Rachel Bilson Reveals The Surprising Spot For Her Favorite Cheeseburger
Rachel Bilson may be known for her roles in "The O.C." and "Hart of Dixie" or as the co-host of her popular podcast, but when she's not in front of a camera or mic, you'll likely find her exploring the world. For Rachel, travel is the ultimate escape—a chance to step out of the Hollywood bubble and dive into new experiences.
"Travel opens your eyes in a way nothing else can," she told me. "It's about more than just seeing new places—it's about immersing yourself in something completely different."
Her travels have taken her everywhere, from Thailand's bustling markets to the romantic streets of Paris, and while she loves the adventure, food often plays a starring role in her journeys. "Thailand was unforgettable—the food was so fresh and vibrant! And in Paris, I found the best cheeseburger I've ever had at a little spot called Ferdi. Eating that burger with the Eiffel Tower in view? That's something I'll never forget."
But these days, travel is also about sharing those experiences with her daughter, Briar. "Travel is the best education," Rachel explains. "Briar's already been to some great places, but Europe is definitely next on the list. I want her to see the world and experience different cultures—there's so much to learn from that."
For Rachel, the joy of travel is as much about returning to favorite places as it is discovering new ones. "Costa Rica is a special spot for us. Briar loved it, and honestly, I don't blame her—it's such a beautiful place. We're planning to go back soon."
Even with all her adventures, Rachel's bucket list keeps growing. "I want to go everywhere!" she laughs. "Spain, Ireland, Iceland, Alaska—they're all high on my list. I'm always ready for the next adventure."
Of course, traveling with kids comes with its challenges, but Rachel has picked up a few tricks. "Snacks are a must—always pack snacks," she advises. "Bento boxes are great for keeping kids entertained with little bites. And when they're old enough, the iPad is a total game changer. It makes flights so much easier."
Her travel essentials? "Snacks, disinfectant wipes—I've always carried those—and cozy socks. The softer, the better, especially for long flights. I also travel with a pillow for red-eyes."
Though Rachel may be easygoing about her travel plans, she's serious about safety—especially after being targeted in the infamous Bling Ring robberies. In the late 2000s, her home was burglarized by a group of teens who infamously targeted the homes of celebrities, making her all too familiar with the importance of security. That's why her partnership with SimpliSafe feels like a perfect fit.
"SimpliSafe's new Active Guard Outdoor Protection and Outdoor Security Camera Series 2 give you peace of mind by proactively protecting your home," she explains. "And it's so easy to install, which I love."
As her career continues to evolve, with new projects on the horizon and her podcast thriving, one thing remains constant: Rachel's desire to keep exploring. Whether she's discovering hidden gems in cities she's never been to or returning to her favorite destinations with her daughter, Rachel's love for travel is unstoppable. "There's just so much out there to see," she says. "Every new adventure is a chance to learn and grow, and I can't wait for what's next."
