The Hammer Burger Story
Welcome to Hammer Burger:
Crafting Orange County’s Original Smash Burger Experience
Founded in 2020 by Kevin Hammons, Hammer Burger began as a backyard dream, fueled by a passion for creating the perfect burger experience. Kevin’s vision was simple: to serve up mouthwatering smash burgers that would tantalize taste buds and leave guests craving more. But it wasn’t until he partnered with his coworker at a local brewery, Curtis Scheetz, that this dream truly began to take shape.
Our Humble Beginnings: From Wheels to Walls
In the summer of 2020, Hammer Burger made its debut as a pop-up sensation. With Curtis manning the grill and Kevin handling the front-of-house operations, word quickly spread about the irresistible allure of our smash burgers. As demand soared, it became clear that the simple little operation couldn’t keep up with the growing appetite for our mouthwatering creations.
In 2021, armed with determination and a shared vision, Kevin and Curtis took a bold step forward by acquiring a food truck. This mobile kitchen became our ticket to bringing the smash burger experience directly to the people. From the bustling streets of Orange County to the vibrant atmospheres of local breweries like Green Cheek, everywhere, Bottle Logic, and Radiant, the Hammer Burger food truck became a beloved fixture at the heart of the community.
After 2 years of trucking around Orange County Kevin and Curtis traded in the truck keys for keys to a permanent address in Downtown Santa Ana. The flagship Hammer Burger location opened at 313 N Bush St in Santa Ana, California on May 5, 2023 to a line of hundreds of hungry fans. The new brick-and-mortar restaurant provided more space and faster service, as well as a more comfortable atmosphere to enjoy the food in.
Crafting the Perfect Smash Burger
At Hammer Burger, we take pride in being Orange County’s original smash burger purveyor. What sets our burgers apart is our commitment to quality and attention to detail. Each patty is meticulously smashed on the grill, resulting in thin, lacy edges that deliver an unparalleled crunch and simultaneous juiciness.
But it’s not just our patties that make our burgers stand out. We believe that great flavor starts with great ingredients. That’s why we source only the finest cuts of beef for our burgers, complemented by Martin’s potato rolls that provide the perfect balance of softness and structure. And let’s not forget the house-made pickles, sauces, and salad dressings that elevate each bite to a culinary masterpiece.
A Culinary Journey: From Classic to Creative
What began with just our signature Classic Hammer Burger has blossomed into a diverse menu of culinary delights. While our smash burgers remain the heart and soul of our offerings, we’ve expanded to include a tantalizing array of options to satisfy every palate.
From indulgent loaded fries to savory hot dogs and juicy chicken sandwiches, there’s something for everyone at Hammer Burger. And for those with a sweet tooth, our selection of soft-serve ice cream and decadent milkshakes provides the perfect sweet ending to any meal.
Unleash Your Creativity at the Sauce Bar
No burger experience would be complete without the perfect condiment, which is why we invite our guests to unleash their creativity at our sauce bar. With six house-made dipping sauces to choose from, including tangy white barbecue, zesty garlic toum sauce, and smokey chipotle, the flavor possibilities are endless. And the best part? Our sauces are always free, because we believe that great taste should be accessible to all.
Crafting the Perfect Pairing: Enjoy Local Craft Beer and More at Our Bar
At Hammer Burger, we believe that great food deserves great company. That’s why we’ve curated a bar experience that perfectly complements our smash burgers and culinary creations. Step inside and discover a selection of local craft beers on draft, alongside cans of seltzer, cider, hard kombucha, and wine, providing something for every taste preference.
Local Craft Beer: Tapping into Orange County’s Brewing Scene
Orange County boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, and at Hammer Burger, we’re proud to showcase the best of what our local breweries have to offer. From hoppy IPAs to crisp lagers and rich stouts, our rotating selection of craft beers on draft ensures that there’s always something new and exciting to try. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of craft brews, our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you toward the perfect pint.
Cans for Every Craving: Seltzer, Cider, Hard Kombucha, and Wine
In addition to our draft offerings, our bar is stocked with a variety of canned beverages to suit every palate. Craving something light and refreshing? Reach for a crisp seltzer or a refreshing cider. Looking for a unique twist? Try a can of hard kombucha, offering a probiotic punch with a hint of effervescence. And for those who prefer grapes to grains, we offer a curated selection of wines to complement our flavorful fare.
Catch the Game: TVs for Sports Enthusiasts
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking to catch the latest game, our bar and dining room are equipped with TVs strategically placed throughout the space, ensuring that you never miss a moment of the action. Grab a seat, order your favorite burger and beverage, and settle in to cheer on your team in style. With a lively atmosphere and plenty of camaraderie to go around, Hammer Burger is the perfect place to gather with friends and fellow sports enthusiasts.
