The Hat menu and prices reveal a classic California pastrami experience that has satisfied customers for decades. If you are looking for big portions and bold flavors, this is a place you need to know about. The Hat is famous for its pastrami sandwiches, burgers, and fries, all served in a no-fuss setting. This guide breaks down everything on the menu, what each item costs, and how to get the best value for your money.
We will cover the full menu, from the iconic pastrami dip to the breakfast options. You will also find tips on combos and what to skip. Let us start with the main attraction.
The Hat Menu And Prices
The Hat menu is built around a few core items: pastrami, burgers, and fries. Prices vary by location, but the ranges below are typical for most outlets in California. Expect to pay a little more in tourist areas or high-rent districts.
Pastrami Sandwiches
The pastrami dip is the star here. It comes on a soft French roll with melted cheese and a side of au jus for dipping. The meat is hand-sliced and piled high.
- Pastrami Dip (Regular): $10.50 – $12.00
- Pastrami Dip (Large): $13.00 – $15.50
- Pastrami Dip Combo (with fries and drink): $14.50 – $17.00
- Pastrami Burger: $11.00 – $13.50
- Pastrami Melt: $12.00 – $14.00
Most people order the regular size, which is plenty for one meal. The large is for sharing or if you have a big appetite. The combo adds a small drink and fries, which saves you about two dollars compared to buying separately.
Burgers
The Hat offers several burger options, all made with fresh beef patties. The burgers are charbroiled, not fried, which gives them a smoky taste.
- Hamburger: $7.50 – $9.00
- Cheeseburger: $8.00 – $9.50
- Bacon Cheeseburger: $9.50 – $11.00
- Double Cheeseburger: $10.50 – $12.00
- Chili Cheeseburger: $9.00 – $10.50
Burgers come with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. You can add extra toppings like grilled onions or jalapeños for about 50 cents each. The bacon cheeseburger is a popular choice because the bacon is thick and crispy.
Fries And Sides
The fries are a key part of the experience. They are thick-cut, crispy on the outside, and soft inside. You can order them plain or loaded with chili and cheese.
- Regular Fries: $3.50 – $4.50
- Large Fries: $4.50 – $5.50
- Chili Cheese Fries (Regular): $5.50 – $6.50
- Chili Cheese Fries (Large): $6.50 – $7.50
- Onion Rings: $4.00 – $5.00
- Coleslaw: $2.00 – $3.00
Chili cheese fries are a meal by themselves. They come topped with beef chili, melted cheese, and sometimes onions. If you are sharing, order the large size.
Hot Dogs And Polish Sausage
For a lighter option, try the hot dog or Polish sausage. These are grilled and served on a bun with mustard and relish.
- Hot Dog: $4.50 – $5.50
- Polish Sausage: $5.50 – $6.50
- Chili Dog: $5.50 – $6.50
- Chili Cheese Dog: $6.00 – $7.00
The Polish sausage is bigger and has a snappier texture than the hot dog. The chili dog is messy but worth it if you like hearty flavors.
Breakfast Items
Some locations serve breakfast until 11:00 AM. The menu includes eggs, bacon, and pastries.
- Breakfast Burrito: $6.00 – $7.50
- Egg and Cheese Sandwich: $4.50 – $5.50
- Bacon and Egg Sandwich: $5.50 – $6.50
- Hash Browns: $2.50 – $3.50
The breakfast burrito is filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or ham. It is a good value for the size.
Drinks And Desserts
Drinks include soda, iced tea, lemonade, and bottled water. Desserts are limited to cookies and brownies.
- Soda (small): $1.50 – $2.00
- Soda (large): $2.00 – $2.50
- Iced Tea: $1.50 – $2.00
- Lemonade: $2.00 – $2.50
- Cookie: $1.50 – $2.00
- Brownie: $2.00 – $2.50
You can refill your soda for free at most locations. The cookies are soft and chewy, but not a highlight.
How To Order Smartly
Ordering at The Hat is straightforward, but a few tricks can save you money and time.
Step 1: Choose Your Main Item
Decide if you want a pastrami sandwich, burger, or hot dog. The pastrami dip is the signature item and the best value for the amount of meat you get.
Step 2: Pick A Combo
If you want fries and a drink, order a combo. It costs about two dollars less than buying each item separately. The combo includes a small fries and a small drink.
