A Smash Hit

I rarely review “chain restaurants” and usually prefer locally-owned food establishments, but every once in a while something new comes along that is worthy of special note.
  Have you tried Smashburger in Orem across from the University Mall? What a great place! I loved the updated contemporary look and casual atmosphere of the restaurant. The menu is right up front so I could check out what I wanted before going to the counter to order.
  Smashburger prides itself on customizing its menu to the local area and culture; thus the creation of
the “Beehive Burger” — honey BBQ sauce, applewood smoked bacon, cheddar cheese and haystack onions on an egg bun. Sounded like the perfect burger to me!
  They also offer classic burgers, as well as a spicy southwest variety, and even a “Smashchicken.” My friend chose to “create your own” burger where you can select your bread from the egg, mulit-grain or chipotle buns. Then choose your cheese from American (never on MY burger!), Swiss, Cheddar, Bleu or Pepper Jack. The final decision comes with what sauces, dressing and toppings. Oh, so fun!
  If you are not the adventuresome type, then order the french fries. But if you are like me and love to live on the wild side, order the Smashfries — crispy russet fried potatoes tossed with rosemary, olive oil, garlic and herbs. Total yummm!
  And you can order Veggie Frites with flash-fried asparagus, carrots and green beans. Now you can eat your vegetables and love them, too!
  The prices are so reasonable you can try several things on the menu including a good salad or a Haagen-Dazs milkshake. And if you haven’t experienced the difference between a milkshake made with quality hard ice cream and one made with cheap soft serve ice cream, you are in for a treat.
  My Beehive Burger was delicious with its Haystack Onions (thinly sliced crispy onions) and rich egg bun. My family prides itself on being true burger connoisseurs, and we love this place! Next time I’m going to try a Chicago Smashdog with the classic sweet pickle relish and sport peppers. They use the same dogs we use at Culinary Crafts: 100% kosher beef Hebrew Nationals, so I know they are a fine dog.
  Can you tell I liked this place? Thanks, Smashburger, for raising the bar on fast food burgers in Utah.
  Until next time, remember to fill your life with scrumptious food and joy. Happy Summer!

Mary Crafts owns Culinary Crafts, an award-winning catering company in Orem. Mary also hosts “Culinary Creations,” which airs Saturday mornings on KBYU. She is the president-elect of the International Caterers Association.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MAGAZINE ONLINE