Watch out Wahlburgers, you have some competition.

The Backyard Burger Bar in Scituate is now open! And it is awesome.

Owner Joanie Wilson has spent months architecting and strategizing everything from the menu to the eclectic accessories. What she made is a vibrant, colorful, energized, fun and casual place to grab a burger, pizza, or salad—all with a splash of culinary sophistication.

No, this is not your typical burger joint. From stocky handcut fries dipped in truffle oil ketchup to the mushrooms and spinach wrapped in phyllo dough that melt in your mouth to the range of specialty burgers that cater to anyone’s taste—even a vegetarian, the food has a clever flair. And, the prices fit the budget.

                    Joanie Wilson, owner of Backyard Burger Bar, and her son, Jeff Perette, behind the bar

There are flat screens to watch a game while sipping a brew around the large bucolic bar.

And, perhaps that is the best part about this place (aside from the food, of course!)

The Burger Bar has atmosphere. It is a South Shore meets Florida Keys rustic fun-loving element. And, cocooned between it all shine snapshots of the owner’s life: The year each of her children were born adorn the back wall, as does her grandchildren’s names. In addition, so as not to forget who built this place, “Joanie’s Kitchen” is forever inscribed in the cement floor of the kitchen's entrance.

Indeed, Joanie Wilson’s signature is all over this spectacular establishment. She is a rare talent.

Come down and experience it for yourself. You will not be disappointed.

Backyard Burger Bar

17 New Driftway

Scituate, MA

(The old Raymond's Paint Building)

By Stephanie Neil

Stephanie Neil is a journalist. Her business, technology, and human interest stories have appeared in a variety of print and online newspapers and magazines including eWeek, Managing Automation, The Harvard Alumni Bulletin, Huggies Baby Network, South Shore Woman, and The Boston Globe.  She lives on the South Shore with her two kids, two cats, and a dog. Contact info: stephanieneil@comcast.net  or 781-378-1652. Follow her on Twitter @StephanieNeil