1) Anajak Thai – The Best Thai Food in LA (Seriously, You Need to Go)
Located in Sherman Oaks, Anajak Thai is where traditional Thai flavors meet modern culinary genius. Founded in 1981 and led by Chef Justin Pichetrungsi (who won the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: California in 2023), this spot is more than just a restaurant—it's a flavor-packed adventure.
Why You Can’t Miss Anajak Thai:
- Innovative Thai Dishes: Think Hamachi crudo and crab fried rice, with a twist. Traditional meets trendy, and your taste buds will thank you.
- Omakase Magic: Feeling fancy? Try their 14-course omakase dinner—a culinary journey that’ll leave you speechless (and full).
- Vibes for Days: With a mix of traditional Thai charm and modern design, Anajak Thai is as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
- Award-Winning Awesomeness: National acclaim? Check. Stellar reviews? Double check. Anajak Thai is a certified LA gem.
Ready to feast like a foodie? Anajak Thai is calling your name!
2) Aragosta – The Ultimate Dining Escape in Deer Isle, Maine
Looking for a food experience that’s as breathtaking as the views? Head to Aragosta in Deer Isle, Maine! This hidden gem is the perfect spot for those who love fresh, local seafood with a side of scenic beauty.
Why You Need to Visit Aragosta:
- Innovative Seafood Dishes: From Stonington lobster casoncelli to wood-roasted surf and turf, Chef Devin Finigan’s menu will make you wonder why you ever ate anywhere else.
- Cozy Ocean Views: Enjoy delicious meals while soaking in stunning views of the Maine coast. Plus, there are comfy cottages if you decide you never want to leave.
- Eco-Friendly Vibes: Aragosta supports local farmers and fishermen while maintaining sustainable practices. Good for the planet, good for your taste buds!
- Breathtaking Location: Nestled on 21 acres of lush greenery and rocky coasts, you can feast on amazing food while exploring the natural beauty of Deer Isle.
For a perfect mix of amazing food and picturesque views, Aragosta is the place to be!
3) Semma – A Taste of Southern India in New York City
Located in Greenwich Village, Semma is New York City's only Indian restaurant to earn a Michelin star.
Why Semma is a Must-Visit:
- Authentic Southern Indian Cuisine: Chef Vijay Kumar, hailing from Tamil Nadu, brings the flavors of his homeland to NYC with dishes like nathai pirattal (snail curry) and venison preparations.
- Innovative Dishes: Semma offers a menu that explores heritage Southern Indian cuisine rarely seen outside local homes and neighborhoods.
- Award-Winning Excellence: Semma has been recognized with a Michelin star, highlighting its high-quality cooking.
- Charming Ambiance: The restaurant's interior features tropical accents and a mural depicting a Kathakali dancer, inspired by the Indian state of Kerala.
For a culinary journey that brings the heart of Southern India to New York City, Semma is the place to be.
Located at 2944 East 12th Street in East Austin, Birdie's is a family-run neighborhood restaurant and wine bar that has garnered significant acclaim. In 2023, it was named Food & Wine's Restaurant of the Year, highlighting its exceptional cuisine and inviting atmosphere.
Why Birdie's is a Must-Visit:
- Seasonal American Cuisine with European Flair: Chef Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel crafts a daily-changing menu inspired by the cooking styles of France and Italy, offering simple yet sophisticated dishes.
- Award-Winning Wine Selection: The wine list, curated by Arjav Ezekiel, features a thoughtful mix of classic and new producers, emphasizing mindful farming and minimal intervention in the cellar.
- Charming Ambiance: With a fully enclosed and heated patio, Birdie's provides a comfortable setting for guests. Leashed pets are welcome outdoors, making it a pet-friendly destination.
- Operating Hours: Birdie's is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Friday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM. The restaurant is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
5) Kasama: Where Filipino Flavors Get a Michelin Star Makeover
Why Kasama is a Must-Visit (Spoiler: It’s the Food!):
Innovative Filipino Cuisine: Kasama's 13-course tasting menu is a playful yet sophisticated spin on Filipino classics. Get ready for a food adventure that’s as surprising as it is delicious!
