The plot of New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands’ latest novel, HUNGRY FOR YOU (on sale from Avon 11/30/10, ISBN 9780061894572, $7.99), revolves around a vampire who poses as a chef–and it’s got us thinking about food!
Restaurants can set the scene for all sorts of events. Whether it’s a birthday dinner with girlfriends, a romantic evening, or just a normal night out, you never know when you’re going to have an unforgettable dining experience. And if you’ve ever worked in a restaurant, you know there’s a ton of action that goes on behind the scenes”¦.case and point, the unpredictably steamy relationship that sparks between Alex and Cale in HUNGRY FOR YOU.
We asked Lynsay Sands to tell us about the best restaurant she ever ate at:
It’s funny you should ask that because I have been missing a certain restaurant since returning to Canada from England, and what I’ve missed most was shredded aromatic crispy duck rolled up in very flat Chinese pancakes with hoisin sauce, green onions (or spring onions as they are called in England) and julienned cucumbers. It is AWESOME. I fell in love with it the first time I tried it, and it was killing me that I can’t get it here. A couple weeks ago that craving attack just went wild and I put out a plea on Facebook for help finding a recipe to make this dish. I had tons of lovely people trying to help and they even found it for me”¦hmm, just talking about it makes me think I should make it again”¦ And the restaurant that started the madness? The North China Sea in Huddersfield, England.
For a chance to win a $250 gift certificate to the national restaurant chain of your choice (think Cheesecake Factory, P. F. Changs, Chillis, etc), tell us in comments: What is the most amazing restaurant you ever ate at, and why was it so good?
Congratulations to Kimberley C for winning the $250 gift certificate!
I can’t remember the best sit down resturant I have ever ate at but I can tell you my favorite burger joint! Bronco Burgers in Omaha, NE. I moved away well over 10 years ago and I still lust over that burger. I kinda wish they would have one here in ohio. But the only thing that my town is famous for is Maid Rite. And honesly I can’t stand the things.
Congrats on the new release! I am going to go get it today, my collection demands it ;0)
The restaurant that stands out in my memory the most is a sushi place in Honolulu. I can’t remember it’s name. But they had all you can eat sushi…a dream come true for me! I tried nearly every kind they had. The flavors were amazing. Oh, the stomach ache afterward. But what a grand time.
I can’t wait to read this new release. It sounds delicious!
Hi Lynsay. I love your books. Congrats on your new release. Sounds great.
The best restaurant I have ever eaten at is Dino’s Italian Restaurant. They have authentic Italian food and the atmosphere is amazing.
Crystal816[at]hotmail[dot}com
The best resturant I;ve been to so far was The Palm steakhouse. There steaks are so juicy and tender you could literaly cut into it with a butter knife. I got a newyork strip steak cooked middle well (just a little pink)it was heaven in my mouth. The side dishes loaded mash potatoes and garlic spinach complete the meal. The Palm is pricey but be and my friends always make sure to pay the place a visit during resturant week, that’s when you can get a 3/4 course meal at certain eateries for $30, you can’t beat that. Excuse me I have to go now my mouth is watering……LOL
Congrats on the new release, I’m looking forward to reading it.
I can’t really come up with an amazing restaurant. I live near Chicago so there’s lots of good ones. The one I would go to for consistently good food is Jameson’s Char House. Good steaks and ribs at a decent price (some of our local famous steakhouses are insanely priced) and every meal comes with a BOWL of soup AND salad.
I can not remember the name of restraunt but it was my first encounter
with Chinnese food. Was a family style setting where the brought out big platters of everyones entrees and everyone helped them selves.I was 9 years old at the time.
the best restaurant i ever ate at was located in fearrington village because the service was excellent. the food was great. and the company pleasant.
I love The Melting Pot!! It is where my husband and I go for a special occasion. We love the hands on cooking and you can’t beat the chocolate fondue for dessert!! Yummy 😉
My favorite place is Red Robin. I love their burgers and my overall favorite is their buffalo wings. I’ve eaten wings from many places and Red Robin has the best. We used to drive 3 hours to eat there, but now one is coming to our city in a few months! YAY!
Congrats on the new release!
The most amazing restaurant I’ve ever eaten at is Black’s Bar and Kitchen in Bethesda, MD. Not only do they have the best meal I’ve ever eaten, with giant scallops, wilted chard and an Old Bay cream sauce over dollops of whipped potatoes, but I’ve never eaten anything that even approaches ‘just okay.’ And of course my favorite thing about any restaurant- a fresh raw bar with scores of oysters!
A verrrry close second to The Flying Fish in Alexandria, VA for having the best sushi ever!
Cheesecake Factory. You can’t beat a restaurant that has a dessert in its name!
The Star in Elko, Nevada – it might not be the “classiest” place ever but the family style seating, the abundance of (Basque)food (so much you very seldom make it to the entree!), and the famous Picon Punch drink! What isn’t to like?! Since moving away from Nevada it has been hard to find Basque food but every time we visit, we try to eat at the Star.
It was called THE PLANTATION in Myrtle Beach. It is closed now but when I was a teen we went there. It was the first time I had a prime rib all by myself and the dessert was half a pineapple cut and then filled with fruit and chocolate flowers. Runner up is KAHIKI, which is also closed. It was in Columbus, Ohio and had a very unique outside and even more so inside. Their buffet had a whole roasted pig and they had fish tanks in the walls.
The best restaurant I have eaten at was a mexican restaurant in Manchester, NH called Margaritas; it was more Tex Mex. They had the best Fahitas and it was a great environment.
I have had all kinds of fahitas around and the only place that I can find that match anywhere near that is Chili’s and I love it there, as well. I love to go to Chili’s and have fahita’s and chips and salsa. They also have a great cheesecake!
The most amazing restaurant I ever had the pleasure of dining at was Aqua in San Francisco. It was ten (10!) courses of just the most perfectly prepared and presented food I have ever be fortunate enough to taste. Every course was a work of art. Really. And the wine pairing was spectacular. Every time I thought that was it, that was the BEST thing ever, nothing could compare to that, a new course would come out and I would be swept away all over again. The whole meal took about three hours to eat and I will remember it fondly for the rest of my life.
Congrats on the new release!
I have to say I love Shogun steakhouse in Tulsa…Japanese style where they cook at your table…I have been going there since I was pre-teen and then took my girls who are adults now and the Love the atmosphere and experience just as much as I do…if you are a party of three you are usually introduced to another party and join their table…so not an intimate setting…but we love to mingle…my son does not like the food so we usually make it a girls not out because with those prices you better be eating!!!!
There are two amazing restaurants that come to mind. The first is The Top Of The I in Honolulu, HI but my very favorite has to be Sandstone Garden in Joplin, MO.
Not only is the food marvelous, especially the spinach/artichoke dip appetizer, and the drinks are made to order, this beautiful restaurant is an amazing place to stroll through taking in all the sites and scents.
Decorated in time of the year themes, with flowers, plants, waterfalls and lights, the grounds are just as much a showplace. Sculptures, topiary, lights and gravel landscaping line the walkways and paths.
This restaurant truly feeds all the senses and the desserts will give your mouth little tongue orgasms!
Growing up in a tiny northern michigan town, I haven’t had the opportunity to eat at very many national chain restaurants. I would have to say the best restaurant that I have eaten at would be The Boathouse here in Cheboygan, MI. It’s one of the very few fine dining restaurants that I’ve been to, and anywhere that feeds me crab legs is a winner in my book 🙂
Texas Roadhouse is my favorite restaurant. It has the most juicy and easy to chew steaks I’ve ever seen (this is coming from someone with jaw problems, so usually chewy steaks give me trouble). Plus, their butter is amazing (cinnamon!) and their sweet potatoes are just wow.
juliecookies(at)gmail.com
My husband is former Army and we were last stationed in Ottawa Canada. I miss an excellent little place there called Sweetgrass Bistro, which is an aboriginal restaurant. They had the most amazing food based mainly around wild game. Their rabbit dumplings and elk carpaccio are to die for (vampire pun intended). Man, now my mouth is watering…
The best restaurant I’ve ever eaten as was Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. The fillet just melted in my mouth, the garlic mashed potatoes are to die for and the atmosphere couldn’t be better. Expensive, but so worth it!
Wow a $250 gift card!!! My fave resturaunt is Chilli’s. I love their Southwestern eggrolls!!!
Although the best meal I’ve ever had is an Italian rest. Biaggi’s in Bettenforf IA. Their Fettucini with Lobster. They also serve the best bread with olive oil and parm. cheese.
The most amazing restaurant I have been to is The Inn at Little Washington in Virginia outside of DC. Everything is homemade, you can take a walk in the garden during dinner. The service is beyond great.
fixing my Nook so I can read Hungry for You!
First of all Thanks so much for a wonderful gift that you’re offering.
Hmm, my best meal in a restaurant was my hubby’s and mine favorite steak house in St. Louis Dierdorf and Harts owned by two former St. Louis Cardinal Football players. The ambience was exceptional and the food was outstanding and the Martini was the best I’ve ever had. It’s were we go for our Anniversary every year and they have NEVER disappointed us and when they find out we’re there for our Anniversary they try to make the occasion even more special by giving a free dessert or appetizer and just generally making sure our every want and whim is taken care of.
Thanks again for the contest
The most amazing restaurant I ever ate at is The Red Pony in Franklin, TN. They change their menu about once a quarter, so you always have new choices, but still keep a few of the favorites on the menu year round.
I’ve had three amazing restaurant experiences, and sadly one of them is closed: Grezzo, an upscale raw vegan restaurant that was in the North End of Boston had the most amazing meals, drinks, and desserts. I think that True Bistro in Somerville is its successor, albeit vegan and not raw.
Pulse Cafe is where I’ve gone to for the most fantastic comfort food that’s absolutely phenomenal–and just happens to be vegan. Their mac and cheese is sinfully delicious, their buffalo tofu bites is like eating wingless buffalo chicken again, and their desserts are amazing. My only complaint about them is the lack of a liquor license.
True Bistro is very new, but lists wine pairings with all of their meals, and everything I’ve eaten there so far has been absolutely to die for.
Too many people whom I know are left with the impression that vegan food is either bland, tastes bad or is weird–I invite them to come check out these places. They’re awesome, and I know of non-vegans who go there to eat just because the food is so damned good.
My favorite would have to be The Masthead in Longview, Wa. It is a great place to eat. The staff is helpful and The food is fantastic!
Pioneer flour in San Antonio, TX. They have a restaurant located on the property. The menu is small but the food is excellent. Always enjoyed the meals. Everything is made fresh & they have a Gift where you can buy lots of home gifts. Small but excellent.
The best restaruant I have ever eaten at is Carambola in Barbados. The food is gourmet carribean and you are sitting on small clif hanging over the ocean looking at fish and rays frolick in the water below. It is one of those bucket list experiences! Some places have great food and some have great locations but this place has both.
There are alot of great Restaurants in this country and living close to New Orleans I have eaten at many. This is not really considered a “restaurant”, this is a small cafe. My son met this man last year thru friends, not long after he had opened this cafe, he was mostly a caterer! Everything is made right then, fresh, not frozen. His specialty is his steaks, the flavor is what gets everyone. I am not a big steak person, so I stick with the homemade hamburgers (delicious & huge), the shrimp po-boys (the fried shrimp are large and falling off the buns, so it is like having a po-boy and fried shrimp plate. His menu is a little limited but there is plenty to pick from for everyone. If you are lucky when you go there will be some Italian cookies still for sale, they go fast!! The name is LaMarcas and it is in Hammond, Louisiana!!
The Globe Theater and Restuarant, located in historic Berlin, Maryland is about 30 minutes from me, but it is worth the trip! The food is wonderful and the service is superb! The cheese plate is the perfect way to start off your meal. Loaded with various cheeses, dried fruits and a french loaf, it pleases the palate quite nicely. The house salad with its fresh greens, tomatoes is quite fulfilling too as well. The chef is constantly coming up with yummy creations so that you will never get bored. Since it is a theater too, there is always entertainment as well. Such as sultry jazz and blues to family movies and comedy. They also have murder mysteries sometimes which are quite enjoyable too as well.
The Accidental Vampire hands down has been my favorite novel by Lynsay Sands thus far. Although A Quick Bite was also good too as well.
I love going to the Old Spaghetti Factory in downtown St. Louis. They have the best spaghetti and meatballs and spumoni for dessert. They have the neatest atmosphere there.
Thanks for hosting such a fun contest!
jhoorm01atyahoodotcom
I have to say Red Lobster. Mostly due to alt he wonderful family memories that have been created there over the years. It seems that family, friends and even co-workers have a penchant for wanting to meet over one of their tables. *smiles*
The most amazing restaurant I love is called The Brownstone. Its in a very old brick building in the historic district of Hattiesburg. The lighting is very low with jazz music playing and candles on the table,its very cozy, its New Orleans syle food. I love their pasta and seafood dishes but they also sell sandwiches. The even have a large variety of wine.
The.Best.Gyro.Ever. From a little gyro joint in Worms, Germany. It’s been too long to remember the name of the place, but it was fabulous!!
Santorini Seafood and Grill in Tarpon Springs, FL! I am a big fan of Greek food and this place did not disappoint at all. I went with family and so we go a bunch of dishes and shared them all – the Saganaki (or flaming cheese) was so good we ordered a second round! The bread was fresh and the feta was to die for when our salad came out. Then came the main course : I got the most tender and delicious lamb chops I’ve ever had in my life. They were smothered in rosemary and fell right off the bone. We also split some mousakka and pastitso (a lamb and eggplant dish and a type of Greek lasagna, respectfully) and had a gyro to round everything out. It was amazing! And now my stomach is grumbling.
Wow! You guys are making me HUNGRY! Gees, if I weren’t on a diet I’d be tempted to make a tour of restaurants, lol. Thanks guys!!
Lynsay
We come from a very small town in Missouri so the biggest city that has a restaurant we love would be O’Fallon and it has a ton of chain restaurants, but None are better than Long Horn Steakhouse!!! Who doesn’t Like Steak and Potato’s? Shrimp? You Name it! They make their own special Honey Mustard dipping sauce and Dressing and Delicious!! You can’t find a better tasting Honey Mustard anywhere!! There’s even those great Chicken Tenders the kids and adults all around come for.
