The Burger Stand made their Topeka debut in the College Hill development, and has been hopping since they unlocked their doors for business Sept. 10. The Burger Stand, owned by native Topekan Simon Bates, also has two locations in Lawrence.

The Burger Stand not only features burgers, but Hawt Doggz (featuring Nathan’s Famous hot dogs), eight custom-made dipping sauces, six varieties of French fries, and more. One of the dipping sauces available is the Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Aioli.

“It’s like mayonnaise in texture and creaminess, only better,” said Pedro Concepcion, The Burger Stand’s executive chef.

One of the most popular burgers ordered is Smoke, which includes applewood-smoked bacon, smoked Gouda cheese, and chipotle-cocoa ketchup. The Ichabod Dog is one of the most ordered Hawt Doggz with whiskey caramelized onions, bacon baked beans, and cheddar cheese. Duck fat fries are also well liked, and are made to order fresh.

“The trick is to eat them fresh out of the fryer,” said Concepcion. “Everything is made fresh.”

What sets The Burger Stand apart from other places is they try to please everyone, including vegetarians and vegans. “We think out of the box, keep everyone happy, and to go home with a smile,” said Concepcion.

The Burger Stand has a kid-friendly menu to please the inner child of taste buds, which includes grilled cheese, cheeseburgers, corn dogs, and hot dogs. “They can be custom ordered with additional ingredients,” said Concepcion.

Soon, The Burger Stand will have daily and weekly specials, along with a complete cocktail and beer list. On tap, they have beers made from local breweries, including Tallgrass, Blind Tiger, Boulevard, and Free State. A sampling of the cocktail menu includes Tequila Rickey, Gin Fizz, and Rum Relaxers.

One of the things that are unique about The Burger Stand is their Pong Bar, located on the other side of the establishment, and is only featured at the Topeka location. The Pong Bar features two tournament-size Ping-Pong tables, two pool tables, a foosball table, and a pinball machine along with another full size bar. Above the bar is a net that house a huge pile of Ping-Pong balls. “It’s a great place to hang out,” said Kenny Pingleton, bar manager. “Our location is great, centrally located for hospitals, campus, and Downtown.”

Robert Krause drew up the Pong Bar concept after being fascinated in the sport for two years, which has again become a popular trend. Another feature about the Pong Bar is the mural painted by local area artist Aaron Marable, who lives in Lawrence, Kan.

The Burger Stand is located at 1601 SW Lane. Feel free to also visit their Facebook page, or on Twitter@theburgerstand.