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Geno’s and Jim’s can Jump Up My Ass


An Afternoon Comment Diversion / Seth Freilich

Comment Diversions | August 20, 2008 | Comments (265)


In the comment threads last week, the age old Philly food fight raged again — where do you get the best cheesesteak? Those with a soul know the answer is Pat’s — the rest of the heathens can duke it out between Geno’s and Jim’s. For me, the trouble with this fight is that I don’t have anything objective to base it on — I just know in my heart of hearts that Pat’s will always be the way of the righteous, with Jim’s serving as a suitable and almost acceptable substitute in an emergency (Geno’s is acceptable only never).

Now I don’t know if other cities, regions, locales, etc. have similar food fights, but I suspect they do. So that’s today’s diversion — sound off on any regional food fights you got and name your champion.

Another example I can think of is the question of where to get the best fast food burger in LA. The unquestionable answer, of course, is that the best burger comes from In-N-Out (double double animal style, thank you kindly). But that’s not the end of the argument, because if you want the burger so caloried it counts as three meals, then Carl’s Jr. has your stuffing (that six dollar guac burger may take a year off your life, but it’s only one of those shitty years on the end). And then there’s Tommy’s — if your stomach survives the chili, you will sleep the sleep of champions. As for Fatburger, sure it has the best fries, but its burgers taste like feet.

Sound off, foodies….


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Comments

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.

Posted by: thejodester at August 20, 2008 2:38 PM

Actually, I always favored D'Antonio's in Roxborough. But that's just me.

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 2:40 PM

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.

Posted by: samantha t at August 20, 2008 2:40 PM

Then there's the best Pizza in NYC. For my money it's a now-gone hole in thew wall around 57th street called Mariella's that was the perfect slice.

Posted by: Withnail at August 20, 2008 2:40 PM

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.

Posted by: Sarah C at August 20, 2008 2:42 PM

In 'n' Out is certainly delicious, but whenever I would go out of town and return to LA, inevitably my first craving was for the Carl's Jr. Six Dollar Burger, protein style. It's the only fast food that I don't regret eating once in a blue moon. But, nothing...NOTHING beats In 'n' Out fries animal style.

Posted by: Lux at August 20, 2008 2:42 PM

Mmmm... Anna's Taqueria...

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

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 2:43 PM

NC BBQ:

Yes, Allen & Sons is amazing, but that would be because you've never had 12 Bones.

If you are EVER in Western NC during a weekday at lunchtime, GO TO 12 BONES.

Posted by: boo at August 20, 2008 2:44 PM

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.

Posted by: PissBoy at August 20, 2008 2:45 PM

Pat's is only acceptable at 3:00am after a night of drowning your sorrows in whiskey shots after McNabb contracts rabies during a third and long. Tony Luke's sates my cravings like no other...go with a friend, get a provie wit cheesesteak and a roasted pork sandwich with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe, split each in half, and enjoy with a six pack of Troegs.

I've never been to In-N-Out Burger...I suddenly feel empty inside.

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 2:46 PM

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.

Posted by: Cindy at August 20, 2008 2:47 PM

No real food fights to speak of here, although there seem to be two distinct breeds of coffee drinkers in Canada: those who love Tim Hortons, and those who despise it. Personally, I don't like the taste at all, and drink it only when alternatives are not handy.

Speaking of greasy food, though, there is a locally well-known fast food joint with the memorable name of "The Lick-a-Chick." Very popular with tourists (though there are some die-hard local fans as well).

Posted by: MO(meaux) at August 20, 2008 2:47 PM

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

Posted by: jM at August 20, 2008 2:48 PM

PissBoy, I'm a Jelly Krimpet kind of girl, but the best Tastycake is the CandyKake. Peanut butter and chocolate and cakey stuff, oh my.

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 2:49 PM

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.

Posted by: PissBoy at August 20, 2008 2:49 PM

Most choose creamy...

::snickers::

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 2:50 PM

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.

Posted by: thejodester at August 20, 2008 2:51 PM

We don't have food in NJ.

Posted by: Anna von Beaverplatz at August 20, 2008 2:51 PM

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.

Posted by: Sean at August 20, 2008 2:52 PM

Tony Luke's fucking stadium food. It's what you throw at the Cowboys when you run out of batteries.

I trump you this, gentlepersons. I went to Philly to see concerts on South Street. Pat's is much better than Geno's, but at that point, you want your Jim's. Right then, right there. We actually ate a Jim's steak on our way to get the car to drive to Pat's.

I'd kill a motherfucker dead for a Butterscotch Krimpet right now. Anything from a Wawa for that matter.

And Anna's Taqueria is the best. My fat ass would hike there weekly from BU to get one. For me to walk, it's gotta be good.

Posted by: insertclevernamehere at August 20, 2008 2:52 PM

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.

Posted by: TMax at August 20, 2008 2:54 PM

I don't care much about cheesesteaks, but Tony Luke's Chicken Italian sandwich is pure perfection.

Posted by: Jennifer McKeown at August 20, 2008 2:54 PM

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.

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 2:54 PM

...and I retract my comment about Gray's Papaya. Deerhead HotDogs here in Delware will shit on any other dog place out there.

Posted by: PissBoy at August 20, 2008 2:54 PM

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).

Posted by: Mary at August 20, 2008 2:55 PM

I live in South Carolina. In Lexington, about twenty minutes from here, they have an annual festival called the Chitlin Strut, wherein people willingly consume chitlins. Yes, that's stewed, battered, and fried pig intestines.

Other regional delights, such as shrimp 'n' grits or collards, make one question whether England really does have the monopoly on unfortunate foodstuffs. Oh, and there are "Pickin' Parties," where you literally pull the flesh of your choice off an entire roast pig, unlike those pussies who get their barbecue served with sauce between two pieces of bread.

The *one* thing we do well here are biscuits. And consistently, the best biscuits come from Hardee's, where they are made every morning at the crack of dawn by little old black ladies who could probably break your wrist with one squeeze of their biscuit-kneading fingers.

Posted by: girlnone at August 20, 2008 2:56 PM

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?

Posted by: jamiepants at August 20, 2008 2:57 PM

It's what you throw at the Cowboys when you run out of batteries.

Ha ha ha ha ha!

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 2:57 PM

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

Posted by: thejodester at August 20, 2008 2:57 PM

Weighing in on the Boston burrito debate: J'adore the Picante burrito, but due to lack of availability, I come down on the Anna's Taqueria side of the debate.

But I think all Bostonians can agree that a burrito is delicious no matter where it comes from...unless that place is Boloco.

Or Qdoba. *shudder*

I would also like to pitch R.F. O'Sullivan's as Boston's Best Burger.

Posted by: elizabeth at August 20, 2008 2:58 PM

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

Posted by: thejodester at August 20, 2008 3:00 PM

Ewww, hot dogs. I'd rather eat tongue again.

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 3:00 PM

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...

Posted by: MO(meaux) at August 20, 2008 3:01 PM

Seriously thejodester, if you remind me, I will totally buy you one. A group of my friends go regularly for them.

Posted by: jamiepants at August 20, 2008 3:01 PM

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

Posted by: thejodester at August 20, 2008 3:03 PM

Most choose creamy...

::snickers::


Julie! This is serious, goshdarnit, we're talking about food here, not anything dirty! I swear your mind is so one-track, so twisted, you could take anything wholesome and make it about sex. Take bananas, for example. Nice, long, stiff, thick, healthy, good-for-you, satisfying, bananas. Waitaminnit, bad example. Let's try, hmmm, lessee, maybe kielbasa. Or cucumbers. Dammit, this isn't working. Carrots, strawberries, avocados, oysters, cream puffs - is nothing sacred?