Unwind and Indulge: The Perfect Setting for Every Occasion
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite and a beer after work or settling in for a leisurely meal with friends, our bar provides the perfect setting for every occasion. Sit back, relax, and let the flavors of our smash burgers and craft beverages take you on a culinary journey unlike any other. At Hammer Burger, we’re not just serving up great foodโwe’re creating unforgettable experiences, one bite and sip at a time. Cheers to good times and great company!
A Commitment to Community and Quality
At Hammer Burger, we’re more than just a restaurantโwe’re a gathering place where friends and family come together to savor great food and create lasting memories. We’re proud to support local breweries and businesses, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the vibrant Orange County food scene.
But above all else, our commitment to quality remains unwavering. Whether it’s crafting the perfect burger or providing exceptional service to our guests, we strive for excellence in everything we do. Because when you’re passionate about great food, every detail matters.
Join Us on a Culinary Adventure
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, we invite you to join us on a culinary adventure at Hammer Burger. From our humble beginnings in a backyard to our thriving food truck and beyond, we’re honored to serve up Orange County’s original smash burger experience. So come hungry, come curious, and prepare to discover a world of flavor unlike any other. Welcome to Hammer Burgerโwhere every bite is an experience worth savoring.
Meet Our Founder
KEVIN HAMMONS
Founder & CEO, Hammer Burger
Kevin Hammons is a passionate entrepreneur, brewmaster, and avid sports enthusiast hailing from Orange, CA. With a background steeped in the craft brewing industry, Kevin’s journey to founding Hammer Burger is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and commitment to excellence.
Kevin’s love affair with craft beer began early in his career, where he honed his skills over 12 years as a professional brewer and manager at renowned breweries such as The Bruery and Gunwhale Ales. His time in these establishments not only deepened his understanding of the intricacies of brewing but also instilled in him a keen sense of business acumen and operational efficiency.
In 2020, Kevin’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Hammer Burger, initially as a pop-up venture hosted at his own residence. What started as a small-scale operation quickly gained traction, and as the demand for his culinary creations grew, so did the vision for Hammer Burger.
Today, Kevin serves as the Founder and CEO of Hammer Burger, overseeing all aspects of the business with a meticulous eye for detail. While he spends much of his time managing the behind-the-scenes operations, Kevin remains deeply involved in front-of-house duties and customer service, ensuring that every guest experiences the exceptional quality and warmth synonymous with Hammer Burger.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Kevin finds joy in leisure activities such as playing golf and exploring the vibrant landscape of local craft breweries. As a die-hard Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Rams fan, he embraces the camaraderie and excitement of sports, reflecting the same team spirit within the Hammer Burger family.
Driven by his passion for providing top-notch customer service and fostering a welcoming atmosphere, Kevin Hammons continues to elevate Hammer Burger to new heights, earning the admiration of patrons and peers alike for his unwavering dedication to excellence.
Meet Co-Owner
Curtis Scheetz
Co-Owner & COO, Hammer Burger
Curtis Scheetz epitomizes the fusion of culinary expertise, operational mastery, and unwavering dedication that defines the heart and soul of Hammer Burger. As the Co-Owner and Chief Operating Officer, Curtis brings a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence to every aspect of the business.
Originally hailing from Laguna Hills, CA, Curtis currently resides in the vibrant community of Santa Ana, where he plays an integral role in steering Hammer Burger towards success. Joining forces with Kevin Hammons early in 2020, Curtis played a pivotal role in the company’s evolution from a humble pop-up to a thriving culinary destination, first as a food truck and ultimately as a brick-and-mortar restaurant.
With over 25 years of experience in the food service industry, Curtis’s journey to Hammer Burger is rooted in a deep-seated passion for gastronomy and a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, his expertise in back-of-house operations is unparalleled, providing the backbone upon which Hammer Burger’s culinary excellence stands.
At Hammer Burger, Curtis spearheads all back-of-house and day-to-day restaurant operations with precision and finesse. His meticulous attention to detail ensures that every dish leaving the kitchen is a testament to the culinary artistry and dedication synonymous with the Hammer Burger experience.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Curtis finds solace and joy in the simple pleasures of life. An avid Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Rams fan, he espouses the passion and vitality of sports, reflecting the same sense of energy and devotion within the Hammer Burger community. In his free time, Curtis enjoys leisurely walks with his two beloved dogs, Cheese and Beans, as well as playing basketball and indulging in the timeless pleasures of music and cinema with his wife Leah and son Gabe.
With Curtis Scheetz at the helm, Hammer Burger continues to raise the bar for culinary excellence, offering patrons not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience crafted with passion, expertise, and a touch of magic.
