It’s official, the fast-casual miniature hamburger chain Smalls Sliders has dropped into Tallahassee — and by dropped we mean literally.
The Louisiana burger franchise operates all of its restaurants out of converted shipping containers, but still provides customers with limited outdoor seating options if they opt to eat at the restaurant rather than going through the drive-thru.
With passersby as witness to the giant spectacle of the mini-burger shop drop, the hamburger chain made good on its promise to “slide thru,” plopping onto an empty lot on West Pensacola Street early Thursday morning. Spectators watched as a large crane placed the box at the site of its newest burger destination in the West End Square shopping center. It is anchored by ALDI, Planet Fitness and Five Below.
The bright orange box is nearly impossible to miss but in case you do, it’s right next door to Starbucks.
Franchisee and director of business development William Cone told the Tallahassee Democrat he’s “extremely excited” about the Tallahassee location, noting its proximity to neighboring college campuses, his family’s business ties to the capital city and how Smalls Sliders will get involved with the community.
Other Florida locations include Ocala, Pensacola and Clearwater.
Having been in the hospitality industry for years, the Ocala native is ready for people to indulge on the same sliders he fell in love with. From game days, to late night outings or even when they’re celebrating the city’s “Smalls Town Heroes” with its community initiative, they hope to “make everyone’s day a small bit better.”
“The product sells itself, it’s fantastic,” he said with a big smile.
The restaurant’s classic slider, the main draw of the operation, is made with beef patties, American cheese, pickles and an orange-hued “Smauce” (their signature sauce) on a buttered bun.
Two other variations of the slider are available as well.
No sliders have been bitten yet, as they prepare for grand opening, which is slated for within the next 30 days. The team has introduced themselves to their new neighbors by passing out flyers on campus and neighboring stores. In terms of last steps, they have to bring in kitchen equipment and landscaping the drive-thru and parking lot.
Kyla A Sanford covers dining and entertainment for the Tallahassee Democrat. New restaurant opening up, special deals, or events coming up? Let me know at ksanford@tallahassee.com. You can also email your suggestions for a future TLH Eats restaurant profile.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Smalls Sliders mini-burger chain drops into Tallahassee, opening soon
Reporting by Kyla A Sanford, Tallahassee Democrat / Tallahassee Democrat
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