Pajiba

For the true cheesesteak lover, I've heard Tony Luc's is the only way to go. I'll always have a soft spot for Jim's, though, since it's where I had my first cheesesteak in Philly.

Oh, and In'n'Out Burger trumps all in its deliciousness.

In New Haven, I've always been a Modern Pizza kind of girl. I know, I know - Sally's and Pepe's are both great, but Modern is the best.

In Boston the big one among the people I hang out with is the epic battle between burrito powerhouses Boca Grande and Anna's Taqueria. I'm a Boca girl, but only because they are closer to my apartment. But I think all Bostonians can agree that a burrito is delicious no matter where it comes from...unless that place is Boloco.

Mmmm... Anna's Taqueria...

That is an excellent choice, though I also enjoy Picante in Central Square.

Tony Luc is a douchebag and he cleans his giner with his rolls. Enjoy!

Pat's is top. Only 1 food is worth the 1am drive from Wilmington, DE up to Philly...and it's Pat's. Genos looks like a fuckin carnival threw up all over it. Whenever i look across the street when on line at Pat's I always end up twitching on the ground, foaming at the mouth, trying not to swallow my own tongue.

Now I won't get any further into the Cheesesteak arguement...cuz there isn't one. Outside of Philly? Cappriotti's make the best subs to end all subs.

Regionally...tops foods are Butterscotch Krimpets and any other tastycake goodness, Gray Papaya up over the bridge, and scrapple.

Scrapple is the end all, be all of breakfast foods. Fuck all you grits and sausage people. You know who else ate grits? The Nazis. And whenever you eat sausage, you're jamming a pig dick in your mouth.

Chowdah. Do you like it creamy (New England)or clear (Rhode Island)? Most choose creamy, I think - and while I've had some good stuff in CT, the best was found at the Jersey Shore. Unfortunately I don't know the name of the place - only know the building by site. Anyway, I'm guessing someone up in Maine has the definitive chowder hole. I prefer the clear, however - and it's probably best in my area at a place called The Fish House.

One thing I can definitively say is that any version of "Manhattan" clam chowder is an abomination.

The best pizza in NY is at Nick's Pizza on Gun Hill Rd. in the Bronx.

Boo!!!!!!!!

Have you ever been to R.O.'s? I don't know of anywhere else in NC except for in Gastonia, but you have to get there. Any one of their full plate BBQ's or sandwhiches with cole slaw and a Cherry-Lemon Sundrop will curl your toes. Get there....NOW.

I live about 5 blocks from Pat's and Geno's and avoid both of them like the plague. I agree with Julie -- Pat's is barely edible drunk food that's only acceptable as a meal of last resort. And we can probably all agree that no one should eat at Geno's. Ever.

Scrapple? No thank you. Something about the color gray just doesn't appeal to me in a meat product.

As far as Cleveland goes, (and even Ohio, for that matter), I think the best we can do is to judge our ribs. The best ribs I've had in Ohio came from the Montgomery Grill down near Cincinnati, during my tenure at the University of Dayton.

Personally, I like to debate the best buffalo wings in the city/state, which most definitely come from Rooster's. I also love to deny the existence of any and all burrito joints (Q-doba, Moe's, etc., fuck 'em all) except for the almighty Chipotle.

Oh, and the world's best tacos come from my stove, mothafuckas. Try me.

Of course, with Ohio being the 17th fattest state in the Union, maybe we could cut back on the ribs and wings and eat some more broccoli. You fat pricks.

boo,

I was skimming down here just anxiously awaiting to holla out for NC BBQ (my fave is Speedy's, in Lexington). You beat me- I'll have to check out 12 BONES when I get back up that way.

But I'll wager anything that ANY BBQ place in NC is better than the crap they serve here in SC! Worlds apart, and I don't even bother checking around here anymore.

Boo, I'm jealous, I've always wanted to have authentic Carolina barbecue...I'll have to settle for my mom's ribs. Which are delicious.

...

That makes me sound like a matricidal cannibal.

Scrapple is delicious Jodester, but I won't eat it anymore after having read the ingredients list as a teenager. Which is hypocritical of me, seeing as I recently tried tongue for the first time.

MO, we drove by a Lick-a-Chick in North Sydney, Cape Breton and couldn't stop laughing. I can't imagine the food is any good.

Tim Ho's coffee sucks, but if you're in a bind, the trick is to get it with cream. That's the only way it's drinkable.

The big thing at university was where to get the best cheap breakfast in Halifax, and we always found The Greek Village was the best (about $5.25).

Down here in New Orleans, we have food fights about almost everything, but the ongoing one is "Best Poboy" (if you don't know what that is, fuck off, look it up...)


This fight branches off to "Best Roast Beef" (Parasol's dammit), to "Best Shrimp" (DiMartino's on the West Bank), to "Best Hot Sausage" (Domalise's), among countless others.


By the way, my favorite poboy shop? Parkway Tavern and Bakery. Everything there is good. And mmmmmm in November they have Thanksgiving poboy...which is just what it sounds like...turkey, gravy, mashed potatos, cranberry....mmmm....is it November yet?

The one true hot dog is a Vienna Beef hot dog, Chicago-style. I recommend Portillo's.

jamiepants, I'm going to New Orleans in November! I am sooo eating a Thanksgiving po'boy.

Mary, that's the one and only! You were about 40 mins drive from Chez Me!

Yeah, I have to take Timmy's with milk and sugar and maybe one of their "flavour shots" for good measure. I can only go black when it's good coffee.

Love Greek food, will have to remember Greek Village next time I'm in the big city...

Do they have them all month? (I hope so!) I'll be down in early November.

Here in Northampton probably the only thing you could get into a food debate over is which of the gazillion sushi (or some combo that includes sushi) restaurants has the best sushi. And believe me, people definitely have their preferences.

Personally, I'm only barely over the demise of my favorite, Ichiban. And it's been several years. Osaka is good, but I really love Zen. Mmmm...drool...Zen Taco. Moshi moshi is fine as is the restaurant now in Ichiban's old location (can't remember the name, think it starts with an S). Teapot and Taipei & Tokyo, however, are not acceptable.

And really, we have plenty of Asian food restaurants, what we need is a frickin' Ethiopian place!

NC BBQ peeps: 12 Bones had blueberry chipotle ribs. Pineapple Habanero ribs. Cheerwine BBQ ribs.

And pulled pork, chicken, etc.

And the sides; ohdearlord I must go there tomorrow for collard greens, jalapeno grits, and sweet mashed potatos. Oh YES.

For Chicago-style pizza: Lou Melnati's

PissBoy, I've never been to Deerhead HotDogs, but if you're ever in DC check out Ben's Chili Bowl. They have a chili cheese half smoke that's better than sex.

Aw, I don't mind Qdoba, Elizabeth.