They have seafood and anything one could want!! It’s the only place we go to eat!!
Thanks for the $250.00 GC giveaway! That would be amazing to win. I’ve never won anything so big in my life and it’s enough to invite the whole family out on, or make a lot of casual dates for just me and hubby, Now that sounds nice! 🙂 Thanks again!! & Good Luck everyone!!!
One of my favorite restaurants is the Grand Luxe. I think it is owned by the Cheesecake Factory. Their foods are similar and deserts are the same.
I love their lunch menu. You receive almost the same as the dinner menu for almost half the price.
They have a Romano Crusted Chicken that is to die for. The sauce for the pasta is also very good. Much better than Cheesecake’s creamy tomato soup like sauce that is put on their version. It’s a real tomato based sauce.
I love going there for special occasions and try to get a piece ofChocolate Tower Truffle Cake. I take it home most times as I am usually too full to eat anymore. LOL
The best restaurant I been in was Capprico’s in Providence, RI. My husband took me there for our first year married. Dinner was great but the dessert was FAB. I had the waiter at the table making my crepes with berries and brandy. delish.
havent been there since.
It has since closed but a little Italian restaurant called Casa Trina from Long Island NY. Small, quaint and great food but mostly the memories growing up. We still talk about it every now and then. Thanks for the contest Coffee Time. A more current restaurant would be La Campanina. Yes, Italian. Do you see a theme? *tummy grumbles*
If I had to say which restaurant is my favorite, I’d be torn between Outback and their Bloomin’ Onion or Olive Garden’s soup & salad. They have the best gnocchi (not sure about the spelling!) I think it’s an Italian chicken & dumpling soup. It’s wonderful!
But I would have to say Fridays on the west side of Cincinnati is special to me in a romantic way because that is where I met my husband.
I don’t get out much living in the country, but My daughter and I love Long Horn Steakhouse! They have the greatest sweet tea and the nicest waitress’s. They can cook up a wonderful steak or chicken and potato’s anyway you want them. This sure would be a wonderful treat for us. Thanks for having the contest!
The best restaurant that I have ever eaten at is hands down, Ichiro. It’s a hibachi restaurant and everything is delicious. They make the food in front of you and put on a little show, playing with their tools and even throwing food into your mouth! When they cook it I swear they throw in the best flavors you can think of. I am not a fan of Asian food normally, fried rice and things like that, but I absolutely LOVE their food. Their fried rice is one of the best things I have ever had, and granted I am a very very picky eater.
Oh by far the most amazing restaurant I have ever eaten at was Vic and Anthony’s at the Golden Nugget Casino in Las Vegas!!! The steak was so tender I could cut it with a fork. It is a very high class restaurant and very expensive but my in-laws took me and my husband there to eat as a wedding gift. Amazing food and the atmosphere and staff were extraordinary!!!! I can’t wait to make the trip back there again 🙂 As far as a local restaurant goes… Texas Roadhouse takes the cake. Great food, great prices, and great atmosphere. The waiters and waitresses line dance in the dining area for entertainment. It is a lot of fun to eat there.
The hubby and I vacationed in Charleston years ago and ate at the Magnolia Cafe. I can’t remember our entrees but (they were awesome) and they had THE best coconut cake we ever had in our lives!
One of my favorite restaurants of all times
was a little Mexican place in Brawley, CA called Armando’s. Unfortunately, they went out of business many years ago. On of the best things on the menu were their rolled tacos. No one did them like Armando. The cheese and lettuce that topped them was always just the right amount. Not the most exiotic place I have every ate, but by far one of the very best. It also brings back memories of my childhood when my aunt and I would sneak out just to have those rolled tacos. LOl Now I guess everyone knows where we went. Thanks Aunt Frances. 🙂
My favorite restaurant by far is a little Japanese hibachi place in Gallatin, TN called Koi. They have the best sushi and teriyaki shrimp I have ever tasted!
Can’t wait to start reading Hungry for You, bought it yesterday 🙂
The best restaurant I even ate at was a small romantic steakhouse called Randy’s Steakhouse.. The food was delicious.. I had this steak in a crab cream sauce. It’s in an old victorian house and was also very romantic
THE PUB in Columbus, Ohio. Fish and chips (cod and fries) is my favorite paired with a ball glass of Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale, then Jamaican Cheesecake (a huge chunk of cheesecake topped with gooey caramel sauce, banana slices, whipped cream and macadamia nuts)…need I say more? Diet out the window, but the YUM factor is high. The environment is really cool too. The furniture and decor is brought over from England to make it more authentic. The PUB is hands down, my favorite restaurant.
The dessert at the Marriott Hotel restaurant in Charleston, WV was the most amazing ever. It was a tiny CHOCOLATE PIANO filled with raspberries and cream! My favorite flavor combo. I bought two-one for the road.
Liz Arnold
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I would have to say the best restaurant I’ve ever eaten at is Andiamo in Michigan. There is not much I miss about MI, especially not the snow, but Andiamo I definitely miss! They have the best gnocchi I’ve ever tasted at a restaurant. It doesn’t hold a candle to my husbands homemade recipe, but it’s up there 🙂 Their desserts are awesome too.
What an amazing contest. Eating is one of my favorite things to do. We have a great Mexican Restaurant in Little Rock, Senior Tequila. It’s my absolute favorite place to eat. But hubby and I like to eat at a great steak place called The Butcher Shop. It’s a little more upscale than Texas Roadhouse and the steaks are awesome. They will even let you cook your steak if you want to. Chili’s (molten cake), Texas Roadhouse (yeast rolls) & Outback (cheese fries) are other favorite places to eat.
I love Lynsay’s books and have read them all. I can’t wait to read this one.
The book sounds stellar! I’ll have to check it out!
You know, I have gone over and over and over the restaurants I have been to in my life, and I keep coming back to a restaurant in Williamsburg, VA. Yes, it was a 5-star restaurant in a really nice hotel, and yes, I got all dolled up to go, but want to know what made it really special? It wasn’t the tapers and flower arrangements. It wasn’t the crisp tuxes on the staff. None of the above.
The chef was an old friend of mine. He was completely in love with me, but I was already married to Tamer, and that was so not happening. We were friends and nothing more, and he knew it. But that man pampered me mercilessly when I came to the restaurant for dinner. He even had the server tell me that it wasn’t necessary for me to order. He’d PLANNED my meal (and it wasn’t on the menu), and it was lovely.
The funny thing is… He used to try and get my recipes to add to his menu. I always had a little twist in the most mundane meals that he loved. It was a game. He’d try to guess what ingredient I’d changed from the norm and to what.
Brenna
My family really enjoy Texas Roadhouse. It’s has blooming onions yummy and steak.
We also love Tangerine Cafe at walt disney world in epcot. It’s a must stop on our vacation plus to see mickey!
Lynsay,
The best resturante that I’ve ever been too and ate at was in Paris, France. I believed the resturante was called La Sargent De La Recruite, it was in the Latin Quarter of Paris.
I had the most delicious, mouthwatering Roasted Duck I’ve ever tasted. The flavor was so wonderful, I just savored each bite as it was so tender it fell off the bone. The vegetables that they served with it was delicious also.
To top the night off I had the most exquisite and heavenly Chocolate Mousse I ever tasted. It was so light and fluffy and so good. I’ve never tasted anything like that since I’ve been gone from there. My visit to Paris was 1981 and I’ve deprived from delicious pastries and meals.
I intend to go back. It’s on my bucket list.
Lynsay may you and your family have a Happy Christmas and a beautiful blessed New Year.
Best or most memorable for me, is the Coast restaurant in Charleston, SC. It is hidden down a small alley and has the best freshly cooked seafood in what was once an indigo warehouse. We ordered the “whole fish” with a mango and black bean relish… and you get the whole fish..head and all. It was so well done and in a Cuban or Caribbean flair. I only had to switch the plate top around to eat the delight. My 12 year old niece said it was watching her! If we get back there, we will again go to this unique restaurant for another meal.
I was stranded in Milano, Italy late one night on a cross Europe trip and wandered into the Hotel Duomo well past check-in time, exhausted and fairly distraught. On top of having lost luggage and gettin glost in the city several times, it was so late that many things had closed for the evening. The concierge came to my rescue in many ways that night, but the one thing he did that still stands out in my mind 22 years later was that he called a nearby eatery and within seconds, i was walking down the street from the hotel toward a wonderful Italian restuarant. Although they had closed an hour earlier and we’re almost ready to turn out the lights from their evening clean up, the owner stayed and fixed a compeltely fresh meal for me compelte with bread, cheese and wine. Ok, beofre you ask, I have no idea what I ate that night but I still remember that it was authentic, delicious and the ambience was top notch!
My favorite restaurant is of course one that I can’t afford to go to regularly, only on special occasions. I like Kobe’s Steakhouse. It’s a Japan restaurant that cooks the food right in front of you. Of course the cooks are loads of fun and are part of the entertainment fun of the restaurant.
my best place is a drive-through or you can sit outside at a table(seasonal); it’s called Tino’s in Medicine Hat, Ab., Canada.
They have Chili Fries that are to die for; there is a topping on the fries of hamburger and onions that has a sweet/sour taste(awesome). Their Tino’s special is an enormous hamburger with lettuce, tomatoe, pickles and a big slice of ham. Yes, ham and a hamburger patty. Then you wash this down with whatever pop or milkshake you want.
yourstrulee(at)sasktel(dot)net
I can’t remember the name of the restaurant, nor even the town it was in. It was years ago and we, my husband, I, and our three sons, were on vacation in Colorado. We’d spent the day exploring ghost towns and by the time we got back on the main road, it was very late. We saw the lighted restaurant sign from the Interstate, but when we arrived at the door, the owner said they were closed. He then looked at our three travel weary boys as well as another family that had followed us off the freeway and told us all to come in and that he’d just fix us something. He had a rich Italian accent, and his ‘sister’ that served us spoke no English. The meal was a pasta creation that was to die for. As a family we’ve discussed how wonderful that meal was, and to this day our now grown sons swear the owner and his ‘sister’ were part of the mafia. We’ve never been back to that part of the state, it was maybe an hour or two west of Denver, but do wonder if we could ever find it again.
Zen Oriental at London’s Heathrow airport is the best place I’ve ever eaten. It’s small but the food is to die for. I had the best Dover Sole of my life. My boys say the Crispy Duck is better than any they have ever had. My husband goes to England all the time and always makes a point of eating at this restaurant. The owner knows him and even if the place is full he makes up a special table just for my hubby. Wonderful place.
Please enter me in the contest: vsloboda(at)gmail(dot)com
Some little restaurant in a trailer, maybe, in the Florida Keys. One of the upper Keys, not Key West. I don’t remember the name, but their soft shelled crab still haunts my dreams (in a good way).
I went to a Benihana’s grand opening. I had not been to one in years but had enjoyed the previous experience. After being seated we found out that one of the others at the table was the President/CEO of Benihana and that the chef was the trainer that he had brought in with him for the opening. We all ordered and then He ordered all of the most expensive things on menu in double orders. One of the items was the steak in Chateau Briand and it was melt in your mouth tender and so tasty. Loved it.
My most favorite place to eat is Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in Baton Rouge where I work. My boss takes us there occasionally to celebrate our birthday or whatnot. The restuarant has a petite filet that just absolutely melts in your mouth!!!! And the au gratin asparagus is fabulous. I like to top the meal off with an Amaretto freeze. YUM! When’s lunch……I’m starving!
My favorite place to eat is the Four Seasons Island Resort in Pembine, Wisconsin. They have the best food… so delicious and flavorable!! I usually order their seafood, and it is always cooked to perfection!
Cheesecake Factory in Waikiki has the best Shepherd’s Pie! A simple food is transformed into a sublime experience.
Our family loves Indian Cuisine. Outside a hotel in Colorado (can’t remember the name of either the hotel or the restaurant) was a lovely restaurant. That evening, our crew was one of their few customers and they catered to us — giving us samples of food they wanted us to try, and making a Tikka Masal that was to die for. Yum…
You are making me all hungry! The first place I ever tried French food was at a little restaurant a couple of towns over called, Le Virage. It was a little pricey, but they cooked the most amazing food. I adored their sauces and desserts, and we used to go there to celebrate special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.
I was so sad when they closed, and have yet to find another French restaurant to take it’s place.
caity_mack at yahoo dot com
The best restaurant I have ever been too has to be Linguines. It is a local Italian restaurant in the city I live in. It is the best not only because it has AMAZING italian food and a really nice apmosphere but it is the place where my husband and I went the evening before our wedding with my maid of honour and a few friends to celebrate our upcoming wedding, and it was there that he proposed to me again in front of the whole restaurant. It was the second most romantic thing he has done aside from his actual proposal. LOL. We have made that our favourite place to go for special occassions or even just to take friends out for a great meal. Abosoluely love it there.
well i know its a chain restaraunt but i love olive garden because the foods great (love the salad, breadstick, stuffed mushrooms and peach sangria), service is outstanding and its always a great time.
My best experience was in Puerto Vallarta during my honeymoon. We had been eating in the Hotel restaurants for 4 days and wanted a change. We walked up a hill outside of the main downtown area–after about 5 blocks we heard a group of people loudly sharing their cheer & we went to look. There was a tiny restaurant with 4 tables and a bar. There was one table left, so we joined. We made new friends that night-even though we didn’t speak the same language…don’t even remember what the food was like, lol.
Oh my goodness! I can only choose one? LOL. OK…here goes. It was this place near Detroit, Michigan. It was called Tong Lee’s. When my Grandparents were alive we used to go there all the time. They had the most amazing rolls you have ever tasted. You would peel them apart and the steam woudl rise up and fill your nose with the most tummy rumbling scent. You would put some butter on the hot roll and literally consume it in a second. It would fill your mouth with the most mouth watering taste. And that was just the appetizer. Their main dishes were just as succulent. But in reality I think I loved it so much because it was a special place my Grandparents took me when we would visit. The restaurant has closed down due to the economy. And now that my Grandparents have passed away, I only have the memory of the scents and tastes that filled me. But sometimes I swear I can practically scent those rolls. Even now my mouth is watering just thinking about them!
