Walking into Nick & Sam’s Grill I knew I had found the right place to dine for Saturday night.
This trendy restaurant, located in uptown, provides an upscale ambience complete with an extremely attentive staff. I was seated right away, and my glass was filled with water within seconds.  
 

It started out as a typical scenario.  
 

My friend and I were in a car driving around Dallas, looking for somewhere new to eat out on a Saturday night. To help solve the problem I turned to technology. I began searching for a restaurant on the iPhone application, Urban Spoon. Taking its suggestion, I decided to try out Nick & Sam’s Grill.
 

Nick & Sam’s Grill may have a familiar name since it was co-created by Joseph Palladino, the Nick & Sam’s Steakhouse co-owner.  Don’t let the name fool you.  Although Nick & Sam’s Steakhouse is known for high quality and high prices, Nick & Sam’s Grill provides the same extraordinary taste for a cost compatible with a college student’s budget.  
 

Although the classic-American menu is simple, the food is absolutely exquisite and set at the right price.  Dinner for two was under $30—with the quality of taste and service, I would have expected to pay much more.  
 

After walking in and allowing my eyes to adjust to the dark atmosphere, I gazed across the room filled with young Dallas professionals and college students.  Not only is the grill open for lunch and dinner, but SMU students have also been flocking to Sunday brunch for their $6 bottomless mimosas.  
 

As we waited to place our order, we snacked on homemade potato chips—a unique alternative to bread or tortilla chips.  The waiter suggested we get some of their “damn good fries,” and I can attest they hold true to their name. They also boasted about their macaroni & cheese, which I found a bit grainy, but still delicious.  
 

I highly recommend trying Nick & Sam’s Grill whether for brunch, lunch or dinner.  Just a short drive away from campus, the menu, manners and memories are well worth it.