NADC Burger has quickly become a sensation, bringing its unique take on the classic American burger to cities across the nation. What began as a simple idea to perfect the backyard burger has grown into a highly acclaimed brand with a dedicated following. With permanent locations in major metropolitan areas and a pop-up in Las Vegas, NADC Burger is proving that quality, consistency, and a passion for great food can take you anywhere.
The NADC Burger Philosophy
Crafting the Ultimate Backyard Burger
The NADC Burger concept is built on a shared vision to create “the ultimate backyard burger” with a Michelin-chef’s touch. According to Chef Phillip Frankland Lee, the goal from the beginning was to blend simplicity with high-quality ingredients and meticulous technique. “Neen and I had shared a goal from day one: to create the perfect burger that is simple, craveable, yet done with the kind of technique and quality ingredients you’d find in a restaurant that aligns with what I provide at my restaurants,” Lee says. This collaboration results in a burger that evokes nostalgia while surprising diners with its precision. Lee explains that they “landed on something that hits both worlds—a perfectly seared Wagyu patty, crispy edges, juicy center, bold flavor, and all the flavors you would crave in a burger.” While the patties are seared hard for a crust, they are kept thick enough to maintain a juicy and flavorful texture, setting them apart from a traditional “smash” burger.
A Streamlined Menu for Consistency
One of the key secrets to NADC Burger’s success is its highly focused menu. By sticking to their signature Wagyu burger and beef tallow fries, they can guarantee a high level of quality and consistency across all their locations. Chef Lee emphasizes this point, stating, “Keeping the menu streamlined is key for us. It allows us to focus on doing just a few things well. We’re all about quality, not quantity.” This streamlined approach has also helped the brand build a strong identity, ensuring that customers know exactly what to expect from the “NADC experience” no matter where they are.
NADC Burger’s Growing Footprint
From Austin to Las Vegas and Beyond
NADC Burger has expanded rapidly from its origins in Austin to permanent locations in Chicago, New York, Dallas, and Denver. In addition, the brand has a significant pop-up presence at Resorts World Las Vegas. Chef Lee attributes this successful expansion to a consistent dedication to quality. “It’s all about making sure the NADC experience stays the same no matter where you are,” he says. The brand maintains this standard by sourcing the finest ingredients from trusted suppliers and ensuring every location follows the same preparation methods. “We’ve built an exceptional team of people who are passionate about the brand,” Lee notes, highlighting their commitment to detailed processes and a “chill vibe that makes NADC Burger feel like home.”
A Passion for Authenticity
The rapid rise of NADC Burger is a testament to its genuine approach. Chef Lee believes the brand’s success comes from its authenticity. “I think people are just drawn to the authenticity of what we’re doing,” he explains. “We’ve made sure that NADC Burger isn’t trying to be anything it’s not.” The focus remains on great ingredients, good vibes, and a fun yet elevated burger experience. This honest passion for food is what resonates most with their growing customer base. Looking to the future, the goal remains the same: “We’re going to keep doing what we do best—serving up the best burgers out there while keeping things fresh and exciting,” says Lee. “As we grow, our focus stays the same: keep it simple, keep it consistent, and make every burger so damn good it speaks for itself.”