The most amazing restaurant I ever ate at was Phillips at Waterside in Virginia Beach. Not sure if its still there or not. This was the first restaurant my husband of 21 years took me to when we were dating and I’ll never forget it. We were young and newly in love. He was in the Navy. The atmosphere of Phillips was romantic. A two story, circular fish tank sat inside the middle of the restaurant with an abundance of different fish, not to mention, it overlooked the Chesapeake Bay. At sunset, this was a glorious view. I had never tasted paella which is a combination of different seafoods (shrimp, fish, mussels, etc) cooked together sort of like a stew in a red sauce. He opened my eyes to a whole world of new tastes and adventures from that day forward. I’ll never forget the great food, new experience and the moment I knew my husband was the man for me. Food truely is the gateway to the heart.
I’d have to say the best restaurant I’ve ever eaten at was Gondola Pizza and Steak house in Crossville, TN. I’m a total pizza nut and they make the BEST home made, hand tossed crust. Their service is always friendly and the food is ALWAYS fantastic. They have more than just pizza too, it’s also a steak house! They’ve pretty much got everything you want. It’s so great to go there with the family and enjoy some of the best food I’ve ever tasted!
My Absolute favorite resturant in the world is Vic and Anthony’s in Las Vegas. I’ve never had a medicore or bad meal there. The chef in charge of their sauces is a master. The crab cakes are to die for and I would lick the plate clean if there weren’t people around to see me. Just wish I had time to make a trip out there to eat.
The restaurant that left the best impressionon me no longer exists. I think it was called The Lobster House, and it was located in Las Vegas, NV. The reason it remains so prevalent in my mind isn’t because of the food, but because of the people working there. I remember it because in a restaurant filled with elegantly clad guests, my mom, my brother, my sister and I trooped in wearing jeans and tee-shirts and we were afforded the same courtesy and attention as anyone else. In fact,in many cases we had better service.
The three of us had never been told that dinner is supposed to be a dignified serious affair, so my brother, sister, and I — all teenagers at the time — laughed, and chatted, and teased each other and my mom participated whole-heartedly.
We had so much fun we had other tables laughing and joining in. Even the owner of the restaurant came out and sat with us during dessert. When my mom tried to pay the bill, he refused her money and told her the next time she brought us in, dinner would be on him.
Not long after that, The Lobster House burned down, but the fun and friendly atmosphere have stuck with me over the years.
The best place I have eaten and was really impressed by was the Capitol Grill in Kansas City, MO. The company I work for took us there as a end of year dinner celebration. The food was served family style and was delicious! The dish I remember the most (and have secret foodie fantasys about) was the individual sized Coconut Cream Pies. This is also where I drank my first glass of good quality wine. The lighting was romantic yet comfortable….I wish I had been there on a date instead.
Thank you for this wonderful opportunity!
One of the best restaurants I ever enjoyed was near Pike’s Place Market in Seattle Washington. The restaurant was a small Columbian restaurant, and was jammed packed–with good reason. I was there for lunch, and had one of their soups. Absolutely to die for.
my favorite restaurant to go to is Joe’s Crab Shack. It is a seafood restaurant and serves more than a traditional seafood dinner like some other unnamed restaurants. I don’t get to go often as it is extremely expensive, so a gift card there would allow me to take both sets of parents and the hubby on a dinning extravaganza.
Paris buffet in Disney in Fla – the choices of food and the quality was awesome. And it was not expensive either.
Hope this goes thru this time.
The Paris Hotel buffet in Disney in Fla. The choices were amazing as well as the quality of food inlcuding desserts were awesome. And the price was not expensive either.
Pat L.
I really do love The Keg. The steaks are always perfect, the garlic mash potatoes are to die for!! And in all the restaurants in this city the service there is the best!
Best dinner I had was as Paris Hotel in Disney in Fla – inexpensive, wonderful choices of meals and the food was exquisitely delicious.
Hi EvilAndie and all my twitter friends. And thank you Teresa, I hope your Christmas is happy and safe and lovely.
Now, I went and ate before checking in this time and you all STILL made me hungry, lol. Wow, you guys are mentioning some awesome places. I’m thinking I should maybe take note of them for future reference.
Good Luck everyone!
Lynsay
The most amazing meal I ever had was in a restaurant called El Meson here in my home
town. Unfortunately, that particular site
is no more! It was in the mid-1950s and I
can’t even remember my date’s name. I just
remember the wondrous food. It was South
American cuisine, the beef and vegetables melted in my mouth and the wine greatly enhanced the meal. I’ve never forgotten how
much I enjoyed the food and the outstanding
service!
Pat Cochran
A few years back my friends got married in Las Vegas. Since their wedding party was so small they treated everyone to Picasso’s inside the Bellagio. Oh my goodness was it good. We ate so much, but it was so worth it. I ate things that I had never tried before and they were all good.
The best restaurant I have ate was Texas Roadhouse, with their call ahead seating
you do not have to wait very long. The staff is extremely friendly and their steaks melt in your mouth done the exact way you ask for and they make sure of that before they leave the table. I tend to order the sweet potatoe loaded with butter, marshmallows and a salad. They also have warm rolls sitting at the table with cinnamon butter that is to die for. I have been back a few times and have never experienced anything other than pure enjoyment.
Outback Steakhouse is the best that I have tasted, great service and friendly people.The food melts in your mouth and there deserts are to die for.
There is an awesome steak house in Tempe, Az that has been there for over 50 years. It is called Monti’s La Casa Vieja. The ambiance of the place is great and the food one-of-a-kind delicious dishes. They serve their famous Rosemary bread wiih your entee that is so good smelling and tasting. I believe the steaks are from local cattle and very tasty.
Best restaurant hands down is Carmel’s in Asheville, NC. They have this blueberry stilton spinach salad that is amazing. I would eat there every day if I could, but alas it is expensive. I’ve never had anything bad there and every special occasion it is my choice of restaurant to go to. Blueberry mojitos, bacon and fried green tomato sandwich, steaks that will melt in your mouth…I’m drooling just thinking about it!
Well, here in our region of the Appalachians, really nice restaurants really don’t exist unless you want to drive to Columbus or Pittsburgh. However there used to be a Asian Buffet over in St. C that had the most awesome tangy chicken, green beans with garlic and cheese, and this deep-fried dough stuff that I could almost live on, lmao!
It’s funny you should mention P.F.Changs. We always have a problem finding places to eat over the Christmas season–oldest son doesn’t like boring food, youngest doesn’t like eating out, middle son’s vegetarian, I’m gluten intolerant, and my Mum can’t eat anything spicy. The year we tried P.F.Changs, at oldest son’s insistence, was the year we finally found a safe enjoyable place for everyone. Of course, the sons have grown older and getting everyone together might be hard but we’ll hope for the best–P.F.Changs.
The best restaurant in which I have ever had the pleasure to dine happens to be a Korean restaurant in Atlanta that I no longer remember the name of. It was so awesome! I have always loved Korean food and it was like being in heaven! 🙂
Can’t wait to read the next Argeneau installment.
For the ambience and view, I would say the best restaurant for our family is The Seattle Space Needle. The food is good (some dishes better than other); however, the view is exquisite.
The best restaurant that i’ve eaten at is call Amigas. it’s a small mexican restaurant with the best authentic mexican food ever! the chicken tacos are to die for and the deep-fried ice-cream… well let’s just say it’s probably better then sex! LOL!
Thanks for the chance to win!!!!!
me and my family love to eat at golden coral. they have such a wide variety of foods and specials on certain nights of the week. since its an all u can eat buffet there is something for everyone even my picky grandchildren. I love their dinner rolls and their desserts are fantastic.
There’s a restuarant here in what waqs ahouse back from the 1700s called Crab Louie’s Tavern. The food is super and the place is also haunted!
The best I ever ate at was a local restaurant called Damons they had a to die for salad with steak and portabella mushrooms and the dressing was great.
The most amazing restaurant experience I’ve ever had is at a place called Gauchos here in Michigan. Gaucho’s is a Brazilian steakhouse and they bring skewers of meat (between 10-14 skewers of pretty much everything)to the table and carve slices off for you. You get to pick as few or as little as you want. Along with all this is a hot and cold bar with things I’ve never tried before, like hard boiled quail eggs. (Still couldn’t bring myself to eat one, but they looked pretty). But make sure you go hungry, it’s well worth it. Best part was our dinner companions. We took friends of the family along with us and laughed our way through the meal. Being surrounded by people you love beats out a good meal anyday, but Gaucho’s sure runs a close second.
The most amazing restaurant I have ever been to was the Olive Garden. The food was amazing and the people were very friendly.
The most amazing restaurant I have ever eaten at was Rose Angelis in Chicago. It is this little place, first come, first serve, owned by a guy who used to be a lawyer and then decided to open up a restaurant and became the chef. Mostly served homemade Italian from his family recipes. The tiramsu was fantastic, better even than some of the places in Italy! Can’t wait to go back!
The restaurant was Via Appia and it is in White Plains, NY. It has been many years, but I understand it is just as good as it ever was. My absolute favorite there is clams oreganato. They were perfect. I have yet to find another restaurant that makes them taste so good.
are we considering McD’s a resturant cause that what I got near me lol. when I take the long trip into an actual town I eat at Ryan’s cause I love their bread yum
meandi09@yahoo.com
I love Mom & Pop Restaurants because they serve the best food. There is a small Spanish Restaurant that my family and I have been going to for the last 30 years. I love the at home atmosphere and how welcoming the owners and all the regular patrons are to any newbie to the restaurant.
When I was 16 years old, my mother and a friend of the family took me up to seattle. I lived in Vancouver Washington, known as Portland Oregons bedroom, so going up north on a 3 hour drive was not an everyday or weekend thing. It was a treat. When we got up into the city, we checked in at a hotel, set our things down and walked the city. We visited small boutiques, cafes, book shops, the fish market, and the docks. We walked ALL day. So when we were almost finished with the day, I became dehydrated, so much in fact that my face was red, I was starting to become grumpy and anything would set me off. So when I finally called it quits, we happend to be standing outside this pub/tavern. There was a red velvet rope dividing the room in half. The bar had a few patrons and we were seated on the family side of the room.
The water itself set me off into a frenzy. They had these short glasses filled with water, ice and lemon that I was downing like there was no tomorrow. I probably went through five glasses of that water before our food arrived. I doubt I will ever forget this place because of the sandwich.
Now, im a sandwich girl, I worked a subway as my first job and loved every aspect of it. I order a sandwich everywhere we go and I can pretty much tell you that was the best sandwich of my entire life!
The Wheat bread had the perfect blend of all natural seattles best products blended into it and the southwest mayo set off the turkey, lettice, tomatoe and red onion perfect! My french fry’s were scarffed down and the meal made me a happy camper.
That was honestly the best trip I have taken in a long while, and that was the best meal I have ever had. Possibly the combonation of starving myself all day the walking around and becoming dehydrated had a large part to play, but that was honestly the best food I have ever had. I would love to go back there now that I can cross that red velvet rope and have a beer with the bartender. I would also love another sandwich.
The only sad part of this story, is the name. I have no idea what the pub/tavern was named, but if I could go back there and find it, I would eat there in a heart beat. However if it was gone, id probably choose this place in portland called McMenamins Kennedy School. There are all types of McMenamins around the Portland metro area, but something about their cajun tatter tots and their entire menue is just sheer awesome.
Anyway, hope you liked my brief encounter with the past and some yummy food. I hope I win!
Sincerely,
Jolene H
My favorite restaurant is Red Robin. The burgers are always good and the best thing about the place is that my soccer team gets together every night after our game and we have so much fun there. We have so many memories and great laughs. The wait staff all knows our group, they get fries ready for us immediately and they laugh along with us. It is always a fun time when we are there considering it is anywhere from a 8-15 group.
The best resturant I ever ate at, Was at the Sam Peck Hotel, in Little Rock, Akansas. I was treated to a dinner there by a friend that was a waiter there in celebration of the birth of my son, 33 years ago. They served the best crab cakes I have ever eaten, which is high praise for someone who uaually avoids sea food or fish not cooked by myself. I don’t eat out because I don’t generally like what other people cook. Resturants rely to heavily on spices that hide more flavor than they enhance, but I have found some that are very good at enhancing. Usually Asian resturants, since I have moved to the state of California, Like Woks.
Hubby and I just returned from a cruise, and the night we dined in the ship’s specialty restaurant was amazing. A true experience – excellent food, and first class service. The maitre’d, waiter and assistant waiter made the night one I’ll never forget!
My favorite local restaurant is Sakura. It’s Hibachi style and my boys love going there. When we ask them where they want to go for their birthday they always pick this restaurant!
On a visit to New Orleans (in 1987) we ate at “La Restaurant de la Tour Eiffel” which was originally located at the top of the Eiffel Tower in France.It was removed because the Army Corps of Engineers determined it was causing the tower to sag. It was dismantled and stored for a time in a New York City warehouse and was later erected on St. Charles Street in New Orleans. Everything within the restaurant came from the original location in the Eiffel Tower. Except for the Napoleons we had for dessert, none of us remembers much about the meal. This was the only Napoleon we ever had that was so flaky that when you put your fork to it, the fork went straight through without all the cream squishing out. Our group still mentions this whenever we see a Napoleon on the dessert tray at a restaurant. Sadly, the restaurant closed a few years after we ate there and we never learned if this piece of history was put in storage again or if it became just another shop for tourists.
My favorite restaurant would have to be Olive Garden in Greenville, SC. I prefer the one in Cherrydale b/c it is so family friendly. I have a 3 1/2 yr old son, and a 2 yr old daughter. Let me tell you the family friendly environment is top notch. My whole family loves the food there, and we don’t always get the same thing. We like to try new stuff. There is a waitress there named Sami, who treats us like gold. Not just us, but all her tables feel better b/c she waits on us. We only eat there every once in a while b/c a family of 4 has to eat on a budget. Anyway whether dieting or feeding my face, this is my favorite place to eat.
Ooh, tough one. With some places I like off the chain, particularly pizza places. But chain-wise I looove Chilis and Applebees is also good!
The most amazing rest. I’ve eaten at is Smolik’s. It’s a locally owned BBQ place in my small town. Everything they serve is mouth watering. My personal favorites are the pork ribs and cabbage. I don’t know what they do to that cabbage, but it is just sooo good. The owners and staff are so nice and even the cook comes out of the back to ask how I want my steak cooked when that’s what I order. I have to try not to go there everyday!
