Denver-based Smashburger is “America’s most promising company,” according to a list compiled by Forbes.

Smashburger’s “torrid expansion” propelled it to the top of the list of the most promising companies — what Forbes describes as “privately held up-and-comers with compelling business models, strong management teams, notable customers, strategic partners and precious investment capital.”

Founder Tom Ryan began building the burger chain in 2007. By the end of this year, Forbes says, the company will have grown to 143 locations (half company-owned, half franchised) and $54 million in annual revenue.

Smashburger gets its name from its hamburgers: balls of Angus beef smashed on a 400-degree flat grill to sear in the juices and placed on a toasted artisan bun. It’s part of what has become known as the better burger segment, fitting in between fast food and casual dining. The menu also includes fresh salads, grilled and split hot dogs, chicken sandwiches and Häagen-Dazs milk shakes, among other items. Forbes credits the company’s success to “a blend of thoughtful product design and deft execution.”

Read the rest of this report at Gazette.com.