Visiting Southern California

An overcast run along the Santa Monica boardwalk

I have often considered myself a California girl. I wasn't born there, but Southern California is a place I visited frequently growing up, before my family called it home. And after attending high school in south Orange County, I moved to Westwood to attend my dream school and my parents' alma mater, UCLA. Going to school in a big city gave me ample opportunity to explore, including dining at restaurants across the culinary spectrum. Los Angeles serves up everything from the neighborhood doughnut shop to hole-in-the-wall bar to the critically acclaimed restaurants of top chefs. And because of the diversity of the city itself, you can take a culinary tour of the world without ever leaving the the Southland. In fact, it was during my senior year at UCLA that the idea for Chasing Crumbs was born out of these experiences and my love of writing.

In the past month I returned to my beloved Southern California twice, first to spend time with my grandmother and parents in Newport Beach and then again to visit some of my closest friends in Santa Monica. And as is often the case, I discovered some new gems that I am excited to share.

Two-scoop upside-down cone, Salt & Straw

Salt & Straw
Ever since I heard Salt & Straw was expanding to L.A., it moved to the top of my list for an upcoming visit. The vaunted Portland ice cream shop is known for out-the-door lines and collaborating with local farmers, chefs and artisans on flavors that range from the traditional to what some might call bizarre. Take the menu at the the new Larchmont shop, which includes California-inspired avocado and strawberry sherbet, tomato water and ojai olive oil sherbet and black olive brittle and goat cheese ice cream.

So, when I met my friend Brittany for the afternoon, I told her that the only thing I planned was an ice cream trip. Luckily she's accustomed to and flexible enough to follow along with all my foodie whims. True to form, there was a line out the door at the L.A. Salt & Straw, but it took us little time at all to reach the counter to sample some flavors before ordering double scoops.

I could've walked away with far more than two scoops because every other flavor screamed "try me." When I return, not if, I think I'll be ordering the sampler, which allows you to get smaller scoops of four flavors. My first scoop was the seasonal California peaches with lemon crumble, basically my favorite dessert turned into ice cream. Fresh peaches were caramelized with brown sugar to create a thick jam running through the vanilla ice cream studded with lemon cobbler. For my second, I wanted something that would be a good pairing and opted for the sea salt with caramel ribbons. The ice cream uses a house-made burnt caramel and salt from Mark Bitterman's Portland salt shop. It's one of Salt & Straw's signature flavors and I can see why it's their most popular. It's definitely my favorite of all the salted caramel ice creams I've tried.

Sidecar Doughnuts
Sidecar is not your ordinary doughnut shop in Costa Mesa. I first tried a bite of their wonderful treats in the cinnamon apple donuts ice cream at Salt & Straw and couldn't resist a detour to try sidecar doughnuts from the source. Sidecar specializes in doughnuts made with fresh ingredients and fried in small batches. I opted to try two of the monthly doughnuts. Huckleberries are a favorite of mine (it's probably my northwest roots), so I had to try the huckleberry cake doughnut. It wasn't too heavy, and studded with plenty of sweet whole berries. Malasadas are a treat that are hard to find, so when I spotted a malasada with apple jam, I had to give it a try. It was airy with just the right amount of filling, and a light dusting of sugar on top. All in all, it made for a perfect afternoon treat.

Seasonal blackberry and bourbon cocktail, SideDoor 

SideDoor
SideDoor is nestled inside one of my favorite restaurants, Five Crowns in Newport Beach, known for great prime rib and charming inn setting. The bar at Five Crowns was long styled like a traditional English pub, but in 2009 the bar was reopened as an English-style gastropub with it's own entrance and menu.The menu focuses on seasonal ingredients, small plates, cheese and charcuterie and artisanal cocktails. However, you'll still find some signature Five Crowns dishes re-envisioned on the SideDoor menu.

I went with my Mom, Nana and I went to SideDoor on a Monday evening and it was packed. Lively conversation flowed through the relaxed atmosphere of the pub. We opted to get a few items to share among the three of us. I enjoyed the smoked bacon and addition of egg in the wedge salad. We watched as the chef at the charcuterie stand assembled our french onion press. As it sounds, it was essentially eating french onion soup in sandwich form, and it was delicious. The onions burst with flavor and balanced perfectly with the sourness of the fresh bread. And of course, one couldn't ignore prime rib, so we ordered the prime rib chili cheese fries, a popular choice at tables around us as well. The chili was rich with generous amounts of prime rib and the fries perfectly crispy underneath. After all that food, I still couldn't turn down dessert. The espresso creme anglaise that accompanied their doughnuts was perfection, in fact I took home the leftover sauce to add to my coffee because I didn't want to waste one drop of it.

Farm to Table in Phoenix

Since moving to Phoenix three years ago, I've watched a culinary scene continue to expand and I continue to find new favorites. Great food combined with a great atmosphere will keep me coming back to a restaurant again and again. I am especially drawn to farm to table or seasonal concepts and locally-owned establishments. Today I share my current Phoenix favorites, three restaurants that feature locally-sourced ingredients and a warm, inviting ambiance that makes you feel instantly at home and all uniquely repurpose old buildings.

Smoked Chicken and Andouille Gumbo, Southern Rail

Southern Rail
Chef Justin Beckett was a 2012 nominee for Food & Wine Magazines's Best New Chef after opening Beckett's Table in 2010. Beckett's Table is unique in its combination of sophisticated comfort food, local ingredients and humble atmosphere. When Beckett opened his second restaurant, Southern Rail, earlier this year, I knew it would quickly become one of my favorite restaurants in Phoenix. Southern Rail is grounded in the same approach as Beckett's Table while emphasizing the flavors of the American South.

I first visited Southern Rail, which revives the space once home to the iconic Beef Eater restaurant, the weekend it opened and quite possibly wanted to try everything on the menu, which features a variety of small plates, entrees and hearty side dishes. On that first visit, the gumbo and heaping plate of beignets really stood out and showed Beckett's attention to traditional recipes. When I returned with my Mom she was equally impressed with the atmosphere and creative twist on southern classics. The cider-brined pork loin was moist, flavorful and by the time I finished it looked as though I might have licked my plate clean.

Next up I am excited to try Southern Rail's weekend brunch. I think my sister would adore the fried green tomato benedict, the hoe cakes and SR bread pudding frunch toast sound delightfully decadent and who could pass up a good dutch pancake. If the sticky buns are anything like their pull-apart brioche, someone will have to stop me from eating them all. And I am hoping to get a seat at their dinner with guest chef Sean Brock, of Husk in Charleston and Nashville.

Bruschetta, Postino

Postino
Postino at first glance is the neighborhood wine bar and cafe, but spend a little time at each Valley location and you come to learn that it is so much more. Each location is housed in a building of historical significance to the surrounding community, and the communal dining rooms are a welcome gathering place. Known for unique wines, amazing bruschetta, cozy patios and a mix of vintage and edgy decor, Postino has its niche and does it exceedingly well. With the opening of a fourth location in Tempe this week, I don't even have to drive very far to enjoy the best bruschetta in town!

The menu may be limited -- mostly sandwiches, salads and their signature bruschetta -- but it's all fresh and excellent for pairing with their changing selection of wine and craft beer. it's one has made them one of the most popular places in town. Try to get a table on a Monday or Tuesday and you'll find yourself waiting for upwards of an hour. It's worth the wait for their killer deal -- after 8 p.m., you can enjoy a bottle of wine and a bruschetta board for just $20.

