By Angie Burkhart |Staff Writer|

If you’re looking for a unique and rustic spin on American cuisine, such as burgers and craft beer, Eureka! is the spot for you!

The word eureka, according to Merriam-Webster, is “used to express excitement when a discovery has been made.”

With this definition in mind, this restaurant had better live up to their name.

The restaurant is located on 580 W. First St., in the heart of Claremont Village Square.

You can also find Eureka! in local cities such as Redlands, Irvine, Bakersfield, Fresno, and many more.

Upon entering, you can’t help but notice aromas of roasted garlic, caramelized onion, and savory beef.

The dark wood flooring, along with the bohemian-style light fixtures and artwork, create a cool contemporary atmosphere that’s inviting for guests.

What’s more, the staff are friendly, and equally inviting.

The menu offers an array of bold starters, fresh salads, one-of-a-kind burgers, and enticing desserts.

If you’re just looking for something to quench your thirst, you’ll find a wide variety of handmade craft beer and whiskey, along with trendy cocktails, like their Gingertini.

I enjoyed a whiskey sour while deciding what to have for dinner; a delightful combination of aromatic bitters, hand-selected whiskey, fresh lemon juice, house-made sweetener, and frothy egg whites, finished with two luxardo cherries.

After minutes of contemplation, my friends and I decided that before ordering our entrees, we’d try their bruschetta and shredded chicken tacos.

The bruschetta’s combination of fresh tomatoes, lemon zest, goat cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette pleased our taste buds, but we all agreed the crostini was a bit soggy for our liking.

The chicken tacos, on the other hand, were a flawless blend of savory and earthy flavors, with a touch of citrus.

In hopes of expanding my pallet, I went out on a whim and ordered the Bone Marrow Burger for my entree.

If you’re wondering what the Bone Marrow Burger consists of, imagine a traditional hamburger, smothered in bone marrow porcini butter, mustard aioli, and charbroiled onion.

I was bit hesitant to eat bone marrow—it can sound frightening to a first-timer—but the burger was a surprisingly delectable combination of buttery, oniony, and meaty flavors, that just worked well together.

My guest ordered the Seasonal Pacific White Fish Tacos, which although very fishy, are “balanced well with the mango salsa and avocado aioli,” said Marie Muratalla.

Aside from what my friends and I tried, you can find anything from Lollipop Corn Dogs and Watermelon Salads, to Jalapeño Egg Burgers, and Butterscotch Rum Pudding.

As far as pricing goes, you’ll be happy to know that those college student pockets of yours can afford a meal here.

Prices range from $4.00 Panko Crusted Onion Rings, to $20.00 8 oz. Flat Iron Steaks, and drinks starting at just $2.50.

So, the next time you’re looking for some place to take a hot date, or even just a group of hungry friends, consider Eureka!; your taste buds—and your wallet—will thank you for it!