What started as an offshoot of one of Miami’s favorite barbecue places has not only taken on a life of its own — it’s growing.
Lala’s Burgers, the smash burger spot from the founder of Apocalypse BBQ, is opening up its very own shop in Kendall. Though details, including a physical address, aren’t yet known, the restaurant should be open by the end of 2025.
The news was posted on Instagram, with the message, “A storefront in Kendall is coming soon with the same smash burgers you love plus brand new surprises we can’t wait to share.” Lala’s and Apocalypse owner, Jeff Budnechky, posted that the first Lala’s will open in three to four months. He also announced that a second Apocalypse BBQ is in the works, though that’s about a year out.
Lala’s started as a weekly pop-up at Apocalypse BBQ, with people lining up for its signature “Lala” burger: a five-ounce smash burger with American cheese, grilled onions, pickles, and a secret sauce. Now, Lala’s sells burgers at Lincoln’s Beard Brewery, and has, in the past, popped up at Apocalypse BBQ. It’s assumed that the burgers will continue to be offered at the brewery, with an Instagram post noting, “Don’t worry you can still catch us at Lincoln’s Beard for now”.
Budnechky founded Apocalypse BBQ during the pandemic, naming it as a tongue-in-cheek response to restaurants and businesses shutting down at the time. The chef would cook for friends and family in his backyard. That hobby turned into a profession, after demand increased. Today, Apocalypse BBQ is one of the top rated barbecue restaurants in the city.