Wait. No, that's not right. I'm thinking of Chipotle. You're right, Qdoba is dog food.

Hmmm... burritos at Picante followed by beers at the Field. Therein lies a future plan for me and my belly.

Soo-Ra, that's the one I couldn't remember.

I'm fairly ambivalent on Tim Horton's coffee, but I've been known to drink damn near anything if it's hot and strongly caffeinated. However, one of my co-workers is a recent transplant from Chicago and has fallen completely and obsessively in love with the stuff.

As for burgers, I've been a strict vegetarian for the past 11 years, but everyone I know claims that the smashed-style burgers over at Krazy Jim's Blimpie Burger in Ann Arbor are greasy little patties of heaven. I have been there, though, and can at least attest that their fried mixed vegetables are damn near divine (and not in a huge eyebrows, cross-dressing way, either). Being an Ypsilanti girl, however, if I really want good regional food, I'll walk on over to Aubree's pizza and pick myself up some Mediterranean feta bread. It's piles upon piles of cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts, all living together in perfect harmony, served with a side of ranch. Oh yes.

Sorry, boo... for Chicago style, I'm partial to Uno's. mmmm...pizza.

But now that I'm a southern gal, it's all about the BISCUIT down here in Music City USA! While most Nashvillians would say The Loveless Cafe--I'm partial to Dotson's here in little ol' Franklin. Hell, if Wynona swears by 'em, they must be good-- 'cuz that girl knows her food. yeehaw!

SleepyBeastie--that feta bread sounds so good I just may hate you.

Alright, lulu...you've hit on one of my peeves. The likelihood of a burrito (any burrito) in Boston beating the most meager of SoCal burritos is slim. But sometimes I want a (fuckin') burrito without flying across the country. I had stuck-up west-coast friends in college who swore they would never eat any mexican food or sushi on the east coast. Screw them. I'm not going to fly to Tennesee every time I want barbeque; nor to Japan for sushi; nor to Mexico for Mexican. So let's just rein in the "wtf"s, shall we?

Max, there's a Rooster's up here now, too, in Brookpark. It's a freakin' miracle when I get the urge.

I've had deep-fried pickles up here, at the Cornerstone Brewery in Berea. That's some good shit. Never had the cheese curds, though. I was in Wisconsin last month, too, up in Sturgeon Bay and Egg Harbor. Damn me for missing that!

I will definitely remember East Coast Custard, though. Sounds like it might be worth the drive from the west side.

Ok first off, girlnone I'm from NC but shrimp-n-grits is fantastic. But then again, so are gritcakes.

Second, it really depresses my that 12 Bones is so far out of my way, boo I from central NC and the only thing round my university that has decent BBQ is Hursey's. Which isn't bad, but still. Sadly, many of the transplants I go to school with don't understand the draw of NC BBQ and loathe the place or anything having to do with BBQ from NC (sad times).

In-N-Out kicks ass. But hopefully some of the NC folks can attest to the awesomeness that is Cook Out, more specifically Cook Out milkshakes. Drool, faint and die.

Bruster's is way better than any other _ice cream_ place, but for something really delish it's Goodberry's frozen custard all the way. Jamocha days are good days.

Unfortunately, there's not a lot of debate around here about best of anything because there's not a lot of contest...

Back in my hometown (just north of the capital city) though there are three Mexican restaurants and people constantly debate over which is the best. The one by the liquor store has the best food overall, but for still really good Mexican food it's in the basement of a shop in Downtown (Los Tres Margaritas!)

Anna's forever! Their pork is fatty and smokey, where as Boca's is dry and over-spiced.

Bartley's is kind of crap. I keep forgetting I don't like them and will eat one every now and again. You really can't beat the price.

MO one of the first business trips I took to Canada everyone was talking about Tim Horton's, and I swear it took me the longest time to figure out that Tim Horton's was not in fact a steakhouse. The name "Tim Horton's" does not conjure up images of coffee and patries.

Cheerwine BBQ ribs.

I fucking LOVE Cheerwine! There are finally a few places in RVA where you can purchase it.

As for local food, the undisputed king of high-falutin' Southern cooking in Richmond in Comfort. The name says it all; the sweet tea is served in Mason jars.

The best BBQ in Richmond has got to be Buzz and Ned's. Not only do they have kick ass BBQ but some of the best baked beans ever. And they also whupped that pansy ass Bobby Flay on his show.

Amongst our friends, we often debate the merits of local ice cream joints, like Bev's and Gelati Celesti, versus that Yankee interloper Ben & Jerry's. That chain store crap pales in comparison with our homegrown ice cream.

For New Haven - its got to be Pepe's though Sally's is a close second.

And the best Italian food you'll find in New York is Roberto's in the Bronx, off Arthur Avenue. I went to college a few blocks away and whenever anyone's parents visited we forced them to take us there.

I love Tim Horton's coffee. My taste buds can recognize that it is entirely average coffee, but I still crave it when I'm driving to Muskoka to see my parents.

For anyone in the Toronto area... go to Sarah's Cafe on the Danforth between Greenwood and Coxwell. Best mussels in the city! My very favourite ones are the anise, while Mr. Pea is partial to the garlic butter.

And... just to make my comment all about me... I just got hitched! What a fabulous party. Bistro, if you're out there... how was your wedding?

I think the closest thing Minneapolis/St. Paul has is the fight over Ice Cream. (Leave it to Minnesota to have a food fight over the coldest possible food...)

There's Grand Ole Creamery in St. Paul and Sebastian Joe's in Minneapolis, with pretty much everyone having at least some love for Izzy's - also in St. Paul. Seems like it all depends on what side of the river you call home.

Personally - I like Grand better. Being less than five miles from my apartment it's awfully hard to decide I shouldn't go have ice cream. Hmm... waffle cones...

Hey I love this diversion. That's right. Know why? I'll tell you...

BECAUSE MINNESOTA HAS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING IN REGARDS TO THE "BEST" ACTUAL FOOD UNLESS YOU WANNA COUNT LUTEFISK, HEADCHEESE, HOTDISH, OR SOMETHING SERVED ON A GODDAMED STICK! THERE'S NO CULTURE HERE WHEN IT COMES TO FOOD! BOOMOTHEREFFINGHOO!

Seriously, I live in a state where people think Red Lobster is acceptable seafood, Applebees reigns supreme, and Cream of Mushroom Soup is stockpiled in ninety-five percent of basements throughout the state.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to Target which is THE ONLY GODDAMED PLACE TO GET SUSHI AROUND HERE! DO YOU HEAR ME?! I'M GOING TO TARGET... FOR SUSHI! (...sob...)

[...sidenote: should anyone truly want to break a decision regarding Place One vs. Place Two, please feel free to send me food via FedEx - I'll reply ASAFP...]

