Shake Shack vs Smashburger: Ultimate Burger Showdown
When it comes to fast-casual dining and especially hamburgers, Shake Shack and Smashburger are definitely among the most popular and top-tier brands in the field. Each has differentiated themselves and developed their unique market position. What are their differentiating factors? This ultimate burger showdown seeks to identify the differences in their menus, restaurants and overall eating experience. This classic American burger walks every single niche in the universe – be it a corporate exec in need of a simple, quick burger to satisfy hunger pangs, or an adventure tour operator in need of a quick burger and the ultimate burger experience to recommend – this burger is it!
Contender History
From Hot Dog Cart to ShackBurgering
Founded by Danny Meyer, Shake Shack’s first location started in a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park, NY in 2001. Just a year later, they opened a kiosk in the park, and the shack’s first ever location. Since then, they have opened hundreds of locations all over the world. Their most famous products include their ShackBurger, crinkle cut fries, milkshakes and of course, hot dogs! People love the shack due to quality ingredients and focus on sustainability.
Smashburger: Perfecting the Smash
Smashburger – one of the biggest names in fast casual dining – was one of the first to introduce the technique of smashing the beef patty onto a hot surface to enhance the Maillard reaction and achieve a perfect sear. Designed with a ‘smashed’ and then ‘crusted’ flavor profile in mind, the technique is and was a perfect fit for the Smashburger concept and brand identity. It is no wonder the little fast-casual chain with a single location grew to an international fast-casual dining porp starting from the first location in 2007 with no end in sight. The brand and locations across the U.S. and international locations keep the love of gourmet burgers from the first Smashburger location around for new fans to discover. The chain is a first for gourmet fast-casual dining.
What Out of the Burgers is the Best?
Shake Shack: Simple Burgers with a Great Taste.
Shake Shack has one of the best menus around, and it is because it is so simple. The ShackBurger, with no bells and whistles, is a 100% all-natural Angus beef cheeseburger with lettuce, and a tomato topped with shack sauce. The perfect finishing touch for such a cheeseburger is a side of their crinkle cut fries: golden fried crisp on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. With a shake to top it off, it’s a perfect meal for any fast casual dining occasion.
Smashburger’s Flavorful Innovation
Smashburger prepares their burgers with special techniques and customization. Their special Smashburger is made with their own unique method and it comes out as a juicy patty with a flavorful crust. The burgers can have toppings like applewood smoked bacon, avocado, and blue cheese. On top of their burgers, their menu has Smashfries which are tossed in rosemary, garlic, and olive oil for a fancy take on customary fries.
Ambiance and Experience
The Shake Shack Vibe
Amid the modernity and warmth of the atmosphere, Shake Shack cultivates a sense of community and sustainability. The chain building design is eco-friendly and inclusive of outdoor dining with a relaxed atmosphere. For a fast lunch, or a sit and enjoy meal, the hospitable staff make the experience a positive one.
The Smashburger Experience
Smashburger has a lively and active atmosphere in their restaurants. The decorations and contemporary design match the company’s innovative theme. The open kitchen design allows for the audience to see the smashing process, and the staff are encouraged to be lively. Smashburger supports their community in their commitment to incorporating local and popular menu items.
Nutritional Insights
by Andy Chilton
Shake Shack’s Approach
Shake Shack’s burgers are made from whole, high-quality, all-natural 100% Angue Beef. There are no additives like hormones or antibiotics in Shake Shack’s high-quality burgers. Shake Shack provides nutritional information on its website, and while the information may be considered somewhat on the negative side, at least the customer can consider and choose from the information given.
Smashburger’s Health
Smashburger does health and nutrition an exact opposite way. Health is bottom line and nutrition is an after thought. They distill health and nutrition at zero loss, by grinding up their burgers from Certified Angue Beef® and then letting the customers ‘make their own burger’ for a very high premium. Decent health is at least available for an extreme burger, along with grilled chicken on a sandwich and even a salad.
Who’s the Best?
In the end, it’s a choice. It’s a personal one and it’s logical. The decision rewards buyers and sellers with unrivaled burgers. Construction is very basic and does nothing new. Quality stands for itself in a very straight burger from Shake Shack. They do it extreme, with over the top premium burgers and constructed with an aftermarket sandwich.
Corporate executives looking for a fast and satisfying meal in a comfortable atmosphere where they can also take a break from their work will find Shake Shack a reputable hand in the way of innovation and high quality. Smashburger also offers innovation in the way of high quality but in the non culinary elements.
The ultimate burger battle is here! When it comes to fast casual dining, Shake Shack and Smashburger enter the arena as summited contenders. No matter who you choose, you will have a burger experience to remember!