Use the following guide to find fine dining options in Miami Florida that are exactly what you are craving.

The Forge

With claim to the number one steak in America, The Forge can hardly be overlooked. In addition to its excellent steaks, this restaurant knows all there is to know about ambience. The atmosphere at The Forge is one of exquisite luxury with timeless recipes that completely ignore dining trends and stick closely to what has always been deliciously comfortable. The wine cellar at The Forge is quite notable and there’s bound to be the perfect wine for every meal available.

If it’s a little more excitement that you’re looking for a little more excitement or want to wind up the night with an after dinner drink, slide next door to their nightclub, Jimmy’z at The Forge for a bit more excitement. With accolades and awards abound, its easy to see that The Forge creates great meals, great ambience and great times.

The Capital Grille

Sticking to the steak theme, The Capital Grille is garnering some well deserved attention for their dry aged steaks, but they’re not content to rest on that notoriety, they’re also responsible for some excellent seafood and a fine wine list that has caught the attention of Wine Spectator. Upon visiting The Capital Grille you’ll immediately notice the large meat locker in the center of the room. The meat locker is where the steaks are dry aged and your steak will actually be cut on the premises. In addition to delightful meals, the staff at The Capital Grille treats all patrons as VIPs, so much so that they’ve been awarded the “Achievement of Excellence Award” from the American Culinary Federation.

Karu & Y Lounge

Okay, so skip the steaks and hit Karu & Y for an exciting night that may include more than a few celebrity sightings. Karu & Y is a spectacularly lush 25,000 square foot restaurant which is just so much more. You’ll be greeted by a stunning Dale Chihuly chandelier, several waterfalls and a peaceful reflecting pool. The menu at Karu & Y is a bit exotic so if you’re adventurous you’ll definitely want to try some of the more unusual treats. For those with smaller appetites, the tapas menu packs a punch in bite sized portions. Karu & Y are very popular with the theater crowd, if you’re looking for snacks before the theater, try the pre-theater prix fixe three course menu and then take advantage of Karu’s chauffeured car which will take you right to Carnival Center and back again. If you’re looking to keep the excitement going after the theater, try the Y Lounge for some nourishment or hit one of the four rooms for nightclub action.

Talula

A little more low key, but just as fine when it comes to the dining, Talula is a neighborhood restaurant set in a decidedly urban environment. This cozy restaurant seats a comfortable 75 diners and is warmly decorated and candlelit. The exhibition kitchen is a new popular addition to many restaurants and Talula follows suit. The atmosphere is comfortable and friendly and the food is simply delicious. Billed as Creative American Cuisine, the key to the perfect combination of tastes rests simply in the well-qualified hands of chefs Andrea Curto-Randazzo and Frank Randazzo. Talula is fine dining without the pretensions.

Grass Restaurant & Lounge

The eco movement echoes through Grass Restaurant & Lounge as diners are poised underneath thatched huts with dense foliage surrounding them. The menu is also very friendly for those who prefer their fine dining experience with a vegetarian or vegan bent. But meat eaters don’t despair as there are plenty of selections with you in mind as well. Although claiming to be a nature centric restaurant, there is a bit of pretension there, which may be deserved as Grass is popular with the rich and famous, but be prepared to put on airs. And speaking of air, because your dining is done al fresco, you should keep an eye on the weather before heading out to Grass Restaurant and Lounge.

Emeril’s Miami Beach

Trust one of the most trusted chefs for your dining experience at Emeril’s Miami Beach. Emeril has created a taste sensation that is all his own, its “new” New Orleans and if you’ve ever eaten at one of his restaurants, tried his retail products, or seen his show you know what I mean. But the bonus for Emeril’s Miami Beach diners is that Chef Emeril Legasse and Chef de Cuisine Brandon Benack has created signature flavors exclusively for South Beach. Emeril’s Miami Beach is a great way to explore some of the finest food around with unique flavors and take in a beachfront view.

These few restaurants just barely brush the tip of fine dining in the Miami, Florida as the wealthy, famous and just plain old tourist group keeps asking for more and local restaurateurs are more than happy to oblige. When it comes to culinary experiences, Miami is an ask and you shall receive city, you’re bound to find exactly what you’re looking for. In fact, if you’re willing to go out on a bit of a limb, you can discover some incredible edible delights that may pique your taste buds and open you up to a new world of dining, its all possible if you explore the fine dining options in Miami, Florida.

Whether you arrive by car, air or port, be sure to book your Miami hotel online at Hotels Cheap.   Your savings will make a nice contribution toward enjoying these and other local restaurants.

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For sports fans there is no other choice but NBA City. Designed like an arena from the 1940′s, 1950′s era, the huge restaurant has taken the NBA theme as far as it possibly can with an interactive game area, big screen televisions and memorabilia in the retail store. Twice voted the best theme restaurant in Orlando, the NBA City lets sports fans of all ages sit back and enjoy the game or at least the spirit of the game with what they term upscale, casual dining.

If sports really aren’t your cup of tea, then how about an actual cup of tea at Cafe Tu Tu Tango. Cafe Tu Tu Tango has a unique attitude and it’s evident from the minute you walk in the door. The focus is on art and an artistic community and claims to have a bohemian feel. What the do have is a great menu with small tapas style selections that are meant to be shared. For families with children that have adventurous palates then let them dig in and share meals with you. But if you have more timid little ones when it comes to food, there is a children’s menu that’s bound to delight. Kick back and enjoy, Tango is a nice relaxing break in what is most likely a hectic theme filled day.

It’s a little cliché because they’re now basically all over the place and a bit over the top, but the Rainforest Café is a great place to bring the family. The food is better than expected for a themed restaurant, the staff is usually quite attentive and the theme is really fun for everyone. The great part about the Rainforest Café is it’s a good place to eat, there’s a store for shopping while you wait, but it’s also an educational experience and what parent isn’t trying to squeeze a little bit of learning into every activity.

For something that isn’t run of the mill, give Straub’s Fine Seafood a try. Fresh fish and seafood is served in a family friendly atmosphere that encourages children to take their palate to a new level with four course meals designed especially for the younger set. It’s sometimes a challenge to get your children to behave during a meal and Straubs is a great place to try out those skills and let them feel grown up.

If your family enjoys seafood, there’s always Joe’s Crab Shack  for delectable ocean delights. But don’t feel tied in to the sea, Joes also serves burgers, sandwiches, steaks, chicken and pasta. Yes, its another chain restaurant but one that has a nice theme, food that appeals to both kids and adults, and an outdoor playground that will keep the little ones occupied and hopefully wear them out a little bit.

Okay, so you’re in Orlando, the ocean is right there, so yes, let’s talk about one more seafood restaurant. The Boston Lobster Feast is great if you’re looking for good seafood at a great bargain. Kids under four eat free off the kids menu and those under 11 get the feast at half price. And what is the feast you may ask? It’s an all you can eat buffet like you’ve never seen before, imagine piles of lobster, crab, shrimp, mussels, crawfish, oysters, chowder, clams, salmon, London broil, roast beef, pasta and there’s even a dessert bar too. It’s the perfect solution for families with big appetites.

A family dining staple is pizza so no list of family dining restaurants is complete without including a pizza restaurant. Skip all of your old standbys and give Soulplantation and Sweet Tomatoes a try. Not only will you get that pizza your kids crave, but you’re actually going to sneak in a lot of nutrition as well. The buffet is simply loaded with fresh foods in the form of salads, endless pizza, pasta, soups, fruit and frozen yogurt. Soulplantation prides itself on bringing the freshest ingredients to its customers and claims that within 24 hours of being in the ground the food is on a refrigerated truck and on its way to the restaurant. The food is made from scratch every day and for a buffet, Soulplantation is pretty darn good.

Another pizza restaurant that’s a bit out of the norm is the very popular Spoodles. If you’re staying on the Disney grounds then you may want to take a trip over to Disney’s Boardwalk and give this restaurant a try. Spoodles claims to be a walk around the Mediterranean with coastal cuisine from Greece, Italy, Spain, and North Africa. They’ve labeled it “cuisine of the sun” but the real excitement is the fire ovens where kids can actually watch their pizzas being made. You’ll also find some entertainment, lively music, and an eclectic kids menu if they’re not interested in the pizza. And as everything Disney, you know your children will be welcome.

