect as well. So if your looking for that perfect burger then your search is over. Happy hound is your one stop place for everything...