BJ's is a surprising little gem in the world of big box restaurants. I've never had a bad meal there and the food is high quality, delicious and even (gasp!) healthy.
The first time my friends wanted to go there for dinner and drinks, I remember being unsure - after all, we live in a city with amazing local chef-inspired food options, and BJ's chain restaurant style seemed a little...boring for dinner. I mean, a name like BJ's does not inspire confidence that you'll be receiving a high-end meal. But boy was I wrong. There is a reason people from coast-to-coast rave about this place.
I ordered the Peruvian shrimp bowl the first time I went, and was amazed at how healthy and delicious it was. Filled with a generous amount of shrimp, sauteed spinach and mushrooms, the bowl was utterly satisfying. But what really blew me away was the appetizer I ordered - an ahi tuna poke. The tuna was perfectly flavored and melted in my mouth. I had a couple friends who are non-sushi eaters try it and they were thrilled that they liked it as well. For them, BJ's was a safe place to try something new.
I've been back several times and I usually order something healthy like the Peruvian quinoa and salmon bowl or their Twisted BLT salad. But I confess to stealing a bite or two of their deep dish pizza (delicious) and trying a mini pazookie (divine). I can also recommend their burgers (cooked to perfection) and their wide variety of appetizers and sides.
I know that usually with a menu this broad and deep there are shortcuts made in the kitchen (like a lot of frozen stuff) but if they are taking any of these cuts I haven't tasted it yet at the dining table. Everything we've ordered has been fresh and flavorful. I highly recommend BJ's for a night (or afternoon) out.