Being a fan of the Schlotsky's franchise, I had largely ignored what new establishment took the place of the Archer road location when Schlotsky's sadly closed its doors a couple years ago. Recently though a colleague mentioned a new place he liked called “Backyard Burgers” and in describing its location to me it became clear that this must be the business that parlayed the iconic red brick building of my favorite sandwich maker. Putting my nostalgia aside, I gave it a try and with pleasant results. My first impression was that the prices were very reasonable, $5.00 for a sit-down-restaurant-sized burger and soda is cheap these days. Just as its namesake suggests the burgers have the same extra-charred taste you may remember from you last camp out barbeque. Sadly, I cannot say the same about the fries that, regardless of which version you get, will be battered ( a practice that should be outlawed). This aside however I feel as though a need has been filled in Backyard Burgers, seconded only by the absent ‘Hardees', for an alternative to the much too popular lower rung of pocket-sized prepackaged burger makers.

Having no affiliation with this reviewer, Joe's Place actually makes the trifecta for the owners of Steak and Pasta Works, and Grillmasters; the latter of which you may have seen in a past review. Although you will find the same drab and uninspired décor as the other two partners I am pleased to say they got the food right on this one. Joe's place is arranged as half sports bar, half restaurant. It boasts a small but well stocked salad bar and steaks that can compete with any others in town. Upon my first trip to Joe's Place I tried the rib-eye (my old standby), which I considered superior to that of the overrated and overpriced Outback Steakhouse. Recently I also sampled their prime rib roast for which, just like its other two partners, there is a weekly special (around $9 with a side and salad bar). It was more average than great but at a price that leaves you unable to complain. If you live close by, Joe's Place could become a habit.