Congratulations Pea!!

jamiepants,

Ohhhhh, poboys. The one thing I miss since I moved to Austin last year is the damn food (I grew up in Slidell and graduated from UNO).
But I found a restaurant out here that is my saving grace . . . The Real New Orleans Style Restaurant. Did you ever see the signs out along Chef for the "Smokin' for Jesus" ministry? They all evacuated to TX, the entire congregation, and eventually settled an hour west of Austin. And opened a restaurant. When I first tasted their gumbo, I almost started crying, I was that happy. Because there are tons of bullshit places around here that CLAIM to have LA food, but they don't. They put provolone on a roast beef poboy and oregano in the gumbo. That shit just hurts my feelings.

Anyway, back home the food debates always centered around the best poboy (Check-in Check-out, for the Slidell contest) or the best crawfish (best just do it your damn self).

Here in Austin, there are stupid food debates and I don't care about them. What I want, I have to drive 9 hours to my parents' house for.

Congrats Pea! I hope you had a beautiful day.

'Bama, it was started by, and named for, a big ol' bruising hockey player. Yeah...pastries and coffee go hand in hand with violent sports up here, for some reason....

Congratulations, Pea!

Skitt- I'm thinking you should come for a visit too. We may be small, but we are a college town, known far and wide (well, around the Pioneer Valley) for having excellent restaurants. As I mentioned in my above post, we, in fact, have several sushi places. Target for sushi is just plain sad.

This is my first posting, but have been reading for two years now. Hi Pajiba Nation!

The best Mexican is in Texas. I don't doubt that SoCal has good Mexican; it's just not as good as anything near the Texas/Mexican border. Anything I have ever had up north has been horrible.

Boston Burritos?

Thanks, guys! It poured rain, but was a beautiful day none the less. I'm still giddy, 11 days later.

I just finished school at UC Santa Cruz and I think the consistent debate there was where the best pizza was. While I eventually warmed to Pizza My Heart (what seemed like everyone's preference), I have to go with Pacific St. Pizza, but you have to get a slice from the warming case, not a full take-out pizza, because the crusts are different! In the case, the crust is sort of half-filled with cheese and sauce and cooked to a perfect point where it's soft, slightly doughy, but not undercooked.

And like I said: half-stuffed with cheese and sauce, but not full-on stuffed.

On a broader scale: yeah, In-N-Out is gonna be the best fast food ever. It's the only fast food I'll eat whenever I have to. As a NorCal kid, it's kind of a rule that you stop off in Kettleman City on the way to L.A. in the car to get lunch at In-N-Out.

That's fucking it Boo. I'm road-tripping to your house. I'll bring a box of Tastycakes and some Yuengling lager.

And the best bumper sticker I ever read said "Shake your ass for Jesus."

Tacos Morenos in Santa Cruz, Ca. Green Chile Beef Buritto that kicks some tremendous ass. Squeeze bottles of the best salsa to go with it

Whatever gets you drunk and uninhibited my dear!

I grew up outside of Philly and I say forget Pat's, Geno's, and Jim's. I like Dalessandro's a lot, but my favorite isn't in Philly, but in Wyndmoor and it is called Flannery's Grove Deli. They are sooo good!

Skit... are you in the Twin Cities and still eating sushi from Target? I don't like fish (don't even talk to me about raw fish) so I'm no expert on Sushi, but even I know of a few decent places in the metro area to go for sushi.

Now if you're outstate... then I cry for you. I've been there. I feel your pain.

Jack- I adore Los Dos Molinos! If the experience doesn't stay with you into the next day, consider the meal a wash.

Although to be technical, it's New Mexican food. Sopapillas, carne adovada and green hatch chiles hot enough to make a grown man well up in tears. The good kind mind you, not the emasculating kind. Well, maybe with a little self-pity thrown in, but by that time your brain will have released enough endorphins to kill any sense of self-preservation.

Eat the chile. Love the chile. Water doesn't help. More chile helps. Mmm...

Rudy's in Austin for meat. Meat. White Bread. Sauce. EAT.

I MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU, RUDYS.

East Lansing, Michigan used to have a place called the Bagel Fragel, that served a thing called the Fragel, a fried raisin doughnut covered in cinnamon sugar.

Those were the salad days, not soon to come again.

Little stand in Ipswich, MA next to the touristy famous one has the best fried scallops I've ever eaten.

I have never been to a really good deli.

Late to the (dinner) party, we closed on our new house today! Yay!

Hmmmm, I'm about to go way regional on you guys. The best hotdogs are Hoffman's Miss Snappys - available from Utica to west of Syracuse. So damn good with mustard & kraut.

The best pizza is a toss-up: Thin, foldable style? Parkway Pizza in South Utica. Thick, Sicilian style? Franco's in North Utica. Crazy, sauce on top of cheese style? O'Scunizzo in East Utica (AKA Little Italy). Utica is about 30% Italian. We know our pies.

Also, the black & white cookie was invented in Utica, at Hemstrought's Bakery. And it's not made with crumbly yellow cake or whatever the fuck that shit is I see in other places - the original black & white cookie is made with rich, moist (that's right) chocolate cake.

And we also have something called tomato pie in Utica. And it kicks ass.

Boo, I'm heading to NC in March for a wedding. A wedding I NEED to be drunk and full for. I'm finding 12 Bones one way or another.

As far as the Nashville biscuit, I think the Loveless is good, but maybe not the best, but I would walk across fire for the Loveless Cafe Peach Preserves. They truly make the biscuit!

And for Twin Cities ice cream, I think Old Creamery is okay, but a little bland. Sebastian Joe's was always a bit icy when I was there. My pick would be Izzy's in St. Paul. Every flavor I tried was amazing (special faves... Irish Moxie, Lemon Custard and Chocolate Zin) Plus it is the only solar powered ice cream shop in the US. yay for green deliciousness! And you always get a cute little extra Izzy scoop of any other flavor on top of your ice cream choice!

I have never been to a really good deli.

There's no competition here, there simply IS The Bagel Palace deli and bakery.

They make the black and white cookies. The big thick ones it's uncomfortable to eat in one sitting (but you have to, that's the rule).

There's no "the best is in Atlanta and at this one place" thing. I could say The Varsity has the best chili cheese fries, but there's no rivalry for that either. Plus they won't do it for you anymore. You have to order the chili separately. The Georgia Diner obliterates any claim they might make on onion rings though. They are a MAN'S onion rings (mind you I utterly despise onions, but they're okay when neutralized by fried batter, as everything is). Oh and Athens' Terrapin ale embarrasses Atlanta's Sweetwater. Pity's it's not plentifully on tap (but The Local on Ponce De Leon Ave. has it). Best I've had since being spoiled by English bitter.

I'm partial to Chili's southwestern egg rolls. Those things are pretty tasty!

