Rather than who would eat the puffer fish, I'm more interested in the poor souls that have to *catch* the puffer fish.

Dining and restaurant news…

* Tattoo sous. Chefs love getting inked. Must be something to do with all those knives. [Washington Post]

* Yelp! I need somebody. But not just anybody. Restaurants may need happy Yelpers to survive. [Business Insider]

* Without a Trace. The Austin food scene wouldn’t be the same without Chef Paul Hargrove and Trace Restaurant. [Eater]

* Back to the future. The Epi-Log predicts a bunch of trends for the new year. To be taken with one grain of salt. [Epicurious]

* Cheese, please. It turns out it could be good for your ticker. This is great news to me, as I consider cheese to be its own food group. Pass the parm! [The Atlantic]

* Give it to us raw and wriggling. Like Gollum, that’s how I prefer my steak. But, some folks like it kinda cooked. And, some chefs kinda don’t like that. [BA]

* Truth in advertising. The deadly puffer fish lives up to its rep, as a diner winds up hospitalized after eating it at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Personally, there’s enough stuff out there to eat that I don’t need to knowingly take my life in my own hands. Anyway, that fish liver cannot possibly taste better than any foie gras. [Wall Street Journal]

* Risky business. Dining out with allergies can be perilous, but you can prevent a mishap with these tips. [Jacksonville.com]

* And now for your moment of zen. A new book looks back at the days of dainty dining in department stores. [Times Herald]

"Whoa! @MarioBatali just retweeted one of my tweets!"

We’re still stuffed from lots of Christmas-time dining and talking about the latest episode of Top Chef: Texas with Ed Hardy of Red Rooster Harlem.

Have you been to Austin?

No, but its on my short list of places I need to go. I hear the food scene is great!

This is probably something every chef should have up her or his sleeve: What’s your ultimate bacon dish?

This is an easy question. For the holidays I always make a Bacon Tree. Merry $%&#ing Christmas! When I need a lighter bacon snack, I love the classic BLT, but put together with a little homemade lemon aioli and some Nueske’s bacon.

I just ordered some life-changing bacon from Flying Pigs Farm. Holy cow! Or, rather holy pig! Speaking of pork, also, I just had this amazing sausage hash at Locanda Verde. You have to eat there. Unreal!

I’ve heard about the hash at Locande Verde. I’m not important enough to be able to score a table. Maybe if I keep writing stuff like this they’ll allow me in. Hash, in any form, is a good thing. Whether you’re at a Waffle House and get it scattered, smothered, covered and chunked or if you’re on the slopes in Switzerland and you order a Rösti avec du fromage, de l’oignon et jambon it’ll be delicious. Because, oddly enough, you just ordered the exact same thing.

"Raise your hand if you think I'm prettier than Padma!"

I’m always struck how neat and compactly these competitors seem to work. I imagine NYC kitchens dont have much room.

At this point all of these folks have developed cute little tricks for how to stack things up on their prep tables. All kitchens (not just NYC ones) have size challenges. Some of them are too big which presents another problem. Forget to grab an ingredient? You’ve got a ten-minute walk ahead of you. Some of the smallest kitchens I’ve worked in were in Richmond, Virginia. I’ve heard of horror stories from some guys over at Union Square Cafe Tokyo, where there is an allotted one inch of space between each chef’s hips.

Chris J. is constantly a letdown. I think his time is almost up.

I tried defending him. But it’s obvious that he just doesn’t get “it.” He can’t divorce himself from his crazy ideas and now he’s starting to put together plates that don’t really make any sense.

Ed laughs as he pretends to squeeze Heather's head.

I love Sarah. She’s a good egg. And Paul wins it! That dish looked pretty damned impressive.

Most of the chefs that come out of Spiaggia in Chicago are good eggs. I had the pleasure of working with her immediate predecessor Missy Robbins who recently won a James Beard award at A Voce. Paul’s dish is wonderful. It looks great and even surprised Tom! Kids, don’t try the pairing Paul pulled off here at home. I honestly don’t know how he did it.

I don’t think I’d be this excited for Patti LaBelle.

Patti who?

Who inspired your culinary journey, Ed? What dish evokes your memory of that person?

My entire culinary journey was inspired by an intense desire to impress girls. When I was in college cooking it was cool to experiment with unknown Asian ingredients. Back then, fish sauce and sriracha were new and different. Lime leaf was the big surprise though. The first time I steeped lime leaf in coconut milk takes me back to my college days. If I recall, I overdid it on the sriracha, and the date ran back to her dorm never to be seen again.

We don't have anything snarky to say about sweet Sarah.

It looks like Ed, Paul, Sarah and TyLor nailed it. And Sarah deserved that win.

Ed and Paul are certainly shaping up to be tough competitors. Both of them are currently working in the Culinary Boondocks, which might reflect a new trend in American dining, where some of the most interesting cuisine is happening outside of the traditional hotspots. Sarah deserved the win and has really shown that she can cook with her heart.

Heather goes home, but is it because of this week’s episode or last week’s?

This week’s surprisingly enough. She was using the wrong meat for her braise. You could have braised it forever and it would have come out wrong. Some of the best meats for braising are also the cheapest and have lots of fat and connective tissue that break down. Hers didn’t. Anyway, ding dong the witch is dead!

