New in Tempe: Lobbys Beef, Burgers, Dogs

That's what restaurateur Lobby Syregelas is betting on with his new concept, Lobbys Beef, Burgers, Dogs, which opened late last year in the Basha's Center at McClintock and Southern in Tempe (3141 S. McClintock). Sure, there's competition from the chains, he says, but so far the neighborhood is supporting the indie fast-casual spot.

The menu is all about straightforward Chicago-style eats -- homemade burgers, Italian beef , grilled Italian and Polish sausage sandwiches, chili, and hot dogs with everything, served in poppy seed buns.

Syregelas, who also owns Butterfield's Pancake House (a tasty North Scottsdale breakfast joint), is trying to lure ASU students with his Two-Pound Burger Challenge. Inhale six 1/3-pound patties, half a dozen slices of cheese, and a side of crinkle-cut fries in less than 10 minutes, and you'll win a Lobbys t-shirt. You'll also get your photo on the restaurant's Wall of Fame.

If it sounds like a promotion that's ripe for television, well, that's what Syregelas is hoping, too.

"We're trying to get Man v. Food to visit us," he says.

Lobbys Beef, Burgers, Dogs is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.