“This is a great concept,” I told Tim as we sat down at STACKED restaurant in Fashion Valley Mall, surrounded by modern artwork and young families. The copper-toned restaurant features wooden seats, graffiti-style decor, and a menu that is fully customizable to your palette.
This is how it works. You are seated and greeted by a table concierge, who shows you how to place your order on an iPad. With the swipe of your finger, you can “add” and “delete” ingredients for burgers, salads, pizza, and macaroni & cheese. Want feta cheese or mandarin oranges on your salad? How about pepper jack cheese or sautéed mushrooms on your burger? No problem.
When your order is complete, push “send to kitchen.” Easier for the waiter. Easier for the cooks. Easier for the guest. This ordering method ensures happier eaters and fewer order mistakes.
My salad was delicious and Tim’s burger hit the spot – served with applewood smoked bacon, caramelized onions, and BBQ sauce. My one critique would be that the Kids Menu needs greater inspiration. Current offerings are limited to: burgers, grilled cheese, mac & cheese (Kraft, to make things even worse), and pizza – no customization available. I’d prefer to see salads, veggie trays, fresh fruit plates, and pizzas in fun shapes.
Most meals come to around $12, but that price can vary depending on the number of ingredients you select.
There are currently 3 restaurant locations (with a fourth planned) in Southern California: Cerritos, San Diego, and Torrance.
All in all, STACKED really “stacks up” when it comes to innovation. I look forward to following the future of this 2011 company.
TIP: Be sure to try the milkshakes. They’re thick, creamy, and served in fun cylindrical glasses. Choose from 5 shake bases and 18 mix-ins.