Okay, so you hate to bring up the evil arches, but they are trying to incorporate more healthy food items in their menu, and let’s face it, your kids are familiar with McDonald’s and sometimes a familiar friend helps sooth frazzled nerves. So if you’re going to go to McDonald’s, then you might as well make it a whopper of a McDonald’s. The McDonald’s on Sand Lake Road carries the title of The World’s Largest PlayPlace. There’s a huge play area for the young ones and a smaller area for the toddler set. Teens will enjoy the arcade games and parents will like the waterfall and 500 gallon aquarium. An added bonus to this dressed up McDonald’s is the additional bistro items on the menu and an expanded dessert menu.

Book an Orlando hotel for your family here.  Save money on guaranteed best rates so you may dine ’til your heart’s content.

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Yes, downtown Detroit and the surrounding area has a lot more to offer visitors than ever before and it’s often overlooked as a family fun spot. Detroit is actually crammed with activities that can educate, enlighten or entertain every member in the family. But the one thing Detroit may be a little light on is family dining options that aren’t your standard McDonalds or other chain restaurant. If you’ve brought your family to Detroit and are looking for just the right combination of family friendly dining with unique flare, use the following guide to help you find the right restaurant for you and your family.

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Apple Annie’s Kitchen & Bakery rates pretty high with locals and guests. Serving up the best of both worlds when it comes to family dining, large portions and low prices, Apple Annie’s Kitchen is your standard family restaurant with reliably consistent food, cheerful service and a pleasant atmosphere. Children are not only welcome at Apple Annie’s, they’re expected.

Another family restaurant located just outside Detroit is the Moose Preserve Bar & Grill. Don’t let the word Bar scare you off, this upscale bar and grill is known for its steaks, fresh fish and BBQ Ribs. You can also try one of its famous buffalo burgers. The hunting lodge motif makes it a welcome environment for the entire family. The clientele is varied so you don’t have to worry about running into a crowd that’s just interested in the cheapest taper in town. If the weather is nice, head out to the patio to eat on the terrace or under the sugar maple tree. When it’s a little chillier the upper deck provides a place to eat with a covered roof and heating.

Okay, it’s a chain restaurant, but a visit to the Hard Rock Café in a city that’s known for its music is different than any old Hard Rock. In the heart of Detroit, this café shares the pride of the city’s rich musical past. Look for memorabilia from musical greats such as The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Eminem, Jimi Hendrix, Ted Nugent, Grand Funk Railroad and Kit Rock among many, many others. Not only is the Hard Rock sort of a tourist sight in itself, its located so close to many attractions that it’s a super convenient place to take the family without a lot of travel or tricky directions.

A great place to bring the kids is Guernsey Farms Dairy, a family owned and operated restaurant since 1940. The restaurant features an ice cream parlor, store and gift shop and a dairy processing plant. Not only is there a lot to see and do at the Guernsey Farms Dairy, but only the finest ingredients are used and each meal is always a delight. Before your visit, take a virtual tour of the dairy plant to turn your little trip into a learning experience for the kids. It will make the visit all that much more interesting. And don’t forget to pick up some dairy products at the family owned store.

What’s family dining without a pizza restaurant in your back pocket? Ferlito’s Family Dining & Pizza might be just the back up restaurant you need. A standard pizza restaurant that serves up traditional fare with fresh, quality ingredients. No fancy over the top Italian theme here, just good old fashioned family food. It’s important to note that the menu is full of variety so if you’ve got a finicky eater who only likes noodles, then he or she is going to be happy, in fact the whole family will be happy with this large menu.

For a restaurant that screams kid-friendly, try Secret Recipes Family Dining. The built in toy boxes or the game boys available up on request should occupy the children for quite some time while you sit back and take a long needed and well deserved break. Secret Recipes prides itself on cooking most of its items from scratch and making deep fried foods as healthy as possible by using trans fat free frying oil. The menu is varied and again, it’s very kid-friendly. Meals are also available on a carry out basis, so if you want to pick up something to bring back to the hotel feel free, but let us recommend visiting the restaurant and taking a break while the kids play.

Okay, so its another chain restaurant, but if you’re really looking for a break and a little time to relax, then the old standard is right at hand, Chuck E. Cheese. You know the menu and you know the routine and sometimes when you’re vacationing with children they need a little taste of the familiar to calm high-strung nerves and provide a stress free dinner. It may not be exactly what you had hoped for your vacation but you’ll be glad that you let them play in a familiar atmosphere for a while. If not while your at (the sometimes impossibly loud) Chuck E. Cheese restaurant, you’ll be happy later when they’re so tired they fall right to sleep.

Detroit is also full of other chain restaurants, including the dreaded McDonald’s, and many other family owned and operated restaurants that cater to families. Use the above list as a starting point and check with your hotel or tour guide to see if they have any recommendations. But whatever you do, don’t avoid a trip to Detroit. It’s really a great city to visit and comes loaded with fun, educational and recreational activities for everyone in the family.

Save on your hotel so your whole family can eat more!  Click here for great rates on hotels in Detroit or anywhere.

Want to try the tried and true, one that put Chicago at the top of fine dining lists and a restaurant that is debatably the best in the country? Well, then Charlie Trotter’s will be the destination that will thrill your taste buds. Unwilling to sit back and enjoy its magnificent reputation, Charlie Trotter’s constantly pushes the envelope to become one of the most innovative and progressive establishments in the world. After twenty years in the business this dining mecca has earned its excellent reputation and is certain to provide diners with sensational fare that will leave you smiling.

If you consider yourself a foodie of the cutting edge variety then you’ll probably want to visit the ultra-chic Moto. Chicago restaurateurs Joseph De Vido and Homaro Cantu found the perfect environment for their trendy restaurant, tucked among loading docks and amidst the meatpacking district is a surprisingly hopping avant-garde boutique and gallery district with the perfect compliment of dining options. Moto boasts progressive, postmodern, futuristic menus situated in a stylish, contemporary setting with impeccable service. And that service is truly unique as you realize your waiters are also chefs and they specialize in molecular gastronomy. For the newcomer this style of food preparation and presentation is not only a bit foreign but otherworldly and the resulting flavors are truly out of this world. For an encompassing dining experience, try the 10 or 20 course tasting menus, but be prepared, the servings are less than generous.

For French delights sprinkled with global fusion the pairing of Chef Rick Tramonto and Pastry Chef Gale Gand was a marriage made in culinary heaven. The married couple decided to combine their passion for food and develop a fine dining experience like no other in Chicago. Tru is the result and it’s truly unique. A visit to Tru means a surrendering to the whim of the chefs. The tasting menus are referred to as collections and the composition is decided by the kitchen. So you never really know what you’re going to get and you’ll probably never have the same meal twice.

If you’re looking for sushi then Chicago is full of fantastic dining delights, but one of the newest hotspots is Ai Japanese Restaurant and Lounge. Chef Toyoji Hemmi has found a way to combine traditional Japanese flavors with some more standard fare into incredible edible creations. If you’re a bit more adventurous then you’ve absolutely got to try the fugu. Fugu is the famed poisonous blowfish that is considered a gastronomic delight the world over. It takes a trained chef with surgically precise knife skills to prepare fugu and Ai Sushi and Tsuki (sister restaurants) are the only Midwest restaurants serving fugu. If you’re thinking about taking this risky culinary leap it’s advised that you call in advance to see if it’s on the menu for that day.

For those that think Mexican food can’t be considered fine dining, then they’ve never been to Topolobampo. Located in the same building as the more moderately scaled Frontera, both restaurants feature authentic Mexican fare created with much talent using local fresh and organic ingredients from local farmers. Not only has Topolo (as it’s known by the locals) garnered awards for the excellent dishes it puts out, but the man behind the scenes has earned his own awards and stepped into the spotlight. Chef Rick Bayless is the host of MEXICO – One Plate at a Time on PBS. Topolobampo offers a spicy alternative to traditional fine dining that will make your evening a hot one.

