Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks

Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks is a casual dining chain rooted in California, recognized for its relaxed, beach-inspired setting and a menu that highlights gourmet burgers, fresh-cut fries, and tropical drinks. The company was founded in 1982 by Tony DeGrazier, who opened the first location in West Los Angeles with the aim of bringing the easygoing spirit of Southern California’s surf culture into a restaurant environment. Over the years, Islands grew steadily, expanding its presence across California and into Arizona, and building a reputation for friendly service and a family-friendly atmosphere.

A notable milestone in the company’s history was its expansion beyond its original market, establishing a stable footprint in both Southern California and Arizona. As of November 2025, Islands operates 42 locations, with most restaurants situated in suburban retail centers and high-traffic corridors. The brand has remained privately owned and has consistently focused on company-operated stores rather than franchising, which has allowed it to maintain a high level of operational consistency and local relevance.

In the past five years, Islands has concentrated on optimizing its existing portfolio rather than pursuing aggressive expansion. The company’s recent strategy has centered on selective remodels and upgrades in its core trade areas, ensuring each location remains relevant to its local market. While Islands continues to evaluate opportunities within Southern California and Arizona, it is not actively seeking new sites as of late 2025.

For landlords, brokers, and developers, Islands stands out as a stable, established operator with a recognizable brand and a preference for high-visibility, high-volume sites. Its full-service, family-oriented format, which includes a bar component, consistently draws steady evening and weekend traffic. The company’s commitment to quality and operational longevity makes it a credible and reliable tenant in competitive suburban retail environments.