Move over Shake Shack, there’s a new burger joint coming to town.
Smashburger will be giving away free burgers to celebrate opening day on Wednesday, April 29.
The fast-casual eatery joins other shops at the brand new Marketplace at Fells Point—an up-and-coming retail and apartment project that has taken over the 600 block of South Broadway.
With 315 locations spanning 7 countries, the Denver-based burger chain is best known for its signature “smashed” burgers that are made-to-order on a hot buttered grill.
To put a hometown spin on the new spot, a special Chesapeake Smashburger topped with Baltimore’s own Tulkoff Tiger Sauce will be added to the menu.
“The most unique part of our brand is our smashing technique,” says the brand’s PR and marketing manager Christine Ferris. “It’s really funny because most people’s first question is always, ‘Won’t that squeeze all of the juices out?'”
But, in fact, Ferris says that Smashburger’s signature process creates a seer that acts as a barrier and allows for juices to percolate through the patty.
In addition to its “smashed” claim to fame, the restaurant also offers chicken sandwiches, salads, haystack onion rings, handspun milkshakes, and garlic, rosemary, and olive oil-seasoned French fries.
Fells Point’s reputation as the stomping grounds for young adults was a big factor in the company’s decision to expand into the community.
“Millennials are proving to be a big part of our market right now,” explains Ferris, “and the apartments and other restaurants in the area are pretty popular with that generation.”
Guests who stop by the new storefront at 616 S. Broadway from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday will receive a free Classic Smashburger in honor of the grand opening.
“We don’t do this everywhere, but in Baltimore we want to make sure we hit the ground running,” Ferris says. “We know the second people try the burger they’re going to want to come back.”