A much spoken about restaurant is Trump’s new Sixteen, located on the 16^th floor of Trump’s relatively new International Hotel & Tower, Chicago. Mix novelty, incredible views, an exceptional chef and high prices and you’re bound to come up with a winning fine dining solutions. Trump did just this at Sixteen and the addition of Australian Chef Frank Brunacci was the icing on the cake. Look for a bit of international flair in more traditional dishes and a wine list that’s sure to leave your pocketbook lighter by the end of the evening.

Another notable restaurant that resides within a hotel is Avenues in The Peninsula Chicago. Avenues also is a strong believer in using locally grown ingredients and combines them into contemporary cuisine in an open kitchen. Critics consistently agree that Avenues is one of the best restaurants around and have literally rained awards and recognitions upon this destination restaurant. New to the line up is Chef de Cuisine Curtis Duffy who moved from the acclaimed Alinea to Avenues in 2008. He also cut his chops at some of Chicago’s other top noted kitchens such as Charlie Trotters and Trio.

And speaking of Alinea, if you’re thinking about trying everything and have some free time on your hands, then a trip to the ultra chic Alinea is a must, as long as you have a healthy sized credit card. The 24-course tasting menu is a fabulous way to get a little taste of simply everything this American fine dining restaurant has to offer. But you can expect to spend about five hours working your way through the courses and you’ll drop a couple C-bills in the process. Chef and owner Grant Achatz is really a master with ingredients and presentation, coming up with some of the most delectable delights in town.

Chicago, once known for its pizza, has become a mecca for foodies the world over and the windy city’s restaurants are forcing critics to stand up and take notice for it’s quite certain that Chicago can churn out much more than a tasty tomato pie.

Book your Chicago hotel through Hotels Cheap and spend your savings on dining out around town.

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o Share. If you’re going to the restaurant with someone else, share a plate instead of each ordering on your own. Restaurant portions are usually plenty big enough for two people and you pay half the cost.

o Drink water. Sodas, coffees and especially alcohol all increase your bill considerably. Reserve that as part of your “late night” expense and skip it during meals.

o Tip appropriately, not extravagantly. Many people over-tip during vacation because they feel freer with their money during the trip.

o Take the doggie bag. Order something that can be split in half and saved for later.

o Ask the locals. You may know that an area is great for seafood but don’t want to spend the tourist prices to try it out. Ask locals in the area for a good, cheaper recommendation.

o Choose one meal per day for splurging. You don’t need an elaborate breakfast, a decadent lunch and a four-course dinner. Pick one meal to be the fancy one and go light on the rest.

o Order appetizers as entrees or don’t order them at all.

Making smart decisions at every step of the restaurant selection process can help you make sure that you enjoy the treats available at your destination without causing your piggy bank to crack with your splurges.

Bonus Tip:  Save money on hotels at Hotels Cheap.

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Jacks Bar-B-Que

You can’t go wrong with Jacks Bar-B-Que. Winner of three gold medals at the 2008 National BBQ Expo, Jacks is a longstanding favorite of the meat eating crowd in Nashville. Two convenient locations, both in historic areas, make it the perfect pit stop on after a day of tourism and entertainment and a highlight before an evening of more melodies. Speaking of pits, Jacks claims that your meal will come directly from “Pit to Plate”. Look for daily specials to include Tennessee pork shoulder, Texas beef brisket, smoked turkey, Texas sausage, St. Louis ribs, smoked chicken and all the other fixin’s that round out a good bar-b-que meal.

Ichiban Japanese Cuisine

Leave the tourist trappings behind and come to Ichiban Japanese Cuisine looking simply for the freshest fish around. This low key sushi bar, situated in the heart of the tourist area, doesn’t look to impress its guests with fancy rolls or frilly knife work, they want their guests to walk out knowing that they had some of the best sushi around and that nothing could be fresher. This is an excellent break from a hectic day for travelers as you’re still right in the middle of all that Nashville has to offer but this could be a low key sushi restaurant anywhere, the perfect way to relax and unwind.

Sole Mio

Sole Mio is one of the most raved about restaurants in this heavily populated city, and not without good cause. The reason Sole Mio is so popular is it hasn’t tried to Americanize its fantastic Italian cuisine. In 1995 the Agnolettis moved their successful restaurant from Northern Italy to Nashville and proved that success comes with good food, no matter where you live. If you love Italian food then the authentic, fresh daily pastas are an absolute must. Wait staff will be happy to help you select the perfect sauce to pair with your pasta and they’ll even throw in a wine suggestion or two. If you’re headed to Sole Mio during the daytime expect the experience to be a bit more casual while the evening dining can be a little more formal and definitely more romantic. Most of the seating is exceptional but if you’re looking to create a mood you may want to ask for fireside accommodations.

Flyte Fine Dining & Wine

New to the restaurant scene in Nashville, Flyte Fine Dining & Wine is making tourists and locals stand up and take notice. Flyte has gone the green route and prides itself on using fresh, organic and humanely raised ingredients, but its not necessarily the ingredients that make Flyte fantastic, but they way they put them together. Luckily, the way Flyte is organized you get to try a large variety of their masterpieces, and don’t forget the wine. If you’re unfamiliar with ordering by the flyte, basically you’re getting a variety of food or drinks in that category so you can sample all the flavors; it’s a great way to sample the menu. Flyte changes their menu regularly and is very aware of diners with special dietary needs (especially vegetarians) and does its best to accommodate them.

12th & Porter
Okay, so what is a trip to Nashville without trying to catch at least a glimpse of a favorite star or an up and comer in their natural habitat. If you’re scene is rock music, then 12th & Porter is an absolute must. The primary focus of this establishment is its rock and roll musicians who breeze in and out for gigs on a regular basis. It sometimes seems as though local talent flies right off the stage and into the big league, but check the calendar to see who’s going to be playing on the night you plan on visiting. In addition to being a total hotspot for wanna-be rockers, 12th & Porter actually serves some of the best food around for the price. If you’re looking to stop by but not in the mood for a show the service will be a bit faster and the atmosphere less loud, but definitely not as exciting.

Mad Platter Restaurant

Maybe the best thing to come out of the Jackson Victory Tour was the pairing of Craig and Marcia Jarvis, where the couple met while catering the tour and by 1989 they expanded their catering business into the Mad Platter Restaurant. Located just on the outskirts of historic Germantown, this locally loved dining establishment puts its food above everything else. Expect the atmosphere and the dining experience to be a little eclectic, from casual to formal and high end cuisine to home cooked comfort food, the Mad Platter covers it all at times, but their focus is clearly on quality and taste. Menus change a little bit daily to suit the chef’s and the ingredients so repeat guests can explore different takes on old favorites at each and every visit.

F. Scott’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar

It’s Nashville, so it should be all about music, right? F. Scott’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar does it up just right with the perfect combination of American cuisine in a quaint bistro with the sweet sounds of live jazz in the bar. This restaurant fits the bill for both locals and tourists as it’s comfortably relaxing and fueled by the excitement of jazz alone. The food is perfectly paired with the award winning wine selections and will get your head bobbing to the beat in no time at all. By the way, keep your eyes peeled as many a celebrity or notable VIP has been spotted at F. Scott’s.

These are hot restaurants in Nashville, click here for hot hotel deals in Nashville.

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If you’re headed to Philadelphia, then get ready to dive into some delightful cuisine that competes with the best in the world.

10 Arts by Eric Ripert

New to the city, 10 Arts by Eric Ripert is causing quite a stir among Philadelphia’s foodies. Namesake, famed chef Eric Ripert takes his talent to the table with his current twist on American cuisine with a focus on locally raised and grown ingredients. Housed in the Ritz-Carlton hotel, 10 Arts brings delightful flavor to its guests in a classy and romantic atmosphere.

