Smashburger

What do these 3 Ss have in common: Smash, Sizzle, Savor?  A fourth "S" - Smashburger. Smashburger is part of a casual chain of burger restaurants that originated in Denver Colorado in 2007. It was started by Tom Ryan, a veteran of fast food favorites such as Quiznos, McDonald's, Pizza Hut and Long John Silver's. For those of you that love the sweet and salty breakfast treat otherwise known as the "McGriddle", he was the mastermind that introduced it along with the the "Dollar Menu" (Yay Tom!) 


Smashburger first arrived in South Florida in November of 2011, bringing the worldwide number to close to 200, and there are currently four locations in the area: Miami, Kendall, Coral Springs and Pembroke Pines. But that's not all. There is a new location opening in Palm Beach County's Boynton Beach on December 31, 2012 at 1729 S. Federal Highway. Happy New Year! With all these burger places popping up everywhere, I thought I'd visit the Kendall location at 9019 SW 107 Avenue, Space 3340, to get a taste of one of the nation's fastest growing "better-burger" concept chains.

Close-up of Miami Burger

I was wondering where the name "Smashburger" came from. It turns out, it originates from the way the burger is prepared. They start out with 100% Angus Beef rolled into a plump meatball; smash, sear and season it with their secret spice blend on the grill, then place it on a butter-toasted artisan bun, and top it with high-quality cheese, fresh produce and condiments. Smashburger stands behind its "smashing" process because it caramelizes the beef, sealing in the juices and adding to the taste. Aside from their signature burgers, chicken, salads and sides, Smashburger also offers delicious milkshakes and malts made from Haagen Dazs ice-cream.

Miami Burger with Smashfries

Although all the locations have their signature burgers such as the Classic and the Mushroom Swiss, I wanted to try their locally-inspired regional one created just for South Florida: the Miami Burger; a latin fusion on a bun representing the Quintessential Frita. They've paired 100% Certified Angus beef with grilled Chorizo, then topped it with frita potatoes, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and bold, spicy mayo on a Cuban roll. I gobbled it down with one of their signature sides, Smashfries; delicious french fries drizzled with rosemary, olive oil and garlic.

Avocado Club with Veggie Frites

Sweet Potato Fries

Another interesting burger on the menu is the Avocado Club; their smashburger topped with fresh avocado, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, ranch dressing, and mayo on a multi-grain bun. It was "smashing"! You can also have it with all-white meat crispy or grilled chicken instead. To sample one of their healthier sides, I gave their Veggie Frites a whirl. These were flash-fried carrot sticks and green beans, and were full of flavor. Loving sweet potatoes like I do, I tried one more side, the Sweet Potato Fries seasoned with sea salt.  If you're feeling creative and inventive, Smashburger gives you the option to create your own burger and chicken sandwich, choosing everything from the bun and the cheese, to the toppings and sauces. 

Spinach and Goat Cheese Salad

I have to say something that really stood out for me at Smashburger was the salad. I usually wouldn't try one at a burger joint, but figured, let's do it. It turned out to be one of my favorites of the night. The Spinach and Goat Cheese Salad had a nice flavor fusion of spinach, goat cheese, raisins, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions topped with balsamic vinaigrette dressing.   

Oreo Milkshake

Although my tummy was content, I didn't want to end the moment without indulging in one of their signature shakes so I went for the Oreo Milkshake; a generous portion of thick, creamy heaven on a frosted glass, with a refill on the side. Nice!

Adventures of the Foodaholic
Stocking Stuffer Smash Cash Giveaway

If you're looking for a casual, family-friendly place to go for a quick workday lunch, a weekend burger and beer (or wine if you're in the mood),  Smashburger will have something for everyone at a very affordable price. And here's the best part! It's the holidays, and I'm feeling a little Santa-like so I've partnered with Smashburger to give five lucky readers some Smash Cash to put in their Christmas stockings. For the next five days, starting today at midnight, check out the Giveaways tab on my Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/Adventuresofthefoodaholic for details on how to win $10 worth of Smash Cash to use at your local restaurant. For more information on Smashburger, visit them online at http://smashburger.com/ Happy Holidays and Bon Appetit.