I usually hate anything Chicago-related, but I'll take Uno's over Geno's any day.

As a Midwestern gal, I'll take a pork tenderloin on a stick from any type of state/county fair. When the white trash convention comes to town every summer, I'm there every night consuming some sort of food on a stick.

Burgers in SoCal

1) In-n-Out
2) In-n-Out
3) In-n-Out
4) Knowlwood's
5) Greek burger joints (They're all over the place, have generally the same menu and are fantastic)
6) Carl's Jr.

DC Comments
- I add my praise to Ben's Chili Bowl
- The next person who tries to tell me Five Guys is just as good as In-n-out is getting something throw at them

There's no competition here, there simply IS The Bagel Palace deli and bakery.

Georgia, huh? Well, maybe if I start hitchiking now....

I don't believe in fried scallops - fucks up a perfectly good scallop. Grill that sucker!

Couldn't help it, they were so sweet and the breading was so crisp and actually it was supposed to be the Clam Box but the line was out the door, so we went about a block down to this little take-out place in a small strip mall - maybe it's something in the Ipswich water but it was also ungodly levels of good.

Fried clams are also two thumbs up.

The Garden in the Cellar in Cambridge has these homemade 'tater tots,' breaded whipped potatoes - and these crispy fries with rosemary aoli. Quite. Indeed.

Although, you West Coasters, I envy you forever for having Henry Weinhard's Root Beer and orange soda available. Best sweet root beer and BY FAR best orange soda ever made.

The next person who tries to tell me Five Guys is just as good as In-n-out is getting something throw at them

But is it good otherwise? They've shown up in the East, with no In-N-Out to compare it to.

And Conrad, the egg roll is just more unacceptable hot cabbage. Cabbage can only serve mankind when chilled as creamy, creamy cole slaw and no funny, spicy stuff, you hear me? Aforementioned Georgia Diner has funny stuff in their slaw, and it's kinda warm and watery. I always try, thinking maybe this time.... Nope, can't touch the Colonel.

Yeah, people do love their Chick-Fil-A here, but only now is McDonald's trying to compete. The waffle fries are pretty good, but I'm not in thrall to the chicken itself. Two female friends took me to a Hooters once because they so loved the wings. I had this giant fried chicken sandwich that was simply amazing. But what...I'm gonna go there alone? Naw. And our waitress sood behind my shoulder when taking my order, like I wasn't allowed to ogle, when I wasn't anyway. Weird night.

Wow, no mention of Chick Filet (or however it's spelled)? I thought that was like crack or Krispy Creme donuts for the Southern crew.

amanda47 Ok, so, I think there's no debate and that Chick-fil-a is da bestest if you want anything to do with fast food chicken. Period.

However, there are those who have gone before me to argue that nothing will ever, ever, ever top Bojangle's. But because I'm not a big fan of fried chicken (unless it comes on a biscuit, for which Chick-fil-a is also very, very, excellent), Bojangle's just doesn't do it for me. But their Boberry biscuits are like fluffy bits of heaven.

Um but yea, Chick-fil-a is wonderful, but it's not really an argument thing. The most frequent conversation I have is that it's never open when you want it (Sundays or late at night).

But it makes me angry that McDonald's is trying to copycat Chick-fil-a with their "Southern Style" Chicken Biscuits and Sandwiches.

Kolby, there's a place on the west end of Genesee (possibly in New Hartford?) that we always order "greens" and "riggi" from when we visit my grandmother. Super spicy deliciousness!

twig, my boyfriend used to be the "onion boy" at the Clam Box oh so many years ago. You can't go wrong in Ipswich.

the boston burrito debate is being severely misdirected. anna's taqueria completely owns boca grande. the debate is really between anna's and el pelon on petersborough st behind fenway. anna may have a slightly larger burrito, but the other stuff at el pelon puts it over the top. get the el guapo. it is muy delicioso

Chicago-style pizza: It has to be Giordano's. Malnati's just doesn't make it right and Uno's and Gino's always have longer lines for tables for inferior pizza.

Amen to the previous commenters on the Chicago style hot dog. I am currently exiled in central Ohio and cannot find vienna beef hot dogs anywhere, much to my chagrin. Portillos is great, but it's hard to fuck up a Chicago dog as long as it's Vienna Beef.

I second Pizzeria Due on the Chicago pizza question. As for Milwaukee custard, my vote goes to Copps.

My favorite pizza place in New York closed and was replaced by a Dunkin' Donuts. It was in Brooklyn on Court Street and 1st Place (I think) and I could never remember the name. It had a nice little courtyard and was family-owned. I was so depressed. Fascati on Henry Street was a good substitute, though. Spumoni Gardens farther out is also delicious, as is Dee's in Queens.

Thanks, Kayanne and jM.

Oh and twig, don't worry. Bagel Palace is in the Jewish outpost here (and it was a great find after mooning over what I'd left behind in south Florida) but since New York's adjacent that's all you need.

And from my travels, I recommend Oasis Cafe for pizza in Portland OR. Good, good stuff (be warned: the large salad is LARGE and wants to overtake your slices, not complement them).

KOLBY! Just recently had Hoffman's and wasn't a bad thing there - that was in Syracuse. Amazing!

Lived in SC for 2 years and I miss Hardee's biscuits with gravy, I thought it was repulsive when I moved there - but it is glorious, don't let anyone tell you different!
Bojangles has ok morning stuff but I love their cajun style chicken and cherry soda...No wonder I gained 20 pounds living there.

And I have to agree with whoever mentioned Texadelphia - from a girl who has been to Pat's (and when desperate Jim's - NEVER Geno's) I was surprised to find pretty friggin good cheesesteak in Austin.
BBQ in Texas - Had Rudy's, and it was great, esp. the stack of white bread they give you with it, but the best is this all you can eat BBQ place outside of Austin, don't ask me where - the Salt Lick. I thought I had died and gone to heaven!!!!

I was going to say that Chicagoans argue about pizza, but the comments already demonstrate that. I've seen entries for Giordano's, Lou Malnati's, and Uno's.

But those people are all wrong. It's Geno's East.

Another long-time lurker coming out. After 2 years, what de-lurks me? Skittimus' rant and Little Freaking Stevies via Draya. I moved from Boston to Green Bay almost five years ago and the food here is SHIT (cheese curds aside). I still have wet dreams about Little Stevies. I actually whooped out loud when I read that. Pizza here is an abomination. They cut it into little squares, too! Squares, people! WTF?

The only acceptable reason pizza should be cut into squares is if the cutter had a spider lay eggs in his/her inner ear while sleeping and right before they was getting ready to cut that samanabitch, the eggs hatched and a kabillion little spiders scurried about wrecking any motor skills that would normally allow pizza to be cut the way, the only way, it should be cut - into triangamabobs. Period.