You can eat like a Top Chef judge when you're at SXSW. There's still availability at Paul Qui's Uchiko!

Are you one of the thousands of folks lucky enough to be attending South by Southwest in Austin this week? Plan ahead with OpenTable to book your Austin restaurant reservations — and avoid waiting on line!

There are more than 100 restaurants around town where you can reserve a table. From Braise and Clay Pit to Top Chef winner Paul Qui‘s Uchiko and wink and many, many more, Austin restaurant reservations await. You can use our Diners’ Choice lists to find user recommendations for the Best Overall restaurants, those with a Vibrant Bar Scene, or eateries that are Great for Lunch.

If you’re at #SXSW, you’re probably managing your life on your smartphone or table. Check out the full suite of free OpenTable mobile apps to make sure you’ve got access to the best Austin restaurants on the go.

And remember, it’s never too late to plan ahead. Check out Austin restaurants with availability tonight!

Researching this post inspired me to go out — for brisket! I can now say with much conviction that I embrace this trend.

Humble brisket has gotten a promotion. Not just relegated to the holidays any longer, brisket in all its homey goodness is getting another look from chefs of all cuisines and is finding its way into ravioli, empanadas, tacos, and, of course, on to plates of barbecue at some of the nation’s best restaurants. Find out what OpenTable diners are saying about brisket in recent reviews — and share your fave place to serve this dish in the comments section. 

* 1886 Cafe & Bakery, Austin, Texas: “The brisket-burger (known as the Austin, TX) literally melted in our mouths.”

* Alma Cocina, Atlanta, Georgia: “Brisket enchiladas were delicious!”

* Basso, St. Louis, Missouri: “Main course consisted of the mushroom ravioli, the beef brisket rigatoni, and the emo punk pizza. All three entrees were great, especially to share and get the variety.”

* Blue Smoke, New York, New York: “I had the Pit BBQ sampler and the food was great. I’m still trying to decide if I liked the brisket, pulled pork, or chicken the best. Great food and atmosphere!”

* Distrito at the Saguaro Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Arizona: “The brisket is rich and smoky.”

* Dogwood Restaurant, Baltimore, Maryland: “The braised beef brisket was amazing, and I wished for more leftovers, so I could have enjoyed it for a few more meals!”

* E&E Grill House,  New York, New York: “Enjoyable dining experience. Wait staff friendly, attentive. Food excellent. Our party of four had salmon, scallops, slow roasted brisket, and the hangar steak. All done to perfection, as was the grilled asparagus.”

* El Centro D.F., Washington, D.C.: “Awesome! Mango margarita, brisket enchiladas, fantastic service. A+ all the way. ”

* Elevation Chop House and Sky Bar, Kennesaw, Georgia: “Food was great. The portions were very large. I had the brisket. Took home the leftovers.”

* Mercadito, Chicago, Illinois: “Tried brisket tacos and peanut/coleslaw/chicken tacos. Perfect spice.”

* Russell’s Smokehouse, Denver, Colorado: “Tasty food. Loved the brisket and the sauces.”

* Sbraga, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: “We have been here several times and have never been disapointed. This time, I had the gravlax, octopus, and brisket as my courses — all had deep and developed layers of flavors and each were cooked or prepared exquisitely.”

* Percy Street Barbecue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: “Best BBQ place in all of Southeastern PA hands down. Not one bad dish. Get the ‘moist’ brisket.”

* Serpentine, San Francisco, California: “Brisket and beets hash was absolutely wonderful.”

* Tribeca Grill, New York, New York: “Best brisket sandwich on Earth.”

* TWO Urban Licks, Atlanta, Georgia: “The brisket empanadas were so good I wanted them for my meal too!! Restaurant was also the perfect ambience for a nice romantic night out. Five stars through and through!”

* Virgil’s, New York, New York: “The brisket, spareribs, and chicken wings were incredible. The quality and selection of the sides were great, and the cornbread is probably the best in the city.”

* Woodshed Smokehouse, Fort Worth, Texas: “The rattlesnake and rabbit sausage, brisket-stuffed peppers, and roasted cauliflower were our faves.”

This is a picture of the storied roasted carrot and avocado salad served at ABC Kitchen in New York moments before I devoured it.

I just ate two avocados for lunch. They were in that perfect-yet-fleeting moment — unbruised, soft, silky — so, really, it was a race against time, and I just had to eat them both. Anyway, it got me thinking about the  increasing popularity of avocado in dishes that are not guacamole (although there’s nothing wrong with guacamole). Nature’s most decadent vegetable (Yes, I know it’s technically a fruit!) because of its rich taste and texture — and high (for a veggie) fat content, avocado is very beneficial to your health. According to the California Avocado Commission, “Avocados provide nearly 20 essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, Vitamin E, B-vitamins, and folic acid. They also act as a ‘nutrient booster’ by enabling the body to absorb more fat-soluble nutrients, such as alpha and beta-carotene and lutein, in foods that are eaten with the fruit.” Additionally, avocado is alleged to be an aphrodisiac. Find out what OpenTable diners are saying about this good mood food in recent restaurant reviews.