Liberty Market
Liberty Market operates in what was quite literally once the neighborhood market. Today it is a neighborhood bistro in Gilbert serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The servings are generous and the conversation flows easily in their open dining room. Chef David Traina and his wife Kiersten, run the day-to-day and never cease to have a smile on their faces. They share a passion for food with the other co-owners Phoenix restaurateur Joe Johnston and his wife Cindy, whose touch can be seen in the unassuming decor and friendly atmosphere.

My favorite chilaquiles in the Valley so far are Liberty Market's take on the traditional Mexican dish, with their green chile pork. With both a tomatillo sauce and red pequin pepper sauce, there's just the right level of spicy to not overpower the flavors of the pork. At dinner, Liberty Market serves such diverse offerings as the aforementioned green chile pork, wood-fired pizzas, baby-back ribs, loaded salads and burgers. I recommend the grilled chicken pasta, which is finished with chopped bacon, smoked mozzarella, and fresh vegetables in a parmesan cream sauce. From what I could see at the tables around me, I don't think you can go wrong with anything on the menu. And be on the lookout for specials, I had the most delicious Italian pistachio cake (not a regular on their dessert menu) to finish my meal on one recent visit.

Travels and Top Chefs

Duck egg raviolo at Juniper & Ivy

Top Chef is one of my favorite guilt pleasure shows, food TV meets reality TV. Between the professional chefs, quickfire challenges and destination finales, I find endless inspiration. Over the many seasons of the show, there were a few creative chefs that really caught my eye. And it only fuels my desire to travel to new cities, so I can dine at these chefs' restaurants. In the past year, I was had the opportunity to visit restaurants owned by my four favorite Top Chefs and I can say each of these restaurants is worth traveling for.

Juniper & Ivy
Ever since I watched Richard Blais on season four of Top Chef and then again as he won Top Chef All Stars, I have been inspired by his adventurous cooking style. And equally determined to try one of his restaurants. Blais has trained with some of the best chefs in the business, including Thomas Keller and Daniel Boulud. But he's really forged his own way with his restaurants where he reinvents classic dishes often utilizing cutting edge cooking techniques like liquid nitrogen. For a while it seemed like I would have to wait to dine at The Spence or Flip Burger in Atlanta. That is until I saw Blais' announcement that he was opening a left-coast cookery in San Diego. Take my beloved west-coast regional cuisine, mix it with Blais' modernist signatures -- I knew it was sure to amaze.

And a chef who finds inspiration in both June gloom and Coachella dates, that's definitely something I can relate to. So I was determined to try Juniper and Ivy as soon as possible. Lucky for me, Blais opened Juniper and Ivy in March and I was headed to San Diego for a belated birthday celebration with my parents, so I didn't have to wait long at all. My mom and I delighted in trying the Coachella dates with lamb bacon for an appetizer, and then decided to order a variety of small plates so we could try more things. The smoked swordfish with gooseberries and mustard caviar was a must, as non-traditional caviar is a Blais signature. Our meal was ronded out with a refreshing asparagus panna cotta, duck egg raviolo and slow-roasted beets with ricotta. We finished with not one but three desserts, it was my birthday after all. I think my favorite was either the yodel, their take on the Hostess treat with a hot chocolate sauce or the citrus marshmallow sorbet that accompanied the pine needle meringue.

From the beautiful menu design to the high-energy design of the restaurant space to the plating of the food, this designer was in awe. The beauty of the restaurant matched the amazing flavors in our meal. As we talked with our waiter, he discovered how anxious I had been to try the restaurant, traveling from Phoenix for my birthday dinner, so he sent Richard Blais to the table! It was such a pleasure meeting him and talking about the food. It's definitely one of my more treasured memories and it left me with an even greater desire to go to Atlanta to try The Spence.

Bérnaise
Over Memorial Weekend, I took a trip to one of my favorite cities to visit a few close friends who had recently relocated. After studying in D.C. during a summer in college, it has come to hold a special place in my heart. I am fascinated by the history, the politics, the museums and the restaurant scene that has blossomed in the years since I lived there. Prior to my visit, I quite literally scheduled my meals, so I could try almost every restaurant on my list and see as many friends as possible. One such restaurant belongs to Spike Mendelsohn, my other favorite chef from what was obviously my favorite season, season four, and Top Chef All Stars. Bérnaise, Mendelsohn's most recent restaurant venture, opened last June and it's been on my D.C. list ever since I read it was opening. Mendelsohn grew up in Montreal and spent time working in France, and the restaurant embodies the French bistro experience I am sure Mendelsohn is familiar with.

A two-story walk up in Capitol Hill, the design is chic and the atmosphere is inviting. My trip fell not long after brunch service started at Bernaise, so I joined my friends Julia and Charlsy for my favorite meal of the day. We sat on the second floor beside a window overlooking the bustling street below. It seemed so quintessentially French in my mind, despite never having been to Paris. I was immediately drawn to the crème brûlée French toast. Toasted brioche soaked in a crème anglaise, it was so decadent and so delicious. I would eat it again and again. And we so enjoyed our meal at Bérnaise that upon another friend's trip to D.C., Julia introduced her to the bistro as well.

Milkwood
Last fall I had the opportunity to attend a design conference in Louisville. I love attending conferences because it usually takes me to a new city and it puts me in the same room with others who share my passion and drive. These past couple years I had the opportunity to meet some amazing people who I have looked up to, who inspire me and who I can now call friends. I usually go to new cities armed with at least a few restaurant ideas and recommendations (some cities that list is longer than the one for sightseeing). For Louisville, I knew one of my meals had to be at an Edward Lee restaurant, a competitor on Top Chef season nine. Milkwood was right around the corner from our hotel so I persuaded a few of my new friends to join me for dinner there.

In addition to it's southern meets global cuisine, the restaurant is known around town for great cocktails. The drink menu is uniquely arranged by flavor -- sour, salty, sweet, bitter and umami. Given we were in bourbon country, I opted for the "salty" Firth of Forth. It was an adventurous choice mixing Bulliet Rye, vanilla and worcestershire sauce. But it was my dinner, the slow-roasted miso chicken that really wowed. I am not exaggerating when I say it's probably the best chicken I've ever tasted, delicate, melt-in-your-mouth and bursting with flavor.

ink.sack
The Voltaggio brothers are perhaps two of the most talented chefs to ever compete on Top Chef, both making it to the finale of season six. Michael Voltaggio edged out his brother to win the competition and in 2011 he opened ink. in West Hollywood. I attended college in Los Angeles but graduated before Voltaggio left The Dining Room in Pasadena to open his own restaurant. However I frequently return to L.A. to visit college friends, so I made it a priority to make it to ink. or at the very least ink.sack, Voltaggio's gourmet sandwich shop.

Last summer, on my way out of town, I stopped for breakfast and a stroll on Melrose. It suddenly occurred to me that while I had not found time to dine at ink., I could quite easily grab something from ink.sack to enjoy on my ride back. Problem solved. The restaurant reflects the energy and spirit I saw of Michael Voltaggio on Top Chef. And while the sandwiches are quite affordable, that does not mean they skimp on flavor. After perusing the nearly two dozen options, I opted for a pastrami sandwich that came with horseradish cream and dijon mustard. I have a weakness for great sandwiches, like this one, so there's no doubt in my mind I'll return to ink.sack on future visits to L.A. And eventually I am going to have a meal at ink,, I am still determined.

