"A Jersey Shore fast-casual burrito shop with skater and surf roots takes over the former Smashburger location on Sahara Avenue. Franchiser James Rogers opens the first Bubbakoo’s Burritos location, bringing Mexican-fusion style cuisine to Las Vegas in the former Smashburger space at 9101 W. Sahara Avenue on October 1. The Mexican restaurant specializes in build-your-own tacos, burritos, and bowls. Diners choose from one of eight proteins such as hibachi steak, chicken, or carnitas, or two vegetarian or vegan bases and then select toppings such as brown rice, black beans, corn salsa, and more. Customers then pick from eight sauces that include ghost pepper, Sriracha ranch, and Southern-style barbecue. Diners can also find nachos, boneless wings, southwest egg rolls, Buffalo cauliflower, and chiwawas, a deep-fried, softball-sized, panko-crusted cheesy rice ball. Bill Hart and Paul Altero started Bubbakoo’s Burritos in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, back in 2008 and now it has three dozen locations, mainly on the East Coast. When COVID-19 forced restaurants to close across the country, Hart and Altero pushed back their expansion plans. While the 37 active stores remain open for curbside pickup and delivery, this marks the first opening for the mini-chain during the coronavirus pandemic. Bubbakoo’s in Vegas plans to only open for takeout and delivery with a grand opening of the dining room at a later date." - Susan Stapleton
