Farbez Uddin, the owner of Bun & Sum, has been named the Burger Chef of the Year 2024 in East London. Despite only being in the business for three years and starting out in an industrial estate in Bow, his LA-style smash burgers have gained him recognition in the National Burger Awards 2024. Uddin’s winning burger, the ‘George Motz Oklahoma Smash,’ has set him apart in the industry.
Having grown up in Poplar with Bangladeshi parents, Uddin was inspired to start Bun & Sum after his property business closed due to COVID-19. His wife’s idea for a burger shop led to the creation of the restaurant, which quickly gained popularity for its delicious offerings.
While Uddin may consider himself “basic” with his favorite burger being a simple double cheeseburger, his customers can’t get enough of the Big S’Mac and the Bow Dip. These two burgers have become fan favorites and continue to drive business at both Bun & Sum locations.
The success of Bun & Sum has allowed Uddin to expand his business, with plans for two new branches in the works. The latest location near Hackney Central Station has already attracted a loyal following, with customers eagerly visiting the restaurant instead of ordering online.
In addition to the Hackney branch, Bun & Sum will be opening a new store in Camden Market later this year and a Whitechapel branch with vintage arcade games. Uddin draws inspiration from classic American burgers and aims to bring unique flavors to the UK market, such as the pastrami burger and the green chilli burger.
With a strong presence on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Bun & Sum has garnered a large following of food enthusiasts and influencers. The industrial-chic vibe of the Bow location has resonated with customers, contributing to the restaurant’s success.
As Uddin continues to innovate and expand his burger empire, he remains committed to delivering high-quality, flavorful burgers that keep customers coming back for more. The Burger Chef of the Year award is a testament to his dedication and passion for creating a unique dining experience for burger lovers in East London.