May 1, 2025

Wagoo Burger is making changes, including leaving the kitchen at Fernson Downtown.

For three years, the burger concept — which began as a food truck and still operates as one — has served food at Fernson’s taproom at 332 S. Phillips Ave.

Wagoo’s lease is ending, and Fernson wanted to pursue its own concept, prompting the changes, restaurant owner Paul Ode said.

The last day for Wagoo Burger at Fernson will be May 22, but that’s not the end for the concept and likely will lead to multiple locations, Ode said.

“We’re developing a plan now as we look for a couple of spots and make the transition,” he said.

He’s looking for another location downtown and envisions additional spots in the city. In the meantime, the food truck will be out more frequently than previous seasons. Ode envisions serving a couple of days downtown, possibly a couple of days somewhere up on North Cliff Avenue, potentially a day in Brandon — where OdeCo is based — and events on the weekend.

The food truck menu will be smaller than the restaurant’s, focusing on the best-selling burgers, a chicken sandwich, chicken strips and fries, Ode said.

Wagoo stopped serving its Eggsmack breakfast menu late last month at Fernson. Starting Friday, it will be available at another Ode restaurant: the second location for Shenanigans Sports Bar & Grill, which opened in March at 701 N. Phillips Ave. It will be served Friday through Sunday mornings, made by the same crew that had been at the Fernson location.

“We like the idea that with a full liquor license we can serve full cocktails, your bloodys (marys) and mimosas, and do some fun plays on that,” Ode said. He also envisions being able to make more seasonal adjustments to the menu, and “that makes it fun for us.”

“If it rolls out well here, we could extend it to the west side,” he said of Shenanigans at 26th Street and Ellis Road.

Fernson isn’t ready yet to unveil its food concept.

“It’s a tough goodbye to a team that has been a part of our space for years, and we will always be thankful for their partnership and incredible food,” Fernson said in a statement, adding that its leadership team is putting the finishing touches on a menu.

In the interim, there will be quick breakfast options like granola, oatmeal and pastries. Fernson Coffee & Tea will continue to operate with no changes to schedule or menu.