Badd Burgers was founded in Austin in the fall of 2025 by Tommy Marquez with the mission of creating a burger company that was entirely its own. What began as a series of pop-ups quickly earned a cult following for its bold branding, handcrafted smash burgers, and a menu that unapologetically defied industry conventions.

In May 2026, Tommy relocated the operation to Fresno, California, and partnered with lifelong friend Ernest Rodriguez to spearhead the company’s next chapter. Ernest flew to Texas to help move the equipment and infrastructure that had been built from the ground up, allowing them to relaunch the brand in California with a focus on longevity and impact. Today, Badd Burgers operates out of Strummer’s in Fresno, serving a menu centered on premium smash burgers that includes one of the industry’s only fully mirrored plant-based offerings. Every signature item has a plant-based counterpart crafted with the same commitment to flavor, presentation, and execution.

Badd Burgers was built on the belief that enduring brands must stand for something. We have never chased trends, copied competitors, or followed the traditional rules of what a burger joint should be. From our food and marketing to our music venue partnership for a unique atmosphere, every element in Badd Burgers is designed to create an experience you can’t get anywhere else. What started as a pop-up has evolved into something much larger—a brand for those who appreciate originality, support independent business, and believe that great food should never be forgettable.