Classic burgers and shakes were the foundation of Shady’s business model. (Photos by Kathy Tran)

Classic burgers and shakes were the foundation of Shady’s business model. (Photo by Kathy Tran)

Simple pleasures

All the owners of Shady’s Burgers & Brewhaha wanted was a neighborhood hangout spot for an affordable beer and burger.

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The five Richardson residents didn’t find the quintessential burger joint they desired, so they opened one themselves. Two years after Shady’s launched in Canyon Creek, the restaurant opened in Lake Highlands in 2016.

“It was some guys just sitting around,” culinary director Jason Wilson says. “They wanted a place to have a beer, have a great burger and not break the bank.”

Shady’s serves creative takes on American classics, from gourmet burgers to unconventional milkshakes with flavors like peach cobbler. Wilson — a hamburger aficionado who sharpened his skills at Hopdoddy Burger Bar and Brick House Tavern + Tap — joined the team eight months ago. He’s dedicated his time to maintaining the menu’s quality and inventing rotating monthly specials.

“This is definitely not my first rodeo,” he says. “It’s refreshing and a little humbling to know they trust me with their restaurant.”

Shady’s moved to the neighborhood a year ago, and there’s already regulars who pop in a few days a week. The positive reception has spurred some talk of expanding, although nothing has been finalized yet.

“There’s tons of neighborhoods out there that need us.”

Did you know: Culinary director Jason Wilson says the most addictive item on the menu is the french fries. Customers have even started requesting off-the-menu toppings. “We put tons of love into those things,” he says.

Shady’s Burgers and Brewhaha
Ambiance: Casual grill and bar
Price: $9-$12
Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Thursday-Saturday
9661 Audelia Road
469.726.2920
shadysburgers.com