I'm just going to get straight to the good stuff... here is a list of some of my favorite eateries across the United States & Canada!
West:
Salt Lake City, UT:
Pretty Bird - While they have a limited menu, you have to visit this amazing establishment to enjoy delicious Nashville style hot chicken! I personally prefer their 1/4 white chicken but you can you order 1/4 dark or a Chicken Sando. If you are touring at the Eccles Theater, GO CHECK OUT PRETTY BIRD! This restaurant is connected to the stage door but remember to check their hours since lines usually go out the door once they open and their diner has limited seating capacity.
Ruth's Diner - With the beautiful mountain scenery surrounding you, this incredible diner has been around for 90 years and is a must-visit to enjoy a delicious brunch!
Rio Rancho, NM
Joe's Pasta House
Everett, WA/Seattle, WA:
Lombardi's Italian Restaurant - Everett
Anthony's HomePort Everett
Japonessa Sushi Cocina
Stoneburner
Spokane, WA:
Frank's Diner - Since 1906, Frank's Diner has been serving delicious breakfast items to travelers around the world! Meals can be enjoyed onboard their historic Presidential rail cars while you watch talented chefs cook their award-winning breakfasts!
ClinkerDagger - This Spokane landmark has been around for over 40 years and provides a beautiful overlook of the Spokane River, Spokane Falls and City Skyline! I highly recommend their Char-grilled Filet Mignon or Herb Crusted Roasted Prime Rib.
Delicious brunch onboard the Presidential rail car of Frank's Diner. View of the Spokane Falls from ClinkerDagger!
Portland, OR:
Cubo de Cuba - My favorite Cuban food in the United States -- given I haven't experienced Cuban food in Southern Florida. My must-eat items are the Guava Chicken with as many tostones and maduros as I'm able to enjoy!
Sacramento, CA:
Zócalo Restaurant Midtown
Burgers and Brew
Pluto's
San Francisco, CA:
Stinking Rose - As an appetizer, I highly recommend Bagna Calda (Garlic Soaking in a Hot Tub). Every dish at this restaurant is absolutely delicious but I really enjoy their Fresh Spaghetti with arugula pesto sauce and pine nuts.
Enjoying Bagna Calda (Garlic Soaking in a Hot Tub)
San Luis Obispo, CA
Madonna Inn - Whenever visiting San Luis Obispo, make sure to visit the famous Madonna Inn and be transformed into a fairy-tale style cottage environment. Every inch is uniquely decorated (inside & outside) with pink being the predominant color. I've had the opportunity to have dinner at the Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House and lunch at Madonna Inn Copper Cafe (after completing a breathtaking 60-minute horseback riding trail ride through the hills behind their property). Fun Fact: many tourists just stop by to take a peek at their famous rock waterfall urinal located in the men's restroom.
Enjoying the ambiance of Alex Madonna's Gold Rush Steak House at the Madonna Inn!
Calabasas, CA
Sagebrush Cantina
Los Angeles, CA
Quarters Korean BBQ - This is the most delicious Korean BBQ I've ever eaten. From the starter plates which includes a pumpkin puree salad and a broccoli & walnut salad to the quality meat selections, this is a must-visit restaurant restaurant located in the beautiful Chapman Park Market (Fun Fact: Opened in 1929, the drive-in Chapman Park Market was one of the first markets in the western U.S. designed for the automobile). I personally ate the brisket, bulgogi and short ribs but I'm sure everything on this menu is delicious.
Delicious Korean BBQ featuring bulgogi (left), brisket and short ribs (right)
ixlb Dimsum Eats - With one of the friendliest staffs I've ever known, this is an incredible location serving up delicious traditional Taiwanese Dimsum including dumplings and bao! I highly recommend their scallion pancakes, chicken siu mai, pan seared chicken dumplings and pineapple polo custard bao!
Fun dumpling wall mural and delicious Taiwanese DimSum.
Larchmont Village Wine, Spirits & Cheese - While their sandwich menu is fairly simple, their turkey sandwich is hands down one of the best sandwiches I've ever eaten. From their delicious baguette bread to the white meat turkey breast, sundried tomato spread and extra virgin olive oil/balsamic vinegar -- this is not a place to miss! Make sure to order early since there is always a line out the door.
