The new Cheeseburger in Paradise chain is a joint venture between Jimmy Buffett and the Outback Steakhouse Chain. The website is www.cheeseburgerinparadise.com. The newly opened Fredericksburg, VA location is the fourth to open, and so far, the only location on the East Coast. It is located in a newly opened northern section of the Central Park grouping of "big box" retail and strip malls in Fredericksburg, and is adjacent to the Fredericksburg Bonefish Grill (another Outback venture). The atmosphere is "Island Casual," complete with thatched-roof tiki-hut bar area. An outside seating area extends out from the restaurant when weather permits. There is nightly live entertainment, specializing in Jimmy Buffett-style "Island" music, light rock, and other specialties (with karaoke, and open mike nights thrown in for fun). This was my first visit (it had only opened the week before), I drove down from Alexandria, VA, in part because friends of mine from Norfolk, VA were providing the musical entertainment that night. The menu is best described as American with 'Island' flavorings (literally, there are several blackened and jerk-seasoned selections available), and is inspired by the lyrics of Jimmy Buffett's music.
I started my meal with an appetizer of the Onion Six-Strings. I found this rendition of the ubiquitous restaurant breaded and fried onion appetizer to be pleasant and not over-seasoned (then again, fried onions are close to an addiction with me). This being my first visit, I felt obligated to order the signature "Cheeseburger in Paradise" for my meal. It is prepared as noted in the Jimmy Buffett song of the same name, "I like mine with lettuce and tomato, Heinz 57 and French-fried potatoes," with a "big, Kosher pickle" on the side. I found the burger to be outstanding. I also ordered a side salad comprised of mixed lettuces, shredded carrots and red cabbage, tossed with cucumbers, asparagus, tomatoes and crumbled blue cheese
in a balsamic vinaigrette. I found this excellent salad to be a cut above what I normally expect to get at a chain restaurant.
The service was prompt, friendly and attentive, and the staff seemed to enjoy their work. This venue is sure to become a major gathering (phlocking) spot for local Parrot Heads and other Jimmy Buffett fans, but will become popular with families and others as well, who may very well find it to be "Heaven On Earth With An Onion Slice!"