* 43 North, Madison, Wisconsin: “The written menu fails entirely to describe the exceptional food. My husband and I opted to share a large salad and three small plates. Each dish was beautifully presented with surprising small flourishes, such as avocado fritters with the green salad.”

* ABC Kitchen, New York, New York: “Amazing brunch at ABC Kitchen. My wife started with the roasted carrot and avocado salad, which she loved.”

* Aqua Terra Restaurant, Fallbrook, California: “We shared the garlicky baked avocado appetizer. Fallbrook is the heart of avocado country, and this was a fine presentation.”

* Brigantine Coronado, Coronado, California: “I had the restaurant’s signature dish — swordfish with lemon avocado butter and blue cheese potato salad and vegetables. This was the best fish dish I have ever had in my life. It was so delicious; just perfect.”

* Candle 79, New York, New York: “Our appetizers were phenomenal — the warm Brussels sprout salad, beet salad ,and avocado tartare stood out.”

* Contigo, San Francisco, California: “I love this place. I find the food to be consistently outstanding. Their little toasts are perfection — the sardine/avocado/pickled onion/salt one is my favorite.”

* Eveleigh, West Hollywood: “On a 70+ degree day in LA, it was gorgeous. The food was right up our alley, too. We had the avocado toast and baked eggs, and they were outstanding. Perfect amount for sharing.”

* FLAVA, Naples, Florida: “The shrimp/crab/avocado ‘martini’ appetizer is delicious.”

* Fresco-Hilton Hawaiian Village, Honolulu, Hawaii: “There were some very innovative and delicious items, including the fried avocado on the bruschetta, which we loved!”

* Gram & Dun, Kansas City, Missouri: “I had the fried goat cheese and avocado salad, and the mussels. Everything was fantastic, including the excellent service we received.”

* The M & M Restaurant & Bar, Galveston, Texas: “Food was delicious with large generous portions. Loved the avocado pancakes.”

* Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro, Winston-Salem, North Carolina: “The lobster sloppy joes appetizer was something we had never tried mainly because of the name. But we saw it at another table, and it looked so lovely (not like “sloppy joes” at all) that we ordered it. Highly recommend it if you like lobster meat, bechamel sauce, and avocado.”

* Nectar, Berwyn, Pennsylvania: “Phenomenal. Pumpkin rolls with avocado and pomegranate glaze… Delish. Everything was heavenly.”

* The Porch Restaurant & Bar, Sacramento, California: “We tried the fried avocado salad, adult grilled cheese sandwich with sweet potato fries and the Sactown Brown sandwich. We ordered the small portions; plenty of food. Everything was great!”

* Rush Street, Culver City, California: “Someone in an earlier review noted the fried avocado. It’s listed as avocado fries, and they are delicious! A crispy and salty covering with great dipping sauces.”

* SoBou, New Orleans, Louisiana: “The food was very interesting and good. The tuna cones with avocado ice cream are not to miss.”

* Soleil at The Oasis, Austin, Texas: “The strawberry and avocado salad was the highlight of the night.”

* Waterboy, Sacramento, California: “I recommend the deviled egg crostini with avocado and dungeness crab, and the lamb dish for the main entree. The service was very attentive and the overall experience was absolutely AMAZING!”

Some of you may be thinking that Valentine’s Day is far off. It’s not. At all. In fact, it’s just around the corner, in terms of booking restaurant reservations. Prime Valentine’s Day dining slots are filling up fast. If you don’t believe me, take it from Chris Creel. He just snagged a terrific table at the Salty Sow in Austin, Texas, for February 14th! Enjoy your Valentine’s Day meal, Chris. And, for those of you without reservations, make Cupid proud and book your reservations today!

San Antonio’s Riverwalk features several renowned romantic restaurants, such as Biga on the Banks.

With Valentine’s Day almost a week away, we are pleased to release our rankings of the 25 Most Romantic Cities in the United States. While we may typically think of our largest cities as magnets for romance seekers, our analysis revealed that romance thrives in cities and communities of all sizes. In order to provide a ranking of cities where romantic dining is inherently part of the culture, the OpenTable Most Romantic Cities Index was calculated using three variables: the percentage of restaurants rated “romantic” according to OpenTable diner reviews; the percentage of tables seated for two; and the percentage of people who dined out for Valentine’s Day last year.

The following cities, listed in order, comprise the Top 25 Most Romantic Cities in the U.S. The complete list may also be viewed at http://www.opentable.com/RomanticCities. 

1. San Antonio, Texas
2. Austin, Texas
3. Providence, Rhode Island
4. La Jolla, California
5. Columbus, Ohio
6. Salt Lake City, Utah
7. Nashville, Tennessee
8. Louisville, Kentucky
9. St. Louis, Missouri
10. Houston, Texas
11. Dallas, Texas
12. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
13. Richmond, Virginia
14. Raleigh, North Carolina
15. Tampa, Florida
16. San Diego, California
17. Baltimore, Maryland
18. Honolulu, Hawaii
19. Indianapolis, Indiana
20. Brooklyn, New York
21. Pasadena, California
22. Las Vegas, Nevada
23. Phoenix, Arizona
24. Santa Monica, California
25. Portland, Oregon

If you’re looking for love, you just might find it in any of these locales. For diners still searching for the right restaurant, check out our Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the United States.