Ah, fuck it, I give the hell up. Your new assignment is to come up with kinky double entendres about whatever foods get mentioned in this diversion. Double points for using said food during sex, hat trick for before, during, and after. Go!

Posted by: lordhelmet at August 20, 2008 3:04 PM

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!

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 3:04 PM

um...excuse me, a burrito in Boston? wtf...you want good mexican food of any kind go to SoCal. i fucking love Alberto's greasy taco stand. carne asada chips..mmmm

Posted by: lulu at August 20, 2008 3:05 PM

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

Posted by: boo at August 20, 2008 3:06 PM

(yes thejodester, i'm pretty sure it's all month...)

Posted by: jamiepants at August 20, 2008 3:06 PM

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.

Posted by: jM at August 20, 2008 3:07 PM

Sooo this one is probably only for Canadians, but regardless - Where do you get the best poutine? Here in Ottawa, I think it's the Elgin Street Diner... #1 because theirs is vegetarian (woo mushroom-based gravy! I can actually eat it!), #2 because they have like 10 varieties on their menu, and #3 because they use St. Albert's cheese curds. Mmmmm so good. It also helps that they are about two blocks from my house and I can run there at 3am if I have a craving.
Oh, another Ottawa biggie is probably shawarma. Supposedly we have the most shawarma restaurants in the world?? My man swears by that blue place at the sketchy end of Rideau Street - I think it's called the Shawarma Palace.

Posted by: b at August 20, 2008 3:09 PM

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.

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 3:10 PM

jalapeno grits, and sweet mashed potatos

boo, you're killing me. I wonder how long it would take me to drive there...I bet I could make it by lunchtime.

Posted by: thejodester at August 20, 2008 3:11 PM

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

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 3:11 PM

is nothing sacred?

GOD no. :)

Best fajita I ever had was at a hole in the wall in Palo Alto, CA. Fresh homemade tortillas, sides of refried beans and rice, and an added bonus of a six pack of beer. My friends and I drove what seemed to be UP the mountains to get to the beach, and we ate our food on the hood of the car as we overlooked the Pacific for the first time.

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 3:12 PM

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.

Posted by: SleepyBeastie at August 20, 2008 3:16 PM

Hey Sean, nice to see someone mention my own former habitat of C-town.

I'll have to agree with Roosters for the wings, I went to college just north of Columbus, but tried to make it down there at least once a month.

For dessert, there is nothing better than a Chocolate Malt Concrete from East Coast Custard in my hometown of Mentor. I'd inhale that thing so fast I'd have a 2 1/2 hour ice cream headache.

The closest thing I've found that compares in my current residence of Wisconsin is Culvers custard. Not bad in a pinch. And if you haven't had deep fried pickles or cheese curds...you really haven't gotten close to giving yourself an instant coronary...albiet an delicious coronary.

and I love Jacobs Field...crap...Progressive Field hotdogs during a Tribe game.

Ohio IS fat...They are after all round on both ends

Posted by: Max at August 20, 2008 3:16 PM

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!

Posted by: wsapnin at August 20, 2008 3:17 PM

Only non-locals would ever suggest that there is an argument about the best fast food in Los Angeles, we have all agreed upon In-N-Out and no one cares. Although when it comes to burgers, Fred's 62 and The Counter should be included. The real conundrum for us Angelenos is where to get the best mexican food, and the answer for tacos at least, is a truck called El Pique on York.

Posted by: OT at August 20, 2008 3:18 PM

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

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 3:19 PM

Anna's Taq! no question

But as far as burgers go I would say Mr. Bartley's. Then again these are really based in Cambridge. I would give Little Stevie's Best Cheap Pizza in Boston.

Posted by: Draya at August 20, 2008 3:19 PM

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?

Posted by: elizabeth at August 20, 2008 3:20 PM

Oh, and if you want excellent Thai food, drive to the middle of the 'burbs in Maryland and get yourself to Bangkok Delight in Columbia.

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 3:23 PM

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.

Posted by: Sean at August 20, 2008 3:24 PM

Jim's. Then Pat's (sacrilege to say, I know). Then Geno's.

Posted by: HG at August 20, 2008 3:24 PM

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!)

Posted by: Kayanne at August 20, 2008 3:24 PM

samantha t, my husband and I had Pepe's for the first time last month. It was good, but not as good as all the hype had us expecting it would be. We've yet to try Sally's or Modern.

Posted by: ade at August 20, 2008 3:25 PM

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.

Posted by: Lola at August 20, 2008 3:29 PM

Tamatha - If it makes you feel better, I have yet to find a single Mexican place in the area that's not either vastly overpriced, bland and tasteless, or a chain. Ok, for a chain, Chipotle isn't all that bad, but still.

Posted by: SleepyBeastie at August 20, 2008 3:31 PM

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.

Posted by: Alabamapink at August 20, 2008 3:34 PM

Best cheesesteak in Houston (or Austin for that matter) is [b]Texadelphia[/b] with that super tasty mustard blend sauce. I'm drooling just thinking about it.

As far as the best BBQ around here goes, I have to go with [b]Rudy's BBQ[/b] in Leon Springs (to the NW of San Antonio). They have, by far, the best sauce and their smoked turkey is incredible.

Posted by: JH at August 20, 2008 3:34 PM

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.

Posted by: Shano at August 20, 2008 3:34 PM

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.

Sigh, boo it seems as though I'll HAVE to drive the three hours there to try this place out. Cheerwine Ribs!?!?1 That sounds ahmayzeeng. I would eat everything you just mentioned (I would even try collard greens for the first time).

And I won't have to worry about the three hour return trip, because clearly I'll be passed out for a few days from the itis.

Posted by: Kayanne at August 20, 2008 3:34 PM

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?

Posted by: Pea at August 20, 2008 3:34 PM

Burgers in Boston - surprisingly, The Tavern (either Porter or Central) makes a surprisingly good burger.

Another eternal Boston debate is chowder. As ubiquitous and obvious is it is, I gotta go Legal Seafood, closely followed by Jamie's in Scituate.

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 3:35 PM

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...

Posted by: Kizzer at August 20, 2008 3:35 PM

New Orleans best burger is at Port of Call. Yummmmmmm. Its massive with shredded cheese instead of sliced and the most delicious, tenderly, lovingly prepared baked potato instead of fries (and this coming from someone who does not really care for potato)

Posted by: KHA at August 20, 2008 3:36 PM

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...]

Posted by: Skittimus Maximus at August 20, 2008 3:37 PM

For Chicago-style pizza, I have to disagree with both Lou Malnati's and Uno's and stick with my beloved Giordano's. It's all about the crust. Of course, Gulliver's up in Evanston makes awesome pizza.

I don't eat the meat anymore, but an authentic Chicago style hot dog is only a matter of holding the ketchup and throwing on some celery salt.

Posted by: megbon at August 20, 2008 3:37 PM

Congratulations Pea!!

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 3:39 PM

SleepyBeastie--Well, if you want good Mexican food, you're welcome to come visit N'ton. La Veracruzana has excellent Mexican food (it's motto- "Mexican food that real Mexicans would eat" or something close to that). The Main Squeeze is in the process of working his way through every vegetarian/seafood dish on the menu.

Speaking of the Main Squeeze, he makes fabulous Mexican food too, so you know, we could eat in and eat out.

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 3:39 PM

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.

Posted by: Sharon at August 20, 2008 3:40 PM

Aw, Skitt you need a hug. And please check the expiry date on that sushi.

Posted by: Cindy at August 20, 2008 3:42 PM

Congrats Pea! I hope you had a beautiful day.

