Stepping into an old-fashioned candy shop was once about satisfying a sweet tooth. At American Munchies Company, that nostalgic experience is evolving into something more, a full-fledged food destination.
Beginning April 16, the shop will officially roll out an expanded menu centered on smash burgers, signaling a new chapter for the family-owned business. A soft opening held April 11 offered customers a first taste of what’s to come. Along with the expansion, the business will take on a new name, American Munchies Company, Burger and Candy Shop.
“We decided to expand the business to include food because food is universal,” said Chief Operator Ricardo Maldonado, of Chicago Ridge, an Oak Lawn native.
Owner Adel Alsuradi said the move felt like a natural next step. “I’ve always had a passion for cooking, and this gives us a chance to bring people together not just for sweets, but for a full experience,” he said. “You can come in with your family, enjoy a great burger, and still leave with that nostalgic candy shop feeling.”
Alsuradi added that the business remains rooted in family. He runs the shop alongside his wife, Emily, and his sisters, Summer and Mineh, and said they are proud to operate as a family establishment that welcomes the community in the same way.
While the shop is expanding into hot food, its old-fashioned candy selection remains at the heart of the experience, featuring nostalgic favorites and freeze-dried treats that first drew customers through the door.
The updated menu blends creative twists with classic comfort food. Among the standout smash burgers is the Buffalo Blue York, topped with bacon, blue cheese crumbles, crispy onions, pickles, buffalo sauce and ranch. Another bold offering, the Michigan Fritter, features bacon, a fried egg and American cheese served on an apple fritter, combining sweet and savory flavors in one bite.
The Phoenix Popper leans into heat and sweetness, stacked with grilled jalapeños, bacon, cheddar cheese, jalapeño popper cream cheese, raspberry jam and the shop’s signature highway sauce.
For those looking for a lighter option, the Burger Salad delivers all the flavors of a traditional burger in a bowl, made with a smashed patty, shredded cheddar cheese, boiled egg, onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles, pepperoncinis and burger bun croutons.
The new offerings also include hot dogs, loaded fries and kids meals, expanding the shop’s appeal beyond candy lovers and into a wider dining crowd. Catering options are also available, allowing customers to bring the shop’s smash burgers and comfort food offerings to parties, events and gatherings.
With the expanded menu, American Munchies Company is positioning itself as a place where visitors can grab dinner and dessert in one stop, pairing a smash burger with a bag of nostalgic candy, all under one retro-themed roof.