Known for using fresh, local ingredients in dishes such as this, Olive & June in Austin is participating in Austin Restaurant Week.

Spring restaurant weeks are starting up…

* Austin Restaurant Week: Enjoy $17 brunches, $12 or $17 lunches, and $27 or $37 dinners, April 7-10 and April 14-17. Book a table.

* Detroit Restaurant Week: Serving up $30 gourmet dinners, April 19-28. Book a table.

* Hamptons Restaurant Week: Order up $27.95 delicious dinners, April 7-14. Book a table.

* Howard County Pink Plate Specials: Support individuals and families in the community coping with cancer. Order a PINK PLATE SPECIAL menu item, April 1-30. Book a table.

* Main Line Restaurant Week: Take advantage of $15-$20 lunches and $20-$50 dinners, April 22-28. Book a table.

* Manayunk Restaurant Week: Don’t miss three courses at three prices — $10, $20, or $30, April 14-26. Book a table.

* Newport Rhode Island Restaurant Week: Sink your teeth into $16 lunches and $30 dinners, April 5-14. Book a table.

* Pasadena Restaurant Week: Choose from $15, $20 or $25 lunches and $26, $35 or $44 dinners, April 21-26. Book a table.

* Portsmouth Restaurant Week: Reserve for three-course, prix-fixe $16.95 lunches and $29.95 dinners, April 4-13. Book a table.

* Richmond Restaurant Week: Dive into $25.13 dinners, April 22-28. Book a table.

* Seattle Restaurant Week: Join in for $15 lunches and $28 dinners, April 7-11 and April 14-18. Book a table.

* Restaurant Week Walnut Creek: Select $10, $20 or $30 lunches and $20, $30 or $40 dinners, April 15-21. Book a table.

Restaurant weeks continue to spring up around the nation…

* Arizona Restaurant Week starts tomorrow! Reserve for $30 and $40 dinners, May 17-26.

* Austin Restaurant Week is almost here. Book for $12-$17 lunches and $27 or $37 dinners, May 18-21.

* Buckhead Restaurant Week arrives in Atlanta this weekend. Make a reservation for $15, $25, and $35 prix-fixe lunches + dinners, May 17-25.

* Coral Gables Restaurant Week is coming soon! Snag a table for $13-$29 lunches and $29-$40 dinners June 9-29.

* Loire Valley Wine Week ends in NYC on Sunday. Book now to take advantage of $20 lunches + $30 dinners paired perfectly with a glass of Loire Valley Wine.

* New Hampshire Restaurant Week begins today! Don’t miss $10, $15 + $20 lunches and $15, $25 + $35 dinners through May 23.

* Palm Springs Desert Resorts Restaurant Week is just around the corner. Get ready for $26 or $38 dinners, May 30-June 8.

* San Francisco Dine About Town, June 1-15. Book early and often for two- or three-course lunches for $18.95 and three-course dinners for $36.95, June 1-15.

* Dine Dinetown San Jose Restaurant Week starts in June. Enjoy special three-course dinners at San Jose’s best restaurants, June 20-29.

Amy Strauss is the Editor in Chief of TheTownDish.com, a network of sites focusing on the food and dining scene in the greater Philadelphia area including its sumptuous suburbs — and beyond! An OpenTable member since 2008, she lives in Downington, Pennsylvania, where she can enjoy the best of Philadelphia proper as well the amazing hyper-local fare being served in surrounding towns. You can share in her eating experiences by following her on Twitter at @amy_strauss.

1. What are some of the best qualities of the Philadelphia dining scene? Living in the Philly suburbs, I’m fork-deep between quick-tripping into my local (and booming!) food city to experience the newest restaurant or escaping into my immediate backyard to discover the next well-deserving-of-the-spotlight chef. There’s potential everywhere, and where the Philly food scene stands, it’s eclectic and bold; it’s welcoming and honest. I’ve been around the nation and, although I may be biased, Philly is the best food city.

2. Any restaurants at which you’re something of a regular? For a casual weeknight, I’m hitting the bar. In the suburbs at Station Taproom for first-rate pulled pork sandwiches and craft beer or Tired Hands Brewing Co. for a cheese plate and one-off sour beer, and in Philadelphia, Starr’s Fette Sau for smoky, tender brisket and sharp bourbon drinks. For a “special” occasion (can’t that count as every day?), BARSAVONA or Zahav.

3. If I come to the PHL, where must I dine? In the Philly suburbs, any of these will rock your palate and provide an unforgettable dining experience: Junto (elevated PA Dutch BYOB), Nectar (Asian fusion with locally sourced sensibilities), Avalon (rustic Italian), Majolica (inventive, modernized American BYOB), Restaurant Alba (refined Northern Italian), Amani’s BYOB (local-focused), Taqueria Feliz (hip Mexican), and Bolete Restaurant (farmhouse-inspired). In Philly city proper, Serpico, Sbraga (eat the fried game hen!), High Street on Market, Vernick Food & Drink, Petruce et al., Avance, and Stock.