Posted by: b at August 20, 2008 3:43 PM

KHA,

You are right, Port of Call is the end all, be all burger and baked potato. God, I used to have absolute cravings for their mushroom swiss burger. Must make a point to go there next time I'm home.
I always used to have a dilemma when I reached that corner . . . Siam's or Port of Call? Seems like no contest, but sometimes the spring rolls, they would call to me.

Posted by: Sharon at August 20, 2008 3:44 PM

'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!

Posted by: MO(meaux) at August 20, 2008 3:46 PM

Go mention Pizzeria Bianco (the award winning, acclaimed best pizza in the US, tasty as all get out pie) on the Phoenix talk threads of a foodie review website like Yelp.com.

You will promptly be ripped so many assholes from haters that you will resemble a Swiss cheese-human hybrid. Those holes will then be patched up by the staunch believers in said pizza's miraculous ability to touch unicorns, it's that pure and don't you dare desecrate its good name!!!

Unfortunately, those patched holes were a rush job and will immediately dissolve under further onslaught from team Fuck Bianco (also known as Your-pretentious-pizza-can-kiss-my-Native-New-Yorker-ass, YPPCKMNNYA for short). Team Freshness-is-Next-to-the-Purity-of-Unicorn-Molestation, will continue to espouse how Chris Bianco makes every pie by hand with fresh buffalo mozzarella and ingredients he grows himself.

Your eyes will have been replaced by assholes by this time, so at least you don't have to read any further. You will resemble an asshole flavored collander, constantly springing and patching up leaks.

Eventually you will leave the thread a broken shell of your former self, with more anal fissures than one person should ever be forced to endure.

You have been warned.

But I'll be damned if it isn't ten tons of fun to see foodies rumble!

Posted by: Erica O. at August 20, 2008 3:46 PM

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.

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 3:47 PM

Pat's sucks. Geno's blows. And Jim's simultaneously sucks AND blows, to quote Bart Simpson. I was born and raised in South Philly and lived 35 years right there in South Philly, so trust me. I've found that the best cheesesteaks in Philly are those made by your local, on-the-corner pizza place and/or hoagie joint.

Now I live just 20 minutes away from Philly in Delaware and yes, I can confirm that Capriotti's sandwiches are things of beauty. The Bobby. OMG. Salivating just thinking of it.

Posted by: mirthful at August 20, 2008 3:47 PM

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?

Posted by: sappy at August 20, 2008 3:49 PM

Here in scenic Yarmouth there isn't much to choose from. We have McDonald's, Domino's, Bruce's Burritos, Taste of China, Subway and Pat's Pizza. None of those is outstanding. My favorite place is Clayton's. They make a good sandwich. I guess I would choose it over Subway as they are the only other choice for a sandwich here. Take that Subway!

Posted by: Peasandmacaroni at August 20, 2008 3:50 PM

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

Posted by: Pea at August 20, 2008 3:51 PM

I've found that the best cheesesteaks in Philly are those made by your local, on-the-corner pizza place and/or hoagie joint.

That is insanely true Mirthful, the best cheesesteak I've ever had was from a divey pizza shop on South St. I have no idea what it was called though.

I must add that I make a pretty awesome cheesesteak, which I owe to my mother's kitchen prowess.

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 3:51 PM

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.

Posted by: whatBENwatches at August 20, 2008 3:51 PM

Anyone who wants to enjoy 12Bones, I SWEAR TO GODTOPUS, I'll put you up. We will eat it for lunch, get some to-go for dinner, and spend the evening fanning our farts in each other's direction. (They also serve PINTS of beer people. Fucking PINTS. FUCKING $3 PINTS. I love my life.)

As my favorite bumper sticker reads: It's fun to fart on your friends.

Lou Malnati's FOREVER!!!

Oh, and for some KICKASS shrimp and grits, please to enjoy Crook's Corner in Carrboro/Chapel Hill, NC.

Posted by: boo at August 20, 2008 3:53 PM

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

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 3:55 PM

Max:

Mmmm...deep fried cheese curds. Did you go to State Fair this year? Deep fried mac and cheese bites! They. Are. Awesome.

Over time I have come to like Oscar's custard better than Culver's. There are only 2 Oscar's in the Milwaukee area, one of them near where I work. Oscar's puts waaaay more candy in their custard. If the flavor of the day isn't very good, (meaning something with fruit and not candy) I get an extra thick shake with M&Ms. They are so insane, I can never eat a whole one in one sitting. Traditionally Gille's on Bluemound is supposed to be the best, since they are the oldest custard stand in town. But not for me.

Posted by: shelleyh at August 20, 2008 3:56 PM

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

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 3:56 PM

Julie, baby, you know I love you, but leave the Yuengling at home honey. We're going out to Dirty Jacks after 12 Bones, m'kay?

Just trust me.

But bring on the Tastycakes.

Posted by: boo at August 20, 2008 3:58 PM

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

Posted by: de_rock at August 20, 2008 3:59 PM

If you really want great Mexican food, and by that I mean salsa, you can't beat the desert Southwest. Los Dos Molinos to be specific.

Posted by: jack at August 20, 2008 4:01 PM

Whatever gets you drunk and uninhibited my dear!

Posted by: Julie at August 20, 2008 4:03 PM

Sushi... at Target?

There is no adequate way to describe how sad that makes me.

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 4:04 PM

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!

Posted by: Erin at August 20, 2008 4:05 PM

Anyone who wants to enjoy 12Bones, I SWEAR TO GODTOPUS, I'll put you up. We will eat it for lunch, get some to-go for dinner, and spend the evening fanning our farts in each other's direction. (They also serve PINTS of beer people. Fucking PINTS. FUCKING $3 PINTS. I love my life.)

Friends and family have been asking me recently what I would like to do for my 21st birthday in less than a month. And now I know.

And I'm soooooo glad that you mentioned a new shrimpngrits place, boo! My favorite local seafood place (across the street from the basement Mexican Restaurant) shut down and they were the only place I knew of that served 'em. And Chapel Hill is about thirty minutes away!

It's fun to fart on your friends. Bahahahaha

And now that we've had this discussion I have myself for having tuna fish for lunch. Bah.

Posted by: Kayanne at August 20, 2008 4:06 PM

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.

Posted by: Kizzer at August 20, 2008 4:10 PM

Party at 12 Bones!!!

Bring it, ladies. Buh-RING IT.

Posted by: boo at August 20, 2008 4:10 PM

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...

Posted by: Erica O. at August 20, 2008 4:10 PM

Also for all Toronto beer aficionados, go to C'est What on Front Street. It's better than BierMarkt by far.

Get the Beer Float. It's even more fabulous than it sounds: chocolate hazlenut porter, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce. Heaven... The sweet potato frites are also like nothing else I've ever tasted, and the antojitos are mouth-burningly awesome. Oh, I'm getting hungry now.

Posted by: Pea at August 20, 2008 4:11 PM

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.

Posted by: twig at August 20, 2008 4:12 PM

Also, Church Brew Works in Pittsburgh - best beer I've ever had.

Posted by: twig at August 20, 2008 4:14 PM

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.

Posted by: Kolby at August 20, 2008 4:18 PM

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

Fried clams, however... oy! Twig, pretty sure you're talking about The Clam Box, there's also one in Quincy and it's FABULOUS.

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 4:18 PM

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.

Posted by: jM at August 20, 2008 4:21 PM

"There is no adequate way to describe how sad that makes me."

Tell you what, TK - I'll send you a photo of myself eating it. It's a horribly, horribly sad image that'll soften the hardest of hearts. There's an accompanying audio clip describing what exactly I'm eating, but it's drowned out by Minimus' sobs...

Posted by: Skittimus Maximus at August 20, 2008 4:21 PM

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!

