Smashburger Releases Statement on Closing

Smashburger closed suddenly this month after open for 18 months at 2425 West 75th Street. 

Why? Here's what the folks at the burger franchise had to say: 

We couldn’t be more excited about the increasing popularity of Smashburger among Chicago since we first entered the market nearly three years ago.

While we look forward to continued growth and expansion, we are still learning the dynamics of the market, our customers here, and what types of locations work best for a concept like ours, thus we will be closing our Darien location Sunday, November 25, 2012.

We look forward to the opening of additional stores in the near future including exciting grand openings in La Grange this early December and downtown Chicago in February 2013. 

“We’re optimistic the Chicago market will continue to grow and flourish and consumers will continue to enjoy and experience our better burger brand in Chicago’s nine other surrounding locations,” says Tom Ryan, Smashburger’s Chief Concept Officer. 

After its opening in May 2011, Smashburger quickly became a staple in the Darien community. 

In August, Patch readers named its burger best in town for Readers' Choice 2012.

"They were awfully generous to chamber," said president Clare Bongiovanni. "They participated in the Holiday Expo and Darien Fest. ... They were always there for us, and we are really going to miss them."

Bongiovanni says she'd like to see another food establishment open in its place: "Something healthy like a deli."

Patch Asks: Are you sad to see Smashburger close? What would you like to see open in its place? 

Related: 

Smashburger Set to Open

Readers' Choice Winners 2012