As reported in Business First, Elmwood Avenue is landing a new burger joint called Hero Certified Burgers in the former Zettie’s location at Bidwell and Elmwood.
Just the other day, after visiting Five Guys in North Buffalo, a thought occurred to me that the Five Guys’ concept would have been a real hit in the Elmwood Village. Now here comes a burger joint out of Toronto that is planting its first US flag here in Buffalo.
I’m sure that the mix of burgers, dogs, milkshakes, etc, served up in a family-friendly atmosphere at one of the city’s busiest intersections will be a no brainer. Ever since Louie’s Foot Longs vacated the strip, there has been a real void in the Elmwood hamburger experience. And with Louie’s Texas Red Hots out of the picture (for now), it looked as if there was no burger business in sight.
For the vegetarian crowd, Hero Burger serves up a meatless burger – something that is also sorely missed since Louie’s Foot Longs closed. Hero offers a bunch of cheeses, toppings, add-ons, condiments, bread options, and there is even poutine (see menu). According to their website, Hero burgers are 100% seasoned heritage Angus beef, raised without hormones or antibiotics gluten-free and Halal Certified. The packaging is eco-friendly to boot.
It looks as if Buffalo is on the map for neighboring city’s (including Canada) to test out the franchise waters. Dinosaur BBQ recently opened with a giant splash, then Erbert & Gerbert’s, Yotality, Five Guys, and now Hero is on the way. Not the typical chains that we are used to seeing. Word appears to be getting out about the local food scene. Are the franchise flood gates beginning to open a little wider?
Photo: Hero – Facebook