Osteria

Another new restaurant that’s not only drawing raves but has been nominated by the James Beard Foundation as the Best New Restaurant 2008 is Osteria. Osteria brings traditional Italian meals to Philadelphia with homemade pastas, traditional thin crust pizzas, wood grilled meats and fish. The meals are simple in the old, authentic ways of Italy with large portions and an open dining concept that encourages lively conversation in a friendly atmosphere. Make several visits to Osteria as the menu and wine list change regularly to reflect the seasons.

Zahav
Moving from a possible Best New Restaurant to one that’s already won the title from Philadelphia Magazine and Best in Philly, Zahav is an incredible dining experience with a pan-global flare. Taking a note from minimalism, Zahav makes its meals simple with the focus on fresh and flavorful ingredients that delight the taste buds rather than visual masterpieces. The atmosphere is very relaxed and inviting and meals are served family style so bring you friends or family for an experiment in simple taste sensations.

Amada

Tapas style restaurants are all the rage these days and cropping up in every city across the United States, unfortunately these tapas restaurants are not usually good or traditional tapas. Amada is exactly what a tapas restaurant should be, it’s a truly authentic Spanish tapas restaurant with food that is packed full of earthy Mediterranean flavors. In fact some of the recipes used at Amada are centuries old, reflecting the true authenticity of this great tapas restaurant. Come with a group and Chef Jose Garces will hand select a tapas menu specifically for your table.

Barclay Prime

If you’re really in the mood to dig into a plate full of incredible food then head over to Barclay Prime for a steakhouse quality meal in an upscale, sleek atmosphere. Some of the best beef around, Barclay Prime gives its guests an experience that is a gastronomical delight. Be prepared to pay top dollar for this top-notch food and dress to impress but you’re guaranteed to enjoy every single bite.

Fountain

One of the city and the countries most acclaimed restaurants, Fountain brings you the freshest seafood around with perfect matching accompaniments. Housed in the Four Seasons Hotel, Fountain is a chic and sophisticated way to experience the best the city has to offer its culinary crowd. Of course the centerpiece of this magnificent restaurant is the fountain so if you’re going for a special occasion, ask to sit by the stunning Alexander Stirling Calder’s Swann Memorial Fountain and request the prix fixe menu so you get to soak in the best of the best.

Lolita

If you’re not as interested in romance and an expensive evening out, then Lolita’s is the exact opposite of Fountain. Lolita serves a hot and happening crowd some of the tastiest Mexican food around. Crowds flock to this popular B3 neighborhood to experience the authentic flavors of Lolita’s and to have a good time. But be prepared, you shouldn’t come to Lolita’s unprepared as it’s a BYOB restaurant, so you’ll have to bring your own alcohol, but the staff will be more than happy to take your favorite tequila and create a margarita masterpiece. If you find yourself headed toward Lolita’s on a last minute whim, don’t despair, a liquor store is just down the street and happy to accommodate.

Morimoto

If you’re a fan of the Iron Chef then Morimoto’s is a must stop location, but even if you haven’t seen the show its one of the best sushi restaurant around. If you’re adventurous, try the Omakase, a multi-course tasting menu that lets you experience the full scale of flavors created by Morimoto. In addition to the great tastes, the atmosphere at Morimoto’s is somehow warm and inviting and modernly chic at the same time. It’s an experience you’ll be talking about for a long time to come.

Striped Bass

Looking for more fresh fish, then Striped Bass fits the bill. The restaurant has been reworked under new owner Stephen Starr but it still retains its original charm and class that patrons have grown to love over the years. But to experience the best that Stephen Starr has brought to the establishment, go for broke and order the Chef’s five course seasonal tasting menu, you’re sure to be delighted.

James

One of the biggest trends in dining to hit the public in the last few years is the fresh and local food fad. Many chefs are looking to incorporate as many fresh and locally grown ingredients as possible and James has taken the lead in the Philadelphia region. Chef Jim Burke uses as many fresh and local ingredients as possible to create his American cuisine for guests to the restaurant. Known as a fine dining establishment, James is popular and usually packed, but relax and spend a few moments in the modern styled bar and lounge or warm up by the fireplace.

Philadelphia is known as the city of brotherly love but perhaps it should be recognized for its love of great food and good times. No matter what you’ve got a craving for you’re bound to not only find it in Philadelphia but find the best version of it that you’ve ever tasted. Bon Appetite.

Brothely love also extends to hotel deals in Philadelphia, check out Hotels Cheap.

Houston should not be defined by BBQ joints on every block and bars with fried foods and bucking bronco machines at every corner.  These places are great when you’re in the mood, but quiet corners in  a classy décor surroundings with chefs that prepare award winning cuisine are easy to find in Houston.

Las Alamedas offers the authentic Mexican cuisine seen in finer restaurants in Acapulco or Mexico City.  Their food and bar menus have been sampled and  positively reviewed in many periodicals including Texas Good Eats, Houston Chronicle, Houston Post and Travel Host. When you walk into this restaurant you’ll feel as though you’ve entered a 19th century hacienda.  Besides a delicious roster of dishes on their regular menu, enjoy their Champagne Brunch every Sunday from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Café Piquet fills their menu with delicately spiced Cuban cuisine.  You will savor these authentic dishes as you delight in the tropical music that surrounds you.  Try some of their plantains or empanadas. But, be forewarned if you choose to order one of their Cuban sandwiches, don’t get the Super Cuban unless you are extremely hungry.

Carmelo’s Italian Restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic setting.  The wine list has an abundant selection and the valet service is quick and attentive.  You are liable to see Carmelo, or should I say hear Carmelo.  He speaks five languages including Spanish and Italian.  The Sicilian master chef also has a restaurant in Austin.  His specialty, Caribbean Lobster filled Ravioli, must be tried.  But, first start out your meal with his Crab Cakes Carmelo.

The Oceanaire Seafood Room does not only believe in quality cuisine made from fresh, fresh ingredients, but it prides itself on having the best service in town.  The ambiance is romantic, yet comfortable.  They even have private rooms for business meetings, weddings or any special occasion.

The Palm is a Houston tradition that offers out of this world USDA prime steaks and jumbo Nova Scotia Lobster.  What more could a person ask for?  If you aren’t tempted by the steak and lobster, but don’t know what to order, try one of their Italian specialties like Tuscan Broiled Split Chicken.   Although this is a very classy restaurant, it is also lively.  So come and have fun but don’t expect a quiet, romantic evening.

Artista Restaurant offers inspired contemporary American food in a modern and elegant atmosphere with glass walls with views of Tranquility Park and the Houston downtown skyline.  Sit at the onyx wrap-around bar for a cocktail before dining and then make a choice to be seated in the outdoor terrace.  Order your entrée, sauce and side dishes separately or allow the rely on the chef to prepare you an extraordinary combination.

Azuma Sushi & Robata Bar-Rice Village has their fresh sushi and sashimi are flown in daily.  They also offer a fireside grill with choices of beef, chicken, shrimp, calamari or scallops.  Don’t know what to order?  Try the Hot Rock Beef, prepared right on a hot rock.  Between the dim lighting and paper lanterns there is a romantic atmosphere.  Don’t miss out on dessert with green tea ice cream and Banana Tempura.

Chez Nous exudes French romance as you walk in the door.  Winner of the best wine list 2006, it is second only to their cuisine.  In fact, Chez Nous has won many awards, among them are “America’s Top Restaurants” list 1994 to present, Gourmet Magazine’s “America’s Top Tables,” Wine Spectators, “Award of Excellence” and many more.  The rustic refurbished church it’s house in adds to its French countryside ambiance.  Although a few of the appetizers and entrees change every day, the menu is balanced with the constant choices of chateaubriand, foie gras, vichyssoise and escargot.

Indika fills their menu with modernized Indian cuisine.  It is recognized as the top restaurant in the America by Gourmet Magazine and as one of the Top 5 Destination Restaurants in Houston by Zagat’s.  Indika’s offers an exquisite Sunday brunch.  If you love the food and want to learn how to prepare it yourself, cooking classes are offered every fourth Sunday of the month.  Meanwhile, enjoy live music every Saturday night which adds to the already warm and inviting ambiance.

