What Is a Smash Burger? Meet the Crispy, Juicy Game-Changer

March 31, 2025

If you’ve been paying attention, you’re sure to have heard plenty about our smashing signature dish. But what is a smash burger? Is it really different from the regular kind, or is it all just marketing and hype? Is the trend worth a try? (Spoiler alert: yes!)

Hope you’re hungry, because it’s time to dig in!

So, What Exactly Is a Smash Burger?

Let’s get a few things straight before we get into the details.

What makes a smash burger patty distinct is, well, the smash. The bun, lettuce, tomato, and onion are all pretty standard, but the meat is the marvel. A normal patty is shaped before cooking and browned to a medium to medium-rare brown. The smash patty is created right on the griddle. Instead of perfecting the shape by hand, we let the sweet griddle sing her siren song, with a little help from our smashing tool.

The meat is placed onto a piping-hot griddle, pressed flat – and voila! You have a smash hit! These patties are thinner than the usual, with lots of extra crispy crunch without sacrificing that moist interior. Once they’re cooked through and the vegan cheese has melted to oozy perfection, our patties make their way onto a toasted bun, stacked with toppings, and sent out to solve world hunger. Or, your hunger, at least.

Maillard Magic: Unlocking Next-Level Flavor

“So what?” you might say. “What’s the big deal? What’s the point of a smash burger?”

The answer lies in the Maillard reaction. That’s the scientific name for how food turns brown and extra-delicious when heated. By smashing the patty flat, we create extra surface area that’s getting direct contact with the heat. This means that you get more of that gorgeous brown outer crust – and more brown equals more flavor! The super-hot griddle cooks the patty in its own juices and seals them in, so you get the crunch without drying out the bite.

You’ll never want a traditional hamburger again.

Quiz: What’s Your Smash Burger Style? Find Out What You’re Really Craving!

How do you like your toppings?

Give me all the classics: lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onion.
Keep it simple—just a little onion for that extra zing.
Load it up! The more toppings, the better.
Let’s get spicy! I love a little heat in every bite.

What’s your vibe when eating out?

Simple and straightforward, with touch of sass.
Classic and dependable, just like me.
Indulgent – I’m here to treat myself!
Adventurous! I’m always looking for bold flavors.

How hungry are you?

Just enough for a light, satisfying bite.
Ready to eat! I want a solid, classic burger meal.
Starving! I need a double burger with all the extras.
Hungry for something spicy and bold.

Results

Mostly A’s:

The Classic Smash

You’re a fan of the timeless burger experience. With vegan cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and purple onion, this burger is the ultimate go-to. Pair it with our Smash Sauce, and you’re golden!

Mostly B’s:

The “305” Smash Burger

You’re all about simplicity with a twist! This single smash burger brings the Miami heat by adding onion directly into the patty, with some vegan cheese on top to take the edge off. It’s light and flavorful – a beachside party in your mouth.

Mostly C’s:

The Loaded Smash

You’ve got a big appetite, and you’re here to indulge! A Double Smash with vegan cheese, caramelized onions, and beef bacon is exactly what you need. And don’t forget the Smash Sauce!

Mostly D’s:

The Jalapeño Burger

You love bold, spicy flavors! This double smash burger with vegan cheese, fresh jalapeños, and jalapeño aïoli is perfect for your adventurous palate. Every bite brings the heat!

Ready to Smash? Your Search for the Perfect Burger Is Over

If you aren’t drooling by now, you sure will be when you check out the our smashing menu! There’s something for every style, from the simplicity of the Single Smash to the spice of the Jalapeño Burger. And the best part? Although we love to have our guests in-store, you can order all your favorites for delivery or pickup in Manhattan. What is a smash burger? It’s your ticket to a delicious night – out or in!