Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Yates
Hi Chris, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started off learning to cook on a line at 19. I fell in love with the atmosphere and the camaraderie of kitchens. I’ve always taken pride in learning and growing my craft, so I wanted to expand and see what else there was to know and learn. I worked for 10 years under a great mentor, Anthony Covatta, at Steak & Main in North East, MD. I have also been a part of opening great new restaurants such as The Local in Harford County. The idea of Leo’s Smash Burgers & Dogs was about taking great classic food and putting my twist on it. My goal is to elevate and push the boundaries on what you think a good milkshake, smash burger, or hot dog could be.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been an eye opening experience opening a business on my own and seeing everything that goes into it. With guidance it was as smooth as I could have hoped it would be.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Leo’s Smash Burgers & Dogs?
We are creating modern takes on classic food. Our burgers, milkshakes and hot dogs are not something you see everywhere with the recipes we come up with. We offer the availability to create your own menu items through ordering as well with our Build Your Own option. Which lets people try something they didn’t know/think they may enjoy. I’m most proud of naming this after my son, Leonardo. He loves food and being a part of the kitchen atmosphere. Plus this is something I would love to give to him once he’s old enough and would still want to be apart of the restaurant
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up I was adventurous and loved skateboarding and punk rock. So going to concerts with friends and all that was a lot fun.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.leossmashburgersanddogs.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leos_smash_burgers_and_dogs?igsh=MWg2NzJsM2Zpd3dyMw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1YPzpryyjF/?mibextid=wwXIfr
