Baby’s Badass Burgers: Here’s What Happened After Shark Tank

In 2009, a vibrant pink food truck named Baby’s Badass Burgers hit the streets of Los Angeles, serving up delicious burgers made with top-quality ingredients. Known for its eye-catching appearance and celebrity clientele, the brand quickly gained popularity. In 2013, owners Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera appeared on the hit TV show “Shark Tank” seeking funding to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant. Although the sharks declined to invest, the exposure brought about the “Shark Tank effect” and opened doors for new opportunities. After years of persistence, Baby’s Badass Burgers finally achieved their dream of opening a brick-and-mortar location in 2022. Now operating at CoLab Public House, the brand continues to thrive with their mouthwatering burgers and a range of menu options. With multiple food trucks and a dedicated following, Baby’s Badass Burgers proves that their burgers are as badass as ever.

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Baby’s Badass Burgers on Shark Tank

In 2013, Baby’s Badass Burgers made an appearance on the popular TV show Shark Tank, where entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of investors. Owners Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera approached the Sharks with a request for $250,000 in exchange for a 30% share in their business. Baby’s Badass Burgers, known for its high-quality ingredients and eye-catching pink food truck, served up their signature burgers to the Sharks during the pitch.

The Sharks expressed satisfaction with the burgers, but they questioned the decision to transition from a successful food truck business to a riskier brick-and-mortar restaurant. Despite liking the product, all of the Sharks declined to invest, citing the change in strategy as their main reason. While it was disappointing for Cohen and Barbera not to receive an investment, their appearance on Shark Tank did have a positive impact on their business.

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Baby’s Badass Burgers after Shark Tank

After appearing on Shark Tank, Baby’s Badass Burgers experienced what is known as the “Shark Tank effect.” This phenomenon refers to the increase in business and exposure that entrepreneurs often receive after being featured on the show. The exposure from Shark Tank led to more bookings for events and provided opportunities for Cohen and Barbera to explore options related to opening a brick-and-mortar location.

In 2014, Baby’s Badass Burgers appeared on another show called “Restaurant Startup.” There, they pitched for an investment of $500,000 for 50% of the restaurant they hoped to launch. Joe Bastianich, one of the hosts, made a deal with Cohen and Barbera, offering a $250,000 investment for 50% of their business. The duo intended to open the restaurant in 2015, but it took them seven more years to achieve this goal.

Babys Badass Burgers: Heres What Happened After Shark Tank

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Achieving the Dream

Despite the setback on Shark Tank, Baby’s Badass Burgers remained successful with their food trucks. In 2022, Cohen and Barbera finally achieved their dream of opening a brick-and-mortar location. They had dual openings that year at CoLab Public House in Vista, California, and Local Kitchens in Huntington Beach, California. While Local Kitchens has since closed temporarily, Baby’s Badass Burgers continues to operate at CoLab Public House.

At CoLab Public House, Baby’s Badass Burgers joined a list of craft beverage makers, offering a menu that includes their signature burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, flatbreads, fries, and snacks. The location features indoor and outdoor gathering spaces and hosts events, creating a unique and vibrant experience for customers.

Current Operations

In addition to their brick-and-mortar location at CoLab Public House, Baby’s Badass Burgers still operates four food trucks across California. These trucks are available for private or corporate events and offer a kid-friendly version called “Baby’s Burgers.” The brand also provides franchising opportunities for those interested in joining the Baby’s Badass Burgers family.

The brand keeps customers informed about the locations of their food trucks through Facebook updates. They also occasionally offer secret menu items like the Hot Mess Fries, providing a sense of exclusivity for their loyal fans. Baby’s Badass Burgers’ Instagram account showcases their food truck locations, as well as events taking place at CoLab, such as bingo nights, karaoke, vinyl nights, and paint parties.

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Babys Badass Burgers: Heres What Happened After Shark Tank

Menu and Offerings

Baby’s Badass Burgers is known for its signature burgers crafted with high-quality ingredients. Their menu offerings include a variety of unique and delicious burgers, as well as alternative options for those with dietary restrictions. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer vegan or turkey options, Baby’s Badass Burgers has something for everyone.

In addition to their food truck menu, Baby’s Badass Burgers offers a more extensive menu at their brick-and-mortar location at CoLab Public House. Customers can enjoy a wide range of food options, including chicken sandwiches, salads, flatbreads, fries, and various snacks. The menu caters to different tastes and ensures there’s a satisfying meal for every customer.

Positive Reception

Baby’s Badass Burgers has garnered positive reviews on Yelp, with many customers praising the deliciousness of their burgers. Customers appreciate the high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations that set Baby’s Badass Burgers apart from other burger joints. The brand also receives appreciation for its kids’ menu, providing a family-friendly dining experience.

Social Media Presence

Baby’s Badass Burgers maintains an active presence on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. On Facebook, they regularly update their followers with the locations of their food trucks, allowing customers to easily find them. They also share updates about events and occasionally tease their audience with secret menu items.

Instagram is used to showcase mouthwatering images of their burgers and other menu items, enticing followers to visit their locations. Baby’s Badass Burgers also promotes events happening at their brick-and-mortar location, fostering a sense of community and excitement around their brand.

Thriving 11 Years Later

More than 11 years after appearing on Shark Tank, Baby’s Badass Burgers continues to thrive and expand. With their brick-and-mortar location at CoLab Public House and ongoing food truck operations, the brand has solidified its presence in the California food scene. The combination of high-quality ingredients, unique flavors, and a vibrant brand image has contributed to their success.

With the continued growth and expansion of Baby’s Badass Burgers, it is clear that Erica Cohen and Lori Barbera’s perseverance and passion have paid off. The brand’s ability to adapt and build a loyal following has positioned them as a beloved and successful burger business in California.

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Making a Baby’s Badass Burger at Home

If you’re not located near any of Baby’s Badass Burgers’ locations but still want to experience their delicious burgers, you’re in luck. You can easily recreate a Baby’s Badass Burger at home. Start with high-quality ingredients, such as freshly ground beef or a vegan alternative if preferred. Add your favorite toppings, such as cheese, lettuce, tomato, and Baby’s Badass Burgers’ special sauce.

Don’t forget to toast the bun for some added crunch. Serve your homemade Baby’s Badass Burger with a side of fries or a salad for a complete meal. Recreating the flavors of Baby’s Badass Burgers at home allows you to enjoy their unique culinary experience anytime, anywhere.

Recommendation for Homemade Burgers

When making homemade burgers inspired by Baby’s Badass Burgers, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. Choose grass-fed beef or a vegan alternative made with wholesome plant-based ingredients. Incorporate a variety of seasonings to enhance the flavor of the patty, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Experiment with different toppings and sauces to create your own signature burger. Baby’s Badass Burgers’ special sauce is a must-try if you want to capture the essence of their brand. Remember to toast the bun to add a delicious crunch to your homemade creation.

By following these recommendations and adding your own personal touch, you can create a burger that embodies the bold and badass spirit of Baby’s Badass Burgers in the comfort of your own kitchen.

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