Uh, there's this place where I live called Ledo's and...they cut their pizza in squares. It's an abomination to the New Yorker in me, but it's edible.

BACK! I've killed before.

Here in good ol' Hoosier land, there ain't much to brag about 'cept white bread and mayo, but I will say for the best breaded tenderloins and homemade root beer, Mug and Bun in Indy (close to the Speedway) is tits. As for ice cream and deli, nothing can beat Cincy---Graeter's for ice cream and the wonderful Izzy Kadetz. And, believe it or not, my tiny little town has an awesome Mexican restaurant....El Reparo. Pizza? Dunno.....Coffee.....MINE...with Baileys, of course!

Wow, what is it with the love of the NC bbq? Everyone knows (no offense Boo) that if you want real BBQ you must go to Kansas City. Especially BBQ ribs. Kansas Citians debate hotly the BBQ restaurants: KC Masterpiece (yes where the sauce originated) vs Zarda vs Gates vs Arthur Bryant's vs Jack Stack. Now for me, it will always be Jack Stack. But if I want a quicker alternative, not quite fast food but almost that fast, I'll go to Zarda. In KC, the BBQ section is an entire aisle of the grocery store. I almost cried when I moved away and realized there were only three choices of bbq sauce in the entire grocery store. My loving parents send regular care packages with decent sauce to my sister (who had her rehersal dinner catered by Jack Stack and was heard to snap at her groom - get your hands off my ribs) and I who have wandered far away. For the record, you also haven't experienced tail-gating until you've been to Kansas City, especially to a Chiefs game. It's an art form (and something better be the way they've played the last couple of seasons).

Actually, Sarina I reside in your backyard under a pile of sticks and twigs. That ain't dog poop, sister...

Grew up in Cinci where the debate over chili still rages (I'm a Skyline type myself, although my sibs like Gold Star and the parents still yearn for Empress). I now live in Wisconsin where the debates over brats and frozen custard can get heated. I don't think there is anything on the planet that equals a turtle sundae from Michael's. Beats Culver's by any measure - probably because they salt the pecans.

The local fight is who makes the better pancake breakfast. I think the Lutherans have it made because they serve bacon AND sausage. The Baptists only have fried ham.

Cheese curds don't seem to have much brand loyalty - as long as they are squeaky fresh and/or deep fried people are happy.

At least three years of lurking and this is what brings me out. No mention on Washington state at all? We're not known for much (except plentiful and tasty seafood, I guess) but in my mind there's not much that can beat strip mall teriyaki. My hometown of 8,000 people has 10 (TEN) strip mall teriyaki joints within city limits. None are chains, and they all seemed to be owned and operated by one family, but all are delicious. I've traveled a decent bit, and I've yet to see anything remotely resembling the peculiarly delicious offerings of a strip mall teriyaki joint.

Lisa's Bon Apetit in Torrance, CA. Thee BEST Chinese Chicken Salad anyone has ever had. Or will ever have. We buy quarts of their dressing everytime we're in PV and bring them back to home just so we can enjoy it any time of the year. If anyone is from PV / Torrance back me up!

As for Ohio, someone should mention the ice cream. Honey Hut vs. Mitchell's vs. Malley's in Cleveland. All of which are superior to the swill they call Graeder's in Columbus/Cincinnati.

I'm a Bostonian that grew up in Washington State (go Tacoma!) and I loathe - LOATHE - Dunkin' Donuts coffee. No, America does not run on Dunkin. It is a nasty abomination of the nectar of the gods, and as proof I submit to you that fact that they have a dispenser filled with both sugar and cream that they will pump into your already disgusting beverage unless you physically restrain them and scream "I only want a little bit of cream, for shit's sake! Will TK unleash his zombie minions upon me for my words of truth? It's a risk I'm willing to take. Do I think Starbucks is the best ever? By no means. But it is worth 10 cents extra for what is vastly superior flavor compared to that rancid swill and its hideous pink and orange overlit filthy branding and CURSE YOU THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS FOR YOUR KICKY DUNKIN DONUTS JINGLES! IT SUCKS! WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU? WHAT???!!!

Actually, there's one thing I can think of - way the hell up North, up past Brainerd, MN, there's an little tiny Mom & Pop grocery store (the name escapes me), that has the GODDAM BEST spinach dip ANYWHERE. They make it themselves right there in the store. Now I don't know what kind of helper elves the owners have got, because quite frankly, those two look like they'd have trouble figuring out how to put on pants properly, let alone make the heavenliest of heavenly spinach dip. Word.

jM - Best pizza in NY is Sal's Pizza on Bainbridge Ave (Bronx). Seriously.

To any Chicago ex-patriots:

You can order Vienna Beef Hot Dogs from their website. 48 of them for $30.
https://www.viennabeefstore.com/
Go to hot dogs and scroll down to near the bottom, you'll see the hot dogs by themselves.

As for best Chicago Style Hot Dogs, they're mostly the same. The only real variation I find is in the relish and the tomatoes. The Hoagie Hut in Lincoln Park has good hot dogs and the best fries around, and you can get two hot dogs with fries for like $3. I don't know of anything that beats that.

I know it's unlikely that any Pajiba readers would ever sink so low as to spend time in Mississippi, but if you're ever in Jackson, go to Que Sera Sera. Best restaurant in town.

"Mock the double d at your own peril."

Oh yeah? Well, I don't believe in donuts.

...you're gonna call me a retard again now, aren't you?

You don'... you don't believe in donuts??!!

But... but... that's... that's like saying you don't believe in sunshine, or kittens.

There truly is a blackened crater where your heart should be.

true Dat TK.
And having sugar & cream in one container is akin to the cuban restaurants around here who mix the mustard & mayo - convenient and delicious!

(Although I ask for Splenda and 2%, heee)

I don't enjoy food.

Best sushi in Canada is in Winnipeg, Manitoba at a tiny hole-in-the-wall called Masa

I'm sure that enraged all of the West Coast, but I`ve eaten in a zillion Vancouver and Victoria sushi restaurants and they don`t even compare.

Sarina--Have you tried different types of donuts? Because the cider donuts at Atkins Farm in Hadley, MA are truly, truly delicious. Or is this like someone saying, "but you haven't tried my mom's apple pie?"

TK--If you want really, truly, delicious ice cream it's all about Herrell's. Herrell was the originator of the smoosh-in. IF ANYONE TRIES TO HEAP PRAISE ON COLDSTONE THEY GET A BUNCH IN THE THROAT FROM ME! THOSE CONCEPT-STEALING MISCREANTS! AND THEY HAD THE AUDACITY TO TRY AND OPEN UP SHOP IN THE HOME TOWN OF HERRELL'S!! Ha! I don't think they lasted a year, those fuckers. Anyway, TK, there are two Herrells' in the Boston area: Cambridge and Allston. Check it out.

