Smalls Sliders' Willis location is temporarily out of action after a Monday fire damaged the chain's compact shipping-container "can," forcing an abrupt shutdown. The modular drive-thru and walk-up spot stayed dark while owners and city officials stepped in to survey the damage and figure out what it will take to get burgers back on the grill.
Willis Mayor William Brown confirmed the blaze on his Facebook page and wrote, "My heart goes out to the owners and everyone affected," according to the Houston Chronicle. As of Tuesday morning, the Chronicle reported that there was still no public timeline for repairs or reopening.
Smalls Sliders, founded in 2019 by Brandon Landry, built its following on cooked-to-order cheeseburger sliders with a signature "Smauce," according to the Smalls Sliders website. The company describes the Willis restaurant as a 750-square-foot modular unit, nicknamed a "can," with a drive-thru lane, outdoor seating and a walk-up window that normally keeps sliders moving fast.
Willis Was Smalls' Texas Debut
The Willis spot opened as Smalls Sliders' first Texas location in early 2025, the Houston Chronicle reports, kicking off the brand's push into the region. Franchise partners followed up with a Conroe restaurant last year as the company continues to grow across Montgomery County, according to Your Conroe News.
What Comes Next
So far, neither the owners nor city officials have released information on what caused the blaze or when the Willis "can" might be back in business. For now, customers are being pointed to the brand's website and local social channels to keep tabs on any developments. The Smalls Sliders website lists hours and locations and is expected to carry any official word on a reopening date for the Willis location.
