Top 5 (or so) - Eateries

We don’t consider ourselves “foodies,” but food ranks very high with us – right after Movies and TV. And, when we’re traveling, a wonderful meal is a big part of the fun. We have already shared the Bananas Foster and the Shrimp Po boys on our recent New Orleans post. Now, the top 8 other dining experiences from our vault ! 

#8 – Guardino’s - Albuquerque, New Mexico 

In uptown ABQ

All Breaking Bad fans will remember this place where Walt and Skylar met with Hank and Marie for a very tense discussion. We had much more fun and got the guacamole made at the table to complete the scene.

An enjoyable Mexican dinner, without the BrBa angst.

Guac made right at the table.  Tom even tried some.

#7 – Phillipe’s - Los Angeles, California 

On Alameda Street in Chinatown

Original home of the French Dip Sandwich. An amazing experience and the very best French Dip you could eat.

The ordering system looks chaotic at first, but it is remarkably efficient.

# 6 – Central BBQ - Memphis, Tennessee 

On Central Avenue (hence the name) in Midtown Memphis

The sights, the sounds, the smell. So, so good after a trip to Graceland. What more could you ask for? Thanks Uncle Joe for the great tip on this place.

Nothin' fancy, except the paper towel holder on the table

The Diet Plate

# 5 – Pizzeria Uno - Chicago Illinois 

Where Deep Dish was invented in 1943. Pizzeria Due is a block over.

A comfortable place serving cold drinks and a deep dish pizza that really hit the spot after walking the Miracle Mile.

Not an idle boast

Vegetarian's nightmare

# 4 –  Portillos - Chicago, Illinois 

The McDonald's across the street appeared deserted

This place is known for hot dogs, chili dogs, and about a thousand other dogs. Get lots of napkins.

The guide on our Lake Michigan tour boat told us about this place.  He was right

Besides great food, lots of Bulls and Blackhawks memorabilia

# 3 – Dupar’s - Los Angeles, California 

On Third and Fairfax at the Farmer's Market

(love the way this post  criss-crosses the country!) Breakfast on a patio at the Farmers’ Market was a fantastic way to start that day. Also, we were determined to go there after watching a great police-crime-drama series, “Bosch,” Season 7 starts soon. They claim to have the best pancakes in the world.

As good at they look. But best ever?  It's a tie with the Hot Cake House on Powell IMHO.

# 2 – Haines Steak House - Haines, Oregon

Almost the only business left in Haines

What an atmosphere, takes you right back to the Sheriff and Miss Kitty. Prime steaks, Prime rib and a chuck wagon salad bar that cannot be beat. Going to Baker City? Make the short trip to Haines for dinner.

Best salad bar going

Adam, call Hoss and Little Joe for dinner

# 1 – Fulio’s - Astoria, Oregon

On the main drag in downtown

Have we mentioned this before? Italian food on the Oregon Coast. It’s so good that we have made it a rule to stay overnight rather than trying to drive home on a full stomach after a dinner there. The chef and staff are just great, and so welcoming . It's here we discovered “spedini” and grilled romaine salad. Don’t miss them.

Our favorite spot for anniversary dinner (till this year, dammit)

The girls check out the menu

Well, that's it.  Hopefully we will be back on the road soon, rather than doing these “Best of” posts.  We have moved or cancelled two trips so far, and our trip to Vancouver BC in October is looking pretty shaky at this point. In the meantime, what’s for dinner tonight?

Tasty (and we do mean tasty) Travel Tunes

Cheeseburger in Paradise – Jimmy Buffett

Eggs and Sausage – Tom Waits

Eat it – Weird Al Yankovic