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What started as a Tuesday-only pop-up at Apocalypse BBQ has grown into a full-blown burger restaurant. Lala’s Burgers has just opened its first restaurant in Kendall, driven by overwhelming demand from loyal customers and burger aficionados.
And when we say overwhelming, we mean it. Fans recently went crazy when they learned they were selling their barbecue sauce in bottles just the other day. Therefore, you can only imagine the rush that happened when Lala’s opened this past December.
Day One Hospitality photo
The opening marks a significant milestone for owners Jeff and Laura “Lala” Budnechky, who launched Apocalypse BBQ from their backyard in 2020, and for the Day One Hospitality team.
“This isn’t just another viral burger joint opening,” says Lala, whose restaurant is named after her. “It’s part of our ongoing mission to serve the Kendall community with bold, flavorful food and a welcoming environment. What started as a simple backyard project has turned into something extraordinary, and we’re thrilled to have a home where residents of Kendall and beyond can enjoy Lala’s every day.”
Day One Hospitality photo
New Menu Items For Fans in Kendall
Located at 13750 SW 88th St., in the former Fujiya Japanese Restaurant space, the 70-seat restaurant features an expanded menu that includes fan favorites such as “the Lala” and “the Bacon,” as well as double-fried, seasoned French fries. Oh, and as of Thursday, January 15, the smashburgers are back in action.
New additions exclusive to the Kendall location include chicken sandwiches, hot dogs served on buns proofed and baked in-house daily, onion rings, and desserts like brownie à la mode.
To complement the food, the standalone location debuts a curated craft beer program highlighting local breweries. Offerings include Everhaze IPA from Tripping Animals, La Playita from The Tank Brewing Co., and La Rubia from Wynwood Brewing Company, alongside harder-to-find selections from breweries such as Lost City Brewing and Rocketeer Brewing. Wine and soft drinks are also available.
Day One Hospitality photo
Plus, the Kendall location introduces a new dining format for the brand, offering full-service dining alongside bagged takeout, both operating on a first-come, first-served basis. They also aim to create a welcoming, neighborhood-focused atmosphere at Lala’s with music and games designed to make Lala’s a casual community hangout.
The Budnechkys opened their first brick-and-mortar Apocalypse BBQ location in 2022 with just 43 seats. In March 2025, the restaurant expanded to a 190-seat space at the Kendall Village Shopping Center. With the launch of the standalone Lala’s Burgers location, the Budnechkys continue to grow Day One Hospitality’s presence in Kendall with approachable concepts centered on flavor, consistency, and hospitality.
In the coming weeks, guests can expect the addition of a vinyl listening section, an homage to a popular feature at Apocalypse BBQ, along with board and table games. The new location is designed to serve as Kendall’s latest neighborhood hangout while continuing the Buds’ community-driven culinary vision.
Lala’s Burgers. 13750 SW 88th St.; Kendall; instagram.com/lalasbrgrs.
