Austin, TX, January 30, 2026
Badd Burgers has opened a permanent location at The Hole in the Wall, near the University of Texas campus. Originally a pop-up, the restaurant is known for its innovative smash burger menu, offering both traditional beef and plant-based options. Founded by chef Tommy Marquez in August 2025, Badd Burgers combines culinary creativity with community feedback to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Operating five nights a week, this establishment aims to reflect Austin’s entrepreneurial spirit while economically benefiting the local community.
Badd Burgers Expands Thriving Concept Near UT Austin
New permanent location offers delicious options for everyone
Austin, TX – In a noteworthy reflection of the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Austin, Badd Burgers has celebrated its growth with the opening of a permanent kitchen at The Hole in the Wall, located near the University of Texas campus. Known for its innovative smash burger menu, the establishment operates five nights a week, bringing a unique dining experience that caters to both traditional and plant-based diets.
Founded in August 2025 by chef Tommy Marquez, Badd Burgers transitioned from a humble pop-up operation to a fully functional kitchen. The concept, rooted in rigorous testing and community feedback, exemplifies how determined small business owners can adapt and thrive in Austin’s dynamic food scene.
The Journey from Pop-Up to Permanent
Badd Burgers began as a fully bootstrapped pop-up, with initial operations consisting of a tent, two flat-top grills, and limited burger offerings. Each activation acted as a testing ground, ensuring only the most popular burgers made it to the permanent menu. This attention to quality reflects how local entrepreneurs can innovate and respond to consumer demand effectively.
Menu Innovation and Plant-Based Options
What sets Badd Burgers apart is its commitment to providing menu parity; every signature burger comes in both traditional beef and fully plant-based options. This inclusive approach helps bridge the gap between just indulgent burger culture and the growing market for plant-based dining. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier options, Badd Burgers is well-positioned to attract a diverse clientele.
A Bold Brand Aesthetic
The brand’s aesthetic captures attention with its high-contrast visuals and late-night energy, decisively challenging the traditional perception of vegan dining. The founders intentionally aimed for an unapologetic representation of indulgence and satisfaction that resonates with burger lovers while also appealing to health-conscious diners.
Advancing Community Economic Growth
As Austin’s local economy continues to flourish, concepts like Badd Burgers highlight how reduced regulation and supportive business environments can foster innovation and entrepreneurial pursuits. The growth of small businesses not only contributes to job creation but also enriches local culture through diverse food offerings.
Looking Ahead
With plans to maintain its unique identity while expanding its footprint in Austin, Badd Burgers is an inspiring example for Texas entrepreneurs navigating the fast-paced food industry. The establishment’s ability to cater to a growing demand for both traditional and plant-based diets is indicative of broader trends likely influencing food menus in the near future.
Conclusion
Badd Burgers stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of local entrepreneurs in Austin. Their approach to menu design and bold branding presents a compelling case for the potential of small businesses to thrive. Supporting such innovative endeavors not only benefits local economies but also enriches community dining experiences. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to check out this new establishment and embrace the entrepreneurial spirit that Austin is known for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Badd Burgers?
Badd Burgers is an Austin-based smash burger concept founded in August 2025 by chef Tommy Marquez. It offers a unique menu where each signature burger is available in both traditional beef and fully plant-based versions, ensuring parity between the two options.
Where is Badd Burgers located?
Badd Burgers operates a permanent kitchen at The Hole in the Wall near the University of Texas campus in Austin, TX. The establishment now operates five nights a week.
What is the concept behind Badd Burgers?
The concept is built around full menu mirroring from inception, with each core build available in both protein formats with equal positioning, eliminating the typical divide between indulgent burger culture and plant-based dining.
How did Badd Burgers start?
Founded in August 2025 by chef Tommy Marquez, Badd Burgers began as a fully bootstrapped pop-up operating under a tent with two flat-top grills and limited burger drops. Each activation served as a live proving ground, with only the burgers that consistently sold out advancing to the permanent lineup.
What is the aesthetic of Badd Burgers?
The brand’s aesthetic leans unapologetically bold—indulgent smash patties, high-contrast visuals, late-night energy—intentionally challenging the restrained tone often associated with vegan menus. This approach aims to eliminate the typical divide between indulgent burger culture and plant-based dining.
Key Features of Badd Burgers
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | The Hole in the Wall near the University of Texas campus in Austin, TX. |
| Operating Days | Five nights a week. |
| Menu Concept | Each signature burger is available in both traditional beef and fully plant-based versions, ensuring parity between the two options. |
| Founding Date | August 2025. |
| Founder | Chef Tommy Marquez. |
| Brand Aesthetic | Indulgent smash patties, high-contrast visuals, late-night energy, intentionally challenging the restrained tone often associated with vegan menus. |
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