Smashburger Opens to the Public Today

The folks at Smashburger like to say "the secret is in the smash."

And while, yes, as Patch viewers can see from the above video that the "smash" of the one-third pound Angus beef really does create a unique, juicy hamburger, one visit to yesterday's media event revealed for this Patch reporter a few more Smashburger "secrets." Notably, the Smashburger's "secret" menu, which held many surprises.

For instance, one of the items that is not advertised on the menu, but that customers can get at every Smashburger location, is fried pickle chips.

Jeremy Morgan, who works with Smashburger's marketing department, told a group of reporters at the Brick location's media unveiling yesterday that the secret menu allows the business to try out flavors and foods in different areas, before they become an official part of the menu.

In fact, one such item he said they may consider - based on this reporter's suggestion - is adding taylor ham to the New Jersey burger. Last week, Brick Patch reported that the company's New Jersey burger featured applewood-smoked bacon, blue cheese, grilled onions, haystack onions, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise on an onion bun.

Comments on the Patch targeted the New Jersey burger - saying it should have our much beloved pork roll, on top. When this reporter relayed that information to Morgan, he said that type of burger was tested in some North Jersey locations, it did not do as well.

When he was informed of the comments from you, our Patch readers, Morgan said they would consider adding it back to this menu. Stay tuned.

Regardless of toppings, this reporter can attest - the New Jersey burger - in its current form is delicious. (I also tried the Classic Smashburger, the chicken sandwiches,the truffle mushroom Swiss - my personal favorite - and a whole host of sides, including their famous fries tossed with rosemary, olive oil and garlic. Yes, I even tried the Häagen-Dazs ice cream shakes, for you, our Patch readers, because I care! I enjoyed every bite and every gulp.)

One of the hosts for the media event was franchise owner Anthony Pellizzi. Pellizzi said he has the rights to develop eight in Monmouth and Ocean counties in coming months and years, and is currently scouting other locations. There are currently 13 other locations in this state. 

He said he opted to start at the Brick location - in Brick Plaza - because this area has shown an "explosion in people's interest to eat higher quality burgers than the typical fast food fare."


The business opens its doors at Brick Plaza, on the corners of Route 70 and Cedarbridge Avenue, with a ceremonial "first smash" at 10:15 a.m.