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The Secret Behind Doinks Burger Joint: Why Cleveland's Smash Burger And Seltzer Bar Is The Hottest Spot In 2025

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Step into Doinks Burger Joint today, and you are immediately immersed in the vibrant, fresh energy of Cleveland's culinary comeback, but the story of this Waterloo Arts District gem is rooted in a much more uncertain time. As of late 2025, Doinks isn't just serving up another burger; it's delivering a perfectly executed smash burger, elevated by a secret, family-recipe sauce and a unique in-house Seltzer Bar concept that has quickly made it a must-visit destination in the North Collinwood neighborhood. This deep dive uncovers the journey of the founders, the must-try menu items, and the specific details that have cemented Doinks' status as a top contender in the competitive Cleveland dining scene.

The restaurant, located at 15519 Waterloo Rd, Cleveland, OH 44110, represents a successful pivot by two hospitality veterans who turned the challenges of the 2020 shutdown into a thriving, brick-and-mortar reality. Their initial venture, a simple pop-up, garnered a devoted local following, eventually leading to a successful Kickstarter campaign that secured the funding needed to open their current, trendy establishment. This is the definitive guide to everything you need to know before you grab your next double smash burger.

The Founders' Story and the Birth of a Cleveland Icon

The foundation of Doinks Burger Joint is built on the partnership of two local Cleveland figures: Peter Brown and Chef Bonn Rassavong. Their journey from industry veterans to co-founders is a testament to resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.

  • Peter Brown: Already an established name in the Cleveland coffee scene, Peter Brown is the owner of the popular Six Shooter Coffee. His experience in building a successful local brand provided the business acumen and community ties necessary for the Doinks venture.
  • Bonn Rassavong: The culinary genius behind the menu, Bonn Rassavong brought his extensive kitchen experience, including a tenure as a chef at the acclaimed Citizen Pie, to the table. When the 2020 shutdown left both men out of work, they decided to "sling burgers" as a pop-up, an idea that quickly grew into a full-fledged business.
  • Funding Success: The transition from pop-up to permanent location was significantly aided by a successful Kickstarter campaign. This community-backed financing demonstrated the immediate and enthusiastic local demand for their unique concept.
  • Location and Vibe: They chose the vibrant Waterloo Arts District (part of North Collinwood) for their permanent home. The space itself boasts a fun, trendy vibe, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere that perfectly complements their casual, high-quality food concept.

The Doinks Difference: Smash Burgers, Secret Sauce, and Seltzer

Doinks Burger Joint stands out in the crowded market of burger places by focusing on three core pillars: the perfect Smash Burger, the legendary Doinks Sauce, and the innovative Seltzer Bar.

The Art of the Smash Burger

The smash burger technique is the foundation of Doinks’ success. By pressing the beef patty onto a hot griddle, the chefs achieve a perfect balance: crispy, caramelized edges (the Maillard reaction at its finest) and a juicy, flavorful interior. This commitment to quality and technique has put them squarely on the map, often being cited in discussions about the best smash burgers in the Cleveland Burger Scene for 2025 alongside other favorites like Crowley's Dive Bar and Smashy Patty's.

Key menu items that have garnered rave reviews include:

  • The OG Smashburger: The classic, must-try double patty that showcases the quality of the fresh ingredients.
  • The Doink Burger: A signature item featuring a double smash patty, perfectly caramelized onions, American cheese, and a generous slathering of the mysterious Doinks Sauce.
  • Sweet Heat Burger: A popular choice for those who like a kick, combining savory beef with sweet and spicy elements.
  • Bonn Me Burger: A nod to Chef Bonn's flair, this burger often features unique, Asian-inspired ingredients like Jalapeño Kimchi and a Spicy Doink Sauce variation, cucumbers, pickles, shredded lettuce, and fresh herbs.

The Secret Weapon: Doinks Sauce

Every great burger joint has a signature sauce, and at Doinks, it’s the Doinks Sauce. This condiment is more than just a topping—it’s a key component of the flavor profile, and its origin story adds a layer of genuine, heartfelt authenticity. Co-founder Bonn Rassavong revealed that the secret behind the sauce is his mother's recipe. This personal touch ensures the sauce is unique and consistently praised by diners, who often describe it as a symphony of flavors that keeps them coming back for more. It’s a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet blend that perfectly cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese.

The Innovative Seltzer Bar Concept

What truly separates Doinks from other traditional burger joints is the addition of an in-house Seltzer Bar. This forward-thinking concept caters to the modern consumer's preference for lighter, more sessionable alcoholic beverages. The bar features a selection of hard-seltzer cocktails and other creative drinks, providing an ideal pairing for the rich, savory smash burgers. This pairing of high-quality, casual food with a unique, curated drink menu elevates the entire dining experience, making it a destination for both foodies and those looking for a fun night out in the Waterloo Arts & Entertainment District.

Topical Authority: Doinks in the Cleveland Culinary Landscape

Doinks Burger Joint is not operating in a vacuum; it is an active and influential part of the greater Cleveland culinary ecosystem. Its success is a reflection of several current trends:

  • The Smash Burger Trend: The restaurant capitalizes on the nationwide obsession with the smash burger, proving that a simple concept executed perfectly can dominate the market. Their presence is a major feature of the Cleveland Smash Burger Scene in 2025.
  • Waterloo Arts District Anchor: The joint is a key anchor in the revival and continued growth of the Waterloo Arts District. Located near other popular spots like Beachland Ballroom, The Treelawn, and various art galleries, Doinks contributes to the area's reputation as a hub for indie culture, live music, and unique dining.
  • Community Support: The initial reliance on a Kickstarter campaign and the ongoing positive word-of-mouth reviews highlight a strong connection to the local Cleveland, OH community. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly service and the feeling of supporting a genuine local business.
  • Menu Expansion: Beyond burgers, the menu includes other delicious options like classic hot dogs and sides like perfectly salted French fries and house-made lemonade, ensuring there is something for everyone. They even offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, showing a commitment to broader inclusivity.

For anyone searching for the latest and greatest places to eat in Cleveland in late 2025, Doinks Burger Joint is a mandatory stop. It blends the nostalgia of a classic burger shack with the innovation of a modern bar, all while serving up a product that is consistently rated as one of the best in the city. The next time you find yourself in the vibrant North Collinwood area, make sure to try the Doink Burger—and don't forget to ask for extra Doinks Sauce.

The Secret Behind Doinks Burger Joint: Why Cleveland's Smash Burger and Seltzer Bar is the Hottest Spot in 2025
doinks burger joint
doinks burger joint

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