Posted by: Ami at August 20, 2008 4:22 PM

good call on the In-N-Out stop in Kettleman City whatBENwatches, I make the same stop on just about every drive north.

Of course, those coming south on the 5 are awarded bonus points for stopping and eating a burger in Kettleman City, seeing how it's only 30 miles south of Cowschwitz and the air is usually perfumed with reek of the charnel house ...

Posted by: that they die like sheeple at August 20, 2008 4:22 PM

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.

Posted by: Jay at August 20, 2008 4:27 PM

In nashua the battle is for the best main street eatery, with a half dozen restaurants throwing food selections at you that rival the best you'll find in boston. The typical throwdown is usually Michael Timothy's versus Villa Banca. Both are high end kickass places for a good date, but michael timothy's wins for me (best food I've ever had; the filet mignon was incredible). Villa banca is good and a little cheaper, but Michael Timothy's always has been my celebration place.

Posted by: Rorny at August 20, 2008 4:31 PM

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

Posted by: Conrad (last name withheld) at August 20, 2008 4:37 PM

Hey if I want chocolate cake, I'll order chocolate cake!!

And I don't want chocolate cake!!!

But what should I expect except craziness from someone who eats that stenchy devil weed sauerkraut???

(but that's a pretty interesting fact, Kolby! And I certainly envy the pizza empire you've got going on there)

Posted by: Jay at August 20, 2008 4:37 PM

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.

Posted by: Sophie at August 20, 2008 4:38 PM

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.

jM impreccable timing: Ben's Chili Bowl is turning 50 this week! Get yerself a half smoke immediately...festivities begin Thursday evening- Sunday afternoon.
If you don't live in DC: Anthony Bourdain will be on TV soon with his segment which filmed last week.

Posted by: amanda47 at August 20, 2008 4:38 PM

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

Posted by: WestCoastPat at August 20, 2008 4:41 PM

Elizabeth, you took the words out of my mouth. I HATE when my CA friends are snotty about Mexican food (and just about everything else) when they're outside of CA. For example, I had a colleague at my last job from Palo Alto who sent out an e-mail seeking restaurant recommendations in the area. I took a few minutes out of my day to send her a response with a few restaurants and their respective cuisines. I included one highly-regarded Mexican restaurant and this woman wrote back "I'm from California. I don't eat Mexican food in New York City." So rude! Then move back, b**ch, and stop taking up much-needed space in this wonderful city.

Posted by: samantha t at August 20, 2008 4:47 PM

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.

Posted by: twig at August 20, 2008 4:47 PM

Here in Orlando, a new soul food restaurant has opened up and everyone goes there. It's called Mama Nems and it's easily the best soul food you can find outside of your Big Momma's house. They have everything from chitlins to collards, macaroni and cheese (in the big blocks not the pile) to blackeyed peas, and peach cobblers to better-than-sex cake.

Hmmm...I need to make a reservation soon...

Posted by: Trouble at August 20, 2008 4:48 PM

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.

Posted by: Jay at August 20, 2008 4:49 PM

WHAT!!! I MISSED BOURDAIN!!! STELLLLLLAAAAAA!

Ok...I'm fine...no big deal. It's probably even a good thing. The things I would have gotten arrested for doing to him wouldn't be able to be explained away on job applications. So lucky me.

I want to strangle a dolphin.

Posted by: jM at August 20, 2008 4:51 PM

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.

Posted by: Kayanne at August 20, 2008 4:52 PM

Chicago:
Best hot dog comes from Portillo's

Best pizza comes from Pizzeria Due

...sometimes I regret becoming a Vegan.

Posted by: Agent Scully at August 20, 2008 4:54 PM

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.

Posted by: elizabeth at August 20, 2008 4:55 PM

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

Take pity on us New Englanders. Only like, one in the entire state of Massachusetts and TK won't go to the mall.

Posted by: twig at August 20, 2008 4:55 PM

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

Posted by: Matthew Dubroff at August 20, 2008 4:57 PM

Hey Jay, I think Five Guys Burgers and Fries' is really great. Different from In-N-Out, but better than Cook Out and delicious for something East Coasty.

And waffle fries rock.

Posted by: Kayanne at August 20, 2008 4:58 PM

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.

Posted by: Nate at August 20, 2008 4:59 PM

Jay, I'm on the east coast, too, so I've never been to In-N-Out but Five Guys is GOOD. It's tasty and at the one I go to, they give me discounts.

Posted by: jM at August 20, 2008 5:00 PM

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

Posted by: Three-nineteen at August 20, 2008 5:01 PM

Mr. Dubroff, you sir are a gentleman and a scholar, and I need to apologize for leaving El Pelon out of the debate. Good call. It's out of my way, so I go rarely, but when I do... sweet mercy.

Twig - it's in the Burlington Mall. The BURLINGTON MALL!!. I wouldn't go there if they were giving out gold-plated blowjobs.

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 5:03 PM

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.

Posted by: samantha t at August 20, 2008 5:05 PM

Twig - it's in the Burlington Mall. The BURLINGTON MALL!!. I wouldn't go there if they were giving out gold-plated blowjobs.

HA! Weirdly enough my Burlington Mall is awful, as well. So awful I think they don't even have a Chick-Fil-A... But they do have several pay phones located throughout the middle of the mall. So, ya know.

Posted by: Kayanne at August 20, 2008 5:08 PM

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).

Posted by: Jay at August 20, 2008 5:12 PM

Bojangles kicks Chick-Fil-A's ASS. Right in the poopshoot.

Posted by: boo at August 20, 2008 5:14 PM

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!!!!

Posted by: Pixie at August 20, 2008 5:24 PM

Bojangles kicks Chick-Fil-A's ASS. Right in the poopshoot.

FTW? No, that is a completely inaccurate statement and thus, I shall treat it as sarcasm.

I have hate for Bojangles that stems from me ordering a salad there once. Blah. I've never seen that many white lettuce leaves in my entire life.

And while we can agree that it is a million times better than KFC, I just think that the extra-greasiness and usual grime and obvious loathing towards me from the servers makes Chick-Fil-A a happier place.

Even if the servers are forced to say, "My pleasure," or else they get cattle-prodded or something; I still like false happiness from the people fixing me awesome Lemonade.

But Boberry biscuits do own souls. And their sweet tea is good.

Posted by: Kayanne at August 20, 2008 5:26 PM

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.

Posted by: ak at August 20, 2008 5:27 PM

Oh man, Bojangles... my parents used to take me there as a kid but I think they've all closed up in the Tampa area now. Makes me a sad panda.
Kayanne I have to echo your sentiments on Chic-fil-A 100%. There's no argument here among my cohorts about it's undisputed awesomeness, however you always crave it on Sunday.
I don't think there's much other debate over food here... except Sushi. There's ppl that prefer quantity over quality who go to Crazy Buffet - yep buffet sushi, and it's really not 1/2 bad. But, in my opinion, the #1 super best is Ichiban by USF, and their house sake is superb!

Posted by: CherryPie at August 20, 2008 5:27 PM

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?

Posted by: the bees knees at August 20, 2008 5:33 PM

They cut it into little squares, too! Squares, people! WTF?


On a lesser level, that's much like my grievance with Digiorno. They had this nutty, messy deep dish pizza that came in its own little aluminum tray, and then it disappeared and there's only an unnecessarily large variety of rectangles now.

I'm sorry this is a way of life in real restaurants there. Only Little Caesar's is permitted to make rectangular pizzas.

Posted by: Jay at August 20, 2008 5:39 PM

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.

Posted by: Skittimus Maximus at August 20, 2008 5:44 PM

Well, beating out cheese, I really think beer is the state food here. I have two breweries within five blocks of my house. It helps with the pain...

