Smashburger

Smashburger is an American multinational fast-casual hamburger restaurant chain founded in 2007 by Rick Schaden and Tom Ryan in Denver, Colorado. The company specializes in "smashed" burgers, a technique where beef patties are seared on a flattop grill at high heat to create a caramelized, crispy sear that locks in juices and flavor.

This method results in a distinctive taste and texture that sets Smashburger apart in the competitive burger market.

The menu at Smashburger is diverse, featuring a variety of burgers, chicken sandwiches, black bean burgers, and salads.

Customers can customize their meals with a range of toppings and sauces, including the signature "smash sauce" made from mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, and lemon juice.

Sides include classic French fries, sweet potato fries, fried pickles, and "smash fries" topped with rosemary and olive oil.

For dessert, the chain offers hand-spun milkshakes made with Häagen-Dazs ice cream.

In addition to its core menu, Smashburger emphasizes local flavors by crafting unique burgers tailored to regional tastes.

For example, Colorado locations serve burgers with roasted green chiles, while Chicago restaurants offer pretzel buns.

This approach not only caters to local preferences but also enhances the dining experience by providing a sense of community connection.

Company Size and Reach

As of 2022, Smashburger operates over 227 corporate and franchise-owned restaurants across 35 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, as well as in Canada.

The company has a significant presence in Colorado, with 29 locations, and in New York, with 21 locations.

Other states with notable numbers include California and Arizona, each with 17 locations, and Texas with 16.

Locations

Smashburger has multiple locations in key states, including:

• California: Los Angeles, Carson, Hawthorne, Compton
• New York: New York City, Yonkers, Mount Vernon
• Other locations include Upper Darby, PA; Chester, PA; Centennial, CO; Las Vegas, NV; Silver Spring, MD; Tulsa, OK; Sugar Land, TX; East Orange, NJ; Boston, MA; Louisville, KY

Industry Recognition

Smashburger's commitment to quality and innovation has earned it recognition in the industry.

In 2011, Forbes named it "America's Most Promising Company," and in 2017, it ranked as the 9th favorite burger restaurant brand in America according to The Harris Poll’s annual EquiTrend Study.