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Top 100: Restaurants - Smashburger

Smashburger tops the 2014 list of Fast Casual's Top 100: Restaurants.

March 14, 2015

Smashburger tops the 2014 list of Fast Casual's Top 100: Restaurants. 

Recognized as one of the first to take on the “better-burger” concept, Smashburger is No. 1 on this year’s Top 100 list. With more than 250 restaurants worldwide and plans to open another 70 to 80 units by the end of 2014, the Denver-based chain is obviously a smashing success. In fact, it recently ranked No. 6 on Forbes’ third annual America’s Most Promising Companies list, which recognizes the top 100 privately held, high-growth companies with “compelling business models and strong management teams, as well as notable customers and investors.” 

The chain, founded in 2007, named a new CEO in November 2013, a move that sometimes can halt a company’s growth. Smashburger, however, still is going strong with Scott Crane at the helm. He’s no stranger to the brand, having led its operations for the last six years as president. The former Pizza Hut and Taco Bell exec is looking to grow the company in his new role, seeking domestic and international franchise partners throughout a variety of markets, including Chicago, Miami, Seattle and Canada. The chain stays focused on menu innovation, said Crane, who pointed out that over the last year it has introduced several unique menu offerings, including its burger and craft beer pairing. That item has the chain partnering with local craft breweries to pair local brews with select burgers. 

The brand continues to be on trend for what today’s foodies are seeking, said founder Tom Ryan. “Smashburger’s modern, premium approach to America’s favorite food resonates with consumers on multiple fronts,” he said. “From our juicy and delicious Certified Angus Beef Smashburgers, rosemary- and-garlic-seasoned Smashfries, chicken sandwiches and salads, and Häagen-Dazs shakes to our fast, friendly service and modern decor, Smashburger represents the burger restaurant for the next generation of burger lovers.”