Sorrento Ristorante may be the best of everything you could want in a Houston restaurant.  They have great food, great service and great atmosphere.  This restaurant also offers a deluxe Sunday brunch.  This elegant and romantic restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.  Start your meal with the Jumbo Lump Crab Stuffed Mushrooms and had the Fresh Marine Lobster Bisque for your second course.  Choose Pan Seared Wild Salmon with Scampi Risotto for your entrée.  But, save room for dessert with a chocolate cannelloni.

Julia’s Bistro prepares their foods with rich tangy spices and the freshest of ingredients.  The menu encompasses dishes from Latin America including South America, Central America, Mexico, and Spanish Mediterranean.  OMB, you have to try the Shrimp Quesadilla filled with grilled shrimp, gruyere cheese, roasted peppers, scallions and pumpkin seeds in a “homemade” fluffy tortilla.  It’s so original yet you wonder why someone else didn’t come up with this perfect combination.

Chabuca’s Steak and Rotisserie was named after the mother of two brothers, Charles and William White.  The boys loved the combination of their Peruvian mother and Texas grown father.  You can expect the finest black angus steaks and rotisserie, grilled over an open flame, in all of Houston when you visit this restaurant.  Their Sunday buffet is not to be missed with fluffy biscuits and creamy southern grits for a start.  They also feature fluffy omelets, Mexican hash browns with chorizo and jalapeños, quesadillas plus all the regular brunch fair.

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I just found out about the Women’s Association of Kyoto’s Japanese Cultural Experience program and it seems like a great way to meet some locals and learn about whichever aspect of Japanese culture interests you most.

They organize all kinds of sessions including learning how to cook Japanese food in the home of a host (and eating it together, of course), taking part in a tea ceremony and learning about its traditions, or visit a koto-player at home (a koto is a traditional Japanese harp) and have your first lesson in how to play the koto. There are out of home experiences too, like visiting the Horino Memorial Museum and being able to taste three different kinds of sake there.

While similar cultural experiences are offered in Tokyo too, I’d recommend heading to Kyoto, where you can get away from some of the glitz and glamor of busy Tokyo and feel more in the mood for some traditional Japanese culture. Kyoto’s just a couple of hours by bullet train from Kyoto or less than an hour from Osaka.

Get the best rates and availability on hotels in Japan, or worldwide, at Hotels Cheap.

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Southwestern cuisine comes to mind when thinking about Phoenix, Arizona. And, in fact, Phoenix does have some of the best southwestern and Mexican restaurants in all the country. However, the chefs in the southwest are a diverse bunch that specialize in Italian, French and seafood cuisine as well.

Donovan’s Steak and Chop House offers USDA prime beef as their star attraction. You’ll get the luxury of valet parking as you drive up to this great restaurant. Start your meal with an appetizer of a Giant Shrimp Cocktail then try Donovan’s Chop House Salad with bacon and hearts of palm. For your main course any of Donavan’s steaks are supreme. Top off your meal with Crème Brulee with fresh strawberries.

Sophie’s French Bistro is a casual, yet intimate restaurant located in central Phoenix in a 1940s cottage. French cottage décor will surround you as you enjoy oven-roasted quail or fresh Alaskan halibut. When you first enter it will feel as though you are part of a Parisian experience. Sophie’s offers a full bar and a wide array of wines from France, Australia, Oregon and California. There is patio seating for warm weather lunches and dinners.

Steamers Genuine Seafood offers the freshest seafood, chicken, pasta and steaks. Chef Jose Overa creates award winning dishes including some just for Steamers. You will have a hard time making a decision between their Fire and Ice Salmon, Stuffed Lobster and Pepper Encrusted New Zealand Swordfish. For dessert they have a nice selections of sorbets and Gelatos and for the delectably inclined try the Snickers Cheesecake or Key Lime Pie. They are open for lunch and dinner daily.

Elements Restaurant at the Sanctuary offers an Asian accent to their American style cuisine. Executive Chef Beau MacMillan presents a menu with different dishes (seasonal) monthly. Elements is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A sample dinner might include an appetizer of Chinese long beans & miso scallion vinaigrette followed by a farmer’s market salad. For the main course you might order pan seared wild salmon with sesame jasmine rice, ending the beautiful meal with a peach panna cotta or a white chocolate mousse.

Lon’s at the Hermosa is an authentic hacienda. The spectacular Arizona scenery surrounds the adobe dining room. Enjoy your meal sitting next to one of the warm fireplaces or in warmer weather, out on the patio. Dishes range from cactus pear lacquered breast of duck to pecan roasted pork chops. The dishes at Lon’s are created to reflect the current season. Lon’s offers special events such as their Wednesday’s wine. It is held between 5 pm and 7 pm, offering wine tasting from their award winning cellar. Sunday Cool Jazz Brunch is offered from 11 am to 2 pm and is accompanied by live jazz musicians.

Cowboy Ciao has a global and southwest bend to their modern American cuisine. Although their entrees are beyond compare, their desserts created by Chef Tracy Dempsey are out of this world. Try the Fossil Creek Creamery Chevre Tart or the House Made Ice Cream and Cookies for a perfect ending to your meal. If you live close by or can plan an event in Phoenix, call them ahead to set up a special event.

Salt Cellar, a seafood restaurant, has the largest Phoenix selection of fish flown in daily for freshness. You’ll love the Maine lobster, Hawaiian Ahi, Alaskan King Crab and other seafood that has risen the Salt Cellar to the top of the restaurant popularity list. Try the Charcoal Broiled Georges Bank Sea Scallops for a real treat. Salt Cellar offer two different happy hours, 4pm to 7pm and 10pm to 1am.

Capital Grill serves American cuisine of steaks and seafood. Food Critics have praised their dry aged steaks as superb. Seafood is flown in daily for freshness and they tout a collection of 400 award winning wines to choose from. They specialize in personal event planning. The décor abounds in African mahogany and original oil paintings. If you are feeling really hungry try the 24 ounce porterhouse.

Houston’s prepares everything from fresh chicken, beef and fish made daily. You’ll find surroundings of mortared brick, brass and stained wood. This is fine dining with a casual atmosphere and menu. Eat the best steaks and prime rib you’ve ever had. You’ll love their use of fresh herbs and spices. It’s been said that their tortilla soup is like none other you’ve ever tasted.

Pizzeria Bianco was unofficially dubbed to make the “best pizza in America.” This place is small in size, but large in flavorful gourmet pizza flavor. Your meal will start with delicious crusty bread with a side of olive oil for dipping. Next you might try the Spiedini (salad) with two skewers of Fontina cheese wrapped in prosciutto heated in a wood fire oven. The next dish might be a wonderful antipasto. When your pizza finally arrives you will notice how handmade it appears. But with the first bite you will know that it was made with such a special sense of flavor and texture. You might order the Wise Guy, the Margherita, the Sonny Boy or Biancoverde. All exquisite.

Tarbells received the “Best Restaurant” award from Food and Wine Magazine as well as the “Best Chef: Southwest” nominee for Chef Mark Tarbell from the James Beard Foundation among many other nominations and awards. You’ll enjoy the friendly atmosphere of light wood and white table cloths. Tarbell’s offers more than 30 wines by the glass. Mark Tarbell studied in Paris. He offers house-made pastas in dishes such as Ribbon Past with Bolognese and Mark’s Famous Spaghetti and Meat Balls. For a special treat for dinner try the Pan-Roasted Organic Chicken and Buttermilk Mashed Broccolini.

If you’re fine dining, you also deserve fine accommodations.  But that doesn’t have to mean expensive!  Click here for fine hotel deals in Pheonix or anywhere.

Purple Cow has an authentic soda fountain that kids of any age will enjoy.  With it’s 1950s décor, you feel like you’ve gone back in time.  If you’re visiting other locations in Texas and you’ve enjoyed the Purple Cow, look for them in Plano and  Ft. Worth as well.

Patrizio is touted one of the best Italian restaurants in Dallas, yet it is as family friendly as it can be a romantic diner out for two.  They are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.  You’ll love their Tuscan décor of renaissance paintings against stark white walls and large archways lead out to a huge brick patio with lumbering green umbrellas over each table.  Try their special Tortellini in Pesto.  The tortellini languishes in a tomato pesto sauce that is to die for.  Children will love their specialty pizzas.

