Choosing Halls Chophouse and Other Perfect Restaurants, Six Things

REVIEWS

4.5 is my new standard. I haven’t eaten at a place with 4.5 stars of approval on Google and Yelp that I didn’t enjoy. Now, in my experience, 4.0 stars equate to somewhat delicious food and excellent service. 3.5 stars on Yelp equate to terrible service and pretty good food or overpriced food.

Even on the highest-rated restaurants, read 3-star reviews for balanced opinions.

For suggestions, I start with Google Maps and occasionally peep at Reddit when looking for a specific dish or cuisine.

MICHELIN STAR

These places don’t always require a tailored outfit. Tokyo is famous for having some of the cheapest Michelin-starred eateries in the world.

RESERVATIONS

I’m not sure that dinner spots requiring reservations are always really really good, but if I have to book two months out, I’ll make them.

RESTAURANT WEEKS IN THE USA

Restaurant Week is held once or twice a year in multiple cities across the United States. Mom-and-pop all the way to white tablecloths participate by offering dishes and full-course meals at a discount. Several businesses give a portion of their proceeds to local food banks. Go to https://www.findrestaurantweeks.com/ to look up the best week to try restaurants in a new city!

“MAGNOLIA”

Something about this flower. I mean it could be the name of a Dallas coffee shop, place in Charleston with a really yummy wedge salad and pecan pie, or banana pudding bakery in New York.

WHEN IN ROME

Kansas City burnt ends. Bordeaux wine. Mexico City street tacos. Montreal poutine. Milan risotto. Tokyo sushi. Kingston jerk chicken…you understand *chef’s kiss*.

Cover Photo: True Sojourn