Mystery Diner: MJ’s in Oglesby serves a great burger

Seasoned patty adds plenty of flavor before any toppings are added

If you’re hankering for a good burger, you can’t go wrong at MJ’s Pub and Grill in downtown Oglesby.

That’s because MJ’s gets it right from the start with the hamburger patty itself, which is Angus beef.

Before anything goes on the burger, it’s seasoned to perfection. Biting into the savory patty conjures the flavor of a steak off the grill.

I ordered a cheeseburger ($9.95) with pepper jack cheese and bacon.

My dinner companion ordered the MJ’s burger ($10.95), which comes with bacon, onion rings and jalepeño bottle caps on top of it.

The MJ’s burger packed some heat. Even with all the toppings, it was stacked perfectly and not messy or overwhelming.

To go along with my burger, I opted for the homemade onion rings, which were made with a light, flavorful batter. My companion went with the fries, which were well-seasoned crinkle cuts. Everything we ordered had flavor, none of it was bland.

With several appetizers to choose from, between soft pretzels and cheese, cheese sticks, jalepeño bottle caps, breaded mushrooms and onion rings, we decided to go with the sweet corn nuggets ($5.75). They didn’t disappoint.

There were several burgers to choose from: the patty melt, a bleu cheese burger, a cheddar mushroom Swiss burger, as well as MJ’s take on Springfield’s famed horseshoe with a burger open face on Texas toast, piled crinkle cut fries and cheddar cheese sauce and bacon topping ($10.95).

MJ’s also serves fried chicken and fried cod and walleye. Among the sandwiches are such dishes as a breaded pork tenderloin, Philly steak, Italian beef and breaded/grilled chicken. Wraps are available too.

Ordering was easy. Carryouts are picked up at the bar, and our order was waiting within 20 minutes.

The restaurant also has a nice patio for outdoor dining when the weather gets warmer.

If you’re looking for a flavorful, juicy burger, MJ’s is sure to hit the spot.

IF YOU GO:

WHAT: MJ’s Pub and Grill

WHERE: 139 E. Walnut St., Oglesby

PHONE: 815-883-9782

INFO: www.facebook.com/mjpub.grill