Shipping Container Eatery Expanding to San Angelo

SAN ANGELO, TX — Cheeseburger slider chain "Smalls Sliders" is expanding into West Texas, with four new locations planned for Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene and San Angelo, the company announced Wednesday.

The development agreement was signed by Eli Cohen and Mark Crayne of C5 Restaurants LLC. Crayne, a West Texas native, brings over five decades of restaurant industry experience and has held roles in operations and vendor partnerships.

“The simple menu and high-quality food of Smalls Sliders immediately caught my attention,” said Crayne. “After learning more about the brand and seeing the concept firsthand, I knew it was a perfect fit for West Texas. We have an incredible team in the region and are confident this concept will be a huge hit in our communities. This is the best choice for our new venture.”

Cohen, who has a background in hospitality investments, co-founded C5 Restaurants with Crayne to oversee their ventures in the region. The group is actively scouting locations, with the first West Texas store expected to open in Lubbock within the next year.

Smalls Sliders currently has more than 375 locations open or under development across 30 states. Its restaurants, called “Cans,” are built from bright orange shipping containers and serve a streamlined menu of sliders, seasoned waffle fries, and hand-spun milkshakes.

“Mark’s long-standing ties to West Texas, paired with his deep restaurant expertise, make him the ideal partner to launch Smalls in this market,” said Richard Leveille, VP of Franchising with Smalls Sliders. “With decades of Quick Service Restaurant experience and a strong community focus, this team is well-positioned to make Smalls Sliders a go-to destination across the region. Their leadership ensures that guests in West Texas will enjoy the same fresh, flavorful experience that has made Smalls a favorite nationwide.”

San Angelo’s location will be part of a statewide expansion, which now includes more than 30 Smalls Sliders restaurants under development in Texas. The brand launched in 2019 and is backed by former NFL quarterback Drew Brees and 10 Point Capital as investors. 

For more information on Smalls Sliders, slide through to www.smallssliders.com or visit https://smallsslidersfranchising.com to learn more about franchising opportunities.