Smashburger has entered into an agreement with Winding River Restaurant LLC to open 13 restaurants in Nashville, Tenn. That brings the fast-casual chain’s signed franchise agreements to more than 300 and, by the end of 2010, it expects to have approximately 100 locations in more than 15 states through a combination of corporate, franchise and joint venture partnerships.
"Smashburger is excited to make its mark in Nashville and we are confident in our partnership with Winding River Restaurants," says Smashburger president Scott Crane. "They are the ideal franchisee to introduce Smashburger's unique concept to the Nashville community."
The Denver-based chain is named for the cooking method used to create its “better-burger,” using a one-third or half-pound ball of 100-percent fresh, Certified Angus Beef smashed on a flat grill to sear in the flavors.