Fast casual burger joints have increased in popularity recently. Smash Burger is the latest entrant in this crowded field to make its way to the Cincinnati region. As a burger fan, I like having more options other than fast food and Applebees types of chains for a decently priced burger.
Overall I have been satisfied with the burgers I've devoured at Smash. The burgers come in three different sizes (small, smash, big smash) and I typically go with the big. There is a large variety of toppings and buns to choose from. Their burger is of the steak burger variety. It's not gonna make the best burgers in the city list, but if you are on the run and want a decent burger Smash is a good choice.
Big question is how does it stack up vs. Five Guys? I would rank Smash ahead of Five Guys for a couple of reasons. I much prefer the ambiance and atmosphere at Smash. It is a lot more casual and cleaner than 5 guys. The burgers at Smash and 5 Guys is pretty different (I think both are decent), one thing I like better about Smash is I don't feel like I got hit by a tranquilizer dart after I ate their burger. Not saying Smash is healthy, but it doesn't seem to be as overwhelmingly greasy as 5 guys.