WillieBurger’s last smashburger at a recent Bend Moonlight Market at Open Space Event Studios went to Andrew George.

“I just thought it was incredible,” George said. “I became a follower like everyone else and it was my favorite burger in town.”

This spring, George became the sole proprietor of WillieBurger, a Central Oregon food truck known for simplicity.

Burgers may be ordered with one, two or three patties. Choose to add jalapenos for $1 and that’s about the extent of the decisions required at the food truck.

More coverage: Foxtail Bakeshop imagines a new, community-funded concept

The origin story

The concept was borne from Chris Collins’ burger obsession and introduced at the Northwest Farmers Market in Bend in June 2022. Collins and his wife, Kahla, consequently slung smashburgers at Munch & Music, Bend Pride festival, concerts at Oregon Spirit Distillery and Bend Athletic Club and a handful of catering events and weddings.

That was up until November, when the Collins brought their daughter, Jimmy Rose, into the world.

The Collins had envisioned staying in Central Oregon indefinitely, but plans changed immediately after having their daughter.

“Things change after you have a kid. It’s all kind of cliche, but it turned out to be true for us,” Chris said.

They relocated to Chris’ home state, Arkansas, to raise Jimmy Rose among grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles.

“We also felt pretty strongly that since the Bend community showed us so much support and love over the short time we were open, and they really made it happen for us, that it would be sad to see it leave town,” he said.

The Collins never hired employees, keeping WillieBurger staffed by often putting in 70-hour weeks. But Chris said they wouldn’t have changed a thing.

“It’s definitely the best span of a job or working situation that both of us has ever had in our long restaurant careers. It was very fulfilling,” he said.

Where can I find Willieburger?

The food truck is stationed outside the Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room. George said he hopes to be open more consistently and will roll out a website in mid-June. After nailing down a regular rhythm with the food truck, he plans to bring the WillieBurger tent to events.

For the latest hours, check the food truck’s Instagram page @willieburgerbend.

WillieBurger will serve burgers at the Bend Pride summer festival in Drake Park on Saturday.

More coverage: Noosh brings flavors of the Middle East to Bend farmer’s markets, pop-ups

Details

What: WillieBurger food truck

Location: Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room, 901 SW Simpson Ave, Bend

Contact: @willieburgerbend on Instagram

Hours: Check Instagram for latest updates

Price Range: $8-$16