Beef and beer at the new AJ's Burgers & Brew

AJ’s Burgers & Brew (3550 53rd Ave. W., Bradenton, 755-1819) is not just another burger joint. Amy and Justin Burnett have created an 1980s-style diner featuring American fare with a New Orleans twist. After completing Pennsylvania’s School of Cordon Bleu, Justin interned at Emeril’s Restaurant in New Orleans before opening a number of restaurants throughout the country.

“It was when Amy and I couldn’t find a really good burger that we decided to open AJ’s,” said Justin. “And, of course I wanted to give it a New Orleans edge.”

The proprietors not only serve more than 70 variations of burgers, including venison and buffalo sliders and a Cajun blackened version with a fried green tomato and crawfish, but also offer specials like shrimp with bacon jam, pecan-crusted grouper and braised short ribs in a red wine reduction.

Diners have a choice of kaiser, onion, multi-grain or pretzel buns for the certified Angus, hand-made patties and such additions as sherry caramelized onions, fried eggs, smoked Gouda or fried pickle chips. Among down-home, diner selections are turkey with stuffing and mashed potatoes, mac & cheese and pan-seared or fried just-caught grouper.

The Big Easy desserts — all made on the premises — range from New Orleans bread pudding and pecan pie to Bananas Foster. Beer and wines are available.

The ’80s-themed “Creole” diner, which was formerly Castle Café, seats 53 customers in space decorated with guitars on the brick wall, drum sets and a jukebox. Justin has plans for Jimmy Buffett and ’80s-style bands to entertain on weekends. Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. week days; until “close” on weekends.