All Good Café has all the unsophisticated cuisine that kids love – adults too.  You know they’re going to be happy whether they order the Grilled Chicken Nachos, the Bean and Cheese Nachos or the Chicken Fried Chicken Fingers.  Adults will love the “San Jose” Sangria, their specialty.  Everyone will love the retro Texas musician posters on the wall while they slip into red vinyl booths, a real bohemian style.  Nights can get a bit busy later on and will be more in style with teen and adult live entertainment on their stage. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week.

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro is a place where your family can gather around one of their large tables and admire the décor of tall double stallions and carved wood screens.  The food is definitely Chinese but with a modern edge to it.  Many of the sauces are made right at your table by your server.  Try the Wok Fried Scallops with Lemmon Sauce or Orange-peel Beef with Chili Peppers for one of their house specialties.  Adults will love trying a new wine to go with their meal from their menu of 50 different wines.

Chips is touted as the place to get the “Best Dallas Burger.”  They offer the basic menu with burgers, shakes, fries and salads, but with an incredible style.  Be sure and gather plenty of extra napkins to your table for these juicy burgers.  They serve the old fashioned “real” potato fries with skins and French fried onions.  Order a half order of each to go with your Chips burger.

Paradise Bakery & Café have the best chocolate chippers in all of Texas.  There are so many delicious cookies to choose from, but only after the kids have a great sandwich for lunch (made with freshly baked bread) and soup or salad.  Or stop by for a quick breakfast muffin right out of the oven and an espresso coffee drink.  They are “making the world a sweeter place, one cookie at a time.”

Dream Café is the place to go if you’re trying to keep your family eating healthy yet delicious food while on vacation in Dallas.  They offer a variety of dishes, all organic and in an appealing family-friendly atmosphere.  Open for breakfast, lunch or dinner.  Try their special fresh spinach, Swiss cheese and mushroom omelet for breakfast or their One For John which is a grilled vegi/rice/musroom burger with soy cheese and all the trimmings.  They have unique and great dinner menu choices as well.  However, the biggest surprise of the Dream Café has to be their Saturday and Sunday brunch filled with such items as fresh pastries, fresh fruit, organic steel cut oatmeal and mile-high or Santa Fe omelets.  Don’t miss it if you are passing through the downtown Dallas area.

Tin Star offers fast to eat there or to go American cuisine.  You can order quickly at the counter and they will bring your food to your table.  The fun thing about the Tin Star is that they offer a real twist on the usual Tex-Mex cuisine with their quesadilla station, grilled steak taco or their grilled chicken platter – yum.  They have four restaurants in the Dallas-Ft Worth area to choose from.  A great place for a quick bite that’s way better than the drive through burger place.

2900 is unique.  Where else are you going to find Manchego-stuffed beef with chorizo cheese grits and cilantro.  It’s Chef Mikes signature dish, but it’s not the only menu item you will find enticing.  Keep your eye on the big window at the back of the restaurant where you can watch Chef Mike and his “helpers” make all of their wildly delightful dishes.  Besides the cuisine you will find the service excellent, which always makes the meal so much better.  This is not a place for small children, but excellent for introducing the teens to fine dining or for a romantic dinner for two.

Simply Fondue is the place to go when you’re looking for something different.  Order one fondue base or several with the burners right at your table.  What could be more fun for the family or just the two of you?   For larger groups, enjoy the circular tables so everyone can dip to their hearts content.  Finish this delightful dinner with a chocolate fondue and dip angel food cake and fruit. They use cholesterol-free oil so you can pretend the meal is completely healthy. So much to choose from, you’ll have to come back a for a second try and eating every fondue you want.

Texas Roadhouse offers steaks grilled to perfections as you request.  They are hand-cut and cooked with their secret spices.  Besides steaks you can order their award-winning ribs as well as their home-style country dinners.  Pot roast, fried chicken, grilled pork chops, even fried catfish.  If you are craving some down-home southern cooking try the Texas Roadhouse to please everyone in the family.

Texas Family Dining

From the restaurant choices we’ve listed here, you can see how you can almost plan a Dallas vacation around the many styles and flavors of their dining destinations.  Don’t be fooled though, you’ll find wonderful sites and entertainment in this southern city besides it’s great food.  But, it is true you will find no other city with as good a quality and amount of choices in it’s cuisine.

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(cc: photo credit: ~Devil’s Angel~)

Traveling to Seattle is a great family experience as there is so much to see, you can literally go from the Space Needle to the secret downtown city underground. From top to bottom, Seattle is full of excitement, fun and educational opportunities. It is also a city that kindly welcomes children and you’ll find a variety of family dining options.

Eats Market Café

Skip the chain restaurants and the grilled cheese and go for something a bit more interesting for both parents and children. Eats Market Café is a great place to pick up some fresh seasonal local concoctions for a picnic in the park of a healthy meal on the go. Eats is the brainchild of two chefs with an extensive background in culinary arts. Their goal was to create a warm friendly environment with nourishing seasonal comfort foods. Be sure to try the pastries.

Agua Verde Café Paddle Club

This is a perfect place to stop and dine because there is so much more to see and do at Agua Verde. Hourly kayak rentals and guided tours give you a first-hand experience in sea kayaking and the surrounding marshes and waterways. This is an educational and visual experience your children will likely never forget. But it’s the dining that’s really the highlight. Casual waterfront dining gives everyone a chance to relax and soak up the environment and it comes at a very reasonable price. The food at Agua Verde is prepared fresh form scratch every day and as is becoming the Seattle custom, local and sustainable foods litter the menu.

Geraldine’s Counter

Filled with small town charm, local delights, retro designs and homestyle comfort foods, Geraldine’s Counter will instantly feel like home away from home. If you’ve got finicky eaters this is the place to go as you can get a no frills burger, mac and cheese and other favorites and familiars. But be prepared, Geraldine’s Counter feels like home to visitors and locals alike and can be jam packed on weekends.

Tutta Bella Pizzeria

Everybody loves pizza right? Well, skip the old standbys that are nothing more than decorated cardboard and go for the most celebrated authentic Neapolitan pizzeria in the Northwest. Tutta Bella is one of the few restaurants in the United States that has received authorization from the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana in Italy to make an authentic pizza. This means that the process is governed from the preparation of the raw ingredients, selection of only certain approved ingredients all the way to the cooking method of using an approved wood fired oven. So it’s a restaurant with a bit of a lesson tied in for both parents and children. And if you don’t want the hassle of sitting in a restaurant and watching your pizza cook in the wood fired oven, simply order it to go and take it back to your hotel room.

Atlas Foods

At Atlas Foods its simple foods that are dressed up by some of the finest ingredients gives kids what they want and parents what they want the kids to have. Comfort foods filled with quality. The atmosphere is cozy and full of artistic expressions that keep it exciting and lively. The stroller parking and fully loaded toy box let you instantly know that although this restaurant has a well appointed bar, you’re more than welcome to plop down at a table and have dinner with their children. Let the children play and have a stress-relieving martini at Atlas Foods.

Red Mill Burgers

Known as the best burger joint in town, Red Mill Burgers offers guests a traditional all-American hamburger and malt experience. Family run, this business is all about bringing people together, giving them a great meal at a good price and sending them on their way only to welcome them back again in the near future. Vegetarians in the crowd take note, if you’re missing the taste of a hamburger or just really like the idea, a veggie burger is available that’s almost as good as the original.

Old Spaghetti Factory

Sure, it’s a chain, but the Old Spaghetti Factory is one place you can count on to create one of your kid’s (and your) favorites without changing the recipe so much that it’s unrecognizable. Get the standard spaghetti meal that you have come to trust. Like most chain restaurants of this variety, kids are more than welcome and are expected by other diners. So head to an old favorite for a classic quality meal that you know everyone will love.

