With hopes of making many mouths water over savory burgers, Smashburger, a fast and casual burger restaurant, will be opening on the corner of Brown and Stewart streets at the end of February.

Smashburger originated in Denver, Colo. and now operates near 100 locations nationwide. Locally the restaurant is open on Miamisburg Centerville Road in Miami Township near the Dayton Mall.

The restaurant's balance between affordable prices and great tasting burgers is the reason Smashburger decided to set up shop on UD's campus, according to Amy Kessling, vice president of local Smashburger franchiser. They hope to become Dayton's favorite burger place.

"College campuses have a lot of people in a condensed area, which means there are a lot of people that have money to spend, especially on food, and high potential for repeat, loyal customers," said UD junior Jeffrey Firestone, general manager of Flyer Enterprises' The Blend, said. "Through proper marketing and word of mouth, a business can grow successful very quickly, especially on a college campus."

To create the ultimate burger, a special smashing technique is used to sear in the juices and flavor of the fresh ingredients.

"Named for the cooking method used to create the perfect burger, smashburgers are either a one-third or half-pound ball of 100 percent fresh-not frozen-Angus beef smashed on a flat grill to sear in superior juicy flavor," Kessling said. "To further the better burger experience, Smashburgers are served on a toasted artisan bun and topped with a selection of real cheeses, the freshest produce and distinctive toppings including haystack onions, guacamole or even a fried egg."

The menu at the new location will feature a special Buckeye Smashburger which includes a one-third or half-pound 100 percent Angus beef burger topped with fried pepper rings, haystack onions, American cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo on a toasted egg bun.

As a result of wanting to be a good community neighbor, Smashburger plans to hold special promotions with local philanthropies, as well as partnering with the UD Greek system.

After its grand opening, Smashburger will be open daily from 10 a.m. through 10 p.m. and plans to accept Flyer Express.

"Smashburger is excited to be opening at the University of Dayton and is looking forward to bringing the 'better burger' experience to the UD community, as well as the rest of the Miami Valley," Kessling said.