Meet the Brand: Swizzler Crispy Chicken and Smash Burgers

Swizzler is an emerging quick service restaurant (QSR) concept that specializes in serving affordable gourmet smash burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, hot dogs and house-cut fries.

Swizzler was first established in 2014 by co-founders Jesse Konig and Ben Johnson, who craved food that was convenient, fun, affordable, delicious and served in a good-vibes-only atmosphere. Swizzler got its start as an award-winning Washington, D.C.-based food truck, where it quickly developed a loyal following for its grass-fed, spiral-cut hot dogs.

Why Swizzler Stands Out

In an interview with 1851 Franchise, co-founder Jesse Konig said one of the main differentiators of Swizzler is its commitment to providing more humanely sourced meat and ingredients. The brand only offers grass-fed beef. As such, Konig confirmed it’s able to compete with legacy QSR and fast-food brands while using better and more health-focused ingredients. But, according to Konig, it’s not just where they get their beef that makes Swizzler special. The concept also locally sources its hamburger and hot dog buns, and has built its own potato-manufacturing business so Swizzler can provide its customers with fresh hand-cut French fries.

“We’re trying to change the way people think about fast food,” said Konig.

How Many Swizzler Locations Are There?

As of September 2023, there is one brick-and-mortar Swizzler location at 1259 First St. SE, in Washington D.C.’s Navy Yard district. Swizzler is not a franchise, however. Konig revealed that he and his team are actively considering franchising the brand.

“Franchising has been something that we’ve been exploring and learning about, and we feel like we’re not fulfilling our mission unless we can grow and impact a lot of people and make an impact on the food industry,” said Konig.

Before the brand is able to offer franchise opportunities, he said they want to perfect their system and build a financially, environmentally and nutritionally sustainable business model.

“We want to make sure that if we’re getting people to align with our mission, be a part of this, and try to grow it,” he noted. “It needs to be something that when they put money in, they expect to get it out.”

If the brand were to begin offering franchise opportunities, Konig said he would ideally like to expand throughout the Southeast, with a specific focus on opening locations between D.C. and Atlanta, Georgia.

Who’s On Swizzler’s Leadership Team?

•  Jesse Konig — Co-Founder and CEO
• Ben Johnson — Co-Founder

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About Swizzler?

• Swizzler Opening Team – Our Origin Story
•  D.C.’s Swizzler Truck Opens a Shop for Budget-Friendly Burgers Full of Grass-Fed Beef
• Swizzler’s Food Truck Burgers and Dogs Are About to Get Their Own Shop in Navy Yard
• Hot Dog Food Truck Swizzler Expands Its All-American Menu At a New Pop-Up
• Swizzler Restaurant Profile | Thrillist

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