You may not expect it-- but this place has the BEST turkey sandwich.
Holy Cow BBQ - Serving DELICIOUS beef ribs Thursday-Sunday (based on availability), this is definitely a must-visit!
Trejo's Cantina - Owner Danny Trejo brings delicious authentic flavors to all the menu selections! From the delicious beef barbacoa, steak asada and fried chicken -- you can chose to have your meals in a taco, burrito or bowl. I also recommend the chicken taquitos with chicken chipotle!
LAN Noodle- Serving up traditional beef noodle soup (from Lanzhou, capital of Gansu Province), this is a must-visit location. You can watch the chef stretch the noodles by hand (a highly respected skill) and know the level of dedication that goes into making such a traditional meal. I recommend their braised beef noodle soup with the thick flat noodle.
Lanzhou Beef noodle soup with handmade pulled noodle choices done on-site!
Red Lion Tavern - My favorite dishes include delicious chicken schnitzel with homemade spatzle as well as appetizers of their incredible german pretzels and potato pancakes with homemade apple sauce!
VChos Food Truck - Simply put, this is where you want to go for papusas! Check out their website to find which city/location one of their (2) food trucks will be that day! When ordering a papusa, I always recommend a side of plantains as well as their platano empanada!
The Apple Pan - Since 1947, this popular LA establishment has been serving guests delicious meals! My recommendation: Steak burger and of course, their homemade pies! The top 3 pie choices are apple, banana and boysenberry!
Porto's Bakery - A Los Angeles favorite! If you're looking for a DELICIOUS Cuban bakery, look no further than Porto's. This incredible family-led bakery chain has locations throughout Los Angeles which will have always lines out the door! I highly recommend ordering online in advance but be prepared to still wait in line with other hungry fans! I highly recommend the Arroz con Pollo Frito, Dolce de Leche Besito Cookies, Guava Pastry, Chocolate Twists and their famous Guava Lemonade!
Milky Way - While a kosher dairy restaurant, I can wholeheartedly say this was one of the most delicious brunches I've ever had. Originally owned and operated by Leah (Spielberg) Adler since the 1970's, this restaurant will instantly make you feel at home. Walking inside, you'll immediately be captivated by countless Spielberg family photos around the walls and incredible displays of Steven Spielberg's famous movies posters along the bathroom hallways. For brunch, I highly recommend the potato latkes with house made apple-compote, Brioche French Toast and Leah's famous Cheese Blintze.
Wall of Spielberg Movie Posters (upper left), Leah's famous Cheese Blintze (bottom left), Brioche French Toast (middle) and Potato Latkes (Right)
Made in Havana - Led by their incredible owner/chef, Noel Toledo, definetely come try this delicious Cuban restaurant serving irresistible meals! I highly recommend their Ropa Vieja bowl with beans, rice and plantains. And of course, their homemade guava pastry as a special treat!
Ropa Vieja Bowl (Left) Handmade Guava Pastry (Right)
Angel's Tijuana Tacos/Ms. Mommy Stacks - If you've ever been craving a late night snack of tacos & pancakes!? If so, I have just the place for you! Managed by the same owner and literally under tents on the side of the road, come check out the 2nd happiest place on earth when it comes to food cravings!
If you're in the Hollywood area, visiting Angel's Tijuana & Ms. Mommy Stacks will quickly become a weekly tradition. Only open from 6pm-11pm (closed on Mondays) and always serving a long line of connoisseurs, I can assure you it's worth the wait! While you wait you can enjoy watching fresh tortillas being made by hand and the smell of seasoned meats being grilled. For a tasty, authentic dish, I highly recommend the carne asada tacos! Next door at Mommy Stacks I grab my favorite: mini pancakes covered in strawberries, blueberries, Nutella, and Oreo.
Carne Asada Tacos (Left) Custom-Made Mommystack (Right)
Tam O'Shanter - Founded by Lawrence Frank (founder of Lawry's), Tam O'Shanter is LA's oldest operating restaurant and has been family owned and run (same family) since 1922. Known to be a popular and frequent dining spot for Walt Disney, his animators and Imagineers -- this was a must0visit in my books! I had the opportunity to try their delicious Tam O'Shanter Prime Rib plate which I highly recommend! Incredible food with a staff that goes above and beyond!
Original drawing by Walt Disney for the restaurant owner (left). Their infamous Tam O'Shanter Prime Rib plate with mashed potatoes, creamed corn and freshly baked roll (right).
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele - If you're a fan of pizza, L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele is a MUST MUST MUST! One of the most delicious and authentic pizzas I've ever eaten, I had the pleasure of sitting at the pizza bar and got a direct view of how their talented chefs make every pizza order. I highly recommend their risotto ball appetizer, traditional Marghertia pizza and of course, Frittelle Di Frankie dessert (fried pizza dough, Nutella and a side of vegan coconut oreo ice cream)!
Risotto Balls (Upper Left) Traditional Margherita Pizza (Upper Right) Frittelle Di Frankie dessert (Bottom Left)
Los Angeles: Honorable Mentions
Los Angeles is home to so many delicious restaurants -- I wanted to give a shout-out to some delicious & healthy Los Angeles originals & California restaurant chains! If you're in the area, I will always recommend making a visit to each one of these locations -- their hardworking teams do an amazing job with providing delicious meals with fresh ingredients!
Tender Greens: Recommendation - fried chicken plate w/ mashed potatoes & baby greens
Mendocino Farms: Recommendation: "Not So Fried" Chicken Sandwich with a side of their Basil Pesto Shells
Zankou Chicken: Recommendation: Shish Kabob Plate (make sure to try their famous garlic sauce!)
Sweet Greens - I love to customize my own salad but they have tons of options to choose from!
Jinya Ramen Bar - While a small chain in the US, I highly recommend their JINYA Chicken Ramen w/ mushroom and corn added.
(Original) Il Capriccio: Recommendation: Pollo alla Piccata w/ side of pasta (make sure to try their DELICIOUS freshly made bread)
(Original) Versailles Cuban: Recommendation: Garlic chicken served with fried plantains, white rice and black beans.
(Original) LaLa's Argentine Grill: Recommendation: If visiting during lunchtime, check-out their lunch menu which includes their delicious 6 oz. New York Steak!
(Original) Little Llama Peruvian Tacos: Recommendation: Lomo Saltado Burrito w/ vegan aioli
San Diego, CA:
Phil's BBQ - Beef Ribs! Beef Ribs! Beef Ribs! To sweeten the deal, always try all of their delicious side dishes but my favorite is their sweet corn on the cob!
Honolulu, HI
Harbor Pub & Pizza
Duke's Waikiki - Whenever visiting Duke's Waikiki, you can enjoy a delicious meal in their restaurant or their outdoor patio overlooking Waikiki Beach. This is a great place to watch a beautiful Hawaiian sunset. Hands down, always enjoy a Hula Pie for dessert!
‘AMA‘AMA - Aulani Disney Resort - While the food here is impeccable, you'll lose track of time just gazing at the view of Aulani's Private Beach. I've gone to 'AMA'AMA for lunch every time I visit Oahu and always enjoy getting their delicious Upcountry Romaine Caesar Salad with Papaya Seed Vinaigrette. For dessert, I highly recommend their Mocha Chantilly Cake which includes coffee kanten, coffee anglaise, macadamia nut nougatine and chocolate gelato. Fun Fact: You can wave high to Mickey, Pluto and Stitch as they walk around the resort!
Leonard's Bakery - Local bakery since 1952 famous for their Malasadas (Portuguese donuts!)
BONUS: One of my FAVORITE snacks in Hawaii is a fresh ice cold coconut that you can find being sold on the side of the road. Enjoy drinking the delicious coconut water and your host will gladly cut open your coconut for you so you can enjoy eating the rest of your snacks! Also, if you enjoy pineapple, stop by the Dole Plantation on Oahu to tour their property and have freshly squeezed pineapple juice or their famous Dole Whip!
Stunning view and ambience of 'AMA'AMA as well as their mocha chantilly cake. Enjoying a delicious ice cold coconut in Oahu and freshly squeezed pineapple juice from the Dole Plantation!
Maui, HI
Casanova Italian Restaurant & Deli
Flatbread Company
Anchorage, AK
Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria - If you are visiting Anchorage, Moose's Tooth Pizza is a must! Don't be surprised if you wait 1-2.5 hours (alongside all of the locals & tourists) for a table to become available but I promise it is worth the wait!
Midwest:
Des Moines, IA:
Zombie Burger - If you are visiting Des Moines, always stop by Zombie Burger and check out their inventive flavor combos in a “post apocalyptic chic” setting. My favorite burger is the Undead Elvis with Peanut Butter, Fried Bananas and a hamburger patty!
Fong's Pizza - The Downtown Des Moines location was the original location of King Ying Low, the oldest Chinese restaurant in the United States. Founded in 2009, this amazing restaurant creates unique pizzas pairing them with delicious Chinese dishes! As an appetizer, I always recommend the Chinese Cheesesticks which include mozzarella sticks encased in egg roll wrappers!
Omaha, NE:
Blue Sushi - Located in the beautiful Old Market area -- this restaurant offers a lot of delicious meal options! While I don't personally eat seafood, I enjoy ordering a delicious steak teriyaki entree and their amazing River Rock Beef Tenderloin appetizers! In terms of desserts, I recommend trying their Mochi & Tempura Fried Ice Cream!
Lake Lono Rum Club
Bemidji, MN:
Mi Rancho - This was one of my favorite Mexican food restaurants in the United States. I know that Bemidji, MN seems like an odd location for incredible Mexican food but this family-owned restaurant delivers authentic quality Mexican food with beautiful presentation and taste.
Duluth, MN:
Duluth Grill
Grandma's Saloon & Grill
Milwaukee, WI:
Mader's Restaurant - My favorite German restaurant in the United States! My favorite dish is the Franconian Chicken Schnitzel with mushrooms including a side of spätzle! As an appetizer, I'll always order their potato pancakes with a side of sweet apple sauce! FUN FACT: Mader's is where I had my first Sprecher Cream Soda and I've been a fan ever since! If you are in Milwaukee, you can tour their brewery and taste-test their entire line of craft sodas!
SafeHouse - the best-kept secret since 1966. This is a must-visit establishment -- enjoy this incredibly fun spy bar in the heart of Milwaukee!
Taking a tour of the Sprecher Brewery -- home of my favorite cream soda!
La Crosse, WI:
Pearl Street Ice Cream - 1930's style Soda Fountain shop in the heart of Downtown La Crosse where ice cream is made fresh daily.
Fayze's
Pirate Sushi
Lovechild - This is a higher-scale restaurant but everything is absolutely delicious. I wanted to make sure I pointed out the desert section for one of my favorites -- Malasadas, a Portuguese cinnamon-sugar donuts filled with lemon curd.
Detroit, MI:
Avalon Cafe & Bakery - Delicious turkey sandwich on farm bread!
Good Cakes and Bakes
La Pecora Nera - Delicious Original turkey sub w/ tomato, turkey breast, house garlic and herb aioli!
Columbus, OH
Thurman's Cafe
Melt Bar and Grilled
Schmidt's
Wolf's Ridge Brewing
Cincinnati, OH
Graeter's Ice Cream - In honor of our favorite Hippo, Fiona, my favorite flavor at this Cincinnati tradition is Chunky Chunky Hippo! Ingredients include a toffee ice cream base, salted roasted peanuts and milk chocolate caramel truffles! The best part is a portion of proceeds benefit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden which happens to be one of my favorites in the United States!
Cleveland, OH
Batuqui Brazilian Restaurant - If you're in the Cleveland area and enjoy eating Brazilian cuisine, make sure to visit this delicious restaurant! From the moment you step foot on their patio, you can already smell the delicious meals they're preparing inside. Located inside a former home, you can eat inside their dining room space or in their heated outdoor patio (they will provide lap blankets upon request). My favorite items include their Pao De Queijo Appetizer (Traditional Brazilian Cheese Bread), Picanha Acebolada (complete with rice, pinto beans, farofa and tomato relish), Banana Frita and Brigadeiros Dessert!
Delicious and beautiful meal display from Batuqui Brazilian Restaurant!
Hofbräuhaus Cleveland- Located outside the Stage Door of Playhouse Square, this is a favorite amongst touring companies! With their spacious outdoor beer garden and indoor dining hall, you can never go wrong with this German favorite! Their large meal portions are always delicious and packed with delicious flavors! My favorite items include Pierogis, Sauerkraut Balls (with corned beef), Geflugelbratwurst (all-chicken sausage with a side of Spätzle and apple sauce) and their Apple Strudel!
Pierogi Appetizer (Left), Geflugelbratuwurst Entree w/ side of Spatzle & Apple Sauce (Center), Apple Strudel (Right). Delicious Diet Coke in Glass Stein is a plus!
TownHall - If you're looking for a healthy and balanced meal, TownHall is a must! With their passion in creating a healthy (non-GMO menu) -- this popular spot is a favorite for their wide array of dietary friendly options. My favorite item on their menu include their Harvest Salad complete with chicken, berries, sweet potato and raspberry vinaigrette (I personally add avocado, keto breadcrumbs and apple). I also highly recommend their home-cooked desserts including their Skillet Cookie & Butter Cake!
St. Louis, MO:
Rooster - When visiting St. Louis, I highly recommend eating at Rooster for brunch. Everything on their menu is delicious but I always recommend looking at their savory & sweet crepes!
Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust
Gamlin Whiskey House
Everest Cafe & Bar
FUN FACT: When visiting St. Louis, make sure to take a trip down to Schnucks grocery store or Park Avenue Coffee for their famous St. Louis tradition, ooey gooey butter cake! Also, make sure to eat some St. Louis specials including toasted ravioli and Imo's Pizza!
Wichita, KS:
Doo-Dah Diner - When visiting Wichita, KS, I highly recommend eating at Doo-Dah Diner for brunch! Their menu includes delicious scratch-made gourmet comfort food!
HomeGrown
Southwest:
Tulsa, OK
Dilly Diner - Hands down, Dilly Diner is one of my favorite diners in the United States. Breakfast is served all day but I will ALWAYS enjoy a customization of their breakfast tacos with scrambled eggs, avocado and grilled chicken!
Corpus Christi, TX:
Thai Spice - Hands down, this is my FAVORITE THAI restaurant in the United States. The owners are the kindest and hardest working individuals who always come to your table with a smile and put creative concepts in all of their dishes. My favorite side dish is their handmade Paratha and their Yellow Curry & Vegetables entree. For dessert, I always recommend sweet rice & mango or their coconut rice custard.
Homemade Paratha, Pan Seared Chicken Pot Stickers and Yellow Curry & Vegetables entree at Thai Spice
Driftwood, TX/Austin, TX
Salt Lick BBQ - The original is located in Driftwood, TX and while the drive may be a bit far outside of Austin, it is absolutely worth it for the ambiance! I'll always order their delicious beef ribs with a special dessert order of their half & half cobbler (blackberry AND peach!)
Black's BBQ
Torchy's Tacos
Elizabeth Street Cafe
Gourdough's Donuts Food Truck
Beef Ribs Entree and Half & Half Cobbler (Blackberry & Peach Cobbler) from Salt Lick BBQ!
San Antonio, TX:
La Panadería Bakery - If you're in Downtown San Antonio and find yourself outside of La Panadería, stop whatever you're doing and order something from inside! Hands down, this is a delicious and authentic bakery/cafe that must be experienced. Everything is made from scratch daily (you can watch them through their glass bakery window in the middle of the night working away) and their passion for taste comes through in their food. My favorite pastries include their Guava Empanada, Croissants (Plain, Chocolate and Tequila Almond), Croncha, Vanilla & Caramel Peineta, Nutella Cruffin and my favorite, their fresh squeezed Orange Juice!
Selection of DELICIOUS breakfast pastries and fresh squeezed OJ from La Panaderia!
Dallas, TX:
Niwa Japanese BBQ
Velvet Taco
Houston, TX
Xochi - While the restaurant may be more up-scale & higher price, the level of presentation in their dishes is truly a work of art. Xochi's menu is inspired and represents the flavors of Oaxaca, Mexico and brings forth an unbelievable menu seen through a creative edge. Everything on this menu is absolutely delicious including their impeccable dessert!
Chicken mole and Piedras y oro at Xochi
Amarillo, TX:
The Big Texan Steak House - If you're in Amarillo, TX, make a stop at The Big Texan Steakhouse! Everything on their menu is delicious and you may be able to watch a volunteer participant in their 72oz. steak challenge! Do you have a group? No problem! Call ahead and schedule one of their complimentary limo services to pick you up/drop you off from your hotel!
Midland, TX
The Legendary Barn Door Steakhouse
Southeast
Atlanta, GA:
Mary Mac's Tea Room - When performing at the Fox Theatre, always always always take a short walk to Mary Mac's Tea Room and enjoy some delicious Southern comfort food! Everything on their menu is delicious and their service is impeccable! We will always start with an appetizer of fried green tomatoes and everyone can choose & enjoy from a list of their delicious entrees, side items and desserts! Since it's Atlanta, don't expect to see any Pepsi products -- Coca-Cola Only!
Vortex Burger -- In a fun rock'n'roll atmosphere, enjoy their delicious burgers with unique names! My favorite burger is called the Fat Elvis which includes smooth peanut butter, fried plantains and a hamburger patty with a side of tater tots!
Mary Mac's Tea Room Menu!
Memphis, TN:
Gus's Fried Chicken - Words cannot describe my excitement and passion for visiting the home of Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken! I'll always start my meal with an order of fried green tomatoes, enjoy their 2-3 piece white chicken and a slice of their Chess or Sweet Potato Pie! IMPORTANT NOTE: Gus's Fried Chicken uses peanut oil so please be careful if you or anyone in your party has a nut allergy.
Westy's - A historic local diner in Memphis (where you'll find all the locals) -- you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner! Everything on their menu is delicious but I highly recommend their fried green tomatoes, chicken & dumplings and their famous Westy's Ultimate Hot Fudge Pie!
Rendezvous BBQ
Central BBQ
The Arcade Diner - Known as Memphis' Oldest Cafe, stop by and sit in the same booth that Elvis Presley used to enjoy his favorite meal, a Peanut Butter & Banana Sandwich!
Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar - Hands down, one of the most delicious meals I've had - make sure to secure a reservation to this Memphis Downtown favorite! True to their name, all items can be selected as "flights" and you're able to have a number of plated flights to try an array of delicious options. My personal favorites include their Beef Wellington Appetizer (Incredible!). For the main entrees, I created my own flight which included their Bison Ribeye, Chicken and Waffles & Wagyu Ribeye!
Lafayette's Music Room
Gibson's Donuts
FUN FACT: Unrelated to food (but important to note) -- if you're in Memphis, stop by the Peabody Hotel to witness the historic Peabody Duck March!
Westy's Ultimate Hot Fudge Pie, Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken & the exterior of the historic Arcade Diner!
Nashville, TN:
Five Daughters Bakery - Donuts so good...we couldn't even wait to try them before needing to take this photo! Specializing between their 100 Layer Donut (hybrid of croissant & donut), Cake Butter, Paleo or Yeast-Raised, each of their donuts is made to perfection!
My favorite donut flavors include: Left Photo (Bottom Row): Triple Raspberry, Chocolate Sea Salt and Milk Chocolate Sprinkles Right Photo: Hot Chocolate (Top Middle) and Tiramisu (Top Right)
Redheaded Stranger
Monell's - This local favorite serves up an all-you-can-eat family style southern meal in the comfort of a beautiful Victorian home. Their freshly made skillet fried chicken can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch and dinner along with their daily specials including chicken 'n' dumplings, baked chicken and stuffed pasta shells. My favorite side dishes include their corn pudding, fried apples, mashed potatoes and freshly made biscuit!
Jackson, MS:
Bully's Soul Food Restaurant - I can't say enough on how DELICIOUS this family-owned restaurant is for their hearty southern meals. Every single item on their menu is impeccable!
Brent's Drugs Diner & Soda Fountain - A delicious Diner & Soda Fountain since 1946 (featured in the film, The Help, starring Viola Davis & Octavia Spencer). Everything on their menu is delicious for breakfast & lunch. Fun Fact: Located in the hidden back section of Brent's, you can visit The Apothecary at Brent's Drugs during the late hours for a fun speakeasy environment.
Brent's Drugs Diner & Soda Fountain
New Orleans, LA
Cafe du Monde - One Word: Beignets.
Pere Antoine Restaurant
Clover Grill
Enjoying one of my favorite combinations, beignets and hot chocolate!
Baton Rouge, LA:
TJ Ribs - Beef Ribs, Beef Ribs, Beef Ribs!
Lafayette, LA
Borden's Ice Cream Shoppe
T-Coon's
Dothan, AL:
Zack's Family Restaurant - A delicious southern style cooking establishment that features all their food in a buffet style! They have a weekly schedule of available meats, vegetables and and desserts that change every single day! Make sure you plan when you visit since there is always a line out the door!
Birmingham, AL:
Gianmarco's Restaurant
Spartanburg, SC
Beacon Drive-In
Wade's Restaurant
Greensboro, NC
Crafted - the Art of the Taco - their global menu offers unique and eclectic combinations and tastes. My favorite tacos include the Wayfarer w/ Bulgogi Short Rib and the Fixie: braised beef!
The Sage Mule - home to the DELICIOUS Greek Chicken Salad Sandwich!
Cheesecakes by Alex - their gluten free Coconut Guava Cupcake is one of the most delicious desserts I've ever had!
The Corner Slice
Northeast:
Washington, D.C.
Tunnicliff's Tavern - this is a must in my book and my home tavern when I lived in DC! Located across the street from Eastern Market and in the Capitol Hill area, you cannot go wrong with anything on this menu! Every single menu is pure perfection and their staff are family to me.
Vapiano - Not only is the food impeccable but the experience of ordering/eating is beyond unique! Pastas, Pizzas and salads are ordered directly from the chefs at individuals stations. You will speak to chefs directly and watch these trained chefs prepare your dishes directly in front of you to your own preference. Additionally, all tables include herb gardens which can be used for decoration AND for you to pick and include in your dishes as added flavors and tastes.
District Taco - Originally launched as a single food truck, District Taco has expanded across Washington D.C., Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania with Yucatan-inspired food that people line out the door for!
Hill Country BBQ - If you're a fan of Texas BBQ, stop by Hill Country BBQ for some delicious food! Make sure to enjoy a delicious Big Red soda with your meal!
Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats - Sporting in a beautiful baby blue van and with their unique 50's style uniforms and bright smiles, enjoy their legendary Wisconsin-Style frozen custard and treats!
Ted's Bulletin - Everything on their menu is delicious (including their all-day breakfast) but make sure to try their homemade pop tart flavors!
Dangerously Delicious Pies - Offering up incredible sweet & savory pies, this place always has a line out the door. I promise you -- it's 100% worth it! I highly recommend their Baltimore Bomb - berger cookies in a tangy vinegar and vanilla chess.
Visting my Home Tavern & our Tunnicliffs family!
Richmond, VA
Proper Pie Co. - specializing in New Zealand style pies, known as hand pies, this has been rated as one of the best pie shops in Virginia!
(Left) Beef, Potato & Portobello Pasty, (Center) Strawberry Rhubarb and (Right) Chicken, Pesto & Sun-Dried Tomato
Pittsburgh, PA:
Sienna Mercato - A must-visit restaurant in Pittsburgh that's split amongst 3 floors! Floor 1 (Emporio) is their meatball establishment Floor 2 (Mezzo) is their Wine, Charcuterie & Wood Fire Pizza Floor 3 (Il Tetto) is their Rooftop Beer Garden I can only speak to Emporio but this should never be missed! You can enjoy your style of meatballs, sauces and serving options. My favorite side dish is their tomato risotto or their tortellini!
Primanti Bros.
New York, NY/Brooklyn, NY
Forno Rosso
Briciola
Junior's Restaurant and Bakery - Four Words: Best New York cheesecake!
Junior's Strawberry Cheesecake!
Rochester, NY
Dinosaur BBQ
Portland, ME
Hi Bombay
The Grill Room & Bar
Canada:
St. John's, NL
Bagel Cafe - Located down the street from the Mile One Centre, you can enjoy an all-day breakfast at Bagel Cafe! When eating here, I HIGHLY recommend trying a popular traditional dish from Newfoundland & Labrador -- Toutons!
Mallard Cottage - Located in the beautiful Quidi Vidi Village, you can enjoy a delicious meal inside a 18th Century Irish-Newfoundland style cottage.
Saint John, NB
Britt's Pub
Saskatoon, SK:
Ayden Kitchen & Bar (Homegrown & globally inspired food)
Sticks & Stones (Korean)
Little Grouse on the Prairie (Italian) All 3 of these restaurants are owned by Dale MacKay, a Canadian Chef and Winner of the 1st season of Top Chef Canada. Returning to his hometown of Saskatoon, he opened all 3 of these restaurants with unique themes.
Whenever visiting Saskatoon, make sure to enjoy Saskatoon Berries!
Freshly-made Saskatoon Berry Pie!
Edmonton, AB
Continental Treat
Rge Rd
China:
Across China
Hai Di Lao - This is a MUST-VISIT restaurant when visiting China and my favorite place to eat. Known for their level of service to every customer who visits, this is the most delicious hot pot experience you'll ever have. From ordering your soup (I recommend the tomato), you can visit the sauce station where you can create your own sauces and grab some snacks. From there, you'll order a variety of meats, vegetables, noodles and breads to cook in your soup. Starting by sipping the tomato soup broth to cooking all of your items to ending the meal with another cup of soup with all the flavor of what's been cooked is truly a highlight. Run, don't walk if you ever get the chance to walk through the doors of Hai Di Lao.
Top quality Hai Di Lao hot pot fixings!
Xi'an Muslim Quarter - When visiting Xi'an, I highly recommending checking out this famous market known for their snacks and goods. While visiting I was able to enjoy several delicious meals include steamed soup dumplings, freshly squeezed pomegranate juice and Chinese burgers! This is a must-visit location!
(Left) Chef preparing traditional Chinese hamburgers.. (Center) A traditional basket holding steamed soup dumplings. (Right) Market fresh made pomegranate juice.
Tutto Bene Restaurant and Bar - Located in beautiful Xiamen, China -- this is a must-visit restaurant for authentic and delicious Italian food!
(Left) Freshly made pesto pasta & risotto. (Center) Brownie a-la-mode. (Right) Margarita pizza with fresh garlic clove spread for your bread!
Tianchi Yanbian Korean Barbecue - Located in Tianjin, China -- this is a delicious detour to North Korean barbecue called Yanbian. The meat, vegetables and breads are served on skewers that go over a unique device that spins the meat over the heat! Delicious meal!
Freshly-made salad and traditional Yanbian Korean BBQ complete with skewers!
Hongya Cave - Located in Chongqing, the Hongya Cave is a must-visit location for shops and delicious food! While always busy with tourists and locals, there's no shortage of foods to try and it's a great trip to make. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes since the majority of the walk is via staircase.
Traditional beef noodle soup!
I wasn't able to get the name of several restaurants but wanted to share some photos of amazing meals I was able to enjoy during my travels!
(Left) Chicken & Rice bowl in Hangzhou, China (my first meal upon arrival in China). Freshly made apple strudel (center left) and buttered chicken plate (center right) from Russian themed eatery in Beijing (Right) A delicious and unique BBQ style found in China!
Restaurant in Suzhou - notice there are no waiters! All ordering is done via IPad and the kitchen sends the meal on cars that travel on the tracks to their respective table and guest! I was able to try a freshly squeezed juice with an amazing Caesar salad!
If you're interested in traveling and enjoy tips on where to stay or what to see, check out my other blog posts including: "My Top 10 Favorite Hotels" and "My Top 5 Must-Do Things at Disney Parks Around the World."
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