The History of the Smashburger (And Why You Should Try Ours)
Smash burgers have quickly become a favorite among diner fans. Moving away from the traditional grill to rely on the skillet, they deliver a greasy, delicious, and oddly crispy bite. While these meaty marvels might be all the rage today, their rise in restaurants was slow, steady, and absolutely worth it. Here’s what makes smash burgers stand out for the carnivore crowd and why you should try ours.
How are Smash Burgers Made?
A smash burger is a type of hamburger made with a loosely formed ball of ground beef that’s pressed ''smashed'' onto a hot griddle or skillet into a thin patty. The patty cooks quickly, developing crispy, crunchy, and browned edges, a juicy center, and an uneven thickness that’s characteristic of this style. A smash burger may have traditional and simple toppings or various out-of-the-box options.
How Did They Become so Popular?
Smash burgers started appearing in roadside diners in the early 1900s, loved for their flavor and affordability. However, they didn’t really become widespread or get a name for a century. In recent decades, they gained popularity, partly thanks to Instagram, listicles, and fast-food chains. Cooks rushed to the griddles, trying to make the perfect patty, and foodies followed, hunting for the most delicious bite.
The Lights Out Burger: Our Smashing Success
The Lights Out Burger is one of our signature smash burgers. It features double-smashed patties topped with aged American cheese, house-made pickles, diced onions, and burger sauce, all served on a toasted brioche bun brushed with garlic butter. It can also be prepared with Impossible Burger patties, providing a plant-based option for our vegetarian guests.
A recent Redditor commented the following:
“I finally tried the Lights Out Burger and I was very impressed! Might be my new favorite smash burger. If I lived in Denver I would be in real trouble going there every week during happy hour, what a deal
The patties, the buns, the onions, the pickles, all great”
The Lights Out Burger was voted Westword’s Best Burger and is available all day, every day.
Atomic Cowboy is a cultural blend of ideas and experiences, food and drink, late nights and early mornings, north and south. We offer in-restaurant dining and delivery. Contact us today to learn more about our menu, events, and accolades.