Posted by: the bees knees at August 20, 2008 5:55 PM

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.

Posted by: jM at August 20, 2008 6:00 PM

It definitely doesn't surprise me that 142 posts in and there's only one mention of Portland, Or. It's not that we don't have great food here (we do), it's just that we aren't known for anything in particular. But, if you're looking for multi-course vegetarian/vegan/organic/local/sustainable meals, you'll have plenty to choose from. Just don't expect us to dress nice for you or anything. And the wait staff might be pretty surly. Otherwise, yum!

Posted by: katy at August 20, 2008 6:02 PM

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!

Posted by: dammitjanet at August 20, 2008 6:09 PM

Skits, just exactly how far outside the cities ARE you? I live in Apple Valley, which is a good 20 minutes outside downtown, but there are several sushi places here. Right off the top of my head, there's Kami and Osaka... both of which are within about five minutes of my house, and would be way better than motherfucking Target. If you actually go into the cities, there are a whole bunch of places, and some are quite good. Where the hell do you live, Walnut Grove?

Posted by: Sarina at August 20, 2008 6:18 PM

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).

Posted by: libraryliz at August 20, 2008 6:21 PM

twig - Bagel Fragel still exists in Ann Arbor, over near U of M's north campus. Haven't been there in years, though, but now that you've reminded me I think a trip is due.

Tamatha - Ooooh, Mexican food actually eaten by Mexicans sounds absolutely divine. Perhaps next time I'm visiting my sister on the east coast I'll look you up, or at least try to find that place.

Posted by: SleepyBeastie at August 20, 2008 6:23 PM

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

Posted by: Skittimus Maximus at August 20, 2008 6:28 PM

Best cheesesteaks in Philly are at Jim's. I need my steaks served by angry, burly black men in a style resembling the soup nazi.

Also, the best NYC pizza lives across the street from me at Pizza Corner in the Bronx.

Posted by: KatSings at August 20, 2008 6:32 PM

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.

Posted by: funtime42 at August 20, 2008 6:33 PM

Huh. I thought that was some sort of animal nest. Although, come to think of it, this explains all the mysterious snuffling and grunting I keep hearing...

Do you want me to set the sprinklers to come on later? I'm guessing you're not awake and out of the nest by 4:30am. I'd hate for poor Minimus to catch cold.

Posted by: Sarina at August 20, 2008 6:37 PM

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.

Posted by: CDub at August 20, 2008 6:39 PM

I've noticed that you can get chili cheese fries at In 'n' Out as well, these are special items not listed on the menu. Someone once told me you can also get Veggie Burgers, but I think that's a lie cause the last time I ask for it all I got was a grilled cheese with the regular veggies on it. Anywho, the best pizza around SF is Extreme Pizza. It's quite good and they make slices fresh to go. We have this gross tendency to just pile on fixings that are uncooked. It's so not cool and I end up taking it all off (my clothes I mean!)

Posted by: ph at August 20, 2008 6:42 PM

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!

Posted by: FourKings at August 20, 2008 6:45 PM

The absolute BEST deep fried cheese curds are made by C.O.W. - Curds of Wisconsin. I came across them at the MREA fair this summer and damn, them's some good curds. Bonus: they run the operation out of a big concession truck painted like a cow, complete with a giant pink udder underneath...and it mooooooos.

Posted by: the bees knees at August 20, 2008 6:47 PM

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.

Posted by: SCannakate at August 20, 2008 6:49 PM

I have to offer a vote for Anna's Taqueria. Amazing!

Posted by: beehive24 at August 20, 2008 6:51 PM

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???!!!

Posted by: HB at August 20, 2008 6:53 PM

Best BBQ in Owensboro, KY:
The two main contenders:
First off, Moonlite BBQ. The one everyone will tell you is the best; the one from whom people reportedly order BBQ sauce after they leave the town and go to far off lands (aka, Wisconsin). Not only do they have great BBQ, the buffett features good ol' country sides that match in quality.
In the other corner, we have Ol' Hickory BBQ. No one actually from Owensboro will admit that this is their favorite, but they will vaguely acknowledge the feud. This visitor preferred Ol' Hickory - no question.

Posted by: LB at August 20, 2008 6:55 PM

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.

Posted by: Skittimus Maximus at August 20, 2008 6:56 PM

Lou Malnati's is the shit. Seriously. If you are going to have Chicago style deep dish have it at Lou's. Giordano's, Geno's and even Chicago Pizza are all mediocre.

Posted by: Chi Dingo at August 20, 2008 6:58 PM

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

Posted by: PeePants at August 20, 2008 7:00 PM

HB, YOU ARE SO GOING ON THE LIST.

Mock the double d at your own peril.

Also, as far as ice cream goes, the two best I've had are Turkey Hill (PA) and the divine Babcock Hall in Madison, WI.

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 7:07 PM

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.

Posted by: Lucas at August 20, 2008 7:10 PM

Oh, and the Hoagie Hut stocks Red Gold ketchup, which actually beats Heinz for eating with fries.

Posted by: Lucas at August 20, 2008 7:11 PM

"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?

Posted by: Sarina at August 20, 2008 7:11 PM

TK YOU PROBABLY LOVE RACHEL RAY, TOO!

I will say this - I enjoy the Boston Cream Pie donut. It is delicious. But if I really want to get my sugary sweet calories on I'll hoof it to Mike's Pastry. Mmmmmm....cannoli....

Posted by: HB at August 20, 2008 7:18 PM

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.

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 7:19 PM

I dunno, Jay, I know plenty of people who'd put Elan's up against Bagel Palace.

But I've got no dog in that fight, I wanna talk about Sunday Brunch. Here's the question for Atlantans: Rea's? Or Thumbs' Up?

(For biscuits, I gotta say Pastries a Go-Go even though I think they're waaaaay too into themselves. But it's a damn fine biscuit. Big as a tire.)

Posted by: JenK at August 20, 2008 7:23 PM

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)

Posted by: CherryPie at August 20, 2008 7:26 PM

SleepyBeastie--It's easy to find La Veracruzana. Go to the Pajiba Google Map. On page three, find my name. Click on it. Then zoom all the way in. Yep, that's were I placed myself on the map--right in front of my favorite restaurant.

However, if you come to town and don't invite me to join you, my feelings will be hurt for days on end.

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 7:30 PM

I don't enjoy food.

Posted by: DarthCorleone at August 20, 2008 7:30 PM

Best steamed Blue Crab is a Baltimore toss-up between Obrycki's in Fells Point (4 blocks from where Homicide was filmed), and Bo Brooks on York Road. Either one will cause you to collapse from the nirvana of the experience. The mustard in the Obrycki's sauce vs. the Bo Brooks heavy pepper...how can one choose???
I'll take a dozen of each.

Posted by: Adam C at August 20, 2008 7:33 PM

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.

Posted by: popejenn at August 20, 2008 7:37 PM

The Chicago pizza debate is incomplete without a mention of Pequods. The style is not for everyone, but those that like it always agree that its the best.

Posted by: AD at August 20, 2008 7:38 PM

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.

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 7:41 PM

Oh, Tamatha, I have been to both. boston has plenty of tasty ice cream - Herrell's, Toscanini's, etc. But I kid you not, Bascomb Hall in WI - that shit will change the way you think about ice cream. It is the absolute balls.

Coldstone Creamery is the fucking Red Lobster of ice cream. Frozen fucking gutter scrapings.

Posted by: TK at August 20, 2008 7:44 PM

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.

