Notre Dame Student Government, Campus Dining, and Student Activities Facilities announced today that Smashburger will replace Burger King in LaFortune Student Center. Construction will begin immediately following Commencement weekend this May with Smashburger opening at the beginning of the 2016-2017 academic year.
Smashburger is a fast casual restaurant serving smashed-to-order burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, sides, and Haagen-Dazs shakes. Their tagline “Smashed Fresh, Served Delicious” speaks to their commitment to using only fresh ingredients, never frozen 100% angus beef, and local produce. Founded in 2007, Smashburger has 300 restaurants in 5 countries.
The decision to bring in Smashburger comes in response to student feedback received through surveys and Student Government’s online feedback tool, Onward. Students have clearly expressed a desire for a fresh, healthier option to replace Burger King.
"We are extremely excited to welcome Smashburger into LaFun,” said Corey Robinson, student body president. “We have worked alongside the administration garnering student feedback about dining options in our student center and are pleased to offer a new, enhanced dining experience with homespun milkshakes. I think this is a valuable lesson that student feedback creates tangible change."
Chris Abayasinghe, director of Campus Dining, added, “We’re proud of our partnership with Student Government and are excited to welcome Smashburger to campus.”
Echoing these sentiments, Brian Fremeau, director of Student Activities Facilities, said, "We are enthusiastic about bringing Smashburger to LaFortune and we look forward to continued engagement with our students and campus partners to enhance our student center offerings."
This is the first in a series of announcements from Student Government and Campus Dining regarding dining options on campus. In the fall, they will announce three restaurants that will occupy the new Duncan Student Center.