Step 3: Upgrade Your Fries
If you are hungry, upgrade to chili cheese fries for about two dollars more. This turns your side into a main dish.
Step 4: Skip The Extras
You do not need onion rings or coleslaw unless you really want them. The fries are already filling, and the coleslaw is basic.
Step 5: Check For Daily Specials
Some locations have a daily special, like a discounted pastrami dip on Tuesdays. Ask at the counter or check the board.
What Makes The Hat Special
The Hat has been around since 1951. The original location is in Alhambra, California. The menu has not changed much since then, which is part of the appeal.
The pastrami is the main draw. It is hand-sliced, not pre-packaged, and it is steamed before serving. This makes it tender and juicy. The bread is soft but sturdy enough to hold the meat without falling apart.
The portions are generous. A regular pastrami dip is easily enough for two people if you are not starving. The large size is almost ridiculous, with meat stacked several inches high.
The atmosphere is casual and loud. You order at the counter, get a number, and find a seat. The staff is efficient but not chatty. It is a place for eating, not for lingering.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
First-time visitors often make a few errors. Here is what to watch out for.
- Ordering too much food. The portions are big, so share if you can.
- Forgetting to ask for extra napkins. The sandwiches are messy, especially the chili cheese fries.
- Not checking the hours. Some locations close early on Sundays or have limited breakfast hours.
- Ignoring the combo deals. You save money by ordering a combo instead of separate items.
- Overlooking the chili. The chili is beef-based and adds a lot of flavor to fries and dogs.
Location And Price Variations
The Hat has about 20 locations, mostly in Southern California. Prices can vary by location by up to two dollars. For example, the pastrami dip might cost $11.00 in one suburb and $13.00 in a downtown area.
Here is a rough breakdown of price differences:
- Suburban locations (e.g., Alhambra, Pasadena): Lower prices, usually near the bottom of the ranges listed above.
- Urban locations (e.g., Los Angeles, Santa Monica): Higher prices, often at the top of the ranges.
- Airport or tourist areas: Prices can be 10-15% higher.
If you are on a budget, go to a suburban location. The food is the same quality, but you pay less.
Dietary Considerations
The Hat is not a health food restaurant. Most items are high in sodium, fat, and calories. However, there are a few options for people with dietary restrictions.
- Vegetarian: The only vegetarian option is the fries or onion rings. There is no veggie burger or salad.
- Gluten-free: The fries are gluten-free, but the buns and bread are not. You can order a pastrami dip without the bread, but it is not a standard menu item.
- Low-carb: Skip the bun and fries. Order a pastrami dip without bread, or a burger without the bun.
If you have allergies, ask the staff about ingredients. The chili contains beef and may have gluten from thickeners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular item on The Hat menu?
The pastrami dip is the most ordered item. It is the reason most people visit.
Are there any vegetarian options at The Hat?
Vegetarian options are limited. You can get fries, onion rings, or a side of coleslaw. There is no plant-based protein.
How much does a combo meal cost at The Hat?
A combo meal costs between $14.50 and $17.00, depending on the location and the main item. It includes a sandwich, fries, and a drink.
Does The Hat have a loyalty program?
No, The Hat does not have a formal loyalty program. Some locations offer punch cards, but this is not consistent.
Can I order The Hat online or for delivery?
Yes, many locations offer online ordering through their website or third-party apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats. Prices may be higher for delivery.
Final Tips For Your Visit
If you are planning a trip to The Hat, keep these points in mind.
- Go during off-peak hours. Lunch rush is 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Dinner rush is 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Avoid these times if you want a shorter wait.
- Bring cash. Some locations prefer cash, though most accept cards now. Check before you go.
- Share with a friend. The portions are large, so splitting a pastrami dip and fries is a good idea.
- Try the chili cheese fries at least once. They are a messy but delicious experience.
- Do not expect fancy service. The staff is efficient but not overly friendly. That is part of the charm.
The Hat menu and prices offer a straightforward, no-nonsense dining experience. You get big portions of classic American food at reasonable prices. The pastrami dip is the highlight, but the burgers and chili cheese fries are also worth trying. If you are in Southern California and want a filling meal without pretension, this is a solid choice.
Remember to check the prices at your specific location, as they can vary. And always order a combo if you want fries and a drink—it is the best value on the menu. Enjoy your meal.