4. Last best restaurant you dined at? Just last night, I visited Fitler Dining Room, the newest concept from the talented gang at Pub & Kitchen. The happy hour was exceptional, with small bites like a vertical heirloom tomato salad constructed on buttery brioche and dressed with Rogue Creamery Blue. Being a bar that’s strictly beer and wine, they get impressively creative with their limited cocktails. For example, the Campobello Retreat features white wine that’s infused to taste like gin (it does!) and is finished with a fragrant splash of elderflower liqueur. It’s sharp and fun; I immediately wanted another.

5. Restaurants you’d most like to try but have yet to — anywhere? Bryan Voltaggio’s Volt, Quealy Watson’s Hot Joy, and Noma.

6. Favorite city for dining outside your own? Since part of what we do is travel for food, here are my favorite Town Dish trip destinations: Austin, Texas for Qui, Olivia, and Franklin Barbecue;  San Francisco, California for Mission Street Chinese and Saison;  Chicago, Illinois for Blackbird, Girl & the Goat, Publican, Publican Quality Meats, and Pequod’s Pizza; Portland, Maine (especially in summer!) for Central Provisions, Eventide Oyster Co., Pai Men Miyake, and David’s Opus 10; Atlanta, Georgia for Abattoir, West Egg Cafe, and Cakes & Ale; and New York City (of course) for The Breslin, Momofuku, and Alder.

7. Destination dining cities you’d love to visit? Nashville! Seattle! Aspen! Charleston! San Diego!

8. What’s your overall favorite type of cuisine? There’s nothing more wholesome than rustic Italian, and few and far between are doing it by the book and significantly well. I’m also always surprised with what newcomer chefs are doing with mod-American cuisine, particularly those who are scouting local gardens and throwing together fresh ideas and compositions unlike those seen before (example: Ella’s American Bistro, Majolica).

9. Small shared plates, tasting menu or app/entrée dessert? Tasting menus — always a home run! It’s the best avenue to fully experience a chef’s skill sets and where they execute their most creative dishes.

10. Dish you can’t resist ordering when you see it on a menu? I’m 100% Pennsylvania Dutch, so its in my blood to never resist regionalized, classic foods of my heritage. If I spy elevated soft pretzels, house-made pickles, hand-cut egg noodles — I got to stick to my stick-to-your-ribs gun and consider them mine! Fork and Junto put forth killer interpretations of the classics. Snack-wise, you know if a chef’s throwing deviled eggs on their menu, they’re going to be good. Same goes for hand-cut pappardelle — I usually need that.

11. Have you ever done a bang bang (a la Louis C.K.)? If not, what’s the greatest # of courses you’ve eaten in one restaurant siting? Working as a food writer and reviewer, bang bangs are a regular part of your week! My current course max (at one restaurant) is 14 — but that’s not to say I threw in the napkin. I’d adventure into the 20s. Dare me!

12. What’s your go-to drink?  Any stiff — yet unique — drink built on a base of bourbon or whiskey. (Loving the Ginger Ape at Sovana Bistro!) Never also turn down a juicy, citrusy IPA. (Currently loving: Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant’s Rising Sun crafted with 100% Japanese Sorachi Ace hops.)

13. Favorite dining partners? Anyone that can politely humor me taking pictures of my food or lets me eat off their plate.

14. Name five people, dead or alive, with whom you’d like to dine.  April Bloomfield — Her snug pub (Spotted Pig) has done so much for the nation’s food scene and has effortlessly led the nose-to-tail movement years before it was “cool.” I’m itching for some art of butchery conversations from the butcher queen herself; Ruth Reichl — There has been no better a magazine than Gourmet (still mourning that death). I’m forever impressed by what she has done for the food writing industry;  Momofuku Milk Bar’s Christina Tosi — Have you had this pastry genius’s sweets? Enough said;  Stone Brewing Company’s Greg Koch — I respect what he’s done for the craft beer industry and obsess over his sharp-witted attitude; and Macklemore — He’d make for interesting dinner conversation.

Because I can’t pick just five, here’s a few additional wild cards I’d like to see at the table: Danny Bowien, David Chang, Abraham Lincoln, and Anthony Bourdain (even though he’d probably hate me).

15. Dining pet peeve? Unattentive service. I’m the most low-maintenance diner, but when I have to hunt down a server or practically put on a show just to get another drink at bar, I’m not having any of that.

16. Any ongoing dining dilemmas? I’m ultra indecisive when it comes to making menu decisions, only because I fear I’m going to miss the “best thing” on the menu. So, I’d rather recommend the chef decide or even request the server “surprise me.” Life’s an adventure — make eating part of it!

17. Any special requests to the maître’d? I’m not super particular when it comes to atmosphere, but I must have outdoor seating all summer long. Gotta get that vitamin D!

18. Split the check or itemize the bill? Split the check — always! Nothing makes me cringe more than watching friends whip out their phone calculators and tally the total of what they ordered.