Posted by: Draya at August 20, 2008 7:47 PM

Adam C.--so happy to see a shout-out for Maryland blue crabs! I like mine covered in Old Bay. Recently had them for the first time in many, many years (easily more than 10). It was first time the Main Squeeze had the experience. He could not believe the sheer quantity of Old Bay which which the crabs were smothered.

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 7:48 PM

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.

Posted by: tamatha at August 20, 2008 7:51 PM

__b__ - don't refer to the sketchy end of Rideau as sketchy! Sheesh, I'm happy to call that end of town home! :) Once you look past the crackheads, it really is lovely - and home to one of the best chip trucks ever, which makes some absolutely stellar poutine. Elgin St. Diner is overrated, I daresay. Random chip truck is the way to go.

Posted by: willow at August 20, 2008 8:11 PM

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.

Posted by: greer at August 20, 2008 8:13 PM

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

Well, obviously.

It's just that donuts are so effing sweet. I only like stuff like that when fucked up. I'll eat anything then. Once, while powerfully under the influence, I ate some sort of abomination called "Cake & Ice Cream" ice cream that my friend had in her freezer. And I LIKED IT. A few weeks later I tried it again while sober, and almost started to cry from the horror. Holy mother of God, it was nasty.

Posted by: Sarina at August 20, 2008 8:14 PM

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!!!

Posted by: Jere at August 20, 2008 8:16 PM

tamatha, I've never been to Zen. And La Veracruzana really is good. I also like Lhasa Cafe. The beef and yak momos are delicious.

katy, I was surprised not to have any Portlanders as well. There's debate over the best sushi in Southeast... many would say Saburo's, but I'm preferential to Ichidai. My favourite Mexican food is Taqueria Uruapan, a little hole in the wall place on 82nd. They make the best burritos I've ever had.

Posted by: Zuzu at August 20, 2008 8:19 PM

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.

Posted by: rio at August 20, 2008 8:22 PM

WHAT!!! I MISSED BOURDAIN!!! STELLLLLLAAAAAA!

Ok...I'm fine...no big deal. It's probably even a good thing. The things I would have gotten arrested for doing to him wouldn't be able to be explained away on job applications.

What the devil?

jM, The Travel Channel is not porn. Slowly back away from Mr. Bourdain. And wipe your mouth. Damn.

Hey, y'all. We will be in Baltimore this weekend to visit family and we have one night free. Where am I going to eat? Help me out.

Posted by: greer at August 20, 2008 8:24 PM

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.

Posted by: jewbacca at August 20, 2008 8:41 PM

In Canada: Beaver tails. Or Queue de castor, I should say. Mont Tremblant village. Don't question it.

(For the undereducated, a beaver tail is a flat oblong doughnut with grill marks in it and cinnamon and sugar sprinkled liberally on the top. It resembles an edible tail of beaver.)

Posted by: Ling at August 20, 2008 8:42 PM

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

Posted by: dammitjanet at August 20, 2008 8:47 PM

Ahahah. These crack me up. I come from Palo Alto, California, the place most know as Stanford's doormat and Facebook's bitch. Our big food battle is between our two Indian-Californian fusion places, Mantra and Junnoon. Both are comically overpriced, both mix ingredients that God never meant to be mixed, and both are run by the southern-Indian equivalents of the Cosa Nostra. And somehow, everyone has taken a side.

Posted by: Kiki at August 20, 2008 8:59 PM

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!

Posted by: ph at August 20, 2008 9:04 PM

Greer - that is exactly the way Uticans pronounce it - O'Skooneeeeeets. The place should probably be condemned - good pizza, though!

And forgive me, but I lived in the South long enough to not be very impressed with Dinosaur BBQ. I don't care for the sauce, or the fact that they drench everything in it. Can't tell if you're eating pork, chicken, or a rubber glove. My favorite barbecue is David's Real Pit in Gainesville, FL. I crave it far too often.

Posted by: Kolby at August 20, 2008 9:04 PM

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.

Posted by: mandasarah at August 20, 2008 9:10 PM

Well not for nothing, Kolby. But 30% Italian? More like 45! Before I moved to Central New York I had never seen so much Ziti in my life. It is served with every damn meal. And I'm not mad about it either.

Posted by: greer at August 20, 2008 9:10 PM

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.

Posted by: Greggie at August 20, 2008 9:22 PM

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.

Their burgers wipe the floor with that weak basket of sawdust potaters.

Posted by: Erica O. at August 20, 2008 9:31 PM

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!

Posted by: TMax at August 20, 2008 9:35 PM

LibraryLiz:
Props on the KC BBQ love-although I have a warm spot for my heart for Bryant's sandwiches (I lived not too far from the downtown location)-I had serious lust for Masterpiece's Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie! Now, though, I live in a bigger Cowtown (aka Funkytown, aka Fort Worth). Great Tex-Mex, but needs better BBQ. Perhaps if I ever win the lottery?....

Mike

Posted by: MadMike at August 20, 2008 9:36 PM

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.

Posted by: Jay at August 20, 2008 9:49 PM

For coffee, it's Illy brewed at home in an vacuum pot. Nothing can touch it.

What is your dream french fry? Is it thin and crispy, thin and droopy (heh), fat, waffle, steak fry...what? We have a place in Westbrook, CT called Lenny and Joe's Fish Tail. They make the best fried seafood, but even better, the best french fries. They are big, thick slice crinkle fries; golden brown and crispy on the outside, slightly mashed potato-ey inside. I can overdose on those fries.

Posted by: Cindy at August 20, 2008 10:09 PM

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 ...

Posted by: that they die like sheeple at August 20, 2008 10:13 PM

I'm from Buffalo and I want to make a few things clear. First THEY"RE CHICKEN WINGS PEOPLE NOT BUFFALO WINGS. That shit was made up by some Madison Avenue quack trying for a national campaign. They are deep fried goodness and contrary to popular belief although the wing originated at the Anchor Bar the best chicken wings can be found at a college dive called Duff's (pre dates Simpsons) near SUNY at Buffalo. Also and this is important wings are served with blue cheese dressing and never NEVER ranch.

Posted by: Chris K at August 20, 2008 10:20 PM

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.

Posted by: esteefyou at August 20, 2008 10:39 PM

SCannakate, I've never had Honey Hut ice cream. And I haven't had Malley's in years. But I do live less than two miles from a Mitchell's, so that's kinda my go-to place right now. It's nice that the wife and I can walk there and neutralize a little of the sugar.

I can't imagine, however, that there's much competition in the way of ice cream cakes. Mitchell's definitely makes the best I've ever had. They actually use real cake in those fuckers, instead of just freezing a block of ice cream on top of some crusty shit. (I'm looking at you, DQ. Assholes.)

You! Cake or death?

Uh, cake, please.

Posted by: Sean at August 20, 2008 10:48 PM

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.

Posted by: Mattfactor at August 20, 2008 11:31 PM

Weighing in on the long-lost Tim Horton's 'debate' (if it can be called one) - the secret to tolerating their terrifically subpar coffee is to ask for 'half hot chocolate'. Their hot chocolate is probably the best thing they have to offer and thus the mixing makes everything better.

and Pea - I am super excited to find C'est What next time I'm in Toronto. That sounds ridiculously incredible.

Posted by: Jams at August 21, 2008 12:00 AM

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.

Posted by: Roads at August 21, 2008 12:06 AM

Best ice cream is the Babcock Hall brand, sold at the student union at UW-Madison. The milk for it comes from the University's own dairy herd...

Posted by: Adam C at August 21, 2008 12:13 AM

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.

Posted by: insertclevernamehere at August 21, 2008 12:39 AM

For hot dogs in Chicago, I recommend the Weiner Circle. Plus for a little extra cash you can order a "milkshake" and by that, I mean...you get a milkshake and the girl who makes it will show you her boobs. I am not kidding.

