It was billed as a “VIP Party” the night before Shake Shack officially opens in Westport.
But the place was jammed like the hottest New York club. The only person not there last night, I thought, was the fire marshal.
Then I saw him too.
Westport Shake Shack general manager Dave Yearwood surveys the happy scene.
After a squintillion tries, the restaurant building on the Southport line — across the street from the old Toys R Us — finally has a winner.
When Shake Shack opens its doors this morning to the 3 non-VIPs who were not there last night, all of Westport will have a new favorite place.
There are realistically priced burgers made from great beef.
Hot dogs. Crispy fries. Milkshakes. Custard.
And — the killer app — beer and wine.
It’s a family place — like Five Guys — but occasionally Mom and Pop want a (non-soda) pop with their burgers.
Who doesn't like burgers? Not these kids!
Wood (recycled from bowling alleys); flat-screen TVs; an airy, open and lively layout — all create a “Shack meets Westport” vibe.
Shake Shack CEO David Swinghamer and Danny Meyer Himself were there. Both were clearly — and genuinely — excited about the location, the staff, the energy, the potential, and the community.
Meyer’s original vision for Shake Shack was a “roadside burger stand.” But roadsides are hard to come by in New York City.
So — with its 13th location — Westport becomes the 1st suburban Shake Shack.
There have been at least 13 restaurants on this site. This one is here to stay.