19. If I won Powerball, I’d hire _____ as my personal chef. Michael Voltaggio.

20. Trends you love or loathe? The greater Philadelphia region is in the swing of a high-end pizza renaissance, with brand-new — always incredible — pies flying out of new kitchens left and right. Later, cheesesteaks — it’s all about the ‘za! Hot tips include: Pizzeria Vetri, Bufad, In Riva, and Pizzeria DiMeo’s. I’m also obsessing over the wave of veggie-only restaurants. First there was the uber-inspiring Vedge, and now there’s the ultra-hip Charlie Was a sinner. If hitting the former, please give the stiff Bullseye a whirl (built on a farro-infused Woodford Reserve base). The Korean-style fried tofu speckled with black sesame seeds is also an equally smart decision. And, I have no problem at all with the popularity of ramen and noodle bars. Keep ‘em coming, and, in the meantime, visit coZara and Cheu Noodle Bar.

Dai Due opened in 2014, but its origins date back to 2006. The restaurant takes its name from the Italian adage, “Dai due regni di natura, piglia il cibo con misura,” which translates to “From the two kingdoms of nature, choose food with care.” Naturally, then, choosing food with care is the mantra at this popular Austin eatery and butcher shop specializing in the hyper local. Having built a solid reputation and loyal following over eight years as the Dai Due Supper Club and Farmers’ Market, the newish brick and mortar location in the Cherrywood neighborhood of Austin is keeping culinary couple Jesse Griffiths and Tamara Mayfield super busy. Happily, their dedication has paid off: Dai Due was just honored by the Austin Chronicle, being named First Plate Top 10s by both Brandon Watson and Virginia B. Wood and included on the Chronicle’s 2015 Top 100 Restaurants. Open six days a week, Dai Due occupies much of Griffiths and Mayfield’s time.

When they have time to cook at home together, Mayfield says, “It’s always roast chicken.” Together for a decade, she says that they also enjoy sharing a bottle of wine. “If we are doing wine, our favorite would be a bottle of Gigondas (that is what we were drinking when Jesse proposed at Chez Nous in Austin.).

Recently, they were able to venture out to Sway. “We are big fans of the oysters. We share everything. That is usually our M.O. And if we are drinking, it is usually margaritas.”

On Valentine’s Day, there will be something for everyone at Dai Due. Griffiths says, “We do a seafood and a butcher shop menu, so seafood and land lovers alike will be pleased. We’ll also have oysters on the menu!”

Book a table at Dai Due today.

And, keep up with Dai Due on social. Follow the restaurant on Instagram and Twitter.

South by Southwest (SXSW) is where music, film, and technology meet against a backdrop of Austin’s influential dining scene. At OpenTable, we power the memorable dining experiences you’ll find in ATX — but that’s not all we’re doing there. This week, on March 13 and 14, you’re invited to meet us at the OpenTable SXSW pop-up, pour-over coffee cafe to learn about professional opportunities with OpenTable in San Francisco and around the world.

Visit us at SXSW Job Market stall 510 on the second floor of Austin’s JW Marriott on 110 E. 2nd Street on Friday and Saturday between 10AM-6PM. Our barista will serve you the perfect pour of complimentary drip-brewed coffee while you meet leaders representing different departments at OpenTable, including our talented engineering and design teams. You can also apply for openings in person, drop off your business card for a chance to win $500, and get all the delicious details about our one-of-a-kind #100opentables giveaway.

The SXSW Job Market is open to the public with free guest pass wristbands, available in advance or onsite at the event. Visit guestpass.sxsw.com for more information. SXSW badge and wristband holders do not need a guest pass to attend.

Can’t make it to SXSW? You can still apply to take a seat at our table at http://www.opentable.com/careers/.

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A great dining experience is the culmination of many key elements. From the quality of the food to the service, the setting, and, finally, one of the most important factors that can make or break a meal: the people. And it’s not just the people you intentionally choose to dine with that will affect your meal, but those others around you whose conversations you will inadvertently hear, whose fashions you will admire, whose names you may even learn. Welcome to the delicious sport of people-watching!

What makes a great people-watching restaurant? For me, it is all about diversity. I want to see people I don’t see in my home or on my phone, in my neighborhood, or at my workplace. I want my imagination teased as I play an unauthorized version of What’s My Line, guessing at their professions, aspirations, and passions. From around the nation, here are seven restaurants with great people-watching.

Betelnut Pejiu Wu, San Francisco, California
The extensive menu of Asian fusion cuisine at Betelnut Pejiu Wu (literally, “beer hall” in Chinese) will satisfy you to no end. But it’s the liveliness of the room itself that will make you feel at ease. At this happening Cow Hollow joint, the best of Asian street eats meets up with large mugs of cold beer that refresh and fortify. Expert tip: Grab a streetside table and observe San Francisco’s passers-by in all their fabulousness.