A long weekend in NYC

A few weeks back, I took a long weekend to visit one of my closest friends, Leigh Anne, in New York City. Last spring, she picked up and moved across the country to follow her Big Apple dreams. I'll admit I mourned the loss of my devoted brunch buddy, but it was quickly outweighed by my happiness for my friend and her exciting opportunity as well as the anticipation of a visit to New York over the summer. I was thankful for having seen much of the tourist side of the city in a previous trip, so we could spend the weekend catching up and leisurely exploring.

Luckily Leigh Anne shares my sense of adventure and love of food, so much of the four days was spent in search of food. Between a local and a devoted foodie, we had an endless list of places we were hoping to fit in.

Fort Defiance

Of course, we visited Chelsea Market, and made a stop Fat Witch. S'mores in a brownie, what can I say, it's an excellent combination. For happy hour, we dared a walk through Midtown on a Friday night so we could try Southern Hospitality, a bar and restaurant owned by Justin Timberlake that stays true to his southern roots. Leigh Anne and I felt so at home at Spitzer's, a gastropub in the Lower East Side. Communal tables, craft beer and a lively atmosphere -- it's the kind of place we could spend hours in, and have been known to do. As soon as we read 40 beers on tap, we were sold. We made the trek to Red Hook with Becca, our friend who happens to be Leigh Anne's roommate, for brunch at Fort Defiance. It was a quaint restaurant that was worth the trek, with hearty portions, seasonal ingredients and tablecloths that reminded us of the southwest.

Becca, Leigh Anne and I ventured to The Standard hotel's Biergarten at the High Line for drinks with Leigh Anne's friends and I tried the Berliner Weiss, a regional German wheat bear that's fruity and a little sour.  It's funny that it took a trip across the country to step inside The Standard, when I used to drive past the one in Hollywood on a weekly basis. On the way home, we got a sweet tooth and that meant a stop at Magnolia Bakery, made popular by Sex and the City, was in order. I couldn't not try the cupcakes, since I've spent my adulthood venturing to Sprinkles. I enjoyed the Banana Cupcake, which had a light, more banana-muffin-like flavor with a sweet caramel frosting. There were also stops for coffee, of course. We are journalists by trade after all. And, we got a chance to try the ever-popular Shake Shack burger, and compare it to In-N-Out and the numerous other "road-side" burger stands. The consensus was it was a good burger, and each has it's own perks. And of course, what trip to New York would be complete without a slice of pizza.

     

Fried Chicken and Cheddar Waffle from Buttermilk Channel with a view of the

 skyline from Brooklyn Bridge Park (left), DBGB Kitchen and Bar, and

Cookies and Cream and Salted Carmel from Blue Marble Ice Cream

But among our many stops, there were a few standouts and I am so excited to share my three to try for New York City.

DBGB Kitchen and Bar 
Daniel Boulud's restaurant in the Bowery has been on top of my list of places to try in New York for quite some time and I was excited to enjoy a night out with Leigh Anne and Becca during my visit. I originally saw DBGB featured on a Food Network show, and the French bistro meets American tavern concept intrigued me. The menu features a variety of house-made sausages from around the globe, traditional entrees like duck and steak frites and inspired gourmet burgers. I mulled over the menu for a good 20 minutes, but in the end went with the first item that caught my eye. The Piggie is a beef burger topped with pulled pork, jalapeno mayonnaise and a mustard slaw. And I was not disappointed. Each bite was thoughtfully layered, but the flavor profile not overly complex. Beyond our satisfying meals, the main dining room took inspiration from the history of the Bowery as a restaurant supply district. The walls were lined with shelving stocked with dry goods, table wares and copper pots from other acclaimed chefs. It felt almost if you were dining in an enormous, walk-in pantry albeit more chic than industrial.

Doughnut Plant
Who doesn't love doughnuts? I have favorite bakeries or ice cream shops in nearly every city I've visited, and Doughnut Plant is now sitting at the top of my New York list. Leigh Anne shares my love of this sweet treat. In fact we had a favorite bar in Phoenix with doughnuts on their dessert menu that quickly became an after-work favorite. So after a red-eye flight and a quick stop to drop off my luggage, we ventured to Chelsea to get a late breakfast. With all the seasonal and unique flavors, I probably could have ordered a half dozen doughnuts. Luckily I had some self restraint and settled for two featuring my favorite fruits. The peach cake doughnut had a great crumb texture. My favorite though was the vanilla bean yeast doughnut with blackberry filling. It had a perfect ratio of vanilla in the dough and sweetness in the berry filling, so that neither overpowered the other. Doughnut Plant's filled doughnuts are square with a hole in the center like traditional doughnuts. It's absolute genius because now there is filling in every bite! There is no reason to wonder why Doughnut Plant is celebrating it's 20th anniversary, they know doughnuts and it shows. While the wait wasn't long, there was a constant flow of people coming and going as we sat and enjoyed our doughnuts.

Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg was quite possibly my favorite part of my entire weekend in New York City. It's a weekly food market with vendors from restaurants and local food proveyors across the city. We ventured to the Brooklyn Bridge Park location on Sunday morning so we could enjoy the views of Manhattan as we enjoyed our snacks. There options were abundant, ranging across many cuisines, but I had my eyes set on trying Blue Marble Ice Cream. But first I opted for something more savory, on Becca's recommmendation, from Buttermilk Channel. We got one of my favorites, buttermilk chicken on a cheddar waffle. Simple, but done well. I enjoyed it so much that on my next trip to the Big apple, I plan to make a stop at their restaurant in Brooklyn. After, I stopped to get a two-scoop cone at Blue Marble to enjoy as we wandered the length of Brooklyn Bridge Park from the piers to the Brooklyn Bridge. I opted for a perhaps strange combination so I could try both of the featured flavors, cookies & cream and salted caramel. Artisan ice cream is really worth the cost, it just tastes so much better! It was the perfect treat for a summer afternoon.

Try everything

My motto when it comes to food is "try everything at least once." While that philosophy definitely has the potential to lead you astray and it is easy to let preconceived notions about a particular food or flavor influence us, more often than not I am pleasantly surprised by own tastebuds. This motto is the reason I've come to love oysters on the half shell, quinoa and chai tea, just to name a few favorites. One of the many reasons I enjoy dining out is that it's a welcome opportunity to try something new. Chefs are constantly experimenting, so even if I get a favorite dish like salmon or pasta, many times it is paired with something I would not have imagined. Sometimes it's a a new flavor for me, like the first time I tried grits or pâté. And sometimes it's a new use for a tried-and-true standby, have you ever tried zuchinni chips? If I had enough, I'd never stop eating them.

At least once. Everything is worth revisiting. Our tastes evolve over time, and recently I have discovered a newfound affinity for many foods I abhorred as a child. Brussel sprouts are perfect roasted with bacon and shallots. My friend Leigh Anne led me to an appreciation of all things pumpkin and squash. I am still a hold out on pie, as I will always prefer apple, pecan or really any other option before pumpkin pie. But I have tried and enjoyed pumpkin bread (which makes a mean french toast), roasted butternut squash and white chocolate pumpkin truffles. That last one is a real surprise, as I'm usually not one for white chocolate either. My most recent and exciting discovery was cauliflower. It was always the vegetable sitting there on the veggie platters, and I never touched it. I always thought it had no flavor, probably because I so often tried it raw. But I have come to learn that cauliflower is quite versatile when cooked, absorbing the flavors around it. It makes a great loaded au gratin replacing potatoes and just last week I tried a delicious recipe for buffalo cauliflower bites.