Award-Winning Pastries: Ever had an ube ensaymada? If not, prepare to have your mind blown. Kasama’s pastries are the stuff of legends (and dreams).
Charming Ambiance: Minimalist design meets open kitchen vibes, so you can watch the magic happen. It’s like dinner and a show – without the boring part.
Operating Hours: Need to know when to book your reservation? Kasama’s open Wednesday through Sunday, with daytime service from 9 AM to 3 PM and dinner service from Thursday to Sunday (by reservation only). You don’t want to miss out!
For more info or to reserve your spot, check out their website or follow them on Instagram. Your stomach will thank you!
Looking to spice up your dining experience? Damian, located in LA's vibrant Arts District, offers a contemporary twist on Mexican cuisine that will have your taste buds dancing.
Why Damian is a Must-Visit:
Innovative Mexican Cuisine: Chef Enrique Olvera brings a modern flair to traditional Mexican dishes, celebrating the rich flavors of the Pacific coast.
Artisanal Beverages: The beverage program features handcrafted cocktails and a curated selection of artisanal spirits, perfectly complementing the menu.
- Stylish Ambiance: Housed in a repurposed warehouse, Damian boasts an industrial-chic design with polished concrete, exposed brick, and lush greenery, creating a chic yet welcoming atmosphere.
Operating Hours: Damian is open Thursday through Monday for dinner service.
7) Chubby Fish: Hooked on Fresh Seafood in Charleston
Looking to reel in some of Charleston's finest seafood? Chubby Fish, located at 252 Coming St., is the place to be. Founded in 2018 by Chef James London, this dock-to-table restaurant partners with local fishermen and farmers to bring you the freshest catches straight from the Atlantic Ocean and local rivers.
Why Chubby Fish is a Must-Visit:
Daily Changing Menu: With a menu that changes daily, you'll always find something new and exciting to try.
No Reservations: They don't take reservations, so it's first come, first served. People start queuing up around 4 PM, and doors open at 5 PM. You can either dine at 5 PM or make a reservation in person for later that evening.
Operating Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
For more information or to check out their latest offerings, visit their website or follow them on Instagram.
Daru, located at 1451 Maryland Ave. NE in Washington, D.C., is a celebrated Indian restaurant and cocktail bar known for its inventive "Indian-ish" cuisine. The establishment has garnered acclaim for its creative approach to traditional Indian dishes, blending classic flavors with contemporary twists.
Why Daru is a Must-Visit:
Innovative Cuisine: Daru's menu features dishes like tandoor-grilled chicken kebabs with blue cheese, accompanied by sour cherry reduction and cashews, offering a unique fusion of flavors.
Award-Winning Cocktails: The bar offers a selection of handcrafted cocktails that complement the menu, enhancing the dining experience.
Operating Hours: Daru is open daily from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit their website or follow them on Instagram.
9) Bell's: A French-Inspired Gem in Los Alamos
Nestled in the heart of Los Alamos, California, Bell's is a family-run bistro that brings a touch of French culinary artistry to the Central Coast.Founded by Per Se alumni Daisy and Greg Ryan, this charming eatery has garnered acclaim for its refined yet approachable menu, earning a coveted Michelin star.
Why Bell's Should Be on Your Culinary Radar:
-
Seasonal Prix Fixe Menus: Bell's offers a thoughtfully curated prix fixe dinner menu, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients with a French twist. Each dish reflects Chef Daisy Ryan's commitment to quality and flavor.
-
Charming Ambiance: Housed in the historic Bell Street Farms space, the bistro exudes warmth and elegance, making it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and intimate dinners.
-
Operating Hours:
- Lunch: Thursday to Monday, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
- Dinner: Thursday to Monday, 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
- Closed: Tuesday and Wednesday.
For reservations and more information, visit their website or follow them on Instagram.
