What's good here: A new place in the Vista for burgers

What’s good here? Burgers.

For the past few years, the American staple has emerged not just as fast food or a backyard favorite, but as a sophisticated choice for sophisticated foodies.

Grill Marks capitalizes on that mindset by offering the highest-quality beef blend – freshly ground 100 percent certified Angus chuck, brisket and short ribs – in a hip, grown-up setting. For those who want to elevate taste buds, there is even an option of a dry-aged patty (a $3.99 upcharge) by New York City meat specialists Debragga, a third-generation butcher started in the 1920s.

The burgers are enormous – enough for lighter eaters to share. But for those who want more, an additional hefty patty can be added for $6 more. Also appealing to cultured palates are such sides as Blue and Pimento Cheese Fries or White Truffle Parmesan Fries, along with Skinny or Fat Fries.

Burgers come undressed, barely dressed, or perfectly dressed, and then there are the unique combinations: caramelized onions, Brie, roasted garlic, lettuce, tomato and Marks Cabernet Ketchup – to name one. There is even a BBOW (Burger and Beer of the Week) special.

Not interested in beef? There are “unburgers” and salads.

Desserts are crafty creations. Shakes, for example, are the chocolate and vanilla variety, as well as White Chocolate Peppermint or Banana Puddin’. A shareable invention is the Sundae Fundae, touted as a “mega version of a traditional ice cream sundae.” There are even desserts with grown up ingredients, such as Kahlua or Baileys Irish Cream.

How did Grill Marks get its start?

Experienced restauranteurs created the first Grill Marks in Greenville in September 2012 to provide customers with “creative” burgers, gourmet shakes and desserts, and an extensive wine, beer and cocktail selection. In August, the same concept opened in the Vista in Columbia. The signature Grill Marks stamp is branded on the top of each bun.

What does the place look like?

A renovated warehouse with sliding glass and metal doors that open to an expansive covered patio facing Gervais Street is the upscale, contemporary setting of Grill Marks.

Various textures and hues – such as exposed brick, ceiling pipes, roughhewn boards, shiny steel track lighting, and colorful Peter Max-like artwork – are married. An open, modern bar extends the full length of one side of the restaurant, and customers have a choice of bar, table, booth or bistro seating.

Who eats here?

Foodies, students, dating couples, friends, and families. Grill Marks offers something for a wide demographic span.

This story was originally published August 26, 2015 at 9:07 AM with the headline "What's good here: A new place in the Vista for burgers."