Smashburger Unveiled On Route 17

Nov. 17 was the big day.

Mayor Richard LaBarbiera performed the Ceremonial Smash, and Smashburger, the nation’s “Better Burger” restaurant, opened its seventh Garden State location.

In addition to the brand new 556 Route 17 north Paramus location, other New Jersey Smashburger locations include: Clifton, Florham Park, Hackensack, Montclair, Newark Liberty International Airport and New Providence, with locations coming soon to East Hanover, Morris Plains and Ramsey.

And how was business the first day?

“Busy,” said Elizabeth Cruz, General Manager, a veteran Smashburger worker. “The parking lot was packed, the lines were out the door."

And in a trying economy, Smashburger has no doubt it will succeed in Paramus. The reason?

“Probably the food, and guest services," Cruz said. "And we use the best quality ingredients.”

“We worked hard to give New Jersey residents truly different regional tastes,” Tom Ryan, Smashburger founder, said. “Guests will be excited about the unique burgers, chicken sandwiches and salads we’ve created and we look forward to bringing these items to Paramus.”

The secret is in the “smash.”  It starts with 100 percent—fresh, never frozen, Certified Angus Beef which is smashed on a 400 degree flat grill to sear in the juicy flavor.

The burgers are served on toasted artisan buns and topped with a selection of the freshest produce, real cheeses and highest-quality condiments.

The Paramus Smashburger has six booths and eight tables that seat two to four people. In addition to burgers, Best’s hot dogs, 100% all-white meat chicken sandwiches, salads, meals for kids, malts and milk shakes are also offered.

For first-timers visiting Smashburger, the classic burger either in Smash or Big Smash size is highly ecommended. The Smash size is perfect for a hungry appetite, and paired with a side of Smashfries tossed with rosemary, olive oil and garlic, it’s the perfect combination.

Melanie Medina, a Paramus resident, visited Smashburger for the first time on the advice of her parents.

“I hear about it, and I pass it every day," Medina said. "My parents were here and said it was great.”

Melanie ordered a Smash size burger from the Create Your Own Burger options. She enjoyed her burger on a classic egg bun.

“We couldn’t be more excited to add Paramus as our seventh New Jersey location,” Smashburger chairman and CEO David Prokupek said. “The brand has received great reviews since our first opening, and this location will bring the Smashburger experience to many more burger fans in New Jersey. Paramus is going to be craving Smashburger.”

Smashburger, 556 Route 17 North, Paramus, (201) 670-1120, www.smashburger.com