Shake Shack, the New York City burger stand whose frozen custard has gained a fierce following, plans to open its first Massachusetts store next year at the Chestnut Hill Shopping Center.

Shake Shack will take over roughly 3,000 square feet in the Boylston Street space formerly occupied by the Rugged Bear children’s store, featuring its signature line of burgers, hot dogs, and frosty treats.

“With its proximity to Boston College, Chestnut Hill is a thriving community to bring Shake Shack,’’ said Randy Garutti, Shake Shack’s chief executive. “We’re thrilled to make Boston our new home, and we look forward to bringing Shake Shack to other compelling sites in great neighborhoods in the Boston area.’’


Shack devotees have long anticipated the chain’s arrival here — the company has reportedly been considering the Boston market since 2009. Shake Shack has more than a dozen restaurants, including locations in Miami Beach, Washington, D.C, Dubai, and Citi Field in New York where Mets fans routinely miss entire innings to wait in line for a taste of frozen custard.

Although the company describes itself as a “modern roadside burger stand,’’ Shake Shack will offer take-out and restaurant seating at the Chestnut Hill location.

“Shake Shack is one of the hottest concepts out of New York City, and we’re excited to bring them to the Chestnut Hill Shopping Center,’’ said Brian Sciera, vice President of WS Development, which operates the plaza. “They’ll bring fabulous energy, further contributing to the transformation of this iconic property in the heart of Chestnut Hill.’’

What makes Shake Shack so special? On its website, the company brags that its frozen custard is “made in a real custard machine — which spins the custard at ridiculous speeds, into a dense, soft, intensely rich consistency.’’

Take that, fro-yo fans.