Ivar’s Acres of Clams

And who can go to Seattle without taking advantage of the fresh seafood delicacies. Ivar’s Acres of Clams is one of the best offering fresh fish and, of course, clams in the area. Ivar’s has become such a local institution since its opening in 1938 that today there are 27 fast and casual Seafood Bars and three full-service waterfront restaurants. The Seafood Bars are the best choice if your kids aren’t apt to sit still through a dinner service. But if you have older children or some well behaved ones, go for the waterfront restaurant. The atmosphere is great, the view is incredible and the staff is more than happy to have them there.

If you and your family is headed to Seattle for a vacation, use the above family dining guide to help you make mealtime as enjoyable as the rest of your trip. Find restaurants that not only make you feel happy and comfortable but that also make your children feel welcome. And you’ll be happy to discover that Seattle is wholeheartedly embracing the local organic food movement and your entire family can experience fresh healthy meals while on the road.

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(cc: photo credit: IL Bistro Photo Stream)

Jacks Bar-B-Que

You can’t go wrong with Jacks Bar-B-Que. Winner of three gold medals at the 2008 National BBQ Expo, Jacks is a longstanding favorite of the meat eating crowd in Nashville. Two convenient locations, both in historic areas, make it the perfect pit stop on after a day of tourism and entertainment and a highlight before an evening of more melodies. Speaking of pits, Jacks claims that your meal will come directly from “Pit to Plate”. Look for daily specials to include Tennessee pork shoulder, Texas beef brisket, smoked turkey, Texas sausage, St. Louis ribs, smoked chicken and all the other fixin’s that round out a good bar-b-que meal.

Ichiban Japanese Cuisine

Leave the tourist trappings behind and come to Ichiban Japanese Cuisine looking simply for the freshest fish around. This low key sushi bar, situated in the heart of the tourist area, doesn’t look to impress its guests with fancy rolls or frilly knife work, they want their guests to walk out knowing that they had some of the best sushi around and that nothing could be fresher. This is an excellent break from a hectic day for travelers as you’re still right in the middle of all that Nashville has to offer but this could be a low key sushi restaurant anywhere, the perfect way to relax and unwind.

Sole Mio

Sole Mio is one of the most raved about restaurants in this heavily populated city, and not without good cause. The reason Sole Mio is so popular is it hasn’t tried to Americanize its fantastic Italian cuisine. In 1995 the Agnolettis moved their successful restaurant from Northern Italy to Nashville and proved that success comes with good food, no matter where you live. If you love Italian food then the authentic, fresh daily pastas are an absolute must. Wait staff will be happy to help you select the perfect sauce to pair with your pasta and they’ll even throw in a wine suggestion or two. If you’re headed to Sole Mio during the daytime expect the experience to be a bit more casual while the evening dining can be a little more formal and definitely more romantic. Most of the seating is exceptional but if you’re looking to create a mood you may want to ask for fireside accommodations.

Flyte Fine Dining & Wine

New to the restaurant scene in Nashville, Flyte Fine Dining & Wine is making tourists and locals stand up and take notice. Flyte has gone the green route and prides itself on using fresh, organic and humanely raised ingredients, but its not necessarily the ingredients that make Flyte fantastic, but they way they put them together. Luckily, the way Flyte is organized you get to try a large variety of their masterpieces, and don’t forget the wine. If you’re unfamiliar with ordering by the flyte, basically you’re getting a variety of food or drinks in that category so you can sample all the flavors; it’s a great way to sample the menu. Flyte changes their menu regularly and is very aware of diners with special dietary needs (especially vegetarians) and does its best to accommodate them.

12^th & Porter

Okay, so what is a trip to Nashville without trying to catch at least a glimpse of a favorite star or an up and comer in their natural habitat. If you’re scene is rock music, then 12^th & Porter is an absolute must. The primary focus of this establishment is its rock and roll musicians who breeze in and out for gigs on a regular basis. It sometimes seems as though local talent flies right off the stage and into the big league, but check the calendar to see who’s going to be playing on the night you plan on visiting. In addition to being a total hotspot for wanna-be rockers, 12^th & Porter actually serves some of the best food around for the price. If you’re looking to stop by but not in the mood for a show the service will be a bit faster and the atmosphere less loud, but definitely not as exciting.

Mad Platter Restaurant

Maybe the best thing to come out of the Jackson Victory Tour was the pairing of Craig and Marcia Jarvis, where the couple met while catering the tour and by 1989 they expanded their catering business into the Mad Platter Restaurant. Located just on the outskirts of historic Germantown, this locally loved dining establishment puts its food above everything else. Expect the atmosphere and the dining experience to be a little eclectic, from casual to formal and high end cuisine to home cooked comfort food, the Mad Platter covers it all at times, but their focus is clearly on quality and taste. Menus change a little bit daily to suit the chef’s and the ingredients so repeat guests can explore different takes on old favorites at each and every visit.

F. Scott’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar

It’s Nashville, so it should be all about music, right? F. Scott’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar does it up just right with the perfect combination of American cuisine in a quaint bistro with the sweet sounds of live jazz in the bar. This restaurant fits the bill for both locals and tourists as it’s comfortably relaxing and fueled by the excitement of jazz alone. The food is perfectly paired with the award winning wine selections and will get your head bobbing to the beat in no time at all. By the way, keep your eyes peeled as many a celebrity or notable VIP has been spotted at F. Scott’s.

Pura Vida (pure life) offers the most phenomenal tapas prepared by owner and Chef Hector Santiago.  He uses only fresh ingredients in his international style cuisine, but with a Latin flavor. Chef Santiago has created an atmosphere of good food, friends and fun.  Every Friday you’ll enjoy the Salsa, Merengue and Bachata music.  No need for a reservation, Hector will make room for you anytime.  Pura Vida offers catering and in-house parties, just ask for details.

Fire of Brazil serves nothing but the best Brazilian food marinated and roasted in the old Brazilian traditional way.  Choose from the 15 cuts of chicken, lamb or Angus beef.  Try their Cordeiro (sliced leg of lamb) or their Frango (tender chicken breasts wrapped in bacon).  Add to your main course a portobello  or chayote salad.

Chopstix serves award winning gourmet Chinese cuisine, the best in Atlanta.  This is a romantic location with services beyond great.  Try two of their classic favorites, pine nut chicken or sole in black bean pepper sauce – you won’t be sorry.  Entered into the Nation’s Restaurant Hall of Fame they serve both lunch and dinner.

Café Intermezzo for the feeling of being in 19th century Viena.  After sitting at your white table clothed table with a single flower in a vase you will want to order something from their delectable menu, but will be tempted to go straight to dessert as they bake their own pastries.  If you stop by for a break from work during the day, keep in touch with business or personal email their free wireless internet.

The Original Angelo’s Mediterranean offers both Italian and Greek cuisine that is family owned and operated – so you get the best service possible.  It’s located in the entry level of an old opera house with it’s original tin ceiling.  This classic bistro restaurant will delight you with their twist on original dishes as well as homemade soups and desserts.  They are open for both lunch and dinner for your convenience.

Imperial Fez serves authentic Moroccan food in an intimate atmosphere.  And for that something different and unique you will be entertained by belly dancers.  And if after you’ve enjoyed the dancing you decide it’s something you’d like to learn, they offer belly dancing classes as well.  Persian rugs cover the walls, billowed only by long white curtains.  The low red tables are surrounded by comfortable pillows for your seating.  If you want more privacy they have the Zeenah room which you can rent separately.  Their 5-course meals include your main entrée, Harrira Moroccan Bean Soup, your choice of Moroccan salad, appetizers and  delectable desserts.  They offer a full bar, but are open for dinner only and there is valet parking.

The Oceanaire Seafood Room feels like the inside of a 1930s ocean liner.  The seafood is ultra fresh.  While your waiting for your entrée, enjoy the fresh oyster bar or cocktails.  The menu changes daily according to the fresh fish, flown in daily.  It could be Alaskan halibut or Copper River Salmon.  The next day it could be Dover sole or bluefin tuna  They will prepare your dinner as you like it, broiled, baked, grilled or even fried.  If you have a large group, up to 50 people, they can seat you in their private dining room.