Anyway, good hot dogs.

Posted by: tt_marie at August 21, 2008 12:55 AM

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.

Posted by: jM at August 21, 2008 1:03 AM

Skitt - I would feel worse for you, if your claim were true. But it's not. Quit bawling and jerking off in the Target bathroom over dried up "tuna", get your ass to the Twin Cities, and quit your sniveling. Sakura serves some damn fine fishies, and Nami will do you just fine in a pinch.

Being in Minnesota is not your problem. Being in Shitty Minnesota is your problem.

bah. people who are geography-whiny make me want to tempura their intestines.

Posted by: scandi bullocks at August 21, 2008 2:04 AM

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.

Posted by: BierceAmbrose at August 21, 2008 2:18 AM

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

Posted by: beckellz at August 21, 2008 4:03 AM

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

Posted by: beckellz at August 21, 2008 4:08 AM

*ahem* I hate to disagree, but Toyoda's in Lake City Way is the best sushi in Seattle. Not trendy, family owned and painfully delicious. Also, Dick's trumps all for burgers. None of that fancy specialization stuff. You either buy what's on the menu or get out. Mmmm. Dick's in my mouth area.

I can't really think of any others. Maybe Thai food? I haven't really heard people fight about it though. Probably because Thai Tom is the clear winner.

Posted by: VentureSister at August 21, 2008 5:06 AM

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.

Posted by: K at August 21, 2008 6:49 AM

Chris K is right. Anchor Bar is the best place for chicken wings in Buffalo. Duff's outside of the UB North campus is just too saucy for me, so I go by the theory that they were invented at Anchor Bar. AND, it's actually inside the city limits.

But YES! They are chicken wings. Not Buffalo wings. And ranch had better not ever touch them. Ever.

I also like Bob & Johns La Hacienda, and I do believe Pasquales makes some damn fine chicken wings. We'll see at the Chicken Wing festival coming up. But I've never had them anywhere near as good outside of Buffalo. It just doesn't happen.

Posted by: Rachael at August 21, 2008 7:39 AM

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!

Posted by: b at August 21, 2008 8:42 AM

Jams, I'll do you one better for making Tim's coffee palatable--half coffee, half hot chocolate, with a shot of raspberry! Although it seems they've discontinued the raspberry shots, at least around here. Butter caramel is OK.

But if I just want coffee, Tim's is no good at all. Irving gas station coffee is pretty good. My absolute favourite is The Second Cup, but the nearest one to me is in Halifax, and that's about 5 hours' drive away. *sniff*

Posted by: MO(meaux) at August 21, 2008 8:43 AM

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.

Posted by: miskubelik at August 21, 2008 9:02 AM

I'm not qualified to weigh in on the cheesesteak debate but I'll recount what my Philly area buddy said right before he took me to Pat's. "You gotta go 'cause its the original, but I could do better with day old bread and a Steak-Um". I think he was right but I my taste buds were somewhat numbed at the time so I can't be sure.

As for Chicago pizza, the spinach pie at Giordano's is my choice. There is plenty of room for debate.

There is no room for debate about In-N-Out. I think they put crack in those things.

Posted by: Ed Newman at August 21, 2008 9:13 AM

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.

Posted by: Louise at August 21, 2008 9:13 AM

OH, almost forgot. There is an ongoing debate about the best steakhouse in Chicago. My top three: Keefer's, Chicago Chop House, and Morton's (chain, I know, so probably disqualified). Chicago Chop House is tops if you are looking for atmosphere - pictures of all the (crooked) Chicago mayors EVER adorn the walls; it kind of has an old boys club feel to it.

N9NE is oookay but nothin special. Gene and Georgetti's and Rosebud - totally overrated.

Posted by: tt_marie at August 21, 2008 9:22 AM

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.

Posted by: twig at August 21, 2008 9:26 AM

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?

Seriously, Dinosaur isn't that great. People who think Dinosaur BBQ is the best of anything haven't left Upstate NY in at least 20 years. And they are located in Rochester, Syracuse, and Harlem. Yes, Harlem.

And the best garbage plate is made at Tom Wahl's. Although there it's not called a garbage plate - it's called a 55 Junker Plate. Their hot sauce is the best, and they have homemade root beer. Can't beat it with a stick.

Posted by: Kolby at August 21, 2008 9:37 AM

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?

Posted by: Noxbu at August 21, 2008 10:18 AM

For Chicago style, I tend to agree with the Giordano love, but the others all make a relatively decent pizza. Except Chicago Pizza. The only reason ever to order there is because you are completely wasted and need fuel and they deliver until 5:00 AM. Then this so called pizza is acceptable.

Posted by: mia at August 21, 2008 10:19 AM

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?

Posted by: tamatha at August 21, 2008 10:26 AM

Smoked Meat in Montreal:

Schwartz's is definitely the most famous and they ship their brisket to wherever addicts needs a fix (word!) but the best is (was) the late, lamented, BEN'S.

Montreal also has the best bagels in the world, bar none. The best of the best come from St Viateur (yeah, that's right Fairmount Bagel Bakery, you're number 2).

Posted by: nipsy at August 21, 2008 10:32 AM

White Spot burgers, bitches.


And Calgary's own Splumbos. Yum.

Posted by: Mara at August 21, 2008 10:36 AM

New Orleans: Yeah, the Port O Call burgers are pretty good, but if you're in that area already and don't fell like standning around on the corner for nine hours till they have some cramped ass table for you, go to Clover Grill. It's a better experience, and the greasy greasy burgers are cooked under a hubcap, so all the grease stays in 'em, and then they put a fried egg on top, which sounds horrid but is heavenly, just trust! or go a few blocks further to Yo Mama's and get the giant burgers and baked potatoes. My favorite is the Black n Blue, it's the only place I get it, cause they really char the outside but leave the inner meat still pink and juicy (snerk) and the blue cheese is crumbly and not runny. Plus added bonus, they have like 700 tequilas, good ones, and know all about them and have an extensive list and will order in specific ones if you ask real polite like.
And how has no one mentioned Popeye's? God, after the storm when I was exiled in motherfucking Houston, I wept when I found the one lonely little Popeye's, then wept again after eating cause they managed to fuck it all up..yet I kept coming back like I had Stockholm Syndrome.
And fucking WORD to TMax. LuckyDogs are the absolute best drunk food, but they are tasty goodness sober, too.
I'm going to go on record as saying that yes. Yes, I love street meat.
But I would skip the Hurricanes and go for the Hand Grenade. No ice. And no more than two, ever.
Mmm, streeeet meeeeeat...

Posted by: isabelle at August 21, 2008 10:44 AM

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.

Posted by: Sasha at August 21, 2008 11:10 AM

Louise, you're a UC gal!!! Me, too!!! OH YEAH!!!! There was a Greek restaurant up in the village, can't remember the name of it......had the best damn baklava on EARTH!! I mean, seriously!! Sticky, sweet, melt-in-your-mouth.....oh, sweet jeebus Godtopussy....I miss that. And Pasquale's on Vine and.....damn, there was a really good restaurant near the firehouse over on Vine, too. Had excellent hot chocolate laced with peppermint schnapps. Big in my ZTA days......Good googly moo I am old....

Posted by: dammitjanet at August 21, 2008 11:12 AM

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?

Posted by: Skittimus Maximus at August 21, 2008 11:19 AM

Noxbu, my daddy is a Chicago Pole. I, unfortunately, was the milkman's bebe, so didn't get to inherit those amazing genes, but it was ingrained in me since BIRTH. AND YES, Bobak's is the best 'rogi in town.

But the question is: Where do you get your 'basa???

Da Bearsss.