Recipe roundup. This probably will come as no surprise to those of you who have read my blog from the beginning or follow me on twitter. I own at least a few dozen cookbooks, subscribe to two magazines devoted entirely to food and countless others that boast substantial cooking sections and dozens of blogs and email blasts with daily recipes, restaurant lists and more. I am constantly tabbing my magazines and cookbooks with sticky notes and printing out recipes from the web that I want to try. The ever-growing stack is a mental cue to try something new rather than rely on making the same old thing week in and week out.

So with that in mind, I am going to start regularly including this feature, highlighting recipes I found and loved, or ones I am anxious to try. (Click on the names to link to the original recipe.)

     

Cheesy buffalo cauliflower wings (left) and Canal House peach jam

Cheesy buffalo cauliflower wings
The aforementioned cauliflower bites. After trying an au gratin a coworker brought in for a potluck, I did a search for more cauliflower recipes to test out and found these on the blog Jessica in the Kitchen. It's funny how your mind plays tricks on you based on your memories of certain flavors. If someone else had made this recipe, I don't know that I would have known I wasn't eating chicken.

Canal House peach jam
I don't think I will ever run out of uses for peaches. And this is one of my favorite new recipes for using them up before they turn bad. My favorite Bon Appétit got the seasonal-cooking superstars from Canal House to share this gem. And I love that it keeps to just the essentials, peaches, sugar and lemon juice.  I cut the recipe down based on what I had left, but if you don't you'll have plenty to share with friends as hostess gifts or "just-because" treats.

Proscuitto pesto pizza twists
From the blog A Zesty Bite, I found this recipe when I was looking for ideas for a cocktail party with some of my colleagues. I adjusted it slightly, using crescent dough instead of pizza dough. Besides the simplicity of preparation, it was a great finger food which is always a plus when you're entertaining.

Cinnamon polenta pancakes
Pancakes are one of my favorite go-to breakfasts. I know my favorite recipe by heart, and I can whip it up just as quickly as scrambled eggs or oatmeal. This was a great find for a heartier twist on traditional buttermilk pancakes.

Sour chocolate cake
This is first up on my to try list. I was sold when I read chocolate cake. A new twist with some tang from vinegar and it has cinnamon. Though I may lose the crumby texture, I'll probably try substituting butter as I am not huge on using shortening in my recipes. I may just whip this up for dessert tonight.

New favorites in Washington, D.C.

On a recent trip to D.C., I made it a point to meet up with some good friends, during what little free time I had. Luckily a lot of my friends share my fondness for adventure, especially when it comes to food. They definitely did not steer me wrong, as I found two new favorites in D.C.!

Lincoln

Ahead of my trip, I got a list via email of potential spots where I could meet one of my favorite couples for lunch. And one of the great things about Chris and Dani is that they share my love of great food, eclectic décor and locally sourced ingredients. With that in mind, it took me about two minutes tops, after reading their recommendations and doing a quick Google search, to decide upon Lincoln in Northwest D.C.  (It also didn’t hurt that the choice took me back to my old neighborhood, from when I spent a summer in D.C. in college.)

Before I even got to D.C. or tasted the food, I had a feeling I’d be writing about Lincoln. They post six menus on their website, not including the bar menus, and they market themselves as highlighting seasonal small plates. There’s two check marks for restaurants I want to check out.

As we walked into the restaurant, Chris pointed not to the dining room or bar as you might expect, but to the floor. The floor at Lincoln is completely tiled in pennies (keeping true to the namesake, of course). It has to be the most unique floor I’ve seen anywhere. And the décor throughout the restaurant lives up to that same standard of unique and contemporary interior design. It varies from room to room – everything from what I’d describe as urban chic to more rustic home, with pop art, luxe chairs, reclaimed barnwood and a wall to wall hutch. For all the sophistication and amazing interior design, the atmosphere had the feel of a neighborhood coffee shop, with a light chatter echoing throughout the dining room. It felt more like the place where all the locals know to go for good food, good drink and great company.

In contrast to the décor, the food was presented with simplistic plating, but sophisticated combinations of flavors. We asked our waiter for some recommendations when we had trouble making up our minds, and proceeded to hear a list of about a half-dozen dishes – that says something to me, when there’s not one favorite, especially on an oft-changing seasonal menu. Despite my adventurous nature when it comes to dining, I am a grilled cheese fiend, so on the recommendation of our waiter (and because I may on some level tend to judge restaurants by how well they can execute it), I ordered their seasonal grilled cheese. And it was no unassuming grilled cheese, instead it was an absolutely divine combination of brie, arugula, and grilled onions on a hearty rustic bread. From all our meals, it was immediately apparent the attention given to each ingredient as well as the entire dish. I didn’t partake in midday cocktails, but I’m told the bartenders make some delicious drinks. If the fresh, fruit-infused lemonade was any indication, I can only imagine. While I only dined there once, I am sure to return on any future visit to D.C. because Lincoln not only had great food, it epitomized some of the things I love about D.C. – art, culture, and adventure.

http://lincolnrestaurant-dc.com

Le Diplomate

Later that week, I met up with an old friend Millie to catch up over cocktails and appetizers at Le Diplomate. With Millie I've tried unique tea lounges and a previous Chasing Crumbs pick, Tropisueno (review), so I trust her to lead my taste buds in the right direction. Little did I know that her pick, Le Dipomate, is one of the hippest spots in town and fairly difficult to get a reservation. The restaurant pays deference to French café culture, with a lively, welcoming ambience, marbled countertops and windows onto the surrounding neighborhood. The menu filled with classic French dishes, and an extensive cocktail and wine list accompany it. Next to the bar oysters were piled high, and fresh bread awaited us soon after we sat down. Since it was early, I ordered sautéed spinach to accompany my cocktail, the pompidou plombier. This unique bourbon cocktail combines crème de cacao and dark Italian vermouth for a smooth drink that’s perfect for sipping.  The spinach was great, just enough garlic and not overdone. Millie ordered the onion soup gratinée, which was expertly prepared with caramelized cheese on top and a rich broth. I can see why this spot is so popular, it offers a welcome relaxed dining experience – in spite of a bustling crowd, we didn’t feel rushed – and well-execute European comfort food.

http://www.lediplomatedc.com/

Phoenix's ale houses

Angel's Trumpet Ale House

Whether its the result of the growing number of small-batch breweries in Arizona or an ever-growing interest in craft beer, Phoenix has recently become home to a number of ale houses, and as a beer aficionado myself I couldn't be happier. I am pleased that these new ale houses have a commitment to changing taps and bringing in seasonal and limited releases, in addition to some great food. 