Cascina Spinasse, Seattle, Washington
Sometimes great people-watching is the result of a positive shared experience. At Seattle’s Cascina Spinasse, you’ll be joined by foodies in search of culinary greatness (be prepared to hear a lot of “mmm” sounds). Here, in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, authentic Italian cuisine comes to life in an atmosphere that is classy yet cozy. Fans rave about both the great presentation of the oft-changing menu and the beauty of the quaint room. Drinks at Spinasse’s adjacent ARTUSI, a modern aperitivo bar, are not to be missed. [Photo Credit: Tom Barwick]

Girl & The Goat, Chicago, Illinois
Top Chef winner and executive chef Stephanie Izard’s Girl & The Goat is the place to see and be seen in Chicago’s West Loop. Reservations are hard to come by, but patrons insist the culinary creations are well worth the intense OpenTable’ing. Choose from a wide array of seating choices in the warmth of spacious, wood-framed rooms from which you can enjoy contemporary American small plates, local craft beers, and wines from around the world. Look for Izard working her magic in the open kitchen — as well as for Chicago’s trendsetters who flock there to admire it. [Photo credit: Anthony Thalier]

Le Cirque, Las Vegas, Nevada
If you’re looking for an interesting cross-section of the population, you can do much worse than visiting Las Vegas. And if you’re a high roller (or just want to eat like one), you’ll want to make the scene at Le Cirque. The festive dining room at restaurateur Sirio Maccioni’s AAA Five Diamond-rated restaurant is drenched in color and whimsy. This is opulent French cuisine at its best. It is also one of Las Vegas’s most treasured gastronomic destinations, so make sure you occasionally glance up from the stunning visions on your plate to see who is sharing the room with you.

No Va, Austin, Texas
Rainey Street is a popular historic district in downtown Austin known for its bungalow-style homes and businesses. No Va (Spanish for “It doesn’t go”), located in a renovated two-story house, is home to one of Austin’s most beloved happy hours. Whether you grab a booth or a seat on the upstairs balcony, you’ll have plenty of sights to take in along with your meal. The spaciousness of No Va and the light of the Austin sun will charm you as much as the wonderful people that help keep Austin weird.

Stella, Boston, Massachusetts
This trendy, casual-yet-elegant eatery in Boston’s South End attracts a large loyal following for its diverse menu and dynamic social scene. The rooms at Stella are sleek, modern, and inviting. The food is outstanding; the service is impeccable. If you’re alone, take a seat at the bar where knowledgeable bartenders show off their craft and chatty patrons bend your ear. Sit deeper into the elegant dining room, and you’ll get a glimpse of the people who make Boston tick.

Trio | Fox & Hounds, Washington, D.C.
Trio Restaurant is the legendary Dupont Circle landmark known for classic American comfort food and colorful neighborhood characters. This is the kind of place you can be equally happy to visit alone or with a group. Be sure to have some drinks at Trio’s bar, Fox & Hounds Lounge, where the regulars are as friendly as they are well read. Whether you’re sitting street-side watching a parade go by or taking salvage in a quiet corner, the warm staff and your fellow diners at Trio will make you feel right at home.

Do you have your own list of favorite people-watching spots? Tell us here or over on Facebook, G+, or Twitter. And then book a table to play your personal version of I Spy over your next meal.

Michael Rice is a New York-based writer, musician, and food enthusiast whose work has taken him to China, Japan, and throughout the United States. You can follow him on Twitter @mricenyc.

The post Dinner Theater: 7 Restaurants with Great People-Watching appeared first on OpenTable Blog.

The results of our most delicious annual awards are in! Work up an appetite and make a reservation at one of the OpenTable 2015 100 Best Restaurants for Foodies in America. These awards reflect the combined opinions of more than 5 million restaurant reviews submitted by verified OpenTable diners for more than 20,000 restaurants in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Showcasing both new and established restaurants in some of the nation’s most rapidly growing dining destinations, the complete list features winning restaurants in 22 states and the District of Columbia, and includes Al’s Place in San Francisco, La Vara in Brooklyn, and Parachute in Chicago. The honorees show a commitment to local, sustainable sourcing and the creation of craft cocktails, soulful plates, many of which are finished in wood-fired ovens, and warm hospitality. Check out these 16 dishes from the winning restaurants that should be on every foodie’s must-try list.

Newer restaurants proved most popular, with a quarter of the eateries having opened in 2015 alone, and the majority of honorees were founded in the last five years. Restaurants serving American fare dominate the awards; however, the list represents cuisines from every corner of the globe, including Asian, Basque, French, Israeli, Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian. Geographically speaking, New York has 12 winning restaurants, followed by California with 11, Texas with nine, and Minnesota and Oregon with eight each. Colorado, Illinois, and Pennsylvania each have six honorees, while Washington boasts five. Arizona, Louisiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Virginia have three each. Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Tennessee, Washington, D.C., and Wisconsin all have two eateries. Connecticut, Florida, Nebraska, and Ohio are also represented.

The list of the 100 Best Restaurants for Foodies in America is generated from more than 5 million restaurant reviews collected from verified OpenTable diners between August 1, 2014, and July 31, 2015. All restaurants with a minimum “overall” score and number of qualifying reviews were included for consideration. Qualifying restaurants were then sorted according to a score calculated from each restaurant’s average rating in the “fit for foodies” category. The complete list may be viewed at http://www.opentable.com/m/best-restaurants-for-foodies-in-america/.

Do you identify as a foodie? How many of these restaurants have you dined at? Share your thoughts here or over on Facebook, G+, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter.

Photo credits: Molly DeCoudreaux for Al’s Place; Debby Wolvos for Posh; Graham Blackall for Shaya; Kim Carrol for Valette; Jody Horton for Odd Duck; Evan Sung for Dirt Candy; and John Valls for Aviary.)