I still have wet dreams about Little Stevies.

Oh Dirty's....I have just moved to Davis, Ca. I dont know what my stomach will do with out a slice Stevie's next time I'm wasted.

TK--well, should I ever find myself in Wisconsin, and have an opportunity to go to this ice cream place you recommend, I will definitely go.

And we also have something called tomato pie in Utica. And it kicks ass.

Oh, SNAP, Kolby!! You did not just mention O'Skinneet's (That's the way I pronounce it) on Bleeker? Your whole post just made me miss what I call "Beautiful Scenic Utica".

Do you know that someone invited me to a barbeque and when I found out the Hot dogs weren't Hoffmann's I - not so politely - declined. Okay?

I will trade you a decent tomato pie (which I haven't found here in Syracuse in over 12 years) and some O'Skinneet's pizza for a vat of Dinosaur BBQ ribs and all the salt potatoes you can eat. And I would happily try your bakery's half moons if you will try the ones from Harrison's bakery here.

In Portland, ME (whoot whoot, the new corporate headquarters for Pajiba!) we have like 10 sushi joints for a city population of 65,000 (250,000 in the greater metropolitan area). Of these 10+/- there a the big 4 - the oldest and biggest of the bunch. Too many people say they like Yosaku the best, and while the first few years it opened it was exceptional, it has gone dramatically downhill... not awful per se but when it comes to sushi even the slightest lack of freshness makes a Hyuge difference. Now most people who say they think Yosaku better are those who only eat california rolls and scallops slathered in spicy sauce; these gaijin wouldn't know (let alone try) a delicious piece of saba sashimi or uni nigiri with a raw quail egg on it from the fried chicken katsu they usually get. For those who know and cherish sushi as I know that Sappporo is the finest in Portland (although there is a new tiny boutique sushi place I've yet to try that I hear is amazing; it was opened by the former chef at Yosaku - when it was good). Sapporo was the first of two sushi places in Portland that opened about 20 years ago. It has the same owner, Yoshi, since then and he maintains an incredible consistency and quality. I could tell more stories but have droned on long enough... Huzzah!!!

Ph,
that's exatcly what the veggie burger is at In&Out and Animal style fries are so freaking good and fat and still you don't actually feel like your liver and intestine are imploding.
In&Out is the answer, i'm not quite sure what the question is but you can bet you salutist/yet-still-fast-foodish ass it is. Oh boy I miss In&Out, I even miss chipole people, I miss mexican food, even bad mexican food, I miss other countries food, somebody please come get me out of italy. and yeah I know im an ungrateful little bitch but try eat pasta every single fucking day of your life.

A lot of (ex-)Chicagoans on here. And you've all managed to disappoint me.

The real Chicago treat is Italian Beef from Portillo's. Juicy, with sweet peppers.

Q.E.D.

Oh, and my favorite vacay spot, Chincoteague Island, has THE. MOST. AWESOME. OYSTERS. EVAH.

did someone say there's burritos in boston?! I don't really dig on the burritos up here in no-cal. They're simply too filling. I prefer flautas and tacos. A quesadilla every now and then. Can-cun and Pancho Villa's are good ones in SF! But for the best meat, go to La Taqueria. Papalote has good "healthy" Mexican food (at a price). Aw hell, all mexican food in no-cal is overpriced, you can make it yourself for a couple of bucks if you tried!

Gunther's Ice Cream has the best chocolate milk shakes, bar none. Thick and creamy and SO CHOCOLATEY. And no ice. I'M LOOKING AT YOU, SQUEEZ INN. Ice. I'm so sure.

Tony Luke's has the best cheesesteaks. I started eating them about 4 years ago because my wife is from the Philly area, and I had zero pre-bias. Tony Luke's is by far the juiciest and tastiest. It's the reason I go to Phillies games.

OmiGod, snapped out of my staring at Discovery channel and remembered the most incredible taste sensation of BOTH my visits to the French Quarter, in June of '93 and '94, courtesy of my beautiful cousin Lisa (1st trip to get married, second one to celebrate the anniversary- as best man, not husband, ya sick fucks):

I had the famous red beans & rice (fantastic), and the shrimp creole (meh), but mercy me if the greatest meal I ever had both of those times was a LuckyDog with chili & onions off the corner of one of those streets from the vendor. I remember those two stands (maybe the same?) as well as any crack whore would remember a generous customer, and hey- I've been there, don't think I'm jokin' on you, ladies.

Maybe NY has 'em beat, haven't been that far uptown, but I swear, by these heavenly hotdogs, that they are the best I've ever had, can't forget 'em 15 yrs later.

Also excellent to fill your stomach after two or three Hurricanes, am I right?? Flyin' five (Don't leave me hangin')

Still, NC BBQ RULES!

I wanna talk about Sunday Brunch. Here's the question for Atlantans: Rea's? Or Thumbs' Up?

The Grit in Athens. I don't even want to try anywhere else.

Sometimes I'll get a cup of that Pikes Peak Starbucks coffee when I want a big, angry, dark cup of sipping coffee, the kinds that swallows up half and half like Waffle House coffee that's been on the burner for three hours. "I'm still just as dark! Whatcha gonna do about it???" For "tastes good" I go to Dunkin Donuts, whose magical condiment instruments amaze me. Pump-pump. They don't even stir it, the fairy magic does.

But fairy magic dies in the cold. Icing Dunkin Donuts coffee doesn't work--they haven't adapted it properly yet. You can't stir sugar into a cold beverage. Doesn't work in Yankee iced tea, doesn't work in coffee. McDonald's uses sugar syrup and they have wonderful iced coffee.

But I don't believe in donuts either.

I believe in doughnuts.

In N Out's fries suck.

The first two bites are warm and crispy, if not a bit bland, then they go all cold and hard on me like a bitter ex. They're a Queen Bitch in my opinion.

this is true. i normally skip the fries and get an a cheeseburger to go with my double double ... both sans sauce.

why?

because "special sauces" are for people with "special needs" palates ...

btw ... if you do require fries at In-N-Out, you can ask for the fries "well done", they're better that way ...

At school my campus has a Boloco and a Qdoba on the same block and they are both terrible. I have to will the Orange line to work so I can get to a Chipotle.

As for being home in MD/DC, I am unaware of any food debate. Maybe over crabcakes and other crab related things but um...I don't like crabs. Shh.

I'm unfashionably late to the party but I have to give a huge shout-out to Salt Lick BBQ in Austin. It's frickin' unbelievable and it's BYOB so the room is full of people with coolers, barbecue stains and smiles from ear to ear.

The battle here at the Jersey shore is always about pizza. But arguments are pointless; no one makes a better pie than Maruca's. No one.

