Burgers seem to be going for the same price as steak these days, with pounds of beef cooked to varying degrees of success. But a smashburger is hard to mess up — and fun to mix up with a variety of condiment combinations. Outside of the Smashburger chain, here’s where to find thin, crispy, and juicy patties with a high proportion of Maillard reaction.
Few local restaurants have the quiet cult fandom that Smash Alley has captured in the last 10 months. That’s partially thanks to a limited menu and limited hours: Currently, they’re only grilling on Saturdays while preparing to open a second location this fall.
Located on 9th Street in BoDo, the pop-up serves Snake River Farms Wagyu beef and fries, a wagyu and egg sandwich, and nothing else. No modifications, and their fans seem to appreciate how straightforward the execution is. Can’t wait to try it!
Just one block over is Totally Smashed, which is housed in the Warehouse Food Hall. The food hall has settled into Boise’s food economy nicely, staying busy and giving up-and-coming restaurateurs another option for where to find customers.
Totally Smashed has multiple burger options and a build-your-own burger, and I’ve loved it every time. It’s always hyperflavorful thanks to the smash, but never left without accompaniment.
Of these options listed, Wyld Child has the most options for people who don’t want to go with you to eat a burger. (Blake Hunter / City Cast Boise)
The Wylder Hospitality Group nailed the “roadside” patio vibes with Wyld Child’s burgers. All of their food is good (including a solid vegetarian falafel burger), but the Griddle and Wylde Style burgers instantly became some of Boise’s best smashburgers when this Latah Street location opened in 2022.
