Smashburger
Let’s kick things off with Smash... burger, that is. Established in 2007, Smashburger has made a significant impact in the fast food burger scene. It began as a modest eatery with a mission to deliver high-quality food (think irresistibly thin smash burger patties expertly pressed and flavorful rosemary-seasoned fries). According to ScrapeHero, by 2024, there are over 200 Smashburger locations across the United States, all committed to serving up tasty burgers to eager customers.
The quality of their burgers starts with the patties, which, as noted on a Las Vegas Smashburger location's website, are "100% Certified Angus Beef that is grass-fed and supports local farms." However, this statement doesn’t guarantee that the cattle are free from antibiotics or hormones. Moreover, since there is no strict definition of what constitutes grass-fed beef, it’s possible that the cattle were not exclusively fed a grass diet. In fact, former Smashburger CCO Greg Creighton informed The Straight Beef that the company’s beef is "grain-fed, grass-finished" rather than entirely grass-fed. So, as always, enjoy this burger with a discerning palate.
Elevation Burger
Let's take your burger experience to new heights with Elevation Burger. Founded by April and Hans Hess in 2005, the journey began a year earlier when Hans left his real estate career to follow his dream of opening a burger restaurant. The first location debuted in Falls Church, Virginia, a suburb of Washington D.C., starting as a modest eatery in a strip mall. Since then, Elevation Burger has expanded its reach both nationally and internationally, and for good reason: they prioritize high-quality ingredients and beef patties.
What sets Elevation Burger apart from other burger establishments is their commitment to using "environmentally sustainable beef, entirely grass-fed, in every single patty," as stated on their website. They also opt for olive oil to fry their fries, making their offerings at least somewhat "heart-healthy." Furthermore, Elevation Burger's menu is entirely free of trans fats. To determine if these carefully selected ingredients result in a superior burger, you'll need to visit your nearest Elevation Burger and taste it for yourself.
BurgerFi
Since its inception in 2011, BurgerFi has been dedicated to providing the highest quality burgers to its beef-loving patrons. Founded in Florida by a group of chefs aiming to create an exceptional gourmet burger experience for fast-casual diners, it’s no wonder the brand prioritizes the quality of its beef—essential to its signature smash burger style.
According to BurgerFi's website, the chain sources its beef from various ranches, exclusively using 100% Angus beef. Their beef is "never exposed to steroids, antibiotics, growth hormones, chemicals, or additives." The cattle used for BurgerFi's burgers are raised on pastures and enjoy a varied diet that includes grass, grains, hay, and legumes. While this means that BurgerFi's burgers are not entirely grass-fed, the company ensures that the cattle are not administered antibiotics or hormones, which is certainly a positive aspect. As for the effects of a partially grass-fed diet, you’ll have to experience the flavor for yourself.
B.Good
B.Good may not be a national chain, but it has carved out a niche for itself in New England, with locations exclusively in Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. If you're not in that region, you might find it challenging to locate a B.Good nearby. However, if you’re planning a road trip through New England, this burger spot is definitely worth a visit. Founded in Boston, Massachusetts, in 2004, B.Good is committed to providing healthy and sustainable food options.
The menu at B.Good goes beyond just burgers and fries. It features a variety of offerings, including soups, smoothies, acai bowls, salads, and grain bowls. Their burger selection is diverse, showcasing options like the avocado-topped Power Play and the aptly named Mushroom and Swiss, which comes with mushrooms, Swiss cheese, sautéed onions, and barbecue sauce. The creativity doesn’t stop at the toppings; the patties themselves are a highlight. Each craft burger is made from 100% grass-fed beef sourced from local New England farms. This emphasis on local, fresh, and grass-fed ingredients is evident throughout their extensive menu, making it a must-try.
Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Staying within a regional focus, let’s turn our attention to Hopdoddy Burger Bar. This chain combines the pleasures of beer and burgers into a delightful dining experience. Established in Austin, Texas, in 2010 by a group of friends, their goal was to elevate the reputation of burger bars. Today, Hopdoddy boasts over 30 locations across several states, including Texas, Colorado, and Georgia. The menu offers a wide variety of burgers, from robust beef options to a black bean burger and even a sandwich featuring an Ahi tuna patty.
That said, Hopdoddy certainly doesn’t overlook its beef offerings. According to the chain's website, their burgers are crafted from "100% grass-fed, regenerative beef & bison." This commitment to high-quality ingredients has earned the chain significant acclaim from Texas food enthusiasts, contributing to its stellar reputation among fans. Plus, the option to enjoy a refreshing pint of beer alongside your burger only enhances the experience, while the grass-fed beef adds to the appeal.
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