Fuck. You know, it was El Pelon I was trying to think of. That's the one by Fenway that we walked to. The Anna's was up Harvard towards Brighton. El Pelon is the best burrito in Boston.

As for you square pizza haters. Next time you decide to take a trip to Scranton for your "Office Convention", you do yourself a favor. You get yourself a slice of the brick oven Maroni's pizza. I tell people it's the best pizza ever made. They never believe me. Then I get my family to bring a tray down when they visit. Because you can reheat this shit, and it's still delicious. It's got orange cheese on it. Orange. Scranton and Old Forge do pizza right. The white pizza might actually bring my grandmother back from the dead.

You don't understand, greer. The Travel Channel IS porn and Anthony Bourdain is its Dirk Diggler. He goes in and out of countries repeatedly, especially their most private areas, and eats them ou... okay I'll stop. But you get where I'm headed. I hear the food's good, too.

Oh, some of this is so misguided.

* Best "Buffalo Winds" in O-freaking-hio? Ahem - none. Acceptable buffalo wings are found across upstate New York. The best, well, it's between two or three bars in Buffalo, dammit, with names I simply cannot remember when sober. Outside upstate you'll find wing-like objects, sometimes worthwhile for the nostalgia they evoke.

* Best Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches? Gotta agree that the best Cheese Steak is from your corner deli anywhere trend-free in Philly. Also get the antipasto or the veal. I refuse to acknowledge anything called a "Philly Cheese Steak" from anywhere else.

* Running fight "back in the day" in Rochester, NY, best feed after the bars close. Personally, I go for Nick Taho's for a Garbage Plate - two burger pattys (cheese optional, but not, really), two dogs, hash browns, macaroni salad & etc. Some misguided folks prefer Sal's Birdland for a, well, a bird - duh. Think a half-bird done up like a buffalo wing. I always thought of Sal's as great, but more of a specialty.

* Best working class food, ambiance across upState is / was Dinosaurs. Started when a motorcycle club bought a restaurant so they could get what they wanted, the way they wanted. Last I checked there were three of them, Syracuse, Rochester and one of the smaller towns. Perhaps our host can confirm that they're still around?

* Seattle, one running fight is about Sushi. Shiros is the only right answer. Not trendy, but exquisite. For about a year and a half I came in early every Thursday, and he would honor me by choosing the what to feed me. Get known and the off-menu items may appear - squid eggs, herring roe, pine mushroom soup. Close second is Mashikos, and the only choice for a multi-course dinner of Japanese food.

* The other running fight in Seattle is the best Asian-fusion, locally sourced, organic, wildcrafted, blah, blah, blah trend spot of the moment. Personally, I like a place called The Pink Door because they use the amazing local ingredients well without being all snooty about it. Reservations required.

Best steak I ever had was in Chicago. Outside the midwest there are only steak-like objects. The best Ruben is from any real deli in New York City and nowhere else. The best "whatever they are serving" is any hole in the wall the locals go to in New Orleans.

"cowschwitz" is such a terribly perfect name for that area, i just snorted with laughter.

Listen, this hoo-ha about Philly is cute and all, but if you're in PA and you need a sammich, you go to Primanti Brothers in Pittsburgh. Without question, the best sandwich in the history of life. OF LIFE. It's a 1/4 pound of either corned beef, turkey, or this ground-beef patty thing on soft Italian bread topped with tomato, coleslaw and fries. I know what you're thinking - why have I been eating my side dishes on the SIDE of my sandwich like a sucker? The answer is: I don't know, and I feel sorry for you.

At Primanti's, Mrs. Primanti or one of her cronies shakes the fresh-cut fries out of the oil and then grabs them immediately with her BARE HANDS to put on the sammich. I don't care how many health violations that entails, it is bad ass.

tt_marie: Word on the Weiner Circle, plus the name never fails to make me giggle, especially when drunk.

thejodester: Portillos, in my humble opinion, also has the best Italian beef

twig: Pittsburgh Brew Works is awesome (it's a converted Catholic church). Perhaps you know the wonder of Primanti's? You seem smart.

Also, best burger in Chicago: Blackie's.

Haha willow - I lived at that end for a while too! So don't worry, I don't judge. And really, all of Rideau is at least a little sketchy. Re: Elgin Street Diner, the main appeal of it for me is the fact that I can actually eat it, since it's veggie. I miss the random-chip-truck-poutine days!

I have to say (honestly) that I prefer Chipolte to all the Burrito chains up here in Boston. But Anna's is a close second (Their pork is to die for)

It's like the Phantom Gourmet up in here. (local ref)

Also- Don't talk shit about Dunkin' Donuts with Massholes around. That's our sweet elixir of life.

Dinosaur BBQ is most certainly still in Rochester. Thank the lord, too, because garbage plates? Hell, no.

Skyline Chili, specifically the three-way or cheese coney made by a big Greek who puts the mustard on with a wooden stick in a hole-in-the-wall near the U of Cincy campus, is the Best Food Ever. Heaven on earth.

Geno's East.

Tex-Mex, while nothing like actual Mexican food, is an art form of its own. I was always partial to Matt's Rancho Martinez in the Lakewood area of Dallas.

Bagel Fragel still exists in Ann Arbor, over near U of M's north campus

Good god, since when did Ann Arbor become "remember everything you loved about East Lansing? Yeah, we've still got it."

E.L has become a chain store nightmare.

I'll hoof it to Mike's Pastry. Mmmmmm....cannoli....

Mmmmmmm.... they make one with a goddamn florentine. That shit should be illegal it is so good.

the cider donuts at Atkins Farm in Hadley, MA

Oh god, the cider donuts at that little farm going up to Crane Beach. Fresh-fried and warm, and sitting right next to them is a vat of fresh, ice-cold, nonpasturized apple cider.

... and then god reached down and gave me a high-five.

... and thanks, Tamatha for the Herrell's rec. I didn't realize it was so amazing.

Perhaps you know the wonder of Primanti's?

I've never lived in Pittsburgh, just visited friends a couple of times. But I am all up on awesome sandwich places. Nice freaking menu.

You seem smart.

Optical illusion.

Also- Don't talk shit about Dunkin' Donuts with Massholes around. That's our sweet elixir of life.

I often wonder how many hours it would take for Boston to descend into a Bartertown-style apocalypse if the coffee ever ran dry.

I second the Geno's East and Portillo's love. (Good GOD their hot dogs and Italian beef make me wish I wasn't trying to go veg.)

jM - Uhm, if you're familiar with Ledo's you might live a block away from me. I don't know what it is about that stuff...it's greasy and low on sauce (and I'm a sauce girl) and yet whenever all my friends and I are home from school we feel the need to go there as soon as possible and devour as much as we can.

My heart truly belongs to Palermo's pizza. The sauce is un-muthafuckin'-real. (63rd and Pulaski, Chicagoans. Go IMMEDIATELY.)

I've almost lost friends in arguments over which pizza is the best, but there have been equally impassioned arguments over where to get the best pierogi. (Bobak's, duh.) No other Polish Chicagoans around?

Cindy --I like all kinds of fries. However, my absolute favorite kind of fry--and I believe it has now been 18 years since I last had some--is the western fry. Potatoes are cut into quarters (maybe eighths) and then battered like fried chicken. Do you know how I know that these are the best fries ever? Because they are delicious even when they are cold! I wonder if they still have them at Lexington Market in Baltimore?

White Spot burgers, bitches.

And Calgary's own Splumbos. Yum.

Anna's bends Chipotle over its knee and gives it a good spanking. Qdoba and Boca Grande don't even deserve to be mentioned. O'Sullivans beats Bartley's, and you don't have to put up with annoying tourists loudly reading out all the kitschy stuff on the walls.
Bub Sweatman's has the best BBQ in the Carolinas.
Tony Luke's has the best cheesesteaks although the pork sandwiches are even better.
Tinto in Philly has the best tapas ever.

Aw, scandi bullocks, c'mere and gimme a hug. Your bitchiness is liberating. Unfortunately it is true. However, I'm not saying I don't make the occasional jaunt up to the Cities to get authentic food, I'm just saying that Monday through Friday my selections are extremely limited.

How'd you know I do my business in the Target restrooms?

SEAN;

Ah, I miss the old town. If you do want to check out ECC, it's on Mentor Ave and 91 Closer to the Mall. Which reminds me, it used to be accross the street from a Mr. Hero. Oh, man! Roman Burgers! Three patties with lettuce, onions and mayo on a steak bun. I believe their value meal come with the sandwhich, waffle fries a medium drink and a coupon for an angioplasy.

shelleyh,

You know, I've been in WI for 8 years, and I do consider it a tragedy that I've never been to the State Fair. I hear people eat the stellar creampuffs there and experince some sort of sexual awakening. A true mouth orgasm.

Back where Phillip and I grew up, there was quite a rivalry between two diners, Ed and Kay's and Almas. See, it used to be Ed and Alma's, then Ed fucked Kay, and a few month's later, we had a new restaurant on the other side of the bypass.

The food in either place was mediocre, but you had to pick a side. I stuck with Ed and Kays -- Alma was a shrew.

Elsewhere, I drove through my old neighborhood, Davis Square in Slummerville yesterday, and noticed the new Chipotle. Right down the street from Anna's. The fuck? I wish you could put Qdoba's queso in an Anna's burrito, though.

Whoa. That is definately a shout out to champaign-urbana up there. I'm amazed it has been mentioned at all.

However, I'm a Dos Reales girl any day if we are talking C-U mexican. To be honest though, none of it down there really does it for me.

Now thai? they've got some good thai food. and coffee shops.

Oh, and also a staple for any Asheville, NC loving vegetarian/vegan: Rosetta's Kitchen.

Four words: Vegan Chili Cheese Fries
(And I'm a not a vegan by any means.)

And a few more words: Tempalo Wings

I HEART ASHEVILLE!!!!!!!!!!

OK, if flippin' Champaign-Urbana can get a shout-out then I'm gonna raise the flag for Bloomington-Normal. While every known chain has at least one outlet in this little 'burg of 100,000 (we got Chipotle, we got Qdoba, we got Popeye's, we got Ruby Friday's Appleback Hooters), it is possible to sniff out a few good local joints.

El Porton on Main is Mexican food made by Mexicans for Mexicans (for instance, the specials board by the register is in Spanish only -- that's excellent gringo-repellant). Everything is f-r-e-s-h; they grow their own cilantro and peppers (including habaneros). Had a doozy of a chorizo burrito there on Tuesday...mmmmm. Love their horchata, too, and the social commentary: many regulars work in the kitchens of the chain restaurants by day and then come here...

Meathead's Burgers and Fries is a new place whose menu is in the name. They do one thing and they do it extremely well. The owner is talking about franchising, so maybe someday you outlanders will learn for yourselves (but then it will just be your new chain-of-the-day that you'll shun...too bad).

Finally, what small town is complete without a food feud? You got Gene's for ice cream, then you got Carl's. Gene's is worth driving across town for; Carl's, not so much. Damned if Carl's didn't go and open up a second location a LOT closer to my house than Gene's. What's a boy to do? If you're eating ice cream then you're intrinsically lazy, right?

All Star Sandwich shop is phenomenal. Elizabeth, seriously, how many times a week do you think we pass each other on the street? It's getting weird.

"I often wonder how many hours it would take for Boston to descend into a Bartertown-style apocalypse if the coffee ever ran dry."

Don't even fucking joke about that, Twig. That shit ain't funny.

Damnit! There were supposed to be way more line breaks there.

GAH!

TK, you can hate the mall but there's a Chik-fil-a in Pheasant Lane. And that one you don't even have to enter the mall proper to access; the food court has a prominent entrance/exit of its own.

Whoa, too many comments to go through them all, but if nobody's mentioned Primanti Bros. yet ...

RUDYS has the best fucking barbeque

I didn't say it had the best barbeque I said it had the best meat.

Meat + bread = awesome.

Chris K - Thank you for naming Anchor Bar and Duffs. I was going to have to go to Buffalo and get half tanked, just so I could remember. If I start from the 800 block of Delaware Ave. my feets would know the way.

Louise - Thanks for confirming that Dinosaurs is still there. And greer gets it too. It's the vibe and the mass quantities of the beer, the sides, and especially the dirty rice. (Juvenile, but I love saying "dirty rice.")

Kolby, next time I'm in Florida, I'll check out the best BBQ in Florida. Which has nothing to do with the working class food / ambiance across upState.

You want to plug your preference, just say the worlds all on your own. It's OK.

So, Rochester, NY peeps and ex-pats, anybody else remember a spectacularly tacky dive called "Michelangelos" on 15th just south of Jefferson road? Scary looking place, and the pizza was just bad. But the best grilled subs in the world, ever. Been closed for years and I still want a club sub.

PissBoy - I'm right there with ya with Capriotti's! I live in the UK now but whenever I go back to DE to visit friends and fam I make sure that Capriotti's gets at least 2 visits! I mourn the absence of mom and pop sub shops here in GB. They have Subway. This is what they think a real sub is. It's pure tragedy.

Long live the CapaStrami!!

This is in response to pissboy's comment about RO's BBQ in Gastoinia. It's over-rated. The only thing good there is the bbq slaw. I give them that. The bbq there is not good bbq.
Bridges bbq in Shelby (Hwy 18...not the one on 29-74) is the best bbq place around. Courtney's in Clover SC is great, too.