Smashburger joins growing market 'trend'

Image/Udi's Gluten Free

The fast-casual restaurant chain Smashburger has added gluten-free burgers (and buns) to its menu, thanks to a partnership with Udi’s Gluten Free and a reformulation of its meat seasonings.

In a formal announcement made last month, Smashburger spokesmen said Udi’s gluten-free buns will be available at all U.S. locations, which includes 20 in New Jersey. 

Smashburger’s founder and chief concept officer Tom Ryan cited the gluten-free lifestyle as an “emerging consumer trend” in the food service industry, and a desire to meet the demands of those potential customers. According to the company, the gluten-free market has grown more than 200 percent since 2010.

“The addition of Udi’s gluten-free buns fits in well with our strategy of marketing to consumers looking for gluten-free menu options,” Ryan said.

In a statement, Smashburger’s principal shareholder Rick Schaden said the partnership with Udi's was a natural fit, given that the two companies “share a passion for providing guests with great-tasting, high-quality food.

“We have a continued commitment to serving food that our guests can feel good about, comprised of quality ingredients for a better dining experience,” Schaden said.

In addition to the buns, Smashburger announced its reformulated seasoning that goes on its burgers and grilled chicken sandwiches to make those menu items gluten-free. However, diners should be aware that some topping and add-on selections do contain gluten and cross contamination in the kitchen may occur. The spokesmen suggest speaking to a restaurant manager regarding any concerns.

As of today, Smashburger’s website has not been updated to reflect the menu changes. Its’ allergen information still indicates that all of its burgers and chicken sandwiches contain gluten.

Smashburger has restaurants in Brick, Cherry Hill, Clifton, East Brunswick, East Hanover, Florham Village, Glassboro, Hackensack, Montclair, Morris Plains, New Providence, Newark Liberty International Airport, North Brunswick, Paramus, Parsippany, Ramsey and Voorhees, as well newly opened locations in Edison’s Menlo Park Mall and in Maple Shade.

The 20^th Garden State site is scheduled to open in Lawrenceville next month. There also are multiple locations in New York City, Philadelphia and in areas surrounding both cities.

I’ve heard only good things about Smashburger from friends and family who have eaten there. The lack of gluten-free options kept me away in the past, I am already a fan of Udi's Gluten Free buns, so it may be worth a shot. If you're tried Smashburger's new menu items, let us know in the comments section what you thought.