Phillip Frankland Lee Launches NADC Burger in Los Angeles

Chef Phillip Frankland Lee, known for his Michelin-starred restaurants, is returning to Los Angeles with the opening of NADC Burger, a casual dining concept in Westwood. The restaurant, which stands for "Not a Damn Chance," will serve wagyu burgers and is set to open on February 27, 2026, near the UCLA campus. Lee, who has successfully operated multiple restaurants, including Sushi by Scratch and Pasta | Bar, aims to bring a new culinary experience to his hometown.

New York Observer

NADC Burger specializes in American wagyu beef with Japanese genetics, prepared with precision. Each 3-ounce patty is cooked to perfection, resting for 90 seconds to allow juices to settle. The menu features double wagyu cheeseburgers, beef tallow fries, and a signature secret sauce that enhances the burger's umami flavor. The restaurant has gained popularity among celebrities, with notable patrons including David Beckham and Zedd, and has been praised by Jelly Roll, who claims it serves the best burger he has ever tasted.

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Lee's journey to opening NADC Burger began during the pandemic when he moved to Austin, Texas. There, he collaborated with professional skateboarder Neen Williams, who shares a passion for cooking. Their friendship blossomed through backyard cooking sessions, leading to the creation of NADC. The duo initially offered free burgers at local skateparks and comedy shows, which eventually evolved into a successful pop-up and the establishment of their first brick-and-mortar location in Austin in 2023.

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In addition to NADC Burger, Lee is pursuing ambitious projects in Texas, including a farm, inn, and restaurant in Hill Country, with aspirations for three-Michelin-star status. He envisions a self-sustaining operation where most ingredients are sourced from the land, reflecting his commitment to quality and sustainability. Lee's long-term goal is to operate 100 world-class restaurants by the age of 50, a target he believes is achievable despite the pandemic's challenges.

New York Observer

Phillip Frankland Lee expressed his dedication to quality in every aspect of NADC Burger, stating, “I put as much attention into every spec when we’re building the burger.” He emphasizes the importance of nurturing talent within his restaurants, noting the personal growth of his staff as a significant motivator for his continued success.

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While the excitement surrounding NADC Burger is palpable, some critics may question the sustainability of rapid restaurant expansion and the potential impact on local dining culture. However, Lee's focus on quality and community engagement appears to mitigate these concerns.

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• “I think what sets us apart at NADC is that I run it like I run the line at Pasta or Sushi,” — Phillip Frankland Lee, Chef

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• “But I think I now get off on different things.” — Phillip Frankland Lee, Chef

New York Observer

NADC Burger will be open seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. to midnight at 1091 Broxton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024. The restaurant's opening marks a significant milestone in Lee's culinary journey and his commitment to bringing high-quality casual dining to Los Angeles.

New York Observer