The fast-casual burger chain Smashburger is expanding into Wantagh.
Denver-based Smashburger is scheduled to open its third Long Island location on 1223 Wantagh Ave. by early August at the former location of a Dollar Store in the Wantagh Woods Plaza. Irwin Kruger, franchisee for Smashburger’s Long Island locations, said the Wantagh summer opening is among about a half a dozen the chain is targeting to open in Nassau County by the end of the year. Kruger said part of the appeal for the planned Wantagh location is being located along a busy road like Wantagh Avenue near the Southern State Parkway and its proximity to and high schools.
“It’s an attractive area for us,” Kruger said. “It should be a big hit in Wantagh.”
The new Wantagh Smashburger will measure 3,200 square-feet compared to 2,300 square-feet in the chain’s Hicksville location, which Kruger said produces one of the highest volume of customers for all of its 170 restaurants nationwide. Kruger said the extra space will be mainly used for a private party area in the rear of the restaurant.
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Kruger said since Smashburger recently moved into Hicksville, they have worked hard to get involved with the local schools and plan to do the same in Wantagh.
“We’re trying to do whatever we can to tie into the neighborhood,” he said.
In addition to hamburgers, Smashburger also offers chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, salads and shakes. The Smashburger name derives from the process they use to cook burgers, which are smashed onto the grill using a metal plate.
What do you think of Smashburger's pending arrival in Wantagh? Tell us in the comments.
