Smashing Into the Trend

The fast-food landscape is changing, and Sonic is the latest to embrace the smash burger trend. The drive-in chain recently unveiled its "Sonic Smasher," a double Angus beef patty creation that promises an "elevated burger experience." For those looking to double down on their meat intake, there's the "Triple Sonic Smasher," adding another layer of smashed patty goodness into the mix. This new menu addition, available starting Aug. 5, aims to bring premium burger enjoyment without the premium price tag.

A Cut Above the Rest?

Sonic's smash burger approach aims to elevate its burger game, offering a juicy center with crispy edges by pressing the beef on a hot griddle. This technique, while not new to the fast-food world, is a first for Sonic, which has traditionally not been synonymous with high-quality burgers. With a price point starting at $6.49, Sonic is positioning its Smasher as a value-driven alternative to pricier offerings from chains like Shake Shack and Five Guys.

Value Meets Quality?

With its new burger, Sonic claims to deliver the textures and flavors of a sit-down restaurant cheeseburger at a fraction of the cost. But does the "Sonic Smasher" live up to these lofty claims? On a recent taste test, the burger presented a marvelously messy appearance, with a generous helping of cheese and sauce. However, while the burger was juicy, it lacked the crispy, caramelized flavor that smash burger aficionados might expect. Despite its shortcomings, it still represents a significant upgrade over Sonic's regular burger offerings.

Room for Improvement

As Sonic ventures into smash burger territory, it's clear there's a learning curve. The "Sonic Smasher" may not yet deliver on the premium quality it promises, suggesting there's room for improvement in its preparation. Nonetheless, it offers a more enjoyable experience than Sonic's standard fare, and at its price point, it could still be considered a value proposition for those seeking a better burger on a budget.

Final Verdict

While Sonic's "Sonic Smasher" introduces the chain to the competitive smash burger market, it doesn't quite hit the mark of a premium burger experience. However, for fans of the brand or those curious about the smash burger trend, it's worth a try. As Sonic continues to refine its technique, there's potential for the "Sonic Smasher" to become a standout offering in the fast-food burger scene.