The internationally renowned Shake Shack has a long list of locations that continues to grow. The popular burger chain will add Folsom to that list as it officially opens its doors Wednesday, Nov. 20, at the Palladio shopping center, marking its third location to come to the Sacramento area.
What began as a humble hot dog cart in New York City more than two decades ago has grown into one of the world’s fastest-growing burger franchises. Today, Shake Shack boasts over 500 locations worldwide, including several in the Sacramento region. The brand opened its first local outpost in midtown Sacramento in 2020, followed by a second in the Westfield Galleria Mall in Roseville.
The decision to expand into Folsom’s Palladio reflects the area’s continued appeal to national and international brands. With over 300 locations in 33 states and multiple cities across the globe – including London, Hong Kong, and Dubai – Shake Shack has quickly become a favorite of burger enthusiasts around the world.
“The Palladio is a key part of our strategy to connect with customers who appreciate both the social experience of shopping and dining in-person,” said Gloria Wright, General Manager at Palladio. “This unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment has made the center a hub for national brands like Shake Shack, contributing to a rise in both sales and occupancy rates.”
Wright’s observation is backed by current retail trends, with a growing demand for in-person shopping experiences, especially among younger generations. The International Association of Shopping Centers recently reported that Gen Z shoppers, aged 16-26, prefer in-person shopping just as much as online retail. This preference for experiential retail is a driving factor behind the surge in demand for venues like Palladio, which hosts a variety of dining and entertainment options.
For Shake Shack, the Palladio location offers an ideal setting for its signature menu of high-quality burgers, fries, shakes, and other indulgent offerings. Shake Shack is best known for its ShackBurger – a juicy, all-beef patty topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and ShackSauce. Other fan favorites include the crispy fried chicken sandwiches, crinkle-cut fries, and decadent milkshakes, which are available in a variety of seasonal flavors. The chain also offers plant-based and gluten-free options, as well as a selection of wine, beer, and refreshing drinks like Shack-made lemonades and draft root beer.
But Shake Shack’s appeal goes beyond just its mouth-watering menu. The company’s success story has become an example of entrepreneurial innovation and community involvement. The original Shake Shack was founded in 2001 by celebrity chef Danny Meyer as part of an initiative to revitalize New York’s Madison Square Park. Initially just a hot dog cart, the concept quickly grew into a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.
By 2004, Meyer had transformed the cart into a permanent kiosk, serving gourmet burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes. The concept became a hit, and in the years that followed, Shake Shack expanded rapidly, opening locations across the U.S. and internationally. Today, the company has more than 500 locations worldwide, with plans to continue its expansion.
Shake Shack has remained committed to giving back to the communities in which it operates. For the opening of the Folsom location, Shake Shack will donate $1 for every burger sold to the Twin Lakes Food Bank, continuing its tradition of supporting local causes.
“We’ve always believed in ‘Standing For Something Good,’ whether it’s supporting our teams, sourcing high-quality ingredients, or contributing to our communities,” the company cites. “That commitment is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re excited to continue that legacy in Folsom.”
The new Folsom Shake Shack will be open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, with extended hours until 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
For Folsom residents and visitors, the arrival of Shake Shack adds a fresh, exciting dining option to the vibrant Palladio shopping center, offering both a delicious meal and a chance to experience the communal spirit that Shake Shack has become known for. Whether you’re craving a ShackBurger or a creamy milkshake, this new location promises to deliver the same high-quality, flavorful experience that fans of the brand have come to expect – with a local twist.
The new Folsom Shake Shack will operate daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with extended hours until 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Folsom Times photos by Bill Sullivan