Smashburger, a fast-casual “better burger” restaurant will open its first Chicago area location in Batavia, Ill., on Tuesday, December 7, 2010. The Denver-based restaurant will open at 842 N. Randall Rd. bringing 100-percent Angus burgers, an array of sides and delicious shakes, and a regional menu created with local flavors and tastes in mind to residents. This is the first of seven Chicago-area Smashburgers slated to open by the end of 2011, with plans for an additional 20 locations to open within three to five years.

Named for the cooking method used to create the perfect burger, Smashburgers are a one-third or half-pound ball of 100-percent fresh, not frozen, Certified Angus Beef smashed on a flat grill to sear in the juicy flavor. To further the “better burger” experience, Smashburgers are served on a toasted artisan bun and topped with a selection of real cheeses, the freshest produce, and top-quality condiments.

Smashburger is known for its savory burgers, but the restaurant also serves up delicious Smashchicken sandwiches, Smashdogs, and Smashsalads, with sides like veggie frites and rosemary and garlic–seasoned Smashfries. Burger lovers can pair their meals with beer, wine, Häagen-Dazs shakes, and root-beer floats.

“We are proud to make our first foray into the Chicagoland market and are excited to introduce Smashburger to burger lovers in Batavia and the surrounding communities,” says Smashburger Founder Tom Ryan. “Chicagoans know their food and love their burgers and I am excited to continue our growth in this new market and become Chicagoland’s favorite place for burgers.”