Posted by: boo at August 21, 2008 11:58 AM

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.

Posted by: Max at August 21, 2008 12:02 PM

Damnit!!!!! I hate it when i'm late for these things. Being an Ohio girl living in Toronto I have the best of both worlds.

In Cincinnati a delicacy is def chili. It's either Skyline or Goldstar, i'm a Goldstar girl myself.

Can't forget about Frisch's and the best tartar sauce in the world. As well Montgomery Inn does have the best ribs and sauce in the state. Someone mentioned it above.

Ohio really is a FAT state. I was just down there 2 weeks ago and I gained a good 5 pounds because I indulged in lots of stuff that I can't find in Toronto.

I have to say the best Poutine in Toronto can be found at the Montreal Deli, It used to be Pete's Place, but he is no longer open :(

Tim Hortons coffee is gross. I don't like coffee, but the smell of their coffee is nauseating. But they do have timbits and those are awesome.

Posted by: Jax at August 21, 2008 1:45 PM

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.

Posted by: Dustin Rowles at August 21, 2008 2:03 PM

Chris K from Buffalo is right: NEVER ranch, ALWAYS blue cheese and NO BREADING! The Clinton County fair in NY had some good ones!

Creampuffs and brats in WI are awesome.


Veracruzana in Northampton is very good Americanized "Mexican". And they are fast.


El Toro II in Champaign, IL has some tasty Mexican, too!


And Jonathan's in N Conway, NH has kickass clam chodwer.

Posted by: K8WMA at August 21, 2008 2:05 PM

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.

Posted by: tt_marie at August 21, 2008 2:16 PM

yay Cleveland shout-outs. East Coast Custard is definitely the best. And also Cleveland stadiums are the only ones in the country to use proper Stadium Mustard, which is why the hot dogs taste so much better.

Posted by: J at August 21, 2008 2:28 PM

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!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: boo at August 21, 2008 2:42 PM

Well, I've always despised blue cheese, but I'm not really into wings either, nor hot sauce, which is good as I'd certainly prefer ranch and then apparently get my ass handed to me. I'd rather just eat bigger pieces than a bunch of wings. Too much work for me. Mind you, a couple of wings mixed in the bucket's perfectly okay, just not something I want a meal of.

For my Stockholmed diaspora friend, I've no doubt Popeye's is a Disney attraction based on Louisiana food as far as a native's concerned, but I'll stand up for the gumbo-topped mashed potatoes as a genius dish whether it's truly authentic or not.

I'm not really interested in sweets and cakes and stuff, strictly take-or-leave, but cheese curds are something I want to try sometime, real hardcore Dairyland stuff, if I'm ever there, as well as poutine. Oh it looks so good.

Posted by: Jay at August 21, 2008 2:48 PM

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?

Posted by: Che Grovera at August 21, 2008 3:03 PM

One of the only things I used to cook in my house was poutine, because it's not such a hot item in Boston. It was a pain in the ass to get cheese curds, so I'd usually end up with the bastardized version (shredded cheese! from a bag! sacrilege!). Then I discovered that the best tasting french fries I'd ever had were at All Star Sandwich Shop in Inman Square, Cambridge. I was perusing the menu with my cousin (and fellow poutine lover) when we noticed that they had gravy fries available, and they had chili-cheese fries, so using our superior logic skills we determined that they could make us a poutine-like dish, if they were so inclined. It turns out that they were, and it was delicious. People at other tables saw what we were eating and ordered it as well.

Fast forward a few months and straight-up, genuine poutine (with cheese curds!) was the newest and most popular item on their menu.

You're welcome.

Posted by: elizabeth at August 21, 2008 4:08 PM

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.

Posted by: TK at August 21, 2008 4:21 PM

Hey, TK, look behind you.


Nah, just kidding.

(Did you look?)

Posted by: elizabeth at August 21, 2008 4:27 PM

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

Posted by: elizabeth at August 21, 2008 4:28 PM

Well, if anyone cares, I know where to get a really nice Devon cream tea in Windsor..... ;-)

I know everyone thinks English food is bad - but often it's fine.
And we have all the furrin eateries too. Round my way there's three Chinese places, two Japanese noodle bars, two Thai places, more Italians than I can recall, a couple of French brasseries, a Gourmet Burger Kitchen (yum!), some South African take-aways, pizzas all over the place, ditto fried chicken & kebabs & McD and BK.... oh and at least two pubs which do a cracking roast Sunday lunch.
Most are good, some are great. All in walking distance. And by that, I mean the furthest is 10 minutes away. And quite a few of them deliver.

Gotta love London...

Posted by: Tarn at August 21, 2008 4:30 PM

GAH!

Posted by: TK at August 21, 2008 4:37 PM

having a "best chili" debate between skyline and goldstar is like having a "best bands" debate between Toto and Styx: fine enough when you're 12 and don't know any better, simply an embarrassment after you're old enough to drink.

anything other than Texas-Style or New Mexico-Style (and the subsidiary Red vs Green) is the Chili equivalent of White Zinfandel from a box.

Enjoy your Franzia, Cincinnati ...

Posted by: that they die like sheeple at August 21, 2008 4:59 PM

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.

Posted by: Rorny at August 21, 2008 7:01 PM

I wasn't going to comment then I saw someone say that fucking god damned RUDYS has the best fucking barbeque, so had to start screaming! RUDYS IS A FUCKING CHAIN FAST FOOD BARBEQUE KISS MY GOD DAMN ASS! MY GOD DAMN 13 YEAR OLD COUSIN CAN MAKE BETTER BRISKET THAN FUCKING RUDYS!

It really, really upsets me when they say "Rudy's is the best." Yeah- Rudy's is the best when you have only had Rudy's barbeque. I can't even argue right now, just know everyone that Rudy's is not the best. If you want good barbeque go to the smokiest, nastiest looking place you can find. They don't give a shit about what they look like because people are going to be coming for the food and not for the décor. For me in East Texas it is a shack that is black from the smoke- where the momma serves and her son cooks.

Rudy's is as much barbeque as taco bell is mexican.

Posted by: Emily at August 21, 2008 10:05 PM

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

Posted by: bucdaddy at August 21, 2008 11:49 PM

Haha, bucdaddy, I got ya covered. Primanti's makes you a better person in every conceivable way.

Jay: The Grit rules - if I had their menu at my disposal 24/7, I'd be a vegetarian in a heartbeat.

Posted by: K at August 22, 2008 5:30 AM

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.

Posted by: twig at August 22, 2008 1:32 PM

K - I have been to Pittsburgh once and we went to Primanti Brothers! It was great.

Posted by: samantha t at August 22, 2008 3:43 PM

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.

Posted by: BierceAmbrose at August 23, 2008 6:10 AM

Bierce, it's really partly about the atmosphere, too at the Dinosaur. By the way they are expanding the original Syracuse location. You go in. It's loud. It's crowded. You get bumped by a bunch of rude tatooed waitresses. The guys in the kitchen look like ex-cons. And then there's the "Honey Hush Cornbread" and the "Kick-Ass Chili". I love that damn place.

And I have to agree with some of my fellow Ohians. Lived there for 20 years. The stadium mustard and the damn kielbasa is fine. And I don't even like kielbasa.

Posted by: greer at August 23, 2008 2:46 PM

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!!

Posted by: amanda at August 26, 2008 6:23 AM

Mmmmmmmm "rude, tattooed waitresses." Mmmmmmmm.

It is, indeed, all about the atmosphere. Makes me want to mount an expedition back to the old stomping grounds, even with the weather breaking.

Posted by: BierceAmbrose at September 1, 2008 2:41 AM

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.

Posted by: Shroom at November 1, 2008 2:03 PM