After a year-long hiatus, Brakeman’s Burgers has reopened in the same historic downtown Old Depot off Sierra Madre, a space longtime locals will remember as Guiseppi’s. Now under the management of Atlas Restaurant Group, the restaurant has undergone a full remodel and rebranding that combines nostalgic charm with contemporary culinary innovation. Brakeman’s Burgers describes itself as “a modern gathering place with a deep historical soul.”
Atlas has been part of ongoing revitalization projects downtown including Ola Juice Bar and multiple eateries within the COATI Uprise food hall. Atlas is also behind PigLatin Cocina in Briargate.
The revamped menu centers on smashed burgers that elevate classic comfort food while prioritizing humane, sustainable practices and premium ingredients. The Brakeman’s Classic Smash’d burger features two ethically sourced Wagyu patties, grilled onions, melted cheese and a signature house-made 1942 sauce. The menu expands beyond burgers with smashed chicken variations, including Chicken Smash Tenders, a Smash’d Hot Chicken sandwich and a Chicken Bacon Ranch sandwich. There are also salads and an intriguing bar menu — we’re itching to try the Pickle Whiskers shot. With happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. daily, we might need to get Brakeman’s on the calendar sooner than later.
10 S. Sierra Madre St.
