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P.J. Clarke's
Categories: Restaurants American (Traditional) Nightlife Bars American (Traditional), Bars [Edit]
1204 N State Pkwy(between Division St & Scott St)
Chicago, IL 60610
Neighborhoods: Near North Side, Gold Coast
(312) 664-1650
- Nearest Transit:
-
Clark/division (Red Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 10 am - 2 am
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Validated
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Music:
- DJ
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
90 reviews for P.J. Clarke's
Review Highlights
"Plus, they have sweet potato fries."
(in 5 reviews)
"Think comfort food with items like mac& cheese and meatloaf."
(in 5 reviews)
"Always, always excellent service and excellent chilli."
(in 3 reviews)
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90 reviews in English
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Review from Nolan R.
8/21/2011
I've eaten at a few P.J. Clarke's a handful of times, but it's always been at the Streeterville location. This one on the Gold Coast didn't disappoint. I was in town for a few days and the Hotel Indigo just happened to be right down the street from here.
I ordered the Minnieburgers and they were as good as I remembered. Yes, they're mini burgers and you can get them just about anywhere now, but they were one of the first to offer them, and as I see it - they've had a jump on the competition. The pickle on top of each Minnieburger is a nice touch as are the friend onion strings they place in the middle of your order.
The decor of the restaurant is old...and not "fake" old either. It's got nooks & crannies to sit at. It's nice to see that. I never see that down in Florida = everything is new and bright (and a little lame).
Bravo P.J. Clarke's...until we meet again... -
Review from Donn M.
Downers Grove, IL
2/1/2012
I have brought my girlfriend quite a few time and it was great each time. The food is delicious and I strongly agree that you get a top notch value proposition for the quality of food you receive for the price you pay. The bathroom is old but well maintained. The server and hostess are very nice and always smile which is hard to come by these days. I always came in a suit but not needed. I definitely would not wear a track suit or sweats here. The crowd is older and established and not very loud. I will continue to come here in the future. Their burgers and fried onions are a blast.
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Review from PJ H.
1/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
I work right by P.J. Clarke's & have been there multiple times. It's pretty standard fare. The food is your typical pub food, nothing memorable but nothing to complain about either. The crowd is a mix of locals that live in the area and some tourists. The prices are typical for the area, once again nothing special but an ok option if you want to grab a beer & bite...
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Review from Nirali S.
Chicago, IL
12/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
I was here a few days ago for a work holiday part. We had rented out the room on the third floor and it was a fun place. I liked that they were playing holiday music! The only food I tried was a few sliders, but the liquor was flowing so it was a good time. The servers were friendly and quick. I will have to update when I go back on a regular night!
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Review from Michael H.
Campbell, CA
7/28/2011
Friggin great little bar with nicely poured Guinness and a cheeky waitress!
;-P
YES - You know who you are. Lol! -
Review from Paula L.
6/26/2011
This is the first time I've been to this location. I've been to the one on Illinios (I think that's the street) years ago.
So, there was a large group of us Friday for a retirement party/luncheon. We ordered a couple of combo appetizers (wings, guac, crab cakes, etc.) For my entree I went with the salmon on a bed of risotto with mango/pineapple relish. Not a fan of fruity relishes so I got it on the side. For dessert I got the key lime pie. Everything was good. The prices are a little high and I don't live in the neighborhood so I don't think I'll be back.
Considering the size of our group, the waitress did an outstanding job!! -
Review from Emily B.
5/13/2011
Heading out to eat with a New Yorker, he pulled me into PJ Clarke's saying that this was a famous eatery in NYC.
Turns out, it's not the same (the bought the rights) but the food, atmosphere, and service is just as good.
I find the menu items diverse, tasty, and fairly priced (split salad, burger, and sweet potatoe fries). I thought the waitstaff was friendly and proficient. And I thought the place was relaxed and cool.
The front area is a bar, but not like the trash you find on Division St - trust me, that one block north makes a HUGE difference. There's a dining section towards the back, but we opted to stick in the bar. They have just opened an outdoor patio section and it's adorable.
Even though it isn't the same as the New York original, it's a close call and you should definitely hit it up with a friends, a date, family, or just yourself at the bar.
Side note: no pitchers of beer. -
Review from Holly S.
Chicago, IL
4/17/2011
"As good as it gets" (5-stars) is a specifc reference to their American food, but I really love this place in general. So yummy, comforting and leaves you satisfied - not had one thing I didn't like so far, and I've lived right by it for 6 years! Highly recommend: open faced turkey sandwich, meatloaf (very unique texture, hearty), buffalo chicken strips, and of course their burgers/minis! Oh and their bread basket...may I suggest asking for a side of their delicous 1000 Island dressing to dip it in?!
They have a pretty good brunch too - you get a basket of little muffins and bagels. But, not sure I'd 100% pick this brunch over Tavern on Rush - but it's definitely on my short list.
Drinks are good as well - very experienced bartenders, at least 3 have worked there for 10+ years (that's being conservative!). I think their beer and wine list could be enhanced/expanded though. Also, it's very easy to make friends with the bartenders - Perry rocks! It's definitely one of those places, even as a female, where you'd feel totally comfortable going in and eating (and/or drinking) alone at the bar.
I'd say it's a pretty mixed crowd, but definitely attracts a middle-aged scene at night...a lot of what seems to be 40/50-something divorced daters. Just one of those places I consider a Chicago institution (there is one in NYC too though) but they always make me feel unique and like a regular every time I go in!
The outdoor seating area is a staple...the day I see those green/white striped umbrella's come out, I smile widely, think - yay we've made it, and text someone to see if they want to grab a seat and drink.
Last note, this is the place my parents always want to go when they visit. -
Review from Kevin C.
Chicago, IL
10/17/2011
I can't really say much about their food as I was only there for liquid libations. Love the atmosphere, location, and the bartender there can make one hell of a Manhattan!
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Review from Jessi B.
Chicago, IL
9/27/2011
Great wine selection by the glass. Very nice chopped salad for late night food & the bartender Rob is a fantastic bartender.
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Review from Susan D.
10/24/2010
I just moved to this part of town and was craving steak and eggs on a late Sunday afternoon. I'd planned on going to a little greasy spoon on Chestnut St., but lost my way. Stomach was growling, so decided to spend a little more. Besides, I'd probably have leftovers.
The waiter was very friendly and accommodating. I asked for my eggs to be basted -- they were PERFECT and the prettiest eggs I'd ever seen. I mean, I don't know what the cook did to them, but they were AWESOME! Basted basically means a little more cooked than sunny side up, but not as hard as over easy. The steak was a generous portion cooked to perfecton and seasoned so well that it needed nothing. The potatoes were great, too. I had enough steak and potatoes for another meal .... YAY! -
Review from Zach T.
7/22/2011
This is probably the nicest PJ Clarkes. Nice brick walls and dark wood. It made for a good hangover breakfast after new years eve at the Ambassador East. There are a few options in this area, but this is right on for American fare.
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Review from mikie b.
7/21/2011
Reliable, neighborhood hang-out with good food and people. The best thing about the place is the quirky old building with multiple levels and interesting nooks and crannies. Great place to meet friends on a Sunday afternoon.
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Review from Bruce B.
6/28/2011
Came here late on Thursday night and really enjoyed the vibe. The bartenders were friendly and they poured a strong drink. The outside seating is pretty small, but it's a decent option for the area. I did not have the food - just came to consume glorious grain alcohol. It's about $6 bucks a drinks even on an off night. I think they have a few beer "specials," but don't look at this place for some incredible value. However, if you're looking for a place to have a conversation with a person and maybe watch the game - this is your bar. I'm not sure I would head here on the weekend. However, I'll go to P.J. Clarke's without question in the near future.
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Review from Kelly M.
Chicago, IL
8/30/2011
Yum.. I love this place. Good food, nice staff, I love the upstairs area, its like hidden and I never even realized it was up there until I was seated up there one day. I am a big fan of the southwest wrap, and sweet potato fries, I can't seem to order anything else.
Also, if you are a CARA running member you get 15% off!!!! -
Review from Brett C.
Okemos, MI
7/23/2011
I like this place a lot, drinks are a bit on the pricy side for me though. Went here for dinner with my wife, and I got the Reuben, she got the grilled cheese, and we both loved what we got. We got seated quickly outside, the staff was really friendly too. Then I went for drinks with a friend, and again, great service, and liked that it wasn't packed to the gills with annoying drunks. For sure more of a 30s+ crowd, which is probably why I like it better than my alma mater's drinking hole next door.
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Review from Kelly M.
Chicago, IL
7/14/2010 3 photos
My favorite "neighborhood bar." My favorite bar. Done.
(Yes, my review is of the bar area. Not so much the dining in the back/upper floors).
Thanks for making me perfect drinks every time I visit. For being your lovely selves, pouring great shots, and giving me yummy food.
If you want to be "seen," go a few more streets south to Rush. If you want a delicious drink with a nice place to relax, duh. I'm sure a few, smart people will see you here, too. -
Review from Melanie S.
Chicago, IL
4/5/2010
I wouldn't exactly say I went here kicking and screaming, but P.J. Clarke's has never been a destination for me, for either food or socializing.
My good friend loves this place and since I seem to have been a tad selfish in picking out our destinations of late, I happily obliged, especially since I knew I wanted to go to The Lodge and this was in close proximity.
We arrived, sat at the bar and were joined soon after by our friend McGuffin, who also loves this place, and then a short time later by another friend.
We ordered drinks. They were fine. The bartender was amiable, not overly so, but he kept the drinks flowing, so that's all one can really ask.
We ordered a lot of booze-soaking appetizers: guacamole and chips, buffalo chicken tenders, sweet potato fries, mini burgers and something else that for the life of me I cannot recall.
The food was pretty decent. Better than your standard bar food.
P.J. Clarke's is nice change of pace from other places in the area and the people watching is second to none: Cougars, out-of-towners, and VT dudes make up a good deal of the clientele up in here.
Fun times abound at P.J. Clarke's.Listed in: Stuck in the Middle with You, Golden Years
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Review from A W.
Chicago, IL
7/18/2010
Meh. This place is ok. The consensus our table came to is: location, location, location. It's not really anything special, but it has a great location to get people.
I tried a salad and a side of the mac and cheese, neither of which impressed me. Another person at our table also did not like his food. Our waitress was ok, again not very impressive. I doubt I'll be returning here. -
Review from Norbert W.
Chicago, IL
7/17/2011
Excellent service and "vibe" there. Somewhat limited menu, but good, tasty options that you can always doctor up a bit!
This is the place to go for a good drink or to hang out by yourself or with a group. You can do it all.
Have fun and enjoy. That's what PJ's is all about -
Review from Gina F.
8/9/2010
Everything about this place is ok.
The food is ok.
The atomosphere is ok.
The decor is ok.
The service is ok.
In a town with SO many bars & SO many amzing restaurants, it's surprising that this place has the longevity it does. I suspect that it's the fact that is a pleasant retreat from the rest of the area (dirty Division & the Viagra triangle). In that capacity, it does set itself apart. -
Review from Katie C.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 4/6/2011
I was drug back here by my friend who lives in this neighborhood and the same douche bartender was there being as douchey as ever. He didn't wait on us because we ate in the dining room but he kept leaving the bar to sit and talk shit with a server who was on break two booths away from us about how much he hates his job. Management: Get rid of this guy!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/9/2009
Now that I think about it, the food actually wasn't that bad. Regardless, I will NEVER be back.
I… Read more »
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Review from Mike K.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 2/14/2011
Oh, PJ's, what's happened to you? Nobody ever wants to come drink with you on the weekend anymore.
Over the last several years, PJ's just isn't drawing much of a crowd for drinking later in the night on the weekends. The place used to always be packed on weekend evenings. Now, you're able to grab a place at the bar or even a table if you show up at 10:30 on a Saturday night. One used to be able to meet interesting people in PJ's. That's hardly ever the case anymore. Maybe it's becoming more of a restaurant? Or maybe the former clientele just doesn't get out of the old folks home much.
At the latest visit, we were able to grab a table and probably could have even started to dance to the blaring music right in the aisle in front of us, as there was plenty of space. Why PJ's decided to remove their juke box and filter in the garbage they're playing over the PA is a mystery to me. It's seriously taken away from the vibe of the place. And this may be why the crowds have gone away as well. I don't want to hear the Black Eyed Peas' Super Bowl performance (this was recorded and released why?) at an 11/10 level, which was the case at our latest visit. You aren't a Four Corners bar, PJ's. You aren't State, PJ's. And you aren't Benchmark, PJ's. Either bring back the juke box or change the format from garbage back to rock. Regardless, turn the music down. When I'm sitting at a table and can't hear the person next to me, it's a problem. As you can see from the thin crowds on weekend evenings, it's not working.
Hey, PJ's still has the best mini burgers in the business. I'll give them that. But PJ's just isn't the same PJ's it used to be. Or maybe I'm getting old. Or both.
I have to take you down to three stars, PJ's.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/4/2010
PJ's is the best pseudo Irish pub and possibly best overall bar in the Rush and Division area.… Read more »
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Review from Jackie T.
Chicago, IL
1/11/2009
I went there for a quick drink with friends and opened a tab. After 4 drinks (one each) and a $40 tab, I tipped $10. 25% isn't bad, right?
Then I got my credit card statement. They DOUBLED their tip to $20 -- 50%. Are you serious?!?! Keep an eye on your credit card statements, Yelpers... shady bartenders... shame on you! -
Review from Carol K.
9/29/2007
PJ Clarkes is one of those "old faithful" bars in Chicago where you always know what you are going to get and they consistently deliver on it.
While I like it better during the Summer months when they roll up the front window and let the crowd spill out onto the street, this place is fun whether for a private party up on the 3rd floor or just hanging with friends at the main bar.
The food is good - typical bar fare- like burgers, fries, and some specialties like chicken pot pie which I had the last time I was here and was very good.
They have a large selection of beers, Irish Whiskeys and for you cigar smokers- you can purchase those as well. If I had a wish it would be that they didn't sell or allow people to smoke them in there as even with the smoke filters sucking up the smoke- you end up going home smelling like cigar smoke if you stay in the main bar area for too long.
All in all, PJ Clarkes is like that favorite pair of shoes in the back of your closet. You don't always remember that they are there- but when you put them on- it is always a comfortable fit. Just like PJ Clarkes.Listed in: The Viagra Triangle Survival…
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Review from Candice G.
Chicago, IL
5/27/2011
We always have a great time here. It's old fashioned service with a smile. Rob and Jeff are awesome and always treat us very well, as well as the other customers. They quickly acknowledge a customer and even if they're busy they let you know they'll be right with you. Good service is hard to find lately and this place makes me feel better! Food is always good, great choices and it's nice to go to a place where you can not only get the standard bar fare but you can actually enjoy a niceentree that tastes great but won't give you a heart attack. I find the other customers to be fun to talk to, I like that there is a big range. Who cares if the guy is 60 but is engaging? I don't think there is a demographic to label this bar, just a consistently fun time.
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Review from Nicki W.
Chicago, IL
2/17/2009
I keep coming back to Pj's because to me, it's an old faithful option any day of the week. When I used to live a block away, I would always order carryout from this place. I've had just about everything on the menu and I've also been to the other 2 locations around Chicago.
Somehow, this one is my favorite. I've had a couple of really bad waiters but I think they must have been fired by now, because I haven't seen them around. I love the Pj's Chop Salad, it's something about the dressing and the yummy chicken.
The portions are huge here, so you'll be taking some of it home unless your stomach is a bottomless pit. Just give the extras to one of the homeless people around the corner and you'll make good use of it.
The atmosphere in here makes me happy. Sitting on the second floor is really nice so you can have a view of what's going on below. I'm a people watcher, and sitting right by the railing upstairs is fine people watching territory. Pj's is so Gold Coast. You get a really nice mix of people in the bar too, which is refreshing because it seems that right around the corner is where all the dirtbags flock.
I love it. If you haven't been, you really should. Plus, patio season here is really nice. Great patio and more great people watching. Plus it's on the slower side of State Street so it's more laid back. -
Review from Katie H.
Chicago, IL
6/18/2007
Eh.
Stopped here on the way to see a movie Sunday. I appreciated the gesture of free muffins and Oj but the muffins were rock hard. Maybe they give them free on Sunday so they don't have to throw them out Monday?
Shared a ridiculously huge ceaser salad that was decent. Then split the 4 blackened mini burgers with fries. The fries were mighty tasty but the burgers were overcooked (yes, easy to to do with minis). Service was friendly but slow and we had to flag her down to get refills.
It wasn't bad, but I wouldn't go out of my way to go here. -
Review from Daisy C.
Updated - 5/20/2010
My first review was two stars because I got a weird response from the server when I asked what kind of fries they serve. But the manager of P.J. Clarke's sent me an email, explaining that they make their fries from fresh potatoes every day; they are not frozen. He politely suggested this might be what the server meant.
I am impressed that he took the time to respond to my review in a courteous and non-argumentative tone. Impressed enough to give them 4 stars because I'm an advocate of customer service, no matter how good the food is.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/15/2010
I asked the waiter what style of fries come with the burger and threw out some examples - steak cut… Read more »
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Review from Laura H.
Milton, VT
6/17/2011
Great dinner! Was visiting from out of town and headed out with a friend to go watch the bruins game 7. Stopped in a few different places while on our way from the hotel. One was to crowded, one was to college crowd, and this one was perfect. Good crowd, food was amazing and drinks were strong. A great way to spend a night out in Chicago!
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Review from Megan P.
Chicago, IL
4/16/2007
I live down the street from P.J. Clark's so it has become my default dining destination. There's never a wait, they have decent wine and good, cheap food. It's not the best food but it never disappoints. I tend to always order the salmon salad. It's light and the salmon is always cooked to perfection. I also love the mini-burgers and always get
them with onion strings because the fries are a tad on the greasy side. I've tried everything on the menu and while I can't think of anything really bad, I can't think of anything really, really good.
Would I make a special trip here if I did not live so close? Probably not but its a great place to stumble into on a Sunday morning in my sweatpants. -
Review from Kathleen C.
IL
2/6/2007
This place is great. Great salads, great wraps, great quesadillas and hands down the best grilled cheese that I have ever eaten in my life w/ a side of onion strings.
All pretty normal food that is just well made. And the crowd is pretty laid back afterwork and yet a little crazier later at nights. My kind of place! -
Review from Bridget J.
Chicago, IL
7/21/2007
I had an awful experience at this place. I took some visiting relatives here for brunch recently and ended up embarrassed that I chose it. First off, not once, but twice, I was poured a glass of ice water with what appeared to be several floating knats in it. We were seated inside and not outside so there is no excuse for this. And, I did complain but no one seemed to care. The service was awful, our waitress barely came by , and when she did, she was rude. The breakfast was a notch better than McDonald's.
The waitress had disappeared for such a long time I had to ask two different staffers for someone to find her so we could pay our bill. Never again will I waste my time and money at this place. -
Review from Bob M.
Chicago, IL
2/4/2010
I hesitate to write a review for what has to be my favorite Friday & Saturday night place to go.....I don't want it to change or get overrun by too many people. Management might not like it to have any sort of age characterization so let's just say 30+ with an emphasis on the plus. But that's why I like it! Sorry, the city (and this area especially) has plenty of places for the kids (and yes you 20 somethings still have much growing up to do, which is fine....just don't do it here)
This place has one of the best whiskey (and whisky) selections in town...and if you don't know the difference, again, find another bar. Dalmore (my current favorite single malt) is served, and you don't find this offered except at the best of places.
Bartenders are the best in town, even on the busiest of nights. And while I prefer it for the bar, the restaurant & menu are very good as well. -
Review from Bangner, J.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 6/13/2011
Great neighborhood spot...working my way thru the menu and just had the chicken cesear sandwich with a side of Mac and Cheese...both were excellent.
drink prices are average and the outdoor seeing makes it great on a summer night.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/5/2011
Stopped in for a drink and some appsnwith some friends. I was offended when the staff member asked… Read more »
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Review from S C.
Chicago, IL
1/8/2007
For me, this is a much better place for lunch than dinner; I'm not one of the Rush-and-Division crowd, and they do start to flood the place after dark.
That said, the food here is well above-average for bar food; the open-faced, meatloaf sandwich is excellent, and nearly more than I can eat. They've got a good beer selection here, too, especially with the inclusion of Goose Island Matilda.
So, yeah. nice place to take a long lunch, have a burger and a bier and possibly a smoke, especially in the summer when it's open to the street. -
Review from Colleen D.
Cook, IL
1/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Rueben was excellent. Mac & cheese sort of bland. Steak sandwich very good. Service was excellent.
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Review from Maura S.
Chicago, IL
4/25/2010
Brunch here was okay. The best part of the entire meal was the fact that they brought out a complimentary basket of warm muffins and bagels to begin with.
Aside from that everything else was iffy. My water cup tasted like bleach, and I would have asked for a new glass if our waitress ever made herself available. My food was good, but I asked for cheddar and got swiss cheese. -
Review from Becky P.
1/8/2008
I liked the location (it was raining and it was nearby), I liked the restaurant itself, but the food was nothing to jump around about. It seems like others agree, its not the best, but normally priced burgers, sandwiches, steaks etc. I had a cheeseburger, which was fine. The french fries were a little burned, but they still tasted okay.
Drinks were a little on the expensive side, but expected for the area.
Our waiter was very nice and didn't bother us too much. -
Review from Jaime S.
12/18/2008
I order in from here at least once month and always get the same thing: a Turkey Burger. Now you can call me unadventurous, but why mess with something so right? I like to play vegetarian most days (mostly because I am so hungry by the time a meal rolls around that i can't wait for the 7 mins it takes to fake grill something on the George Forman), so their Turkey Burger really is a treat.
I've only dined in once, and splurged on their cookie cake sundae (or some twist on that). It was divine, and perfect to split with someone else.
