Vancouver residents will soon have a recent spot to satisfy their burger cravings. Rosie’s Burgers, a popular smash burger chain originating in Toronto, is preparing to open its first British Columbia location on the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus. The expansion marks a significant step for the growing restaurant, known for its simple, diner-inspired menu and focus on quality ingredients.
The news was initially shared by Live at UBC on Instagram, announcing “Something delicious is coming to University Boulevard!” Rosie’s Burgers has quickly gained a following since its founding in 2020 by brothers Daniel & Dustin Gelman. The restaurant’s appeal lies in its commitment to uncomplicated, flavorful food, reminiscent of a classic American diner. The company describes itself as inspired by “a time when burgers and fries were just that — uncomplicated and effortlessly delicious,” according to its website.
Rosie’s menu centers around its signature smash burgers, created by pressing a ball of ground beef directly onto a hot griddle, resulting in a crispy, flavorful patty. Beyond burgers, the chain also offers fries, strawberry shakes, onion rings, and banana pudding – a selection that has resonated with customers in Ontario and is expected to do the same in Vancouver. The company’s growth is being supported by Happy Belly Food Group Inc., which signed a multi-unit franchise agreement for five Rosie’s Burgers locations in British Columbia on March 27th, according to a press release issued on June 10, 2025.
Expanding Footprint in Canada
Happy Belly Food Group CEO Sean Black highlighted the strategic importance of the UBC location. “This new location is in the heart of the University of British Columbia campus, a perfect location for a Rosie’s due to its large, diverse, and vibrant student population,” Black said in the press release. With over 65,000 students and thousands of faculty and staff, UBC provides a consistent and substantial customer base. The ongoing development and expansion of the campus further contribute to its potential as a long-term, successful location for the brand.
The company is also exploring the possibility of integrating Rosie’s Burgers into the university’s meal program, which would offer students a convenient and appealing dining option. This integration could provide a significant competitive advantage and further solidify Rosie’s presence on campus.
A Growing Brand with Diner Roots
Rosie’s Burgers’ success is built on a relatively simple formula: high-quality ingredients, a focused menu, and a nostalgic atmosphere. The founders, Daniel and Dustin Gelman, aimed to recreate the experience of a classic diner, prioritizing taste and hospitality. This approach has proven popular with customers and has attracted the attention of Happy Belly Food Group, a company focused on acquiring and scaling emerging food brands.
Happy Belly Food Group’s investment signals confidence in Rosie’s Burgers’ potential for continued growth. The company’s expertise in franchise development and restaurant operations is expected to accelerate the brand’s expansion across British Columbia and potentially beyond. The initial franchise agreement covers five locations in the province, suggesting a long-term commitment to the B.C. Market.
What to Expect and When
While an exact opening date and specific address on the UBC campus have not yet been announced, anticipation is building among students and local food enthusiasts. The restaurant’s arrival is expected to add another popular dining option to the Point Grey campus, catering to the diverse tastes of the university community. Interested customers can follow Rosie’s Burgers on Instagram for updates on the opening date and location.
The expansion into British Columbia represents a significant milestone for Rosie’s Burgers, demonstrating the brand’s growing appeal and potential for national success. As the restaurant prepares to open its doors on the UBC campus, Vancouver residents can look forward to experiencing the simple, delicious flavors that have made Rosie’s Burgers a favorite among diners in Toronto.
Happy Belly Food Group will provide further updates on the opening timeline and additional location announcements in the coming months. The company’s focus remains on expanding the Rosie’s Burgers footprint and delivering a consistent, high-quality dining experience to customers across Canada.
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