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As winter announces its overdue presence and maple harvest time looms, we yearn for maple syrup more than ever. We pour it on pancakes, use it to glaze bacon for our burgers, and drizzle it over snowball-sized scoops of ice cream. However, there’s no place we like it more than at the bar. That’s because the amber liquid has a rich, deeply flavorful sweetness, which works well to mellow out liquor’s sharper tones. Here are 13 amazing maple cocktails.

Charcut, Calgary, Canada
Bar manager Mackenzie Oullette has fond childhood memories of making lollipops by pouring boiling maple syrup into the snow. Now she makes a similar maple taffy to garnish her whiskey rich Fléche cocktail, which gets a sugary lift from even more Grade A syrup. Make a reservation at Charcut.

Burritt Room & Tavern, San Francisco, California
The phrase ‘study abroad’ used to conjure images of drinking in foreign countries while trying to improve international relations one hookup at a time. But now that we’re older, slightly wiser, and a tad more refined, the phrase makes us think fondly of this cocktail with the same name. Bourbon based, it’s sweetened with dark Grade B maple syrup and given some nuance through the inclusion of pear liqueur, allspice dram, and lemon juice. Make a reservation at Burritt Room & Tavern.

Almanac, New York, New York
Simply called the Maple, this cocktail is essentially a seasonally accented Old Fashioned. The kick of the Overholt Rye and the botanicals of the dry vermouth are smoothed out by a dose of salted maple syrup and a couple of dashes of housemade orange bitters. Make a reservation at Almanac.

The Salty Sow, Austin, Texas
The Maple Glazed Old Fashioned sounds like it could be an amazing doughnut. It’s also the name of this self-explanatory sipper, which features the classic cocktail sweetened with…yeah, you guessed it. What gave it away? Make a reservation at The Salty Sow.

Gather, Berkeley, California
Earl Grey-infused maple syrup perks up this scotchy sipper, which would most certainly appeal to Ron Burgundy. Dubbed the Northern Exposure, it’s filled out with lemon juice, egg whites, and bitters. Here it goes, down into our bellies. Make a reservation at Gather.

Wildwood Kitchen, Bethesda, Maryland
The Sunday mornings cocktail evokes brunch in a glass. Bacon-washed bourbon is mellowed out with hickory-smoked maple syrup, and vanilla and cinnamon tincture. The glass is finished off with a Serrano ham chip and an orange peel. Make a reservation at Wildwood Kitchen.

The Smith-Midtown, New York, New York
Named after the lovable pig in Charlotte’s Web, the Sweet Wilbur aims to evoke the countryside. Sugar maple liqueur is blended with bourbon, allspice dram, apple cider, and bacon bitters (an item that made it into our Christmas stocking). To complete the cocktail, the rim is rolled in vanilla salt. Make a reservation at The Smith-Midtown.

Brabo by Robert Wiedmaier, Alexandria, Virginia
High-end Blis maple syrup sasses up the Machinist cocktail. Its caramel-y notes leaven the kick of the rye and ably complement the pop of the maraschino cherry liqueur. The tipple pairs well with a stack of pancakes and a pile of regrets. Make a reservation at Brabo by Robert Wiedermaier.

Trummer’s On Main, Clifton, Virginia
Owner-mixologist simply calls this cocktail the Maple, but he should have called it the Maple Squared. That’s because maple and cider caramel add candy tones to this bourbon and sherry powered sipper, which is topped off with a cloud of maple froth. Which makes us wonder if we could use the latter in which to take the sweetest bubble bath ever. We can dream. Make a reservation at Trummer’s On Main.

Gracie’s, Providence, Rhode Island
Meet the What the Sap! A heady mix of Sapling maple bourbon, gingery liqueur, and the kind of spices Grandma used to put in her apple pie. It’s winter warmth in a glass. Make a reservation at Gracie’s.

The Garden at the Four Seasons, New York, New York
The Headless Horseman is part cocktail, part dessert and all delicious. A mix of pumpkin ale, bourbon, mandarin orange puree, maple syrup, and ginger gelato, it hits all the right buttons for us. Make a reservation at The Garden at the Four Seasons.

Brine, Newburyport, Massachusetts
Yo, ho, ho, and two bottles of rum – plus a bottle of maple syrup – are the backbone of the Maple Trader cocktail. Bartender Drew Hart adds in a little lemon and egg white, then garnishes the drink with walnut bitters and sea salt. Long John Silver would surely approve. Make a reservation at Brine.

Three Dots and a Dash, Chicago, Illinois
Who could resist a cocktail called the Gobbler Cobbler? Certainly not us! Rum rich, it includes maple syrup, sherry, pumpkin butter, lemon, Angostura bitters, and cinnamon. Make a reservation at Three Dots and a Dash.

Have you sipped one of these amazing maple cocktails? Share which one you’ve sampled here or over on Facebook, G+, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter.

Nevin Martell is a Washington, D.C.-based food and travel writer and the author of several books, including Freak Show Without A Tent: Swimming with Piranhas, Getting Stoned in Fiji and Other Family Vacations. Find him on Twitter @nevinmartell. 

Photo credits: Wildwood Kitchen courