Tim Taylor’s Restaurant Review: Graffiti Burger Fries & Shakes
Some days you just want a good old fashion hamburger with fries and a Coke, or maybe a milkshake. With all the chain burger joints around Central Ohio, we often find ourselves enjoying someone’s “juicy” square patty or maybe a “flame broiled” round patty or possibly a round patty that has served “billions” all over the world. Good consistent hamburgers with lots of fresh toppings and soft baked buns is what I grew up (and out) with. America is the land of the “Hamburger”. Could someone possibly re-invent this corner stone of our on-the-go society? Well . . . maybe!
“Graffiti Burger” may just have added something new to the Central Ohio burger scene. (Yes, Wendy’s International & White Castle both started out in our all-American Mid-Western city). With four locations (Dublin, Grandview, Pickerington & Clintonville) this multi-store company can’t quite be called a chain yet, so their continued success is certainly dependent on pleasing customers with very high expectations when it comes to their “burgers”. And “Great Burgers” is just what they get served at Graffiti Burgers.
Stacked high with an impressive list of fresh toppings, their 100% Angus beef (never frozen) is served as an irregular shaped patty (like mom’s), hot and very juicy on a fresh bun with a large portion of hand cut French fries. My Angus Burger came topped with sliced mushrooms, lettuce, tomato, pickle and Blue Cheese. Talk about flavorful, and it almost melted the bun it was so juicy. Served in a basket, I had more “crisp” fries than I wanted — and I like fries. We have just about covered the menu. You can have your fries with or without cheese sauce and there are three types of burgers: An Angus Burger, Turkey Burger and a Bacon Burger. I had my usual “Diet Coke,” but their hand-dipped milk shakes really pleased the couple beside me. Flavor choices are easy. Chocolate or vanilla both come topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
There is a little more to this very limited menu. Still just the three types of burgers, but toppings can make all the difference. The “Graffiti Burger” is topped with Cole slaw, special Graffiti sauce, pickles, tomatoes and American cheese. Or you might try “The Sicilian” with Genoa salami, Italian dressing, mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, banana peppers and provolone cheese. For the spice lover, the “Blazin’ Burger” comes slathered with spicy Chipotle Mayo, pepperjack cheese and jalapenos. Their 10 titled burgers include a “Turkey Swiss” for those weary of beef and a “Black Bean Burger” that will impress those going “meatless” in this Mid-Western tribute to the cow.
This review is close to being too long. The detail I’ve saved for last is what pulled me through door on West Fifth Avenue in Grandview. The walls of “Graffiti Burger” are covered with beautiful, high color sprayed graffiti. Community themes, sports teams, local heroes and much more brighten the dining experience. We’ve all seen the “tags” that can blight the buildings and bus stops of our city. But the artists of “Graffititees” use their skills constructively to deliver a spirited atmosphere of fun, family and friendship. I’ve attached several photos for your pleasure, but check out “TheGraffititees.com “ for a better view of their work.
“Graffiti Burgers” is worth the trip. A great burger with fries, a “Coke” or milk shake. The family that left just before me said it all. “ We’ll be back; the food’s great and the kids love it here.”
Tim Taylor - 3/18/2011