Angel's Trumpet Ale House
Angel's Trumpet boasts 31 changing taps, including 2 nitro taps and a hard cider, and their entire concept is centered around craft beer. What sets Angel's Trumpet apart is that their taps are constantly changing -- you could visit every week, or even twice in the same week, and find completely different beers. This is where their flights come in very handy,  for $9 you get six 3 oz. pours. I've found that if at least two beers sound interesting, it's worth doing a flight since the beers might not be on tap during your next visit. When I order a flight I usually have one odd choice, so there's the added bonus that you might discover something you may not have expected to like. The friendly atmosphere and large patio are quickly making it a favorite watering hole. Angel's Trumpet's menu compliments the beer with a variety of sandwiches, salads and pizzas, including a delicious grilled cheese and shroom stroganoff burger.
http://www.angelstrumpetalehouse.com/Angels_Trumpet/ATAH.html

Brat Haus
When one of my favorite restaurants in Phoenix, Oregano's, moved out of its cozy original Old Town location to accommodate a larger crowd, I was very curious to see what restaurant would spring on such a prime location. Brat Haus does not disappoint, it converted the charm of the location into a brewpub and beer garden, serving up three of my favorite things -- artisan sausages, Belgian fries and craft beer. Their menu has a dozen types of sausages ranging from your basic beer brat to the rattlesnake ripper. And if you're really hungry and adventurous, try the Pig Mac, a 1/4 lb. sausage patty and 1/4 lb. beef patty with caramelized onions and cheddar. It's decadent but well worth it, especially when washed down with a good brew. I discovered one of my new favorites at Brat Haus, the Stone Smoked Porter. Brat Haus has 25 taps, two of which rotate seasonal brews from Green Flash and Dogfish head. And they even do "adult" milk shakes, who could say no to that?
http://brathausaz.com/

World of Beer
World of Beer recently expanded to the West Coast, opening a location near ASU. If you're a casual beer drinker, they have a knowledgeable staff able to answer questions and steer you in the right direction, and if you're a beer aficionado  you can find more than 40 beers on tap and probably three times that in bottles, ranging from craft brews to more widely available brews like Guinness. It's a great place to try something new, since they have so many options within each type of beer and their drafts change weekly.
http://wobusa.com/Locations/Tempe.aspx

Local favorites in Phoenix

Halibut tacos, Gallo Blanco

-- Gallo Blanco -- Nestled in the Clarendon Hotel in uptown Phoenix, Gallo Blanco is a hidden gem of sorts, but a regular among true foodies in Arizona. Chef owner Doug Robson has created a menu that showcases regional Mexican cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. And Gallo Blanco is one of few restaurants I've visited where indecision plagues me with every order, and it's because I love every dish I've tried. I can't get enough of their guacamole, which has chunks of citrus mixed in. Another favorite is the Elote Callajero, a grilled ear of corn sprinkled with paprika and cotija cheese -- now it's my preferred preparation of corn, and luckily it's something I can do my best to recreate at home (although it never really come close to Gallo Blanco's).  Their tortas are delicious, particularly the Naco torta with grilled steak, avocado and a fried egg.  One suggestion with the tortas -- order a half, especially if you want to try a few different items on the menu. Gallo Blanco also boasts one of the best happy hours in Phoenix, which is perfect for sampling their wide variety of offerings. 

http://galloblancocafe.com/

-- Daily Dose -- Daily Dose has a large menu and great food around the clock, whether you go for brunch, happy hour from 4pm to 8pm (one of the longest happy hours I've found in the Valley) or anytime in between. For breakfast I am a huge fan of the pancakes, which start with one of three batters, buttermilk, honey whole wheat or ginger bread. Then they are topped with everything from simple powdered sugar to peach creme brulee or cinammon apple crunch. Daily Dose's french toast and waffles boast similar creative toppings. For dinner, my favorites include the chorizo mac & cheese, made with a spicy cheddar cheese sauce, jalapenos and red onions, and the Daily Dose burger, a simple bacon cheese-burger served on a pretzel bun -- it's hard to go wrong with either. 

http://www.dailydosegrill.com/

-- Pizzeria Bianco and Pane Bianco -- Pizzeria Bianco is a Phoenix favorite with national acclaim for its wood-fired pizzas. A small intimate dining room means its always busy, but it's definitely worth the wait. Chris Bianco's pizzas are each unique and reflect a careful combination of flavors. My favorite is the Wiseguy with house-made mozzarella, fennel sausage and caramelized onion. The Pizza Rosa, with parmesan, red onion and pistachios, has received much critical acclaim for good reason. Recently Chris Bianco opened Pane Bianco, a charming lunch spot in uptown featuring a small menu of salads and sandwiches. The fresh-baked foccacia bread and generous portions make this a favorite for a casual lunch.

http://pizzeriabianco.com/

Casual brunch in Phoenix

This time around I focus on some of my favorite casual brunch spots around the Valley. The food and the atmosphere keep me coming back time and again to all three, so much so that I've tried half the menu at all of them, or at least the brunch menu. For me that says a lot about the quality of a place, if I can take someone new to a restaurant and truly be able to recommend anything on the menu. 

Apple cinnamon pecan golden cakes, Ncounter

-- Lux Central -- I don't know how accurate it is to place Lux into the brunch category, except that at its core Lux is a brilliant coffee shop. The coffee is so good I drink it black, and that's how I truly define a good coffeehouse. I am one who usually opts for a bit of cream or sugar, but freshly roasted coffee, brewed right and brewed fresh -- sometimes that's all you need. Free refills if you order a simple cup of joe, and I am set for hours to peruse the internet, write this blog, or catch up with a friend over their delicious mac & cheese. But what sets Lux apart is how it really transcends your typical idea of a coffee shop, transforming from a bustling work-space into a late night bar. Not only can I say Lux has the best coffee I've had in Phoenix, it also boasts the most unique cocktails I've ever tried -- a fragrant lavender-hue concoction of Creme de Violette, St. Germaine, Domaine de Canton and Gin. I don't think I would've ever tried any of those liqueurs alone, much less together, if not for the urging of our bartender, but I must admit it was great and nothing like what I expected.

http://luxcoffee.com/

-- Ncounter -- Only open from 7 am to 3 pm, Ncounter is always crowded, but it's because they do brunch well and at affordable prices. And their location on Mill Ave. in Tempe probably doesn't hurt their business. Their golden cakes and french toast range from $5-7, depending on if you want toppings. I usually opt on the sweeter side, and find myself repeatedly ordering the apple cinnamon pecan pancakes or bananas foster french toast. While they have a lunch menu with sandwiches and salads, I always find myself ordering brunch, and my other top choice is the Farmer's Market Bene -- 2 eggs poached with spinach, tomato, avocado and hollandaise sauce atop english muffins. It's a great fresh take on the traditional egg's benedict.

http://ncounter.com/

-- Hillside Spot -- Hillside Spot is one of my favorite finds in Phoenix, because it's somewhat of a hidden gem nestled in quiet Ahwatukee. It's a market and restaurant co-owned by some of the Valley's best chefs, including Doug Robson of Gallo Blanco. You can tell as soon as you enter that their focus is on community, demonstrated in the locally-sourced ingredients and Arizona brews on tap, as well as an atmosphere that feels more like a neighborhood coffee shop than a restaurant, with its welcoming open dining room and relaxing patio. While Hillside Spot is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, their breakfast menu is what keeps me coming back, and its available all-day. I keep saying I'll try some of their dinner items, but every time I go for dinner, I am tempted again by favorite meal, brunch. Whether it's a torta, breakfast burrito or an omelette, I've never been disappointed by my order. 

http://hillsidespot.com/

Where to eat in Denver

One of my favorite activities is researching restaurants I haven't visited and consequently trying them, alone if need be.  After spending 10 years in total between northern and southern California and having an adventurous palate, I'll admit I have become a culinary snob of sorts. I enjoy a wide array of international cuisines and have come to expect such diversity from large cities. 

