Sonoma’s New Smash Restaurant Leans Into Fast-Casual Burgers

Chef Ari Weiswasser brings fast-casual smashburgers to the Sonoma Plaza at new family-friendly Smash restaurant.


By Heather Irwin

Chef Ari Weiswasser, the restaurateur behind Glen Ellen Star and Stella, opened Smash in May, a burger-focused fast-casual restaurant on Sonoma Plaza.

After years spent crafting polished farm-to-table cuisine, Weiswasser is leaning into something simpler, faster and a lot less fussy.

Located in the former Taub Family Outpost space, Smash is bright and contemporary, with self-service ordering, bar seating, communal tables and a small patio.

SMASH is located at Taub Family Outpost
SMASH is located in the historic Spanish Colonial-style bank building on the Sonoma town square in Sonoma Thursday, July 16, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Customers eat at SMASH in Sonoma
Customers eat at SMASH in Sonoma Thursday, July 16, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

There’s plenty of noise and action inside, fitting for a family-friendly restaurant built around approachable prices. Diners seeking a quieter experience may want to take their burgers to go or sit at one of the outdoor tables.

Smashburgers from SMASH
The Double Smash with fries and a blue Gatorade frozen slush at SMASH in Sonoma Thursday, July 16, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
The “Nashville” Hot Fried Chicken Sando with fries and a Chocolate Therapy milkshake at SMASH in Sonoma Thursday, July 16, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
The “Nashville” Hot Fried Chicken Sando with fries and a Chocolate Therapy milkshake at SMASH in Sonoma Thursday, July 16, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)
Smash Fried Chicken Sando
Smash Fried Chicken Sando, tater tots fries, and a frozen Rosé slush at SMASH in Sonoma Thursday, July 16, 2026. (Beth Schlanker / The Press Democrat)

Upstairs, the Beacon speakeasy offers a more adult setting, serving craft cocktails alongside the full Smash menu.

Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. 497 First St. W., Sonoma, instagram.com/smashsonoma