Burger Heaven!

Burger fans, rejoice, because another component of the Galleria’s $30 million renovation has been confirmed. After much speculation, Simon Property Group (the Galleria’s parent company) says that New York-based burger empire Shake Shack will set up shop in the Galleria’s west wing.

Simon also recently announced the addition of the Michelin-starred dim sum teahouse concept Yauatcha, which will join Miami-based fashion boutique The Webster in the shopping destination’s detached jewel-box structure.

Shake Shack opened its first location in New York’s Madison Square Park in 2004 and now has restaurants around the world, including the UAE, Lebanon, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Russia. Analysts estimate that each location is worth about $50 million (compared to $3 million for the average McDonald’s restaurant).

Houstonians should prepare for Shake Shack’s famous all-natural Angus beef burgers, including the signature Shack Burger, which is served with the brand’s famous sauce (for vegetarians, there’s a mushroom burger filled with cheese); flat-top hot dogs (featuring options like the Shack-cago dog,  the company’s riff on the classic Chicago dog) served on Martin’s potato buns; crinkle-cut fries (don’t forget to add Shake Shack’s special cheese sauce); frozen custard, shakes and concretes (a blend of custard and mix-ins); and a full menu for your canine. Shake Shack also serves beer and wine.

The new Houston Shake Shack’s anticipated opening date is late 2016. Expect the long lines to start forming then.