Two of my children live away from home now. When they come for a visit, they look forward to a trip to Smolik’s. (not mama’s cooking..LOL) Everyone should have a local rest. that is as good as Smolik’s!
I’ve traveled a bit and visited lots of restaurants that were touted as amazing places…but weren’t. Normally, I prefer to cook at home unless I can go to a place that has a special ambiance (could be decor or could be simply a sense of place that makes me want to spend time there) or one that prepares food I can’t fix at home or who does it much better.
That said, a favorite place is a second story vegetarian establishment on the quay in Cork City, Ireland. It’s just called The Co-op, and they do marvelous pizzas, leek pies, rhubarb crumbles and a variety of tasty ethnic dishes. Wood plank floors and high ceilings, paintings on the walls and tall windows overlooking the River Lee make this an absolute haven from the cares of the world. On every trip to Ireland, we make it a point to stop here, even to driving up from Rosscarbery to get take out to have at our farmhouse accommodation.
It’s not just the food (and I’m not a vegetarian!), which is exquisite and reasonably priced, but it imparts a mind/body experience that’s unique.
What a fun premise. Best of luck with sales.
And I’d love to win the gift certificate.
caroline@carolineclemmons.com
My favorite restaurant experience was this past summer when I spent a week with my 11 year old daughter in Killington, Vermont. We were out exploring one day and found the Cafe Provence in Brandon, VT. Every item was cooked to order and used fresh and (if possible) organic ingredients. Both of us were able to find something delicious to eat, and my daughter discovered chicken Caesar salads here. They have the best homemade salad dressing that contains a touch of lemon – DELICIOUS! They also have a bakery a block away from the restaurant and we just had to (wink wink) stop in and grab something to take home with us. Not only was the food great, but the staff was very friendly and made for a tremendous experience. My daughter and I still talk about this restaurant, and if it keeps us talking, I’m all for it!
Being from the South, I’ve never heard of the restaurant, CLAIM JUMPER, until I visited Las Vegas last year. I had the best pork tenderloin I’ve ever had with maple, apples, stuffing, and garlic mashed potatoes. I thought I’d died and gone to heaven. It’s been almost a year later and I think about that meal all the time. I love eating out and trying new places and menus–it’s just like life–you never know what you are going to get!
There are so many, but I like a traditional spot, the Outback. Love their Blooming Onion
and casual atmosphere…Happy Holidays…
It was in 2005 me and my husband went to Hawaii for a 2 wk trip. We were walking out to Waikki beach to eat at Dukes and we passed a Cheesecake Factory. We had never eaten at one before. Needless to say after we went once, we ended up there everynight. My husband still laughs because here we were in Hawaii and instead of trying new things we ate at the same place everynight. Now we go to them no matter what state we’re in. Awesome Restaurant!
One of the best restaurants I’ve eaten in is at the Sonoma-Mission Inn in Sonoma, California. I can’t even remember it’s name but it was superb.They have the best pizza and Italian food I’ve ever tasted. the ingredients were fresh and the wine was excellent…well, what can you expect, it is in the Napa Wine Country.
I live in a mostly rural area and the only chain restaurants we have are Culvers and Pizza Hut. I like Pizza Hut the best. They will always make the pizza the way I want it.
Dixie Crossroads in Titusville, Florida is a great restaurant. They have great seafood and good sized servings and a nice casual atmosphere. They are so popular that there is often a wait, but they have an outdoor fish pond where you can feed the fish while you wait.
The most amazing place I’ve eaten is outside Memphis, TN. It’s called Monell’s at Fitzgerald Manor. It has a set menu (different for each day of the week) and you pay by the person. The food is Southern comfort food, and while I’ll never be a fan of turnip greens or field peas, the rest was fabulous. Even my picky kids found something they could eat!
The best place I’ve ever eaten was a little fish place on Long Island. I don’t know that the food was all that (I don’t even think it is still around) but it was a place my grandmother and I would go when it was just us two. When there are 6 grandkids in the same house any alone time with Grandma was special.
I am a huge cheese fan, in fact, I feel if the world was covered with cheese, I would be a happy woman. Since there is no magical cheese land except in my dreams, I was not prepared for the restaurant my dear husband took me to called “The Melting Potâ€.
When we walked in this lovely place and we sat at our table when the waitress leaned over and turned the table on. I looked in bewilderment as she told us to sit back and let the magic happen. No truer words were ever spoken.
Smack dab in the middle of the table were burners and the table began to heat up. A big pot was brought out and and three cheese’s were put in the cauldron. After a few stirs and much anticipation the cheese melted to a warm goodness and a fondue was made,we began to dip our bread, veggies and apples. My mouth was in heaven as we consumed the Wisconsin Trio and to my shame and delight, that was not the best of the meal. But it was close.
If you could vision a child at Christmas dreaming of sugarplum fariys and Santa, well that was how I was feeling. Melted Cheese, a tray of dippable food. My goodness, to me that is nirvana! But as said that was not the best of it, oh no no no my dear reader.
After the waitress cleared our table she said to us, “Are you ready for desert?â€. I looked at my very full husband and we had one of our telepathic conversations. “Steve, a mere cheesecake slice would be nice and I know you love cake, shall we dare?†he looked at me and I saw “yes†all over his face, and that was then the waitress handed us another menu. Really what could top this I was thinking?
Two Words, Chocolate Fondue. Oh my goodness, I died and went to heaven. We chose the the Amaretto chocolate fondue, which was white chocolate and dark chocolate swirled with a flambé done right at the table. They brought us a tray of dippable morsels of bananas, strawberry’s, marshmallows, pound cake,cheesecake bites and rice crispy treats. We dipped and dipped until I could dip no more and by that I mean I licked the pot clean, and yes, I left nothing in the pot. I scrapped every bit of chocolate goodness out of it.
By far this was the most decadent feast I have ever had. This is not for the shy, this is for the adventurous and the hungry. And I promise if you try it, you will agree. One of the best places on earth!
I’d have to say the best restaraunt I’ve ever eaten at is The Jailhouse in Toronto. Cooked fresh by chefs, the meal was incredible. Chicken, over top of a medley of delicious root vegetables, simmered/reduced to pure heaven. An incredible soup to start with. And finishing off the meal…cinnamon ice cream – can you believe? and a flaky, fresh apple tart.
Made going to jail…worth it! 😉
While I was in the Army stationed in West Germany (way back when there was still a WEST Germany) the Enlisted Club on the post where I was stationed had a small restaurant attached to it. My all time favorite meal is T-Bone steak (med rare), baked potato (butter & sour cream) & hot buttered green beans. The chef always found the tenderest cuts of meat and cooked it to perfection. I was stationed there for four and a half years and every payday found me at the restaurant doors as soon as they opened for supper. Beat the mess hall food all hollow!
I ate at The Bay Cafe in Fort Walton Beach. The Chef is French and everything he prepares is wonderful. I especially remember the grouper and the French Silk Pie. I sat outside by the bay and watched the dolphin playing around the boats. It was great.
my favorite resturant is a local one in ballston spa NY it is called “The Factory” it is a family place alog with a peaceful bar the food is out of this world and a family of four can eat for a reasonable price and in the summer across the street they have a snack bar w/ a playground – my favorite food is this thanksgiving sandwich that you can get year around – two large slices of sourdough bread, with a special cranberry dressing, sliced turkey, stuffing and served with a side of warm turkey gravy and a veggie of your choice(or fries/chips)
Hi, The most amazing restraunt I have ever eat’n in was called The Pink Poodle. They have the best food, especially Prime Rib… mmmm. Anyways they are very polite aswell and its the first ‘romantic’ place my husband took me to. THey have the neatest antique doll collection in there waiting room also. Don’t let the name fool you, this place isn’t for the dogs, lol
The BEST restaurant I have eaten at is La Parrilla. By far, they are the greatest Mexican restaurant I have gone to. And believe my, I have been to PLENTY.
Not only is their staff awesome, but on the few occassions they have been busy and forgot to bring my Margarita to the table, they have given it to me for free. Score! Free alcohol!
My favorite meal was at the Adolphus Hotel in Dallas. The food was great, filet mignon was the main entree and it melted in my mouth. But I fell totally in love with their French Onion Soup. I have never found its equal. The hotel was very elegant and added to my enjoyment of the meal. Wine wasn’t bad either!!
Oddly enough the most amazing meal I ever had came from–believe it or not–an old drive-in restaurant from the 50’s–think American Graffiti and Happy Days. What is even more amazing is the fact that the meal was spaghetti.
The Pizza Palace in Knoxville Tennessee was opened by three brothers who immigrated from Greece-bought an old hamburger joint drive-in with speakers and starting serving the best pizza, spaghetti and Greek salad you’ve ever eaten. Once you’ve had their Secret Recipe spaghetti you not only never forget it…but you never stop craving it because it is has this incredible savory sauce that is unlike any other spaghetti sauce you’ve ever tasted.
I told my friends about it and where it was located and they laughed at me…until one of them saw it featured on the Food Network. The next time they made a trip up that way they stopped and tried it for themselves and not only brought me home a surprise family size batch; but also brought a couple of extra family size batches for themselves.
Smiles,
Teresa
My favorite restaurant… really, any time I can go somewhere with my husband and leave the kids at home, it’s an incredible experience. I love Mikata, though, It’s where we used to court.
the most amazing place I ever ate was a family run Italian place in the town I grew up in. Jules had the most amazing food, it came out on trenchers and the dishes all melted in your mouth. Everything was home made and perfectly cooked. the staff was also amazing, they were fantastic with families and besnt over backward for children . I recently found out that their next generation opened a place 2 hours south of me and yes I will be taking a road trip soon
My favorite place to go eat is IHOP!! Breakfast is my favorite meal and it doesn’t matter what time you go breakfast is served!
One of my all time favorite resturaunts is East Wind in Dallas, TX. It is a Vietnamese place that has the best brandy glazed salmon I have I have ever tasted! My dad got me hooked over 20 years ago. You get rice or pasta, salad or soup, a egg roll, a huge hunk a salmon, and desert all for a very reasonable price too. It is the best I have tried in several different states and about 6 countries. Not saying there isn’t better out there, but I just haven’t found it yet. I keep trying though hehe.
I love the Outback steakhouse, the steak is always great, its family friendly and the service is always top notch.
There are not a lot of great restaurants near where I live, so I will have to say that Outback Steakhouse is one of the best restaurants I have been to. The food is always delicious and I can always count on getting a great steak there.
The best place that I have ever been to dine was a little Italian resturant in Hells Kitchen in New York City. I was on a “red eye” shopping trip. We were looking for a place to eat and found this little gem. It was just a tiny place that sat about 25. The entire front of it opened up so it felt as if we were in a wonderful Italian cafe. The decor was all antiques. Truly lovely!!! One of the highlights of our trip!
The most amazing restaurant I’ve ever had the pleasure of enjoying is Emeril’s Delmonico’s Steak House in the Venetian Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada. The ambiance, service, wine and food were truly unbelievable. The Prime Rib, Shrimp Alfredo Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes and Emeril’s Banana Cream Pie were absolutely wonderful!
The most amazing restaurant I have ever eaten at was the Skylon Tower revolving restaurant in Niagara Falls, Canada. Not only was the view fantastic, but the food was exceptional. I still remember the sauteed mushrooms that were melt in your mouth delicious!
The best place I ever ate was a place in Hilo Hawaii. It was wide open with a breeze coming in the open windows. The food was somthing my taste buds never had,the fish, the fruits, the nuts, the drinks…everything was amazing. I hope to get back there someday and eat and enjoy the islands again.
This question was totally made for me.
New York: in Grand Central Terminal, the lower level, there is a Mexican restaurant. The name of said dining establishment evades me at the moment, but one cannot miss it.
I swear to god, they have THE BEST chicken quesadillas (it’s like pulled chicken, cheese, and lots of other delectable items that were made to give your mouth an orgasm).
My absolute favorite restaurant of all times has to be La Rosita’s it’s not a big chain but it has to be my most favorite restaurant. My husband and I have shared many meals there for our anniversaries or just because we actually get a night out together with out the kids :). The atmosphere is wonderful and the service is great. And the food is to die for. But if i had to chose a big chain It would be Chili’s it’s pretty good 🙂
My favorite restaurant is Tony D’s in New London Connecticut. They serve a certain number of meals an evening, the chef goes to the fish and butcher every morning to see what hits his fancy and become the days special. It’s an Italian restaurant with a Sinatra atmosphere and everything is made when you order so be ready to spend from start to finish about 2 hours. They bring out fresh made Focaccia Bread then we usually got the Calamari( it’s the only calamari that doesn’t taste like rubber) and a Gorgonzola Salad. My favorite main dish is the Rack of Lamb, I’ve only had it twice there, it’s rare for them to serve it. Then for desert the Cognac Pumpkin Cheesecake is to die for and one time I ordered cheesecake and it came nestled in a spun sugar Swan that was almost too beautiful to eat, it looked like a glass swan but it sure tasted good. If you’re lucky Tony will come out and serenade you at your table.
Zina
I have ate at a few great restaurants but I recently had the pleasure of eating at Alcatraz Brewing Co. in Indianapolis, Indiana and I have to say the food was delicious and the service was amazing!
The most amazing restaurant I have ever eaten at HAS to be a place in Leicester, MA called Castle Restaurant. My husband and I went there more than 20 years ago and boy, WHAT an experience! The outside looked like a castle, the service was 5 star, the food 5 star, and the rose I was presented lasted a week. There were waitstaff for your silverware, the wine, appetizers, water, main course and lastly dessert. The only one that was a repeat face was the wine steward and the appetizer/dessert waiter. I had never had wild boar, but I did that night. Being a new and young mom, I was greatly impressed to the point that 20 some years later, I still remember it fondly. It also be remembering the bill after….for 2 people, we spent over $160 BEFORE gratuity! Thank GOSH my husband work was paying for it, as a bonus for something great he had done.
The best restaurant i have ever eaten at was a T.G.I.Fridays that we passed while driving in New Jersey. We never eat out but this one time it was calling to us. The Sizzling Chicken and Shrimp from there is to DIE for!!! It’s spicy and tantalizing, the peppers are sweet and its covered in American and Mexican cheeses with mash potatoes that melt in your mouth…Mmmmm!!!!Delicioso!!!!