Blackstone offers top quality steaks and seafood.  This fine dining establishment doesn’t scrip of service.  They have a full bar and private banquet room for your larger parties.  You’ll enjoy the enormous wine list and nightly music venue.  Their specialty crab cakes are to die for, and then enjoy the best steak dinner you’ll ever find in Atlanta.

Antica Posta uses traditional Tuscan recipes made with the freshest ingredients.  The Italian delight cuisine is served on white table clothed tables.  In colder months enjoy their specialty Osso Buco and in summer order their Caprese Salad.  If the huge wine list is overwhelming, just ask for help from your server.  They are knowledgeable and will recommend just the right wine to accompany your meal.

Bluepoint offers the best spicy king crab salad and then go on to order a fresh seafood or steak dinner.  However, their specialty is the best sushi in Atlanta.  Don’t miss martini night on Tuesdays.  Tip, try their special apple martini.  On other nights try the 5-course tasting with wine pairing – delicious.  And, of course, their staff is always ready and willing to use their culinary and wine knowledge to help you with your dinner choices.

Atlanta Grill is the French Quarter meeting Art Deco.  The black and white city photos line the walls of the restaurant housed in the Ritz Carlton.  Ask for a seat on the wrought iron veranda where lighted lanterns glow down on you as you watch the active street below.  Jazz music wafts out of the lounge while you dine.  Every dish is a delightful recipe of award winning Chef Bruno Menard.  If you are looking for breakfast on Sunday, try their brunch which in include stations for omelets, French toast and waffles.

The Pecan personifies the true passion of Chef Tony Morrow.  It’s Cajun cuisine with a soul food twist.  You can’t miss with the curry carrot ginger soup or the Tybee Island crab cakes for starters.  Then for the main course you’ll love either the buttermilk pecan chicken or the pepper crusted New Zealand lamb chops.  For a cocktail go with their signature toasted pecan martini.

Atlanta’s Hottest Restaurants

There are more award winning restaurants in Atlanta than you can try in a year’s time.  The ones mentioned here are some of the best, rated so by patrons.  Each restaurant, although not all serving southern cuisine, serve and prepare their food with the southern hospitality visitors of Atlanta have come to associate with this city.

These are Atlanta’s hottest restaurants. Check out Hotels Cheap for the Atlanta’s hottest hotel deals.

(cc: photo credit: VROG in Bristol)

What kind of cuisine can’t you live without?  You will have no problem finding anything your palate desires in Toronto.  Whether it’s Cajun, Barbeque, Chinese, Mexican, French or Indian, there are plenty of choices of great restaurants.  Come along with us while we peruse the wide variety of foods prepared by expert chefs.  Try one or if your are feeling adventuresome try several.  Your won’t be sorry you did.  And, the next time you come to town for a visit, you’ll already have your own list of hot restaurants in Toronto.

 Crocodile Rock is the “Best Party Bar in Toronto” according to the Toronto Star.  A nightly DJ plays rock music while the 25 and over crowd, dressed casually, enjoys great food.  Their popular roof top patio is located in the Toronto entertainment district on Adelaide Street.  Dance or just listen to classic rock, retro, top 40 and disco music.  They feature half price appetizers and $3 drinks every Saturday night until 10pm.  While you are enjoying all of the entertainment try the Cajun dishes for which they are so well known.  Croc Alfredo and New Orleans Steak are two of the best dinners you’ll find in Toronto.

The Sultan’s Tent and Café will prepare a sultan’s feast for you while you watch beautiful sultry belly dancers.  It’s everything a Moroccan restaurant should be complete with shimmering lanterns overhead and plush divans.  Shall we order you?  Your first course is Haria, a hearty bowl of chick peas, kidney beans and lentils in a base of tomato Moroccan spiced broth.  Second course is B’stila, a sweet and savory Moroccan pastry filled with chicken, almonds, eggs, onions and saffron sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar.  Next in your third course you will be served Mango Glazed Salmon, saffron basmalti rice under a supreme piece of salmon with a glaze of mango chutney.  Fourth course is Brule Royale, a rich crème brule covered in pistachios.

Camarra Pizzeria Ristorante has been serving award winning pizza and lasagna for nearly 50 years.  Order the most original pizza you’ve ever tasted.  The best thing is that you get to choose your own toppings such as artichoke, asparagus, eggplant, Italian sausage, sun dried tomatoes, zucchini and more.  Maybe your in the mood for pasta, shrimp, salmon or chicken instead.  Camarra’s will prepare these dishes in authentic Italian style.  But, don’t forget dessert with selections like tiramisu, triple berry mousse or delectable dolce.

Waterfalls Indian Tapas Bar & Grill offers up something different with their attentive service and Indian cuisine that is reasonably priced.  You can smell the authentic aroma of spiced dishes cooked in the traditional Tandoori clay oven.  But hold on, they don’t stop at serving Indian food to perfections.  If you have some in your party who would prefer something form an Italian or Mediterranean menu, they are in luck.  They offer exquisite dishes in both of these venues.  If you are locally located you will be happy to know that Waterfalls offers catering outside of their location and private function seating at their restaurant.

Annapurna Vegetarian Restaurant was one of the first locals to offer vegetarian cuisine in Toronto and it’s still going strong.  The longevity of this business says it all.  You can’t compete if your food and service are not top notch.  It’s located midtown on Bathurst Street, so it’s available no matter what part of the city you’re coming from.  Some of the dishes offered are: Falafel Plate, Tofu Burger, Grilled Eggplant on Pita, Pita Pizza and daily homemade soups.  Annapurna doesn’t just serve up authentic vegan fair, but also holds steadfast to their philosophy of Sri Chinmoy who dedicated his life to a message of peace in the pursuit of unification of all mankind.

Barberian’s is an upscale steak house, opened in mid century and still going strong.  The décor is comfortable with dark woods and framed newspapers of days gone by.  Barberian’s highlights 8 steaks seasoned with their own secret spices.  But start your meal with one of their exquisite appetizers such as fresh oysters on a half shell or a jumbo shrimp cocktail.  Then move on to a bowl of fresh seafood chowder – it’s to die for.  After a filling steak with all the trimmings leave room for dessert.  Their house chocolate mousse is light yet just the right touch to end a wonderful meal.

Bistro 990 offers French food that will make you feel like you are dining in Paris.  Yet, it’s not completely old Paris.  Some of it’s new offerings start with d’oeuvres such as octopus and vegetables in citrus marinade.  Then you’ll want to order the Linguini aux champlgnons prepared with portobello mushrooms, walnuts and sun dried tomatoes.  Finish your savory meal with a bit of their homemade ice cream or sorbets.  Bistro 990 can boast a celebrity visits due to the Toronto International Film Festival.  Just some of the stars that have graced their tables are Marlon Brando, Brad Pitt, Sean Penn, Jodie Foster, Jennifer Aniston, Robert Redford, Drew Barrymore and many, many others.

Blowfish Restaurant and Saki Bar is a rare Japanese treasure that offers excellently prepared sushi and sashimi, of course.  But, you’ll find such variety to choose from starting with sea bass or black cod in sweet miso marinade.  It suit’s the King West area with it’s upscale décor and sophisticated cocktail lounge.  And let’s not forget the Saki.  You’ll have your choice of 3 high quality grades served 11 different ways.  For the meek at heart, pear and raspberry Saki is served.  Still, if Saki is not your thing, choose from their extensive wine list.

Canoe Restaurant is touted as the best Canadian cuisine restaurant.  The meat enticed menu is full of choices such as grilled veal tenderloin accompanied by goat cheese and acorn squash.  But, you are just as likely to choose from the finest Canadian fresh fish dishes prepared by Chef Anthony Walsh.  You’ll enjoy the spectacular downtown view on the 54th floor of the Toronto Dominion Bank Tower where you’ll look down upon the city’s night lights.

Toronto Hot Restaurants

It should be clear after perusing this list of Toronto eateries that you’ll have many choices of every type of food conceivable.  The city is spiced by it’s many cultures and it shows in it’s restaurants.  It’s hopeful that you’ll be adventuresome and try a variety of food that you haven’t had before.  You just may find a new favorite cuisine.

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