I was pleasantly surprised in my visits to Denver and can honestly say it now boasts a few of my favorite restaurants. 

Shredded bison Indian taco, Tocabe

-- Tocabe -- I can't claim to have stumbled upon Tocabe all on my own, though I wish I had. I actually turned on Food Network in one of the nights before my trip to Denver and Guy Fieri was featuring Tocabe on Diners, Drive-in, and Dives. And Tocabe lives up to all the high expectations I had for it -- generous portions, southwest flavors, and the absolute best fry bread I've ever tasted. Ben and Matt have their recipe perfected. While Bison is not uncommon on restaurant menus in Colorado, when Tocabe tops Indian fry bread with it, the result is an excellent balance of the slightly sweet fry bread, seasoned bison and spicy salsa. Furthermore, the owners are the friendliest people you'll meet, I went twice in three days during my visit and Ben welcomed me with a warm hello and "You're back so soon?" upon my return. It's not simply great food, but great service that keeps me coming back to my favorite restaurants. If only I lived closer than a plane ride away...

http://www.tocabe.com/

-- Rioja -- My sister, a recent culinary school graduate, introduced my family to Rioja. When she suggests a restaurant, I know that it's going to be good. What I enjoyed most about Rioja was the creativity in their menu, in their use of seasonal ingredients and inspiration from across the culinary spectrum. The resulting dishes were well thought out, carefully plated and layer upon layer of flavor. My dinner was an artichoke tortelloni, which had artichoke mousse filling and artichoke broth that sang together brilliantly. The soft flavors of the mousse were heightened by the truffle essence in the broth. Even more, dessert forced me to be adventurous and step out of my comfort zone. Not one who usually likes fig, I found myself enjoying the fig-filled beignets, and furthermore for one who doesn't like meringue I was surprised to find the baked alaska to be my favorite dessert. Rioja's baked alaska was once again a clever combinations of flavors and textures -- a coconut macaroon, the smoothest pineapple sorbet and a pineapple gastrique, and of course flambé on the meringue done tableside.

http://www.riojadenver.com/

-- Amato's Ale House -- For craft beer aficionados Amato's Ale House is a must visit in Denver, with 42 craft beers on tap, that change daily, and a gorgeous rooftop patio. I went for Sunday brunch and enjoyed a generously portioned vanilla porter cinnamon raisin french toast. Also equally delicious was the lobster mac & cheese. But really my attention at Amato's was mainly on the beer. To accompany my meal, instead of a traditional mimosa, I got my perfect mimosa made with Breckenridge Brewery's Agave Wheat -- unique and so refreshing! For the adventurous, the less decisive or anyone in between, Amato's does mini flights so you can try their draft selections three at a time. Sharing with my sister, we sampled six beers, that ranged from light summer ales to a milk stout, and found a few new favorites.

http://alehousedenver.com/

Three to try in West L. A.

Cupcake Babies, Vanilla Bake Shop

-- Vanilla Bake Shop -- Vanilla Bake Shop specializes in an assortment of sweets including cakes, cupcakes and desserts. What sets Vanilla Bake Shop apart from other bakeries is the fact that they are a true cake shop, and of course their stuffed cupcakes, which feature a filling as well as frosting. The creativity and care that goes into their flavor choices is something your taste buds will appreciate. My top picks to try, and some of their most popular flavors, are the meyer lemon raspberry, key lime, chocolate vanilla bean and southern red velvet. And if you're a little indecisive, which can be expected with such delightful treats, Vanilla Bake Shop offers cupcake babies. The miniature versions of their cupcakes are a great way to sample a variety of flavor or excellent treats for a small soiree.

http://www.vanillabakeshop.com

-- The Stand -- Located in Westwood, The Stand is a must for those who enjoy hot dogs and sausages. The casual atmosphere is great for families and those looking for a quick or no-fuss meal. The menu allows for guests to create their own dog, choosing from 8 varieties of sausage or dog and over a dozen toppings and condiments, in addition to including stand classic hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, salads and soups.

http://www.thestandlink.com

-- Palomino -- With a location in Westwood, as well as seven other locations around the country, Palomino has a nice intimate atmosphere, trendy decor and wide range of menu options. You can't go wrong with the market fresh fish, flatbreads and pizzas, bruschetta, potatoes gorgonzola, calamari, cranberry mojito or pomegranate margarita. It's makes for a great experience whether you're dining in the restaurant or enjoying happy hour drinks and appetizers in the bar.

http://www.palomino.com

Three to try in Orange County

-- Javier's -- Javier's has two Orange County locations, one in Irvine Spectrum with more of a relaxed feel and one in Crystal Cove that feels a little more intimate and offers stunning ocean views. In addition to a great atmosphere and option of patio seating, Javier's offers regional Mexican inspired cuisine including chile colorado, chile verde, mole poblano and enchiladas suizas. While substitutions are not allowed, the menu provides a fairly wide variety of options to choose from. For those looking for a lively spot for drinks and a little to eat, the cantina (bar areas of their restaurants) offers limited appetizers.

http://javiers-cantina.com/

-- Pacific Whey Cafe -- Pacific Whey is a quick service bistro with three Orange County locations offering breakfast, lunch and dinner at an affordable price. Breakfast options include french toast pockets filled with raspberry cream cheese, omelettes and scrambles and variety of freshly baked pastries. Lunch/dinner guests can enjoy their choice of many sandwiches, salads and traditional dinner options, like chicken tenders, meatloaf, lasagna and more, in addition to the breakfast menu. What's nice about Pacific Whey is you get freshly prepared food with great flavor with the casual atmosphere and convenience.

http://www.pacificwhey.com/

-- The Hat -- The Hat started in the San Gabriel area and has been a southland favorite for their pastrami sandwiches for over 50 years. Lake Forest and Brea are their only Orange County locations, but its worth the drive for their chili fries, onion rings, and pastrami dip sandwich. Everything about The Hat is no frills, but sometimes simpler is just better. Their menu also offers burgers, roast beef dip and cold sandwiches. And be warned, the portions are large, so make sure you've got an appetite or plan to share, especially if you're planning on trying a side.

http://www.thehat.com/

Great food meets great wine in Napa Valley

Who doesn't love a visit to the wine country? With its beauty, its hard to believe even the non-wine connoisseur can't find something to enjoy. Napa and Sonoma have long been heralded for great wine, but there's great food to be found as well. Everything from great road-side eats to delis to the critically acclaimed French Laundry. Following are a few of my picks for an enjoyable weekend getaway.

Mumm Napa

Bouchon Bakery

-- Bistro Don Giovanni -- This Napa restaurant showcases fresh ingredients and a rustic Italian inspiration in an inviting atmosphere. When dining at Bistro Don Giovanni it feels like you're part of one large family as opposed to simply a patron, with the welcoming staff and exceptional service. The menu offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes that change on a regular basis, including risotto, fish, duck and range of pastas. Diners will enjoy the patio with views of the vineyard-covered hills as well as the fire lit dining room.

http://www.bistrodongiovanni.com

-- Bouchon Bakery -- Bouchon is the bakery concept from the highly acclaimed, Michelin award-winning chef Thomas Keller. Bouchon Bakery's menu features all the delicious classics of a Parisian pâtisserie. The line is always long, especially during the morning rush, but it is well worth the wait for these tantalizing sweets. Keller's Pain au Chocolat is the best I've ever had, which says a lot considering it's one of my favorite snacks. And the macarons are the perfect consistency with a mix of crispy cookie and decadent buttercream in the middle. Bouchon is a must for dessert and pastry lovers when visiting Napa.

http://www.bouchonbakery.com/

-- Dean and Deluca -- For foodies interested in building their own picnic lunch to enjoy while taking in the breathtaking scenery in Napa, Dean and Deluca has a location in Napa. The artisan grocery store started in New York City, and the Napa Valley location offers a wide array of cheeses, meats, produce and of course wines, much of which come from local farms and wineries.

http://www.deandeluca.com/

It's hard to mention recommendations in Napa without offering a few suggestions on wineries to visit. So here's my top picks, not just for their wine, but for the overall experience they offer.

-- Sterling Vineyards -- Sterling is situated at the far end of the valley atop a hill where guests take a gondola ride to the winery. The ride and the winery itself offer breathtaking 360 degree views of Napa Valley, and on a good day you can sometimes see to the Bay Area. During your wine tasting, you take a leisurely, self-guided tour through art galleries and the winery to learn about the wine-making process.

http://www.sterlingvineyards.com/

-- Mumm Napa -- Mumm Napa offers a great overall experience where guests can choose to visit the tasting salon and patio, winery tour and/or their fine art photography gallery. In the tasting salon and patio, guests can enjoy table service and a gorgeous view of Mumm Napa's vineyards. The tasting menus allows for guests to choose from a variety of tasting options ranging from a full glass to champagne tasting flights. There's even soda and water and delightful crackers available to keep accompanying children occupied. And Mumm Napa's winery is also home to a photography gallery, which showcases a changing exhibition of works by well known local and international photographers.

http://mummnapa.com/

Three to try in Washington D.C.

Busboys & Poets

-- Five Guys Burgers and Fries -- What In-N-Out is to California, Five Guys is to D. C. It's a neighborhood burger joint, that encourages a little creativity. You start with the basic burger, or maybe a bacon cheeseburger or hot dog, and then you pick your choice of toppings. Everything from BBQ sauce to steak sauce to grilled onions, mushrooms, and jalapeño peppers, in addition to the classic condiments. Five Guys leaves everything in your hands, with countless combinations. And don't forget the fries, classic or Cajun style, which packs a little spice.

http://www.fiveguys.com/

-- Busboys and Poets -- A combination restaurant and bookstore, Busboys and Poets has lively ambiance, likely resulting from its encouragement of social discourse. Playing host to speakers, poets, open mic nights, film screenings and more, Busboys and Poets is a favorite among locals and a must for out-of-towners. The menu, like the cafe's character, offers a little of everything from pizza and paninis to burgers and meatloaf.

http://www.busboysandpoets.com/

-- The Mudd House -- The Mudd House, located a bit off Scott Circle, is a neighborhood coffee shop that stands out for its friendly service in addition to its great coffee. The drinks have the perfect mix of good beans and great flavor, whether you're a fan of chai lattes, mochas or a simple espresso. Strong enough, but not bitter, its worth the money and the wait, when there is one.

Three to try in the Bay Area

-- 'Wichcraft -- Located at the Westfield Center downtown, this is not your average sandwich shop! Started in and prevalent throughout New York City, 'Wichcraft is a casual, more quick-service offering from Tom Colicchio, head judge of Top Chef and well-known restaurateur. From restaurant design to the menu featuring high quality ingredients, and even the limited expansion, it is obvious that a lot of care went into the creation of 'Wichcraft. The food is prepared with great attention to detail that shows in the robust flavors and unique combinations present int the menu items, which include breakfast sandwiches, hot and cold sandwiches, salads and soups, in addition to homemade pastries and ice cream, including rotating a ice cream'wich.

http://wichcraftnyc.com/

-- Raleigh's American Pub -- Located on Telegraph in Berkeley, Raleigh's is a go to for Cal fans on game day, making it one of the busier places around. But if you're willing to dare the crowds, it's well worth it. Better yet, venture to the pub on a day when there's no football and you'll avoid the mass of students and alumni. Their onion rings are a great complement to their burgers and beer selection. And the back enclosed patio is great for eating and socializing on a nice afternoon.

-- Boudin Bakery -- Boudin has been a San Fransico staple for over 150 years, and has since expanded to have both bakery and restaurant locations throughout California. Their freshly baked sourdough is some of the best I have had, and the variety of sandwiches they offer ensures everyone can find something satisfying. My personal favorites are the Turkey Avocado sandwich, BLT melt, Waldorf and Classic Caesar salads, and Rustic Tomato Soup in a sourdough bread bowl. Their location at Fisherman's Wharf downtown also boasts a sit-down restaurant Bistro Boudin, with a more substantial menu that also incorporates their acclaimed sourdough.

http://www.boudinbakery.com/

LA bar-restaurants worth trying

Interested in LA nightlife but not willing to sacrifice a good meal, then try these LA area bar restaurants for the best of both worlds.

Blue Cheese Fries, Pete's Cafe and Bar

Sweet Potato Fries, Father's Office

-- Father's Office -- Known as one of the best places to get a burger in Los Angeles, Father's Office really delivers. Their two West LA locations are quintessential gastropubs, offering a wide range of draft beers as well as some hard ciders in addition to their "Office Burger." Don't try ordering any substitutions, they're not allowed, as condiments such as ketchup. But one bite, and you'll see why - they took the time to perfect their recipe. Try the sweet potato fries, which are a great complement to both burger and beer. The small space, dark lighting and lively atmosphere lend themselves to a hip but relaxed vibe, making Father's Office a great place to unwind after a hard day's work.

http://www.fathersoffice.com/

-- Pete's Cafe and Bar -- The juxtaposition of a modern cafe with the early 1900's architecture of this restaurant in the heart of LA's old bank district is dually welcoming and intriguing. A bright restaurant by day with its floor to ceiling windows, Pete's transforms into an elegant late-nite bar and restaurant come evening. The menu tries to present a wide array of modern and classic flavors, with everything from lamb bolgonese, a thai-spiced turkey burger, and pancettta wrapped scallops to the more simple but equally savory mac and cheese and apple and walnut salad.

http://www.petescafe.com/

-- The Cat & Fiddle -- For an inviting English pub, look no further than The Cat & Fiddle located on Sunset in Hollywood. A refreshing break from the hustle and bustle, The Cat & Fiddle hosts live jazz on their large patio every Sunday night. Or get in on the action and join other fans to watch English Premier League and other games on their multiple screens. The menu is substantial with English specialties as well as sandwiches and pasta for the less adventurous. And a little trivia, the location has a long Hollywood history, including rooms used for the filming of scenes from Casablanca.

http://www.thecatandfiddle.com/

Neighborhood favorites in West LA

Blueberry Mint Lemonade, Lemonade

-- Lemonade -- With four locations, including two on the westside in Beverly Hills and Venice, Lemonade's modern appeal and unique fresh fruit lemonades are refreshing in vision as well as in taste. Modeled to update the traditional cafeteria, Lemonade offers a variety of fresh salads, sandwiches and a daily soup for a quick lunch or dinner. Lemonade's freshly baked sweets - including bars, cookies, small cakes and tarts - are my favorite paired with a glass of lemonade, of course. And what really makes Lemonade stand out is their fresh lemonades, which not only change often but offer unique combinations one might not expect. Far from the lemonade I make at home on a summer day, their offerings included Blueberry Mint and Watermelon Rosemary lemonade on a recent visit, both of which I'd highly recommend for their fully developed flavor.

http://lemonadela.com

-- Finn McCool's Irish Pub -- Finn McCool's in Santa Monica on Main Street, is a bright and energetic pub that presents a large menu of Irish fare and live Irish music weekly. Offering traditional favorites, such as Bangers and Champ, Boxtys, Irish Stew, Shepard's Pie, Corned Beef and Cabbage and a Traditional Irish breakfast, alongside burgers, sandwiches and pub dogs there is sure to be something for even the less adventurous gourmand. And a pub wouldn't be complete without the bar, so Finn McCool's has an extensive menu including a variety of liquors, both imported and domestic beers, and Bailey's to finish off the meal.

http://www.finnmccoolsirishpub.com

-- Wildflour Pizza -- Located on Main Street in Santa Monica, Wildflour is quaint, with its benches and sawdust covered floors, but it packs a punch in terms of flavor. Their thin crust pizza on wheat or white dough, is prepared just right with a crunch when you bite into the crust, but not overdone. And their toppings range from the traditional standbys to pesto, sundried tomato, artichoke heart and feta cheese. Wildflour's medium pizza was enough to serve three to four people, at a great price.

Three to try in Sacramento

The Counter

-- Johnny Garlic's -- Fan of Food Network? Check out Johnny Garlic's, headed by Guy Fieri, with locations in Roseville, Windsor and Santa Rosa. With a menu inspired by garlic, as its name suggests, Johnny Garlic's features California cuisine in a casual but classy dining atmosphere. A must for first time diners is the Roasted Garlic Soup. For some adventure try Hunter's Creation, a rotating game entrée named after his son. But for the not so faint of heart, there's pasta, seafood, kobe burgers, and other meats.

http://www.johnnygarlics.com/

-- Cha Cha's -- Cha Cha's combines eclectic decor and good Mexican food to create a unique dining experience in Rocklin. The restaurant displays a variety of glass sculptures and lamps throughout. Cha Cha's menu has a little bit of everything including queso fundido, sopa de albondigas, pozole rojo for starters, and pollo en mole, chile verde, fajitas, and tamales for a main course. And for libations, Cha Cha's has eight specialty margaritas that are sure to tantalize your tastebuds.

http://www.chachas.net/

-- The Counter -- Like all of their locations, the Roseville restaurant is housed in a space designed to combine industrial chic and the look of the inside of a garage, complete with a garage door and stained cement floors. The Counter is the 21st century's classic burger joint. No more do you have a menu with a dozen burgers to choose from, although you can if you wish, The Counter offers limitless combinations, giving each diner a "build your own burger" check list, that allows you to pick everything from the size of your burger, bun, and type of meet, to toppings and a variety of interesting sauces. I am always tempted to pile my burger high, which I've learned may lead to being full halfway through, so one secret I've learned is to share so I have room for The Counter's delicious sweet potato fries, onion strings or parmesan fries.

http://www.thecounterburger.com

Dining out in Sacramento

-- Tex Wasabi's -- One of Guy Fieri's restaurants, with a location in Sacramento and Santa Rosa, Tex Wasabi's is you guessed it, a fusion of barbecue and sushi. Both the food and decor carry on this theme. The menu includes classic barbecue offerings such as Ribs, Brisket and Pulled Pork and classic sushi rolls including Spicy Tuna, Rainbow and California. But what makes Tex Wasabi's really special is Guy's Gringo Sushi, his take on sushi for those less inclined towards raw fish. Gringo Sushi is wrapped in tapioca paper, and filled with everything from turkey, bacon and avocado to BBQ pork, french fries and blackened chicken. Whether you like sushi, BBQ or both, Tex Wasabi's is a must try.

http://www.texwasabis.com/

-- Fat City Bar & Cafe -- Located in Old Town Sacramento, Fat City Bar & Cafe is an elegant restaurant that doesn't break the budget. Decorated with old-fashioned Tiffany Lamps, the restaurant features a bustling bar and large dining rooms. For starters, try the Skinny Onion Rings, French Onion Soup, and Crispy Fried Green Beans. And my entrée favorites are the steaks.

http://fatsrestaurants.com/

-- Chicago Fire Pizza -- With exposed brick walls, leather booths and beautiful lighting, Chicago Fire Pizza offers a chic vibe while still bringing the atmosphere of the classic neighborhood pizzeria. And they've got the authentic Chicago style pizza to hold their own, offering both deep dish and crispy thin crust and gourmet toppings. Chicago Fire Pizza has a location in Folsom and a location in Sacramento. Helpful hint -- if you're looking to get lunch, it is only offered at the Sacramento restaurant.

http://www.chicagofire.com/

Los Angeles cafes

Looking for that great coffee shop or a cafe to try for breakfast? Well these cafes measure up, whether you're looking for a honest to goodness cup of joe or a refreshing smoothie, brunch or a great sandwich.

Cathryn's Potatoes with Two Eggs, Aroma Coffee and Tea Company

-- Aroma Coffee and Tea Company -- Aroma is pretty close to the epitome of neighborhood cafe in my book. Located in Studio City, Aroma and it's accompanying bookstore are located in the middle of a quaint block of boutiques and small restaurants. This cafe takes advantage of Los Angeles' great year-round weather, offering a great outdoor dining experience on one of two patios. Combined with the fresh tea and independently roasted coffee delivered weekly, its no wonder the line is always out the door. The brunch offerings are equally enticing, including everything from health-conscious power breakfasts to omelettes to breakfast paninis to brioche french toast. And if you're a potato lover, as am I, the rosemary potatoes are a must.

http://www.aromacoffeeandtea.com/

-- Toast Bakery Cafe -- Situated in one of the trendiest areas of LA, on 3rd Street in Beverly Hills, Toast Bakery Cafe meets the challenge of combining a hip vibe with the friendly atmosphere you'd expect from a neighborhood cafe. The outdoor tables make for great people watching, while indoors one is met with inviting couches. Toast's smoothies and frappes are fresh and flavorful, but it's the food that really sets Toast apart. The portions are generous -- take their pressed sandwiches for instance, loaded with fresh ingredients and served with your choice of side. Their onion rings are some of the best I've had. Try the Smoke Stack pressed sandwich, a great combination of brie, smoked turkey, avocado and basil aioli.

http://www.toastbakerycafe.net/

-- Euro Pane Bakery -- Euro Pane is easy to miss in its original location on Colorado Blvd in Pasadena, and those who've never ventured in are surely missing out. Euro pane offers freshly baked breads, pastries and desserts, alongside a limited lunch menu consisting of around ten sandwiches including chicken, turkey, ham, and egg salad served on your choice of the aforementioned breads. The brioche is amazing, buttery and rich as it should be. And Euro Pane appears to have a second more upscale location across from Paseo Colorado.