My favorite restarant experience was at The Melting Pot. It is so yummy and decadent. I especially love the dessert choices and the cheese fondue “appetizer”. My kids really enjoy that they “cook” their own food as well.
Recently my husband and I stopped in to have lunch in a Texas Roadhouse restaurant. The first thing you see upon coming in is a huge display cooler with 8, 12 and 16oz cuts of meat. Nicely marbled, no fat hunks. As it was lunch I ordered a Roadkill which is a chopped sirloin with a salad mashed potatoes. It was Heaven! Can’t wait to go back again!
I would love this gc.
St Elmo’s in IN… Me and my husband traveled to IN for a family reunion with his newly discovered biological mom. We went to St Elmo’s,(by limo no less) and it was the best tasting food EVER, the shrimp cocktail sauce had so much horseradish sauce it actually took your breath away. We may have been under the influence and that may have something to do with it… but we will never know.
Probably Cavagnaro’s, a local restaurant in Waycross, Georgia. They have amazing salads, seafood platters and Italian offerings.
Deidre
deidre_durance at hotmail dot com
It was the Melting pot on my 37th birthday…it was just a perfect night…weather, family, roses on the table, good wine and good food.
It’s not fancy but I LOVE Texas Roadhouse. The free rolls and butter they give you taste so good and the food tates wonderful and is reasonably priced! 🙂 A new place I tried was called SMokin Buns and it has some of the best BBQ I have ever had (and I live in the south!) 🙂 What a fun contest and book for that matter!!!
Kelly
kittykelly28 @ hotmail.com
In 2003, my daughter and I visited a tiny German village my family had left twelve generations earlier. No one spoke a word of English, but the sauerbraten! It melted in your mouth. I remember nothing of the rest of the meal, but that tender, scrumptious beef will remain with me forever.
Definitely the Enchantment in Sedona. Great food and a spectacular view of the red rocks. Plus wonderful service. I love it.
one of my favorite places 2 eat at is THE HOUSE of PIZZA. they have garlic bread that is the really great!the rest of the food is great 2, but the garlic bread is something 2 sink ur teeth in!
I have to say that P. F. Changs was the best restaurant! We decided for prom my Junior year that we would eat there and they gave us appitizers, dinner, drinks, and dessert for $10 a person and the food and service was EXCELLENT!!! There was like 24 of us all together and those waiters and waitresses were on it our glasses were never less than half and the way they handled bringing us the food was great. P. F. Changs is my pick for BEST RESTAURANT!!!!!!!!!!
I love this little family owed place in Richmond, VA called Brunnettis. It is mainly Italian and subs. You won’t find any burgers there but they have a killer philly chicken sub. It is so good that it is even good reheated the next day.
The most amazing restaurant I ever ate at was The Golden Apple in Omaha, NE. It was 25 years ago and my boyfriend (now husband) and I went there for a night out. The car broke down in the turning lane as we were turning in, our debt card was rejected (even though it was payday, and we had direct deposit). It was an embarrassing night that turned into something totally memorable. The Fondue was amazing, and the staff at the restaurant made everything wonderful and fun. I hope that the restaurant is still there and that one day my husband and I can go back.
I have to say..I love Texas Roadhouse! I went there on a first date..and I had the pork chops with loaded mashed potatoes and green beans with onions and bacon…omg! My date had the ribs with rice..well let me say..I didnt like ribs, until he let me have a bite of his and to say the least..we switched dinners..lol…the ribs are so tender the meat just falls off the bone! Its a good thing my date wasnt greedy!
A couple of years ago while on our only real vacation in Niagara Falls we stop at a tiny little diner which I can’t even remember the name of. The food was fantastic, huge portions and low prices which was great but the friendly smiles and service was the best!
I love Olive Garden and Red lobster ,Why because of there great food,The salad at Olive Garden is wonderful and the chedder buns at Red lobster are out of this world.. Cathy
MINE WAS APPLEBBE’S. HAVING LUNCH WITH MY DAUGHTER, WE DRANK MUDSLIDES AND IT WAS A GOOD THING WALMART WAS NEXT DOOR, SO WE SHOP TO SOBER UP BEFORE DRIVING HOME
It would have to be the Briarwood Inn in Golden, Colorado. It was so fancy I had to wear a skirt, which is totally something I sooooo do not do. My boyfriend, Eric said that we were going to a “work party” and all the bosses were going to be there so here I was looking my nicest. Only to get there to find out it was just the to of us. The food was melt in you mouth AMAZING! Beef wellington with wine sauce,the beef you could cut with your fork…mmmm so good. The staff were umber sweet just so kind, we had a bottle of Colorado wine and a chef made dessert that I honestly remember as this fruit with sauce that was just balance with enough sweetness to make you go insane and want more. I sooooo want to go back!!!!!!!
Imagine an all-you-can-eat buffet that comes to your table. There are a few restaurants, like the Gaucho in Tulsa, that are Brazilian BBQs. They serve the sides (fried plantains, collard greens, etc.) family style. Each person has a card with red on one side and green on the other, in addition to a plate and some small tongs. The smells hit before you ever see the first skewer of meat – which gets your taste buds salivating. Then you get to sample meat after meat of rotisarie meat: pork loin, BBQ chicken, filet mignon, top sirloin, and the list goes on. As long as the green side of your card is showing, the meats appear. It is an amazing dining experience, but worth the money for a special occasion because everything is delicious. It kind of makes me want to same more Brazilian fare!
It was the Melting Pot. We went there for our anniversary. I love chocolate and this place was amazing. All 3 courses were fantastic. We even brought home a bottle of the seasoning. The staff went around and took pictures and it was in our e-mail before we even left.
The best meal I had was at a restaurant that is now closed. It is the closest that I have come to a very fine dining experience. The food was wonderful and best of all…I did not have to pay for it.
My favorite restaurant is Texas Roadhouse. I love the rolls & butter & eat so much of it that I forget about the main course and dessert.
I am between two restaurants for my favorite dining experience. Either Benihana’s for good Japanese hibachi grill. The food and the atmosphere were great. And the other is Brio. My hubby and i have been there twice and the food and atmosphere were both wonderful.
Hi Lynsay I love so much your books, ALL of THEM!
I have to say the local Happy Restaurant is my favourite place for a meal. Its dishes are Oriental and presented with a special Hochiew style.
This is very simple, but about 14 years ago I went to Italy w/my sister to meet my brother who was living there. He took us off the beaten path in Venice to this small little family restaurant the first night we were there. My sister and I were starving and both ordered a plate of pasta. My brother ordered like 4 courses w/o saying a word to us. Ten minutes or so later, us two girls each get this small plate of the most awesome pasta we ever had, we eat it, and are still starving while my brother eats all his courses as they come. He says, “You should’ve ordered more.”
We ‘yelled’ at him for not advising us how it works in a country he’d been living in for a few months while we’d just arrived. For the life of me, I don’t know why we didn’t just order more at that point… maybe it was rude??? No clue, but boy do I remember that delicious alfredo pasta. Mmmmmmm!
Another night he took us to an authentic Italian seafood restaurant…but that meal was memorable for the eyeballs still attached to our food, not how good it was. LOL
Me and my family ate at Olive Garden a few months ago and it. was. fantastic. Seriously. Breadsticks? To die for. And there Fettuccine Alfredo? Guh. Don’t even get me started on that piece of heaven. For real. That’s the stuff love poems are written about.
when I went to New Orleans many yrs ago, we went to Brennans and even though I’m not used to paying for each entree lol, the food was very tasty and it was a great experience.
Best place I ate at is a little place called Hilda’s in the town I live in. It was so good because it is like mama’s cooking. And the owner Hilda comes out and makes you feel at home. I love that place, plus she has really good mac and cheese 🙂
The best restaurant was my own home. I had been married for almost a year and my husband was in the service over in Germany, we spent the day of our anniversary traveling by train to his duty station. When we got there, all of the restaurants were closed, along with all of the stores; in this particular town, things aren’t open on Sundays. I was just too tired to care about eating but my husband decided to find something, he came home with MRE’s (meals ready to eat) that he found at the barracks. Not the tastiest meal but the fact he went out to look for something meant more to me! Too bad our marriage didn’t last but that act of kindness still stays with me.
When I first moved to Geneva, Switzerland, my husband and I couldn’t find anywhere reasonably priced to eat. That first week we walked around for hours looking for the nearest McDos because we didn’t have any furniture or appliances yet. That weekend we came upon this little neighbourhood restaurant called Dario’s. Dario, the owner, had a chef that hand made the most beautiful, tasty spinach ravioli with a shrimp and tomato sauce. The dessert was a tiramisu that I can still taste, years after that first experience. It melted in my mouth like toffee and tasted like coffee and pleasure.
i love all her books they rock……. keep them coming…….. if you havent read them then boy u r missing out….. love lynsay sands. love loved love…..
My favorite restaurant is Bern’s Steakhouse. They have awesome steaks and great atmosphere.
My best place was a basement Chinese restaurant called Hong Ying’s in NYC. Unfortunately the owner retired and they closed. They had dishes on the menu that I’ve never seen anywhere else. And the food was really good and the prices were really low.
I love food; the more exotic, the better. One of the most surprising finds is Appleseed Crepes in Burlington, MA, at the Burlington Mall food court. We’ve been customers of theirs since they opened, over ten years ago, and we were able to sample a few items not found on their current menu. Most notable: the Kyoto, filled with sweet red bean paste, whipped cream, honey, and coconut ice cream. The owners like to experiment with flavors, love to see people enjoy their food, and are extremely friendly. My husband and I were very happy to be their test subjects in their early years, especially when the couple brought in Korean BBQ or spicy tuna.
The people to whom I’ve suggested this creperie are surprised to find world-class, high-quality crepes at a mall kiosk. These are the softest, most savory crepes I’ve ever had. Their fillings range from bananas and nutella to philly cheesesteak or greek salad-stuffed crepes. Each crepe is very filling. They also offer paninis and bubble tea. Affordable, delicious, and a healthy alternative to fast food. If you are ever in the Boston area and need a quick bite, they are conveniently located on I-95.
My favorite restaurant which sadly closed, was called Einsteins. They had the biggest and best wings ever along with real homemade fries. But my favorite dish was their Andirondak pasta–red onion, chicken, peppers, peameal bacon and tons of yumminess poured over some noodles. I still drool thinking of it…
we love Mexican food and a small place in a town near us has the best. of course we fill up on chips and salsa, homemade and delicious, before the food ever gets there.
The most fascinating and tastiest place I ever ate was at a small restaurant in Rome that was built over the first ever synagogue. It was a family-owned place and we had a delightful time chatting with the owners during the course of the suburb meal. Then at one point, when I mentioned that I had researched the restaurant for a book, the owner let my daughter and me walk down the stairs to the original foundations of the building. He said that “each step down represented a century of time” and he wasn’t kidding. Loved every bite and every bit of history.
Favorite place to eat? That’s hard 🙂 There was a place in Auburn Hills that was amazing- Bistro Bourdeau but they closed and moved to Florida (as most MI people do when they get sick and tired of the cold;-) All of their food was mouth watering good.
I think my current fave place is Salvatore Scallopini’s in Flint. They have the best marinara and olive oil dipping sauce for bread and their menu is authentic old school Italian which my half Italian husband adores. He says it’s the closest he’s ever come to eating food from his childhood. I know I haven’t been disappointed in their food ever.
I love the title Hungry For You! So perfect.
My favorite dining experience? Well it wasn’t at the Italian restaurant last night!
Everything was going well. I’d had a glass of wine, cup of soup, and had started in on the entree.
Suddenly a bus-person dropped her tray right next to me. Water, ice and glass hit me. Yes, someone’s full glass of ice water smashed and got me good. No cuts or bruises, I came out of it with drenched pant legs and little else.
When the waiter brought the check he handed the bill to my hubby and a survey to me. I handed it back to him and said, “I don’t think you want me to fill this out.”
The most amazing restaurant I ever ate at, was a small diner like place called Rib It Up in Birmingham AL. I haven’t been in almost twelve years, but I still remember when me and some old friends stopped there. It had the most amazing barbecue and collared greens.
My favorite restaurant would have to be BD’s Mongolian BBQ at Easton. We always have so much fun when we go. The people who cook your food in front of you really know how to put on a show. They are always either singing and dancing or telling some jokes. You can also ring the gong if you like your meal.
My favorite dining experience was and is at Kobe Steakhouse. I love how the authentic Japanese chefs prepare the food in front of you on a large grill. The food tastes great and I always have a good time because of the atmosphere which invites everyone to be friendly and happy. Their bar makes some really great cocktails too:)
I would have to say, one of our favorite places is P.f Changs. It is the most unbeliveable place! We love the atmosphere. The food is amazing and the satisfaction after a great meal is one of a kind. The staff is always caring and attentive, they always share in our fun. I love this place!
Thanks for the chance to win a fantastic prize!
I love to eat out and I’d have to say that a small Italian restaurant, Scalinis, is my favorite. Pasta is a mainstay of course but their salad and rolls are to die for. They have a rumor floating around that if pregnant women eat their eggplant they go into labor. They used to have curtains on the booths for romantic privacy- love it!
robert_pam@yahoo.com
We had a local Chinese restaurant that made the most amazingly complex Hunan and Szechuan sauces for beef and chicken. Sadly, they are under new ownership and the recipes have changed so we’re looking for a replacement.
We have eaten at many great restaurants over the years. I have 2 experiences that were wonderful. Unfortunately one of the places is gone and the other I can’t remember the name of. The out of business one was in Garden City Idaho, a small family run Basque restaurant that had melt in your mouth lamp dished. (Went there with the family the evening after our wedding.) The other one was a wonderful Persian/Middle Eastern cafe with outdoor dining in downtown Boston, MA. The rice dishes were incredible and I have been trying to find the recipes for them ever since.
I don’t know the name of the restaurant. We was in Michigan for my uncle’s funeral and it was by the hotel. They had the most amazing food. They baked their own bread for the french toast and they gave you a lot of food. I had to end up giving some to one of my uncles cause it was just too much to eat.
