Shake Shack was officially founded in July 2004 when its first permanent kiosk opened in Madison Square Park, New York City. However, its roots go back to 2001, when it began as a small hot dog cart designed to support an art installation project. Over the years, Shake Shack has evolved from a single cart into a global fast-casual dining brand, known for its burgers, fries, shakes, and unique culture. If you’re wondering when did Shake Shack start, who founded Shake Shack, or how it grew, this guide answers all your questions clearly and comprehensively.
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What Year Was Shake Shack Founded?
Shake Shack was officially founded in 2004, but its journey began in 2001. Here’s a breakdown:
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2001 | Hot dog cart opened in Madison Square Park |
| July 2004 | First Shake Shack kiosk opened |
| 2010–2013 | National expansion began |
| 2015 | Company went public (NYSE: SHAK) |
The 2004 opening is what the company and the public recognize as the official founding date of Shake Shack.
Who Founded Shake Shack?
Shake Shack was founded by Danny Meyer, a well-known New York City restaurateur and the CEO of Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG). He and his team started the hot dog cart as part of a public art project, but due to its success, they launched a permanent burger stand.
Subtopics:
- Founder: Danny Meyer
- Company: Union Square Hospitality Group
- Initial Concept: Temporary cart for an art project
- Current CEO: Randy Garutti
Why Was Shake Shack Created?
Shake Shack was created as part of a public art initiative called “I ♥ Taxi” in Madison Square Park. The original idea was not to start a global burger chain but to support community engagement through food.
Purpose Behind Shake Shack:
- Support public art.
- Engage the community.
- Provide high-quality fast food.
Where Was the First Shake Shack Location?
The first-ever Shake Shack was opened in Madison Square Park, New York City, in July 2004.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Madison Square Park, NYC |
| Format | Kiosk-style restaurant |
| Signature Items | ShackBurger, Crinkle-Cut Fries, Shakes |
| Customer Response | Extremely positive |
This small location laid the foundation for what would become an international fast-casual phenomenon.
How Did Shake Shack Grow After 2004?
Shake Shack’s success in NYC fueled its rapid expansion. From 2004 to 2010, it stayed relatively local. By 2010, it began opening in other U.S. cities, and by 2013, international locations followed.
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Key Growth Milestones:
- 2010: Opened in Miami and Washington, D.C.
- 2013: First international store in Dubai.
- 2015: Went public with IPO valued at $1.6 billion.
- Now: Over 450 locations globally.
Shake Shack’s Evolution Over Time
Shake Shack has evolved its menu, operations, and footprint to meet customer demand.
Menu Evolution:
- Added items like chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers, limited-edition shakes.
- Localized menus for international locations.
Global Presence:
- Stores in South Korea, Japan, UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and more.
- Adapts offerings to regional preferences.
Is Shake Shack a Franchise?
No. Shake Shack is not a traditional franchise. Most stores are company-operated, though some international stores are licensed partners.
| Type of Ownership | Details |
|---|---|
| U.S. Stores | Company-operated |
| International Stores | Licensed partners (not franchises) |
FAQs
When did Shake Shack officially open?
In July 2004, with its first kiosk in Madison Square Park.
Who owns Shake Shack?
Shake Shack is a publicly traded company, but it was founded by Danny Meyer and Union Square Hospitality Group.
Is Shake Shack a franchise?
No. Most U.S. locations are company-owned. Some international locations operate under license agreements.
How many Shake Shack locations are there now?
As of 2025, there are over 450 locations globally.
What makes Shake Shack different from other burger chains?
High-quality ingredients, unique branding, strong community roots, and a modern, upscale fast-casual experience.
Final Thoughts
Shake Shack was founded in July 2004, but its deeper story begins in 2001 with a humble hot dog cart. Today, it’s one of the most recognized fast-casual restaurant chains in the world. Its success story is built on community engagement, quality ingredients, and bold branding. Whether you’re searching for Shake Shack’s founding date, history, or expansion timeline, this guide offers a complete view of its remarkable journey.
