News Summary
Will Burrell, an 18-year-old from Mattituck, New York, has founded Will’s Smashburgers, a gourmet burger business that gives back by providing meals to veterans and donating profits to military families. Inspired by his experience at a military-style boot camp, Burrell’s venture has gained traction in the community. With standout menu items like ‘The Green Beret’ burger, he combines culinary passion with a commitment to honoring military service members. As the business grows, Burrell aims to create more community engagement and expand his support for veterans.
New York – Will Burrell, an 18-year-old entrepreneur from Mattituck on Long Island’s North Fork, has launched a new business venture called Will’s Smashburgers, which not only serves gourmet burgers but also supports veterans and military families. The young owner operates his business out of a corner inside Center Cuts Gourmet Butcher shop and provides complimentary meals to veterans, alongside donating 10% of his profits to assist current military service members and their families.
Burrell’s inspiration for his smashburger business came after attending a military-style boot camp in Vermont, where he felt a strong connection to veterans. This personal experience deepened his appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel, prompting him to create a business that acknowledges and supports their contributions. As part of his community-oriented approach, Burrell offers handwritten positive messages in customer bags, reflecting his commitment to fostering a positive atmosphere.
Since its inception last winter, during a fundraising dinner at his high school in Greenwich, CT, where he raised $1,500 for the Gary Sinise Foundation, Will’s Smashburgers has quickly gained popularity among locals. Burrell has a background in the culinary arts, having learned to cook from his family, especially his father, who introduced him to barbecuing. In addition to running the smashburger business, Burrell also manages food trucks at his school’s athletic events, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic.
Menu Highlights and Community Engagement
The menu at Will’s Smashburgers features a variety of smashburger offerings, including a standout item known as “The Green Beret,” which consists of a full-sized smashburger topped with lobster and warm butter. Burrell has developed a special sauce that includes ketchup, mustard, Dijon, mayo, and pickle juice, complemented with caramelized onions and bacon, creating a unique taste for burgers that draws customers in.
The business has experienced notable community support since opening. Local patrons are becoming familiar faces, with many knowing Burrell personally, fostering a sense of community around the venture. Burrell’s efforts have not gone unnoticed by larger figures; New York Islanders forward Kyle Palmieri, a native of Long Island, is a supporter who has expressed interest in collaborating with Burrell to further veteran causes.
Future Plans and Support for Veterans
Will Burrell aims to expand his business by hosting events at local venues such as Barnyard and Macari Vineyard. In addition to his smashburgers, Burrell offers patriotic merchandise, including American flag-printed T-shirts, contributing to his mission of honoring military service members. His dedication to the cause is evident in his aspirations for the future; he plans to enroll in an ROTC program in college, with the ultimate goal of pursuing a career in the Army.
A profound experience for Burrell occurred during his time at Camp Spartan, where he bonded with several veterans. This experience provided him with valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those in the military, further inspiring his business model. Burrell expresses gratitude for the freedoms afforded to him by military personnel and the overall environment in the United States, which he considers the greatest country in the world.
As Will’s Smashburgers continues to grow, it stands as not only a source of delicious food but also a testament to community spirit and a tribute to the sacrifices of military veterans. With a unique business model and a heartfelt commitment to service, Burrell’s venture is making a notable impact on both his community and those who serve the nation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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- Daily Voice: Vietnam Veteran Dies in Fire
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Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
