Rodney Blackwell Launches Plush Burger in Sacramento

The Curtis Park restaurant operates alongside a new subscription-based ordering platform called Takeoutly.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Food and Drink

Bold vector illustration featuring a smashed burger on a plate and a paper voucher, representing a new restaurant business and digital service. — Rodney Blackwell opened Plush Burger in Sacramento on September 18, 2026, alongside his new subscription-based ordering platform, Takeoutly. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Would you prefer to order from local restaurants using a fixed-fee subscription platform instead of delivery apps?

Rodney Blackwell began serving burgers at his new venture, Plush Burger, on September 18, 2026. Located in a Curtis Park catering kitchen, the restaurant features smashed patties alongside an innovative ordering platform.

Why it matters

Blackwell created his subscription-based platform, Takeoutly, to bypass the high commission fees typically charged by traditional delivery apps. By shifting to a subscription model, he seeks to change how local dining establishments manage digital orders.

Plush Burger offers a $15 Classy Burger and a $20 rotating monthly Whimsical Burger. The venture is currently seeking 150 total investors to reach a crowdfunding goal of $11,325.

The players

Rodney Blackwell

He is a local restaurateur and entrepreneur who previously founded the Sacramento Burger Battle.

Alchemist Microenterprise Academy

This organization provides training and resources for aspiring small business owners in the region.

The details

Operating out of a kitchen at 2519 San Fernando Way, Blackwell prepares burgers using two three-ounce patties smashed to achieve a Maillard browning reaction. The associated Takeoutly platform has already been adopted by local restaurants including The Green Room and Bacon & Butter.

2009: Blackwell launched the Instagram account @burgerjunkies.
2012: Blackwell launched the Sacramento Burger Battle.
2025: Blackwell graduated from the Alchemist Microenterprise Academy.
September 18, 2026: The first Plush Burger was served.
October 2026: The monthly Whimsical Burger features pastrami and pickled lettuce.

Industry Dynamics

Blackwell's launch builds upon his 14-year history with the Sacramento Burger Battle, which previously raised $100,000 for charity. This transition from hosting competitions to direct restaurant operation reflects a move toward consolidating local food community influence.

Diners can purchase the standard Classy Burger for $15 or opt for the monthly rotating Whimsical Burger for $20. Local restaurants interested in the Takeoutly platform can now replace per-order commission models with a subscription-based system.

The takeaway

Blackwell's new business model demonstrates how independent operators are leveraging direct crowdfunding to bypass traditional industry costs. Customers can look forward to his monthly rotating Whimsical Burger as a staple of the new menu.