Burgersmith, Fat Cow and Five Guys will not be the only places students can buy burgers in 2015.
Smashburger, a Denver-based company named one of America’s most promising companies by Forbes in 2014, will begin construction on its first Baton Rouge location in March. When it opens, the restaurant chain will have four Louisiana locations — joining the other three in New Orleans, Shreveport and Bossier City.
Mark Hebert, leasing agent for Kurz & Hebert Commercial Real Estate, Inc., said Smashburger signed a lease for a space on Corporate Blvd. formerly occupied by Louisiana Pizza Kitchen. Smashburger will replace Trios Mexican Bar and Grill, which is currently sub-leasing the space.
Hebert said Trios will vacate the space by the end of February.
“It’s taken us a while to secure this deal,” Hebert said. “Smashburger looked all over Baton Rouge, and many other businesses like Vitamin Shoppe, Chipotle and Charles Schwab were interested in the space, but now it’s settled with the landlord — we have a deal.”
Sports administration junior Denver McLendon is excited for Smashburger’s arrival despite the number of burger places already in Baton Rouge. He is even more excited to be able to chow down on Smashburger’s Haystack Onions, his favorite menu item, on a more regular basis.
“Smashburger is going to be a great addition to Baton Rouge and will fit in perfectly with the young college vibe that Baton Rouge provides,” McLendon said. “It offers cheap food options and a place to chill between classes with friends.”
Smashburger menu items include “smashed-to-order” Angus burgers, chicken sandwiches and entrees, salads, signature side fries and milkshakes.
Communication studies sophomore Lauren Grossman said Smashburger is a place she used to visit often before moving from Arlington, Texas, to attend the University because there was one located 10 minutes from her house.
Grossman expects to feel a little more at home now that Smashburger is making its way to Baton Rouge.
“Smashburger is going to be a hit because it has a different style and atmosphere than in the other burger places around here, in my opinion,” she said. “Plus, they have the best milkshakes.”
Hebert said the landlord hopes the new restaurant will be a “smashing” success.