Elevation Burger

Elevation Burger is a fast casual dining chain known for its organic, grass-fed beef burgers and commitment to sustainable practices. Established in 2005 by Hans Hess in Falls Church, Virginia, the brand quickly gained attention for its pioneering focus on organic beef and eco-friendly sourcing. By 2012, it had already expanded to more than 30 locations, including ventures into the Middle East and Mexico. This growth was largely driven by a franchise model that appealed to operators interested in a health-conscious burger concept.

In 2019, Elevation Burger became part of FAT Brands Inc., a global restaurant franchisor headquartered in Beverly Hills, California. FAT Brands oversees more than 18 restaurant brands and operates over 2,300 units worldwide as of November 2025. Under the umbrella of FAT Brands, Elevation Burger has continued to grow through franchising, with a focus on both co-branded and standalone locations. The brand is actively targeting expansion in the United States, Mexico, and the Middle East, areas where there is an increasing appetite for American fast casual dining.

As of November 2025, Elevation Burger operates around 40 locations globally. The brand’s expansion strategy is designed to be asset-light, utilizing FAT Brands’ established infrastructure and franchise expertise to enter new markets and tailor store formats to local tastes. This approach allows Elevation Burger to remain adaptable and responsive to consumer trends that favor healthier and more sustainable dining options. For commercial real estate professionals, Elevation Burger's proven franchise model and scalable formats make it an attractive tenant for retail developments seeking unique and differentiated food offerings.