There are so many good places, but if I have to pick one I’ll say it’s Wild Fire in Atlanta. I and some girlfriends went there for dinner one night. We chose the family-style menu and gorged on delicious appetizers, mashed potatoes, chicken, steak, and vegetables. Everything was rich in flavor and cooked to perfection.
At the end of the meal, I could only eat a few bites of the moistest, richest, triple layer chocolate cake I’ve ever had. But it made a good midnight snack the next night!
THE RICE BOWL, in Riverside, California in the early 1950’s. We lived about a fifteen minute drive in another town. Once or twice a month Mom and Dad took us there. We went in and said, “hello” to the owners and were seated. The more people who were there the more dishes were added so we usually had other friends with us. Egg drop soup was totally different than today’s places. It was broth with a small amount of egg and it spread out and wasn’t thick. All the dishes were wonderful. The son and his father had started the resturant years before we found it. The grandson was now working with them.
Grandfather had a corner with all kinds of Chinese items for sale,in his gift shop. It was marvelous to see it all. We had to wait until we had eaten before we could go looking there. If the resturant was not busy he would come and sit and talk with us. His son came out of the kitchen and talked too. Grandfather always gave me a umbrella like they stick in drinks. A bag of chinese noodles was always sent home with us. It usually got eaten on the drive,
One day we came and Grandfather told us he was “leaving for China. It was time to die and he had to be home for that.”
He had loved America. But had to be in China before dying! He didn’t look sick or act like he was sick. A few weeks after arriving in China he did die. His son said, “it was his time.” We were very sad to lose Grandfather, from our sight. We continued enjoying the food there for several more years. The People were the importance of THE RICE BOWL in my memory.
I love going to the Olive Garden and having the soup and salad and breadsticks. Last time my daughter had the pizza and that was awesome.
katsrus(at)gmail(dot)com
This may sound totally crazy, but I absolutely adore cheeseburgers, so when I visited Fuddruckers for the first time I was literally in hamburger heaven! Yummy!
My favorite meal is garlic/alfredo bow tie pasta with portobello mushrooms and strips of med-rare steak on top. It’s on the menu at a local restaurant in my hometown and sssssooooo yummy. It’s my favorite place because no matter how bad my day is, I can go there where everybody is so nice and eat this dish that brings me out of my sadness.
I ate at a restaurant named Butter in NYC and loved it. The food was amazing. A bit pricey but large portions. I almost didn’t have room for dessert LOL but I somehow managed the chocolate cake.
We keep losing our Mexican Restaurant. here! My favorite was Chi Chi’s and their 3 Cheese enchiladas! Now we found our favorite Mexican Restaurant called GRANDMA MORA’S and oh, the enchiladas are great! And they have the best of the tortilla chips and salsa to start out with. I so need to go there soon now with all this chat!
I’m Hungry for I’M HUNGRY FOR YOU too!
Love this series!!
cathiecaffey @ gmail.com
I love Red Rock Canyon Grill. They have the best rotisserie chicken, carrots, bbq ribs and mashed red potatoes. The best!
For me a good meal out is about the atmosphere as much as it is about the food. Taking my daughters into the Hard Rock Cafe for the first time is definitely one of the most memorable. Their food is always excellent, but seeing the looks on the girls’ faces as they tried to look everywhere at once was priceless.
Ok I may sound realy crazy here but I cant get enough of Waffle House Bacon egg and cheese on texas toast with hashbrowns scattered smothered and chunked( diced tomatos)mmmmmmmm
I’d love to win a Gift Cert. to Long Horn Steakhouse!! They have everything anyone could want. My Husband loves there steaks, whole I love thier salad and homemade dressing and their chicken dishes. I’d be so thrilled to win this contest and get to eat there a lot!!! The waitress’s are the greatest!!!
I like this Italian restaurant called Palermo’s. Their lasagna and chicken parmagiana are amazing. I like to order the chicken parm with alfredo sauce on the pasta.
honetsly id have to say my fav place to eat and its so awesome is Lamberts ‘the Home of the Tossed Rolls’ simply why the foods awesomely delicious and they literlaly toss rolls at your table which is awesomely fun as well I really dont go to many fancy places with 5 neice sand nephews that live with you that gets squashed for chicken nuggets and cheese burgers but i adore lamberts its a great family resteraunt
I was in New Orleans at 3:45 AM starving and finding nothing to eat I hadn’t had already in the last few days when Fiesta said they would deliver.They may have a name for tacos and burritos but they have the most awesome pizza in the world.Too hot to eat when it arrived I couldn’t believe the pizza or my luck.So when in New Orleans sure taste all they have to offer but Eat and Enjoy the one and only Fiesta Pizza!!!
My favorite place to eat is Famous Dave’s. An All American Feast for two gets you choices of ribs, chicken, brisket, steak fries, ear of corn, corn muffins, cole slaw and beans. And it all comes out in a garbage can lid! The Feast for four or more has an even bigger lid.
The most amazing restaurant I have ever eaten at was Roys on Oahu, Hawai’i. It was amazing for many reasons…1), it was the first nice restaurant my husband and I went to. 2), the food was delicious, wonderful seafood. 3) the chocolate souffle…OH MY WOW!!! This was the BEST dessert I have ever had, bar none. It is amazing! 🙂
My favorite ever restaurant was a little place called The Buggy Whip in Sacramento, CA — I don’t even know if it’s there anymore. But, years ago my dad would take me and they had amazing food, but the best was the melt-in-your-mouth steak they had. Clearly it impressed me, because that was 30 years ago, and I still remember it!
Me & My daughters favorite place to eat is Long Horn Steak House. She sit in the same spot every afternoon we go and have the same waitress who is so kind she gives us free drinks because we’ve been going there so long! The food is amazing, My daughter sticks with a few favorite foods which she gets everytime and I like to mix it up from chicken to seafood and they have a wonderful starter called Firecracker Chicken Wraps. They are tiny wraps filled with the best tasting filling and they are deep fried. They are hot, a little spicy and delicious. Thanks for this great giveaway!!
My Favorite place to eat is Long Horn Steakhouse, but I don’t get to eat there often enough. With $250.00 I could even afford a drink from the bar and I could make about 4 or 5 trips on that much!! That would be Amazing!!! My Husband loves there Steak dinners, I love their LongHorn Shrimp & Lobster Dip as an appetizer. And love their Honey Mustard salad dressing and dipping sauce for Chicken Tenders. YUM!!!
I hope your suppose to enter each day for 5 days, if I’m wrong someone please let me know. Thank you! and for the awesome contest too!
We go to Disney World a lot and when my children were small, my husband and I treated them to eating in Cinderella Castle. The food was fair but it was the excitement of seeing my daughter with dreams in her eyes of being a real princess. Cinderella was walking around the resturant and stopped by our table to spend time with each kid. It was a memorable moment.
Oh this is a hard one I love a couple of different restaurants. There is Ruby Tuesdays. They use to have to best filet minion. Everything I have eaten there is great. Then there is a local seafood restaurant called The Calabash. Great food with great portions. Then there is the Outback Stake House. Gotta love the blooming onion.
Growing up we would eat at a place called Fireside. It was such a great place and the food was always delicious. I don’t live in that area anymore so unsure if it’s still there or not.
My favorite all time place was Chris’s Pizza in Atlanta. This was 18 yrs ago I do not think it is still there. I was a little hole in the wall kind of place. By the name you would never guess that it was a greek restaurant. They had the best food and the murals on the walls were beautiful.
About 30 years ago we ate at a little French restaurant called The South of France and it was a magical experience. I can’t even remember everything I had, but I do remember the escargot appetizer and the heavenly souffles we had for dessert. It was the perfect combination of atmosphere, food and dining companions.
One of my fav places to eat is Tusker House in Disney World’s Animal Kingdom. I love the Morrocan and African blend foods.
Christmas shopping at Yankee Candle’s flagship store always gives me a hankering for BBQ, which sounds strange. Truly strange is that the restaurant I want to go to, one which serves “authentic Southern BBQ”, is located in the New England town of Sunderland, Massachusetts. (Very close to the very New England town of Amherst, where poet, Emily Dickenson, once lived.)
Bub’s BBQ (www.bubsbbq.com)isn’t fancy. In fact, their slogan, “Pig Out in Style” is complimented by the big wooden pig on the front lawn by the dirt driveway. The restaurant itself appears to be nothing more than a tacky shack and seat-yourself patrons eat at wooden booths with a single roll of paper towels on each table.
But the rough paneled walls hold framed restaurant reviews, newspaper clippings and articles (New York Times, “Best BBQ in New England”). Diners can read the many rave reviews while they listen to their selections on the jukebox,and savor their sweet, pulled pork sandwiches, black-eyed corn and spicy dirty rice. You see, the owners of Bub’s don’t concentrate on fancy atmosphere. At Bub’s, it’s all about the food. Like the bbq babyback ribs (which of course, fall off the bone and melt in your mouth), succulent spare ribs, and–for the adventurous eater–fried gator tail. (No, I’ve never tried it. As a rule, I don’t eat reptiles.)
The molasses and spice smells, the warm, sweet sauce and the comfort of a full stomach are all the atmosphere a person needs after a day of Christmas shopping.
I’m not going to be able to remember the name, but I visited Scotland several years ago with a friend and we stayed in a bed and breakfast above a Pub. We ate there a couple times and they had the most delicious goat cheese and fruit dish that left me craving it ever since! What can I say . . . atmosphere – pub in Scotland . . . delicious food . . . great company . . . could anything be better?
Oh, my! Sadly, my favorite restaurant, The Sunnybrook Inn (Roanoke, VA)is no longer in business. However, the memories of wonderful food and a warm, charming atmosphere live on! Located high on a hill, in a lovely old Victorian painted a friendly yellow gold, The Sunnybrook Inn always lived up to its name. The Sunday buffet was a thing of glory! Baked ham, roast beef, fried chicken, roasted turkey, and other entrees. Homestyle vegetables and fresh made bread and rolls. The desserts–oh, lordy–the desserts deserve their own blog post! They were most famous for their Hummingbird Cake and Peanut Butter Pie. On Sundays, the buffet also included all the desserts, all you could eat! When you walked through the front door, there was always someone right there to greet you with a genuine smile. They made you feel glad you came, not just for the fantastic food, but for the true Southern Hospitality!
One of the best places we have ever eaten was very casual and fun..Hillbilly Hot Dogs, It is in Huntington, WV. We went on a short trip there on our Harley and friends recommended it. The food was great and the atmosphere was awesome. So much fun, dinning room was a school bus….
I’m sure that there are many wonderful, out of the way little restaurants that have exotic and fantastic foods, but for me the best is always Applebee’s. I know, I know it’s ordinary, fairly inexpensive and widely known but it has the one food item that I will never get tired of. BLONDIES!!!! I can’t imagine anything better.
Long Horn Steakhouse is the best place to eat and the atmosphere is nice too. I’d so love to win $250.00 Gift Cert to there. My Hubby and I love the food, we use to go more often, it’s a little bit of a drive, but we don’t mind when going there, but it does get expensive so $250.00 would wow be more than I have ever won. And I love it even more because I can’t use it on books like my other GC wins. Hubby and I will get quite a few dates out of that. I so hope I win, But good Luck everyone!
My wife told me about this great contest and I had to enter myself too. But I have to agree Long Horn steakhouse is the greatest place to eat, nice, big juicy steaks, Great starters and great salads too because they have the best home made honey Mustard dressing.
Thank you.
My best friend and I love Captain D’s but we don’t have one close anymore.
But I guess we could make the trip since it would be free food and we could go a lot since we usually spend just $10 to $12 a piece. If it’s ok after I talk to my BF she might like to choose something else. If that’s ok, and if we win even.
But we love Captain D’s because they have the best fried foods, their Chicken with their wonderful, Like no other Sweet and sour sauce!! We also sometimes watch our diets and get the grilled ckn over rice and it’s so good, better than I can make at home. And we never leave with out sharing a box of cheese sticks, with the best dipping honey mustard. Oh I can’t forget the best hush puppies too, so much better than Long John Silver’s!!
Thank you, Tina
The best place I’ve had dinner at was a restaurant in RI called Meritage. Food was great, service impecable, the restaurant itself, beautiful and the desserts to die for!
There is a restaurant on Navy Pier in Chicago called Riva. From its many bay windows you can see the Chicago skyline lit up and the stretch of Lake Michigan. Looking back down the pier itself, there is a ferris wheel spinning, lit like a Christmas tree with lights as it spins against the backdrop of the city and the sun setting behind it…
The food is simply amazing… Melt in your mouth goodies and for dessert? Death by chocolate with sticks of chocolate shavings perched elegantly on the top. Wash it all down with a Baileys and coffee and it really doesn’t get better than that 🙂
The melting pot.
Not only was it an experience, but the food was delicious. You really need about two hours to enjoy it though. No quick meals there!
zenfoxflowerATyahooDOTcom
Thanks for the giveaway!
The best restaurant I have eaten at was Arnols in Bracy Va. An amazing hamburger, onion rings and french fries. Also just like Happy Days even with the jukebox on the tables with a quarter, you can pick any old song of the 60’s. My son surprized me with this after my husband of 36 years died.WOW! The memories of my first years with my husband at a drive-In like this.
WOOHOO, What a great prize. I can’t wait for my book to get here! Have a great holiday everyone. My favorite place is The Outback Steakhouse, and a little chinese restaurant called the Golden Star.
I forgot….it’s my favorite because the steak is so yummy. I can never get ours cooked right.
I was fortunate enough to be able to eat at Emeril’s in New Orleans. It was a real treat since i don’t eat out much anymore. I’ve never before or since eaten food with so much flavor! It was simply porkchops and salad but for the first time i understood what ‘layers of flavors’ really meant. And creme brule. There are no words to describe how good it was. At 50 years old i found it is never too late to have a new fun and favorite experiences!
I would have to say that my favorite restaurant would be hard to choose, but I have narrowed it down to 2. The first is in Rutherford California on highway 29 it’s called Rutherford Grill! The food is fantastic, the chicken is their specialty but no matter what dish you order, you will be thrilled. Great setting and during the summer you can sit outside and enjoy the view. Next would be in beautiful San Francisco, California and it s called Scomas. It is tucked back at Fishermns Wharf, but if you want great service and fabulous seafood, this is the place! Enjoy!
Sorry about the typo of Arnolds.
Mexicali Rosas. The enchiladas suisas are the most delicious I’ve ever had and the restaurant is just beautiful. Every time I go I pray for a blackout so I can get away with stealing half the decor!
We frequently visit my son, who lives in Indianapolis, IN. One of our all time favorite treats is to dine at PF Changs. Their are tons great steak, seafood and Italian resturants in Indiana (gasp, but it’s true!),great but Chinese and Japanese food is hard to come by. One of my favorite times was when we celebrated andrew’s graduation from IUPU (Purdue University at Indianapolis). We did the full dining experience from appitizers, thru main course and on to dessert.
I love Olive Garden- seafood pasta Yummy!!!!!
I was going to say Olive Garden and talk about all the yummy bread sticks and salad, but I totally forgot about this amazing place in Washington that’s located around the seattle area. Anthony’s, soooo good. The best seafood where the salmon is honestly the best I’ve ever eaten and the steak melts in your mouth. Making me homesick just thinking about it
We celebrated my husband’s 50th birthday at the GROVE PARK INN in Asheville, NC. It is an historic inn with wonderful architectural details. They have a fantastic buffet. We went to the weekend dinner buffet. It had the classic meats and main dishes, a wide variety of side dishes, extensive salad offerings, and a wonderful dessert table. The atmosphere is elegant and unhurried. Our young grandson’s were in awe and were actually on their best behavior for the whole long dinner. This was 13 years ago, but when we first read this post, we both immediately came up with this for the answer. There is another place that has opened in Asheville, The Inn on Biltmore Estates, but we have not yet tried it.
The most memorable and best restaurant I’ve ever eaten in is Bern’s steak house located right here in Tampa. Just walking in you get the sense you’ve traveled back in time and could imagine that dracula, himself, may have once graced the place with his presence. I’m not familiar with building or decorating styles, but I imagine the place has a gothic type feel. The lights are dimmed and there are gilded chandeliers and everything just cries out old and classy. It’s one of the few places you can go in Tampa that has a basement and it is being used as a wine cellar with wines dating back…. well years. The other unique thing about this restaurant is there is a separate portion for eating deserts. It was not just a meal, but a dining experience that I wish I could share with everyone who read this.
Oh, I almost forgot to mention the food is incredible. I had a steak that I swear just melted in my mouth. Others around me ate fish and even that looked scrumptious and I don’t even like seafood. 🙂 Everything was delicious. The deserts were decadent and yummy making me wish I could steal the recipes as i doubted they’d be willing to share. They even had a homemade ice cream. Darn. After giving this review I so want to go back there and eat again.
With the atmosphere and ambiance this place project it could inspire a person to write a book. So if you’re ever in Tampa you should really check this restaurant out. I’m positive you won’t regret it.
Years ago when I was in New Orleans I ate at Nolas.I had the Salmon bisque and a fried okra salad, I dreamt about the food it was so extrordinary.Granted most places in New Orleans could be on this list.
My wife and I were just discussing her answer. The Grove Park Inn was the most elegant and atmospheric meal we have had. More recently, we had a pleasant surprise when we were in CT for a wedding. We found Rein’s New York Style Deli in Vernon, CT. We both had a Ruben and cheesecake. We now live in the South and had been craving good deli fare. We hadn’t enjoyed a meal as much in a long time. No fancy atmosphere, but great food at a reasonable price and that is what counts.
I love Olive Garden & Red Lobster ! Why you ask is because I met my Husband and that’s where he took me on are firsts dates,and because OF has the most wonderful food and salads & bread sticks, Now RL has Great cheese and garlic buns,and Lobster Yumo ! We have been going to them ever since. I also love Red Lobster because when I was in foster homes when I got visits from my dad he would take me there on are visits it was wonderful! I lost him six years back and it still brings a smile to my face when II go cause I think how happy it made us 🙂
Good Luck to All who enter and to All have a Wonderful Christmas and New Year !
Oh, O’Charley’s used to have this AWESOME chicken ~~ lemon artichoke chicken, and I swear it is the BEST meal I’ve ever eaten out, EVAH!! I keep waiting for them to have it again ~~ and oh, their rolls!! And Rafferty’s has this hot honey mustard house dressing for their salads that is out of this world!! LOL, now you’ve got me wanting to go out to eat!!!
My favorite restaurant in the entire world is Carabbas. Their food literally melts in your mouth and it’s incredible!
A small Mexican Restaurant just outside San Antonio, TX. Can’t spell the name. The owner does all the cooking, & it’s delicious. We moved 5 yrs. ago, & I still have never found my favorite dish again.
My favorite restaurant is ed Lobster. I love seafood and the food is always fresh and resonable priced. But I ate at a great place outside Orlando called Seasons 52. They are a fresh grill. They have a weekly special and they change the menus with the seasons. The food was amazing and everything is under 500 calories! I had wood fire-grilled salmon with veggies, a deliciocu salad with a white wine vinegrette, stuffed mushrooms, and a deliciously sweet shiraz!I am posting a link to share. I found out one is opening near me in Tampa, so I am excited to share with friends!
http://www.seasons52.com/menu/default.asp
Well on my birthday this year they took me to a restaurant called TEXAS ROADHOUSE. The prime rib was to die for!! They had two sizes of steaks and all the fixin’s. I would really love to go back there.
Can’t wait to read the new book!!!
I’ve never seen so many responses for one blog. just goes to show we’re all hungry, me for Chinese. my favorite place is a Chinese buffet near us. I always over eat too and am miserable for hours after wards.
I love Olive Garden. It is a place where the whole family can meet up and eat.
This is sad but I feel blessed in so many ways too. My husband Ron and my 2 girls would go to Daninel’s in Hamburg New York. Every year one of my good friends would give us a gift card to this restaurant. (We never could have gone if not) It was wonderful to go to a very fine restaurant and dine (so different then get in get out restaurants). So each Christmas Eve we would go and eat wonderful food all dressed up and use our very best manners. This past July I lost Ron to cancer. And the Holiday’s are here and I will take my girls alone but we will be happy for all the happy Christmases past. Thank you for letting me share this memory with you.
APPLEBEE’S, THEY HAVE GREAT FOOD AND HUGE DRINK’S!
CHILI’S NOT BAD AND LOVE THOSE RIBS!!
My favorite restaurant and meal was
the Christmas Eve buffet at Kincaid’s in
Minneapolis, MN. They had prime rib and the
atmosphere was elegant and romantic.
When we moved away that was the one thing
I really missed!
Nothing ever came close!
RED LOBSTER, LOVE PORTIONS AND SERVICE, BUT STAY AWAY FROM PINK LEMONADE AS IT’LL GET YOU TIPSEY!!
My favorite place is eat is olive garden, They have a lot of differnt salads and lunches.
My favorite restaurant is Japanica in Middletown, CT, for its wonderful sushi. It tastes wonderful without weighing you down, so you leave feeling yummy, satisfied, and light as a feather.
Actually I’ve changed my mind. My favorite restaurant is Flanders Fish Market and Restaurant in Flanders, CT. Every single meal of theirs is absolutely scrumpious. The taste is wonderful without feeling heavy. I dream about their lobster.
I have to agree – Carrabas – we have 2 near us and they such delcious food. We like to go on off hours to beat the crowds.
Whoops, mistyped my email – it is gmapeony not gmapeomy, etc.
Wow what a fantastic cover! I love it. The best restaurant I’ve ever eaten at is Olive Garden. They have the best salads (that I don’t have to make myself) and Italian food ever! The restaurant is homey and comfortable and you can enjoy a great meal and good conversation. Not to mention some fantastic cocktails *(Wink)*. THanks for the giveaway I can’t wait to read the book.
~BK
That would have to be the neighborhood restaurant from our trip to Paris, France a couple of years ago. It was simplely called Face au Square, but if not in the little neighborhood, one would never find it. And the food was out of this world! not just one dish either, but almost all of it! Being a plain, middle-American, i had never had lamb Ii liked or duck that made me actually want to eat it over reg food… And the one time I had room of desert… Ok, I have to stop now or I will get upset that we can’t go back soon. But that was the best food I have ever eaten in my life!
For a national chain, our local Olive Garden puts together some nice specials that have good flavors (and lots of cheese, which I love).
vickykerr[at]sbcglobal.net
My favorite place to eat is Texas Roadhouse and luckily it is for my whole family!
Wow what a great cover Lynsay. I love it. The greatest restaurant ever is Olive Garden. They have the BEST salads and Italian food (that I don’t have to make lol) in the world. The atmosphere is wonderful, comfortable, to enjoy a great meal and great conversation. Not to mention some pretty fab cocktails (*wink*). Thanks for this great contest. Wishing you much success.
Cheers,
~BK
You got two comments by accident. My computer froze and then sent both comments. SOrry. Please post the last one unless you already posted first. Ok whichever is fine lol. Have a great day!
My favorite restuarant is one in Hampton, TN called Shirley’s. Its only open about 6 months a year and it has the best sit down meals. It is a family style restuarant where you pick the meat you want and the veggies and they bring them out to you in bowls. The food is awesome and it tastes just like my grandmother’s. Its homecooking at its best.
Red Robin…they have the best burgers ever. And it offers a family friendly environment, I like that.
Wow…just think of how many burgers we can eat with $250!!!
Thanks for this opportunity…my fingers are crossed.
My favorite place to eat is Outback Steakhouse.
There food is wonderful.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone.
I think I’d have to say my favourite restaurant to date, would be the buffet at a Jamaican resort I was at earlier this year. It was so much fun trying Jamaican dishes and seeing what I liked and didn’t like. I really didn’t find much I didn’t like. I would love to go back and try more new foods. 🙂
It was a local Italian restaurant. Unfortunately, the economy took it down, but it was run by a family that knew how to cook. I think that is why it was good. I loved everything. Even the salad bar was delish. Oh, I wish it was still here.
I had a wonderful meal at The Cheesecake Factory. I was ordering Chicken Enchaladas and noticed that they had a cilantro cream sauce for a grilled chicken meal and since I love cilantro I thought that sauce would be good over the enchaladas. I asked the waitress if it was possible to get the chicken enchaladas with the cilantro cream sauce and she said yes. It tasted delicious and I have been back to order it again.
One of the most amazing restaurants I ever ate at was Basil Tomatoes in Kaanapali on the island of Maui. My husband and I were on vacation and suffering from jet lag after the 8+ hours on the plane. We went to the restaurant nearest our hotel and it was FANTASTIC! What a great way to start our trip. The funny thing is the most memorable part of the meal was the water. They collected water from the rain forest side of the island and served it chilled in a carafe on your table. I have never tasted water like this before or since. It was so pure and clean, but also had a distinct flavor. It was almost like being able to drink in the aroma of the first spring rain after a very long winter. Amazing!
I was 10 Years old when I first went to this resturant. When we pulled into the parking lot I was dazzled by the snow on the roof. I could not comprehend how in Covina, CA there was snow! When I was able to drag my eyes lower than the resturants roof, I realized we had pulled up to the largest log cabin I had ever seen. Actually the only log cabin I had seen, onsidering my only references were from TV shows. Fantastic! I’m now a Pioneer!
We finally mad it inside and all over the floor were peanut shells. I could eat here and throw stuff on the floor! HaHa, this was gonna be fun. While having to wait for our table we sat beside a large water fountain that emitted every coor I knew. I remember gzing at that in complete wonder.
When we sat and ordered the man gave us bwls of peanuts and toldus to “have fun”. Not only did I throw the shells on the floor, I threw my napkin, my straw, and anthing else I didnt want on the floor. Much to my mothers dismay but thats what we were suppose to do right?!
I remember eating the most amazing cheese bread ever and two types of salad. Two types! It blew my little 10 year old mind. Honestly, after the salad and bread, I don’t remember much of the other food. To this day, that is my favorite place to eat and I constantly craze their bread and salad. If anyone is ever in Covina, CA, “North Woods Inn” is a definite must!
I think the most amazing restaurant that I ever ate at would have to be Williams in Colorado. They brought big bowls of cold eat ant peel shrimp to the table( as long as you left someone at the table they would refill it!), they had a huge salad bar, and their entries were delectable.
The main reason that I really love this restaurant – It is the last place we had a family reunion dinner before my Mama passed away. With our whole family together, kids and all, it was magical! My brothers both lived on opposite coast with my parents in Colorado. This would be our last “family reunion” My Mama passed 2 years later. This restuarant was one of my Mama’s favorites – I don’t know if it is still around (it has been 26 years since I was last at Williams) but the memories still bring a smile to my face!
Happy Holidays!
We were staying the weekend at the Chattanooga Choo Choo for the Marine Corp Ball and one night we went to dinner at the Stationhouse Restaurant. The food was great but the entertainment was better with Live Band and Singing servers. We had such a good time that night.
I can’t narrow it down to less than two–both Swiss Chalet & Kelsey’s both have ties to family memories both good and bad but they both have delightful menus.
My favorite restaurant is Banana Leaf. I love the tofu dishes, and they always bring you a different complimentary desert.
My favorite restaurant is Olive Garden. I love their bread sticks, and their dishes are so yummy!
Growing up we usually lived within a mile of Red Lobster and my Aunt worked there. We went there nearly every Sunday and some Saturdays spending the whole time talking with family and friends. It was the only restaurant I remember ever going to with my Grandmother. She loved to cook and bake, but she didn’t cook sea food.
Three days after my 9th Birthday they closed that location with no notice. After that when we ate out it was at little family restaurants.
When I reached my teen years my parents were able to try the bigger chain restaurants in the next big town. Red Lobster again became my favorite, but it was only as a very special treat. Throughout the last few decades it has remained my favorite, probably because of those early memories, but at least a little because I love sea food.
Good luck to everyone.
The most amazing restaurant I’ve been to is my moms restaurant in Kentucky. It has since closed but we used to go there and have just “us” time. The food was amazing and the memories I have are even MORE amazing!
Moosewood Restaurant in Ithaca, NY. It’s vegetarian but the food is SO good — it’s the one place we always try to get to when we go to Cornell reunions.
I’m torn between a Chinese restaurant I used to go to in Northern Ireland where they made the most amazing Chow Mien (my favourite dish whilst pregnant) and a Mexican restaurant here in Cardiff that makes the most delicious Stuffed Mushroom dish that I can’t seem to get enough of.
Trouble is the first might well be out of business as it was over 27 years ago and the other hasn’t been visited in a few years do to access problems with my husbands power chair 🙁
I have a favorite restaurant that I learned about working at a University. That was 25 years ago and I’ve long since stopped working there, but I’ve been going to that restaurant as often as I can, no matter how far away I live. It’s just a small cafe that offers California Mex cuisine, called Topanga Cafe. They make this one dish that I order every time, Chili Relleno. I order the entre and it’s very filling and satisfying. The sauce is perfect. I’ve tried this dish elsewhere, even in San Francisco, California and they have never met the high standard of dish from the Vancouver restaurant, Topanga Cafe. I worry that some day the restaurant will close, but so far I’ve been lucky or rather I believe I’m not the only one that thinks it to be a special place.
Trying to think of my favorite Chain Restaurant, is tough. For I have restaurants that I love yet are only regional. I have decided upon Applebee’s Restaurant Chain. My husband travels for his job and when I get to go with him, we always eat at an Applebee’s and the wait staff always makes sure that our needs are taken care of for my husband is a very picky eater. No matter where we dine their wait staff is always attentive to his requests. Having a happy content husband is my favorite entree on their menu!
Darby
The best restaurant I ate at was
Lou Malnati’s in Chicago. They have the absolute best pizza and chicken alfredo I have ever eaten!!(they even deliver out of state^_^)
I love a little hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant called El Rincon. The decor is bright and fun, all the waitstaff are Mexican and the food is TO DIE FOR! You always get HUGE portions – plus there is something for everyone in the family – including my little one who will only eat chicken nuggets or strips! We always leave stuffed – and even have leftovers to take home!
Carrabba’s is quaint,and has the best steak marsala,that cater’s to friends and couples.
On my very first trip into the French Quarter, I had no idea where to eat! You always hear about the tastiest food coming from New Orleans, and for my first meal, I was at a loss. As I wandered down through the quarter in search of anything that wasn’t alcohol related (which is difficult to come by) I came across a little chicken shack set back off one of the side streets. Of course I ordered the largest bowl of gumbo, and flavor exploded in my mouth! The absolute best place I have ever eaten in my life.
I can’t say that I have a favorite restaurants since I love trying new food; especially new asian cuisine. However since you did list the Cheesecake Factory and P. F. Changs as examples; both resturants are amzing. The first and only time I’ve been to P.D. Changs was a trip to Altantic City in NJ to celebrate my boyfriend’s 22nd birthday. I asked the waitress how spicy was the Dali Chicken, my extact words were “How spicy is the Dali Chicken? Is it firey burning?” which my table and the waitress laughed.
Hmm.. to pick a favoite or at least a well liked restaurant for this contest; I shall pick Tao. It is a restaurant in NYC. It is an asian fusion restaurant which had a gaint Bhudda statue in the restaurant. The whole night was great, I could still remember, I went there with my boyfriend to celebrate my birthday. The food, the atmosphere and the service was wonderful. I will always remember that night especially since I love my present and the whole day which we went to see a broadway show before the dinner. =)
Love Chuy’s-both Austin and Dallas. Blue corn stacked enchiladas in the Elvis booth!
what can i say CHEESECAKE FACTORY!!!!!!
There are many I could name but by far my fave has to be Carrabas Italian Restaurant. This place has in my opinion the best lobster ravioli! The flavor is amazing and the guest service outstanding!
My favorite place to eat is The Olive Garden. Their lasagna is amazing and their cheesecake is awesome. :0)
My husband took me to a grat place down in St. Marys Georgia called Peppers, try the California Burrito is was so good and I could only eat half.
Zina
Over the years my family has created many great memories at various restaurants. Everything from special play-dates as a young girl at McDonald’s to weekly steakhouse visits as a teenager with my baby sister and our mom and step-dad up to my son’s first birthday celebrated at Chucky Cheese! That is not where it ends… I am just trying to be nice and not name every life event that included a restaurant (there are way too many). With all of the special memories I have of various restaurants, I could not choose just one.
laughter and smiles to you all!!!
My favorite restaurant is Emeril’s New Orleans Restaurant. It has the best food I’ve ever eaten.The last time I was there I had Crawfish Tails in Creole Cream Sauce ,Andouille Crusted Redfish and a very delicious Peach Shortcake.
We found a little restaurant in the town we live in called Teakwoods Tavern & Grill never would have expected the amazing food that they have there.
One of my fave places to eat is St. Andrews in NYC. You can have a great burger in the front of the house in the pub or have a fantastic steak and some cok-a-leekie soup in the fine dining restuarant inthe back. And you can never go wrong in a place where the bartenders and waiters wear kilts.
The Angus Barn in Raleigh!! It looks like a barn on the outside & is very rustic inside. They make the best steaks! They have awesome cheese in crocks, served with crackers, celery & assorted olives. And their chocolate pecan pie is to die for!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!
My favorite place to eat is a fiftys diner called Johnny Rockets. I first found it in high school with my boyfriend at the time and have taken so many friends there. At the moment it is also where my 5 year old prefers to eat as well. Not only do they have my favorite burger but they also have a fun atmosphere where they even dance to some of the songs.
Even though this is not a fancy eating place Dominoes Pizza in Leamington is my favourite. Since I am a celiac I only eat the chicken wings. Why I chose this is because they have delicious pizzas which feeds the rest of my family and there are never any complaints.
My favorite place to eat so far in my little world would be “Cheif In The Forest.” This is a 5star meal hidden away in Hauser Lake, ID. The food is spaticular, flavors melt in the mouth, and have yet to met anyone who has been disapointed. Country, seclusion, and atmospher to boot. This is one of the hidden treasures in northwest. Space for lover, friends, couples, celebrations, and all other celebrations. Seating is limited and Reservations are must. Best time is fall when leaves are turning and birds flock, in evening cross road to small lake and can watch the bats fly across snaking on bugs, see gental waves of water lap to shore. realy words are not enough it is that all and all best hide hole i have found thus far
For me it would be The Cottage Inn. It’s just a very small place that has truely home cooked meals. When I was little my Grandparents lived 3 doors down from it. We’d get ice cream there every Sunday. My Grandparents are long gone now, but The Cottage is still there. Lots of good food and nice memmories..
Congrats on the new release Lynsay.. can not wait to get my own copy. I love this series. Thank you for giving everyone a chance at the GC…
Good luck everyone.
Can’t remember the name, but it was a top-class restaurant near Georgetown in DC where we celebrated my niece’s college graduation. We had everything from soup to nuts plus extras, wines and appertifs. Never tasted better, everything cooked to perfection, and for dessert I had the best bread pudding I ever tasted, so light and delicious, I’m going back for me next time I’m there.
I would have to say Grandma Moura’s in Buffalo it is a magnificent Mexican restaurant. Everything is homemade right down to salsas, sauces from scratch. Very authentic and delicious.
Michelle B. aka Koshkalady
I love The Outback– I haven’t ate at any truly fancy restaurants, but I love everything about them, and it’s a super nice meal that you can dress comfortably while eating, but still feel like it’s a nice night out.
My favorite place to eat is a fifties diner called Johnny Rockets. I first found this place when I was in high school with a boyfriend at the time. Since then I’ve hung out there with other friends and even my family. Last year my 5 year old wanted to go there for his birthday dinner. It not only has my favorite burger, but it has a fun atmosphere as well. Not only do they have little juke boxes to play music from but during certain songs they sing and dance. Not only do they have good food but I have many fond memories there as well.
My husband and I recently went on a date. We dropped our kids off at my sister’s house & her husband recommended Novita Bistro & Lounge in Metuchen, NJ. The food was exceptional! They offered a Chef’s tasting which consisted of a salad, seafood dish, steak dish and dessert complete with a wine pairing for each meal. The food, not the price, was extravagant. The night was made even better by the live entertainment—a crooner and his piano followed by a comedy show made complimentary to all diners. We will definitely be having another date at Novita’s.
We don’t eat out much because so manay restaurant food reminds me of hospital food. Tbe one place my husband and I can agree on is ‘Cracker Barrel’. The food reminds me of my mom and grandmother’s cooking when I was a kid and visiting the family farm. The food is great and the feeling of being at home is even better, especially when I can leave the table and not worry about cleaing up.
I’d have to say the most memorable restaurant would be Rainforest Cafe. That’s because it was on a family trip to Galveston Island. We are talking about the whole family from Grandma to great grand children. Everyone enjoyed it and it was wonderful for the whole family to be together.
The best restaurant we’ve ever been to was the restaurant in the Flamingo Hilton in Las Vegas.(don’t remember the name!?) It was about 25 years ago and it was our first trip anywhere together.(we’d been married about four years) The restaurant was beautiful, we had steak dinners and the steak just melted in our mouths. The waiter stood off to the side behind a pillar and it seemed as if all we had to do was think what we wanted and it was right there in front of us. We were broke as could be, didn’t have a nickel to our names and only took the trip because the hubs sister flew us free because she worked for American Airlines so all we could afford was that dinner. But it was THE BEST dinner we’ve ever eaten!! And now the Flamingo Hilton is no longer, we watched a news story on the implosion and saw it demolished!! But we’ll NEVER forget it!
Since my husband and I have been honing our cooking skills, we haven’t gone out a lot to eat lately. However, we have fallen in love with Longhorn Steak House. I’m the person who never orders steak out because it never comes out right. This place cooks my steak “perfect” every single time. They have the best cuts of rib eye that I’ve ever had. Their lobster and shrimp dip is out of the world. And you must save room for dessert – “the sampler” consists of strawberry cheesecake, caramel apple goldrush (an apple cobbler type of thingy) and chocolate stampede (a chocolate mousse cake). It’s to die for. I’m serious. It is so worth that 10,000 calories that you know are in there (LOL). In fact my husband and I had another great dinner there this evening when we celebrated my birthday. The service is excellent, and you’ll never get a bad meal, ever.
If you like BBQ there is a place in Ga. called Sonny’s BBQ that is pretty darn good, we’ve gone there twice when I’ve visited.
Zina
I have gone to several Chinese Seafood Restaurants but most of the quality in taste have gone down, portion has gotten smaller and the price has gone up.
I went to Newport Seafood Restaurant. Every dish is delicious and each dish portion is perfect. The price for each dish is very reasonable.
I have recommended the restaurant to several of my friends and each has come back saying the food at the restaurant is delicious without hurting their pockets.
In Southern California, we have a small, local chain called Fish House Vera Cruz. We enjoy this restaurant so very much! The fresh fish and seafood is good, but the way they prepare it is exquisite and memorable.
The fish is grilled and served with fresh dinner rolls straight from the tables of the gods; soft and warm, perfectly shaped and flavored, with a rich creamy butter. Garlic mashed potatoes on the side or a light and savory rice pilaf with grilled fresh vegetables compliment the feast.
Their desserts are decadence incarnate, and the wine list represent the best of California vinyards. They even have a fresh fish market on site, and the decor is apropos; huge, decorative fish tanks filled with living jewels of the sea.
I have to say for me a restaurant that stands out and became, my little piece of heaven is J Alexander’s in Nashville Tenn. My husband toke me to Nashville this year for my 31st Birthday which was a wonderful surprise. Even though that day it rain all day and then some because, that day was when the flood happen. Talk about crazy day but, what made it bareable was J Alexander’s. To say the food was Magnificent is a unstatement, the porter house steak was like butter to die for, and the mac&cheese was awesome and the buttermilk onion…well were OMG!! But in the end that day not the shopping, the book sigining he took me to, none of that compared to J Alexander. Oh by the way we made it out of Nashville just one hour before they started shutting the road down… thank God for good servie there. So Yes J Alexander is Heaven on Earth
My sis took me to Mom’s Restaurant and I loved it! It was delious and the food didn’t make me sick like some restaurants do. I can’t wait to go again!
There is a Japaneese steak house here that is really good, you have to be careful if you don’t live near the ocean when ordering lobster or fish because they have to be frozen and shipped and it doesn’t taste as good as the fresh we get here in New England.
The resturant is Fuji’s in Stonington/Pawcatuck CT.
Zina
We always love to got to our local Red Lobster resteraunt!!! They not only have amazing food but it is really themed decorated and the staff is really funny and kind of entertains you throughout the meal. They serve the best seafood around and the most decadent desserts and drinks. Our whole family absolutely loves to go there for any occasion!!!
I’d have to say Mc T’s Restaurant on Sanibel Island was the experience of a lifetime. The seafood was never a disappointment with shrimp (any style) and grouper being my favorite. Then for dessert … Mud Pie. Chocolate ice cream, carmel, whip cream with layer of a chocolate-crunchy crust. Yum! It was usually a special occasion when we visited the island so friends came along. That’s memories to last a lifetime.
My favorite restaurant when I was in college was Legal Seafood in Cambridge. I go there for special occasions including my graduation. My parents even bought me caviar!
It is still Dec. 5th here, so I am trying.
The restaurant that most impressed me is on the top floor of the Rudder Tower at Texas A & M. in College Station. The food was exceptionally great as was the service and the price was reasonable. If the restaurant has a name, I did not see one.
I had seen this contest days ago, but waited to ask someone who works at Texas A & M the name of the restaurant on the 12th floor of Rudder Tower. He didn’t know a name either although he highly recommended the restaurant. The menu prices for visitors is very reasonable, but I understand there is even a reduced price for college workers and perhaps students. It is truly worth a visit. The restaurant’s
wall, that is floor to ceiling glass, gives one a gorgeous view of the campus.
One of my favorite restaurants is The Whistlin’ Pig in Asheville, NC. The barbecue is wonderful, the service excellent, and the bluegrass entertainment is outstanding!
Hum I would have to say Logans Roadhouse. I love the feel of it, the food is great, and you can have a drink if you like. The first time I ever went in one, I was like omg this place is nasty. lol There were peanut shells in the floor. We were proctoring Contractor exams and my boss and coworkers thought it was so funny. Once I tried the food I was hooked. My favorite meal there is the Sirloin & Jumbo Grilled Shrimp Scampi.
I want to Thank Lynsay Sands and Coffetime
for this wonderful gift. My husband and I will be able to go out to dinner countless times….Yum! Thank you very much.
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays
God Bless!