Bo & Vine Burger Bar: A Gourmet Twist on Classic Burgers

At Bo & Vine Burger Bar, the artistry of crafting the perfect burger takes center stage. Located at 2661 Cascadia Industrial St. SE in Salem, this fast-casual restaurant is the brainchild of Michael Adams, whose culinary journey began over 25 years ago with a barbecue food truck and has evolved into a thriving multi-location business.

Michael’s passion for gourmet burgers is reflected in every bite at Bo & Vine. “We specialize in high-end burgers with unique themes,” he shared. While the restaurant doesn’t have a single standout dish, its offerings like the “Old Canada” burger with bacon and egg on toast and the elevated “Willamette” cheeseburger exemplify the care and creativity that goes into each item. “I wanted to elevate the burgers I grew up with by using high-quality ingredients and creative recipes,” Adams explained.

The secret to Bo & Vine’s success lies in its commitment to quality. “We use never-frozen, fresh, certified Angus beef for our smash burgers, grilled on a flat top to create a flavorful crust,” Adams said. The restaurant also takes pride in its hand-cut fries and house-made tater tots, which are fried to order in a distinctive round shape. By avoiding microwaves and focusing on fresh preparation, every dish achieves a level of quality that sets Bo & Vine apart.

This dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. The restaurant has received numerous awards for its burgers and overall dining experience. “These accolades motivate us to maintain the highest quality standards and continue providing a memorable experience for our customers,” Adams said.

Bo & Vine’s roots trace back to a food truck affectionately named “The Patty Wagon,” where Michael’s son, Matt, developed the initial burger recipes. As their reputation grew, the family transitioned the business to a brick-and-mortar restaurant, rebranding as Bo & Vine and expanding to locations in Salem, Corvallis, and Eugene. “Adding milkshakes made with Tillamook ice cream and focusing on locally sourced ingredients has helped us enhance our offerings,” Adams noted.

The restaurant’s distinctive features, such as a “sauce tender” offering over 20 unique sauces, further elevate the dining experience. This focus on customization and quality has helped differentiate Bo & Vine from other establishments in the area. “We offer a quick casual dining experience with a unique atmosphere, setting us apart from fast food and other casual dining options,” Adams said.

Like many businesses, Bo & Vine faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the restaurant’s ability to adapt proved crucial. “We quickly transitioned to a pickup and delivery-only model, which allowed us to continue operating,” Adams said. This flexibility helped the business weather the storm and emerge stronger.

Looking ahead, Adams remains focused on maintaining quality while staying agile in the face of industry changes. “Our goals include adapting to the economy, food costs, and labor challenges without compromising on quality,” he emphasized. Staying attuned to trends and customer needs is central to the restaurant’s strategy for continued success.

Bo & Vine is truly a family operation. Michael’s children grew up working in the business, with his youngest son, Matt, now serving as a partner and overseeing much of the day-to-day operations. This familial bond, combined with a deep passion for innovation, ensures that Bo & Vine continues to thrive as a beloved part of the Salem community.

For anyone seeking a burger experience that’s as creative as it is delicious, Bo & Vine Burger Bar delivers in spades. With its commitment to fresh ingredients, innovative recipes, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder this restaurant has become a standout in the region.