I still remember the first time I heard about a burger joint that actually runs out of food before closing time. Not from poor planning, but because folks simply can’t get enough.
That spot is Lachele’s Fine Foods in Des Moines, a retro-style diner that’s earned cult status one smashed patty at a time.
The pink-and-blue walls, sizzling griddles, and nonstop laughter make it more than a restaurant—it’s a ritual. Locals know the deal: arrive early, order fast, and savor every bite before the burgers sell out again. Around here, patience isn’t rewarded—timing is everything.
Classic Smash Technique That Nails Every Bite
Watching a smash burger cook is almost hypnotic. The patty hits the scorching flat-top, the spatula presses down hard, and within seconds those crispy, lacy edges start to form—the kind that crunch when you bite and make you close your eyes in burger bliss…