Bellevue, Must Visit, Seattle Metro, United States, Washington
Bellevue WA
There is no better chocolate: Läderach. How lucky we are in the Seattle metro area to have a location of this world renowned chocolatier. The biggest problem is what to have but, don't worry, it's all fabulous! While they have various California, San Francisco, United States, West Coast
San Francisco
French bistro in Hayes Valley: Chez Maman. Nice corner spot with plenty of outdoor seating which makes it a good choice for lunch. Had the savoyarde crepe which was very good...just like what you'd experience in the Savoie region of France. Also Ravenna, Seattle Metro, United States, Washington, West Coast
SeattleÂ
Revena location of this Seattle icon: Mioposto. This location was closed for 5 months in 2025 after an SUV crashed into the restaurant! It's back open and as great as ever. There are several locations and, this one like the others, California, Must Visit, San Francisco, United States, West Coast
San Francisco
New Southern cuisine in SFO: Prelude. Had to give this place a try and it's unique twist on Southern cuisine. Chef's grandmother hailed from Alabama...now you're talking! Modern and comfortable space. Can choose from a Chef's menu or ala carte. Must haves Seattle Metro, U Village, United States, University District, Washington, West Coast
Seattle
University Village: Joey Kitchen. This is a chain of restaurants out of Vancouver BC that serves a mix of Asian fusion, PNW, burgers, and steaks in a very nice upscale space. Service is always very good. Give the Korean fried cauliflower a East Coast, Philadelphia, United States
Philadelphia
Dinner for 20: P. J. Clarke's. Usually don't recommend group dinners but if I'm allowed to choose from the menu then it's fair game in my mind. That was the case for this restaurant in the Old City. The chowder was good
It’s on everyone’s list: Zahav. I’ve tried several times to get a reservation here but they are hard to come by. Visited as part of a larger group but this...
Another good Philly option: Helm. This is a small place north of the old city in the Olde Kensington area. I’ve seen it described as French but it is decidedly...
BYOB source: Pinot Boutique. In the Old City and sells locally sourced wines so don’t go looking for that French Bordeaux. Interesting wines from the area with tasings available. Somewhat...
Passing through: Chili’s Too. Needed a quick bite and it had been a while since I last visited. Located in the B Concourse at O’Hare and near my outbound gate...
Vegan ice cream: Frankie & Jo’s. One of three locations, this one is on lower Capitol Hill. The shop is small and lines form at times so you may have...
Neapolitan style pizza: Veraci. One of several locations in Seattle…..including a mobile unit usually seen at the Ballard Market….with branches in Spokane and Bend OR. Their claim to fame is...
Beer with a twist: No Anchor. Focus is on beer…and variations on that theme. It’s a relatively small bar in the Belltown area that has developed a big reputation, not...
Looking for a bite after the tulip fields: The Oyster and Thistle. Located a bit off the beaten path on the Sound, there are a number of options in the...
Breakfast anyone:Â Fuel + Forest. Problem with this place isn’t the food…it is very good…..but finding it. The address takes you to a large building with a number of retail shops...
Chocolate: XOCO. Artisanal chocolates made with real passion by a mother and son team. The space is small but the offerings are numerous and as best I could tell….nothing here...
Extraordinary dining experience: Harvest Beat. As you know, I’m basically a carnivore but when given the opportunity to experience truly great food, I’ll give it a try. Such is the...
Looking for espresso with local knowledge: Noir Cafe. A small place in the downtown area that serves good espresso and lattes. They also have a selection of baked goods and...
Local knowledge always helps: Le Gourmet Break. A nice breakfast spot in downtown Orlando…..I think it may be the first time I’ve been downtown in this city of Parks and...
In search of real food: Bulla Gastrobar. This place looked interesting and even though it was in Winter Park, I thought I’d give it a try since finding something unique...
Another hotel restaurant: The Bistro at the Hilton. Needed a light lunch and this was convenient. Typical offerings and since I wanted something light the Manhattan Clam Chowder fit the...