Burger King‘s “Sizzle” is a new restaurant concept set to reinvigorate their flame-grilled experience. As part of its $400 million “Reclaim the Flame” initiative, the fast food legend is modernizing its brand with a sleek new design, an enhanced menu in some stores, and a new dining atmosphere.
The Birth of “Sizzle”
In October 2023, Burger King unveiled its “Sizzle” prototype, a significant step in its brand revitalization efforts. The concept introduced modern upgrades such as digital ordering kiosks, double-lane drive-thrus, and an updated interior aesthetic to create a more inviting customer experience.
Our nearest Burger King restaurant is a few blocks from their shared headquarters with Popeyes. At some point in 2024, I walked in and instantly came face to face with an ordering kiosk.
We were accustomed to ordering at the counter and taking a seat while we waited for our name or order ticket number to be called. It wasn’t a big change, but then again, I usually order via their app.
Fast forward to November 2024, in collaboration with Redberry Restaurants, which expanded Burger King “Sizzle” into Canada. Four remodeled locations in Etobicoke, North York, Mississauga, and Sudbury showcased the new look.
By February 2025, Burger King had completed 370 restaurant remodels under the “Reclaim the Flame” program, with approximately 80 locations upgraded to the “Sizzle” concept. These updates have led to increases in sales and profitability.
What Makes “Sizzle” Stand Out?
“Sizzle” is more than just a redesign—it’s an evolution of the Burger King experience. The concept blends fast-casual elements with the brand’s signature flame-grilled flavor, offering an upscale take on classic menu items.
A Modern Dining Experience
Looking outside the confines of the menu, “Sizzle” redefines BK‘s dining atmosphere. The interior design focuses on an open-flame grill visible to customers, which shows Burger King‘s commitment to flame-grilled flavor. The corporate BK has it prominently featured in the drive-thru while you’re driving from the paying to the pick-up window.
Seating arrangements cater to guests looking to enjoy their meals in a more stylish setting. The design combines industrial and contemporary aesthetics, setting “Sizzle” apart from traditional Burger King locations.
Why “Sizzle” Matters
You thought I was going to say, “Size Matters, right? Wrong, get your mind out of that gutter, lol
The rise of fast-casual burger joints like Five Guys and Shake Shack has forced traditional fast food brands to adapt. “Sizzle” is Burger King‘s effort to evolve while staying true to its roots.
The success of this concept could lead to a broader rollout and influence changes across all Burger King locations.
The Road Ahead
With 80 locations already embracing the “Sizzle” model and more on the horizon, Burger King is betting big on this transformation. If it delivers on its promise of better ingredients, an elevated atmosphere, and innovative menu options, “Sizzle” could become the next big thing in fast-casual dining.
Is there a “Sizzle” Burger King restaurant in your area, and have you tried it? Let me know in the comments!
My Burger King “Sizzle” Experience in Miami
I had already driven past the new Burger King Sizzle restaurant in Kendall (aka Miami, Florida) several times, wondering if it was any different besides the exterior. There is.
As soon as we walked in, the ordering kiosks were right to the left. I pulled out my phone, debating whether to use the BK app, but then I realized I could just scan and order directly through the kiosk without missing out on my points—an easy decision.
I was here to try the Bacon Steakhouse Whopper—a new addition from the Million Dollar Whopper Contest a few months back. This fella comes loaded with A1 sauce, crispy breaded onions, bacon, Swiss cheese, peppercorn aioli, lettuce, and tomato. Obviously, the lettuce and tomato had to go.
I also added a four-piece order of Jalapeño Bites—I love these little guys and was happy to see them back on the menu, even if it’s just for a limited time.
While ordering, I noticed a couple of interesting options on the kiosk that I hadn’t seen before, including “cut in half” and “off the broiler.” If you’re unfamiliar, off the broiler means you’re getting a burger straight from the flame grill, not one sitting in the warming tray. This is the way to go if you want a truly hot, fresh burger.
I also went for “half fries, half onion rings”—because why not? Is it just me, or do the fries taste better now? Washed everything down with a Coke.
For dessert, I grabbed an order of Churro Fries. Unfortunately, they weren’t fresh, so they were a bit limp.
The First Bite
We grabbed a seat under the cartoon French fries sign—cool setup, by the way. Marcela was on photo duty, so I had to wait patiently before sneaking a bite of a Jalapeño Bite. Verdict? Still as good as ever—cheese, jalapeños, and deep-fried goodness. No complaints.
Then came the Bacon Steakhouse Whopper. Since I had ordered it cut in half, I quickly realized my mistake—I should have gone double instead of single. If you’re skipping lettuce and tomato, a double works way better. Still, the flavors were on point. I’m a big Swiss cheese fan, so no issues there. Plus, I could see the smoke rising from it while we ate—definitely off the broiler and fresh.
The Sizzle Experience
The layout of the Burger King Sizzle restaurant is modern and spacious. A nice surprise came when we threw out our trash and found a recycling station, a separate liquid disposal sink, and clearly labeled sections for everything.
Overall, I can get behind this concept. We usually eat at the Burger King near our house, but if we’re dining in, this new Sizzle setup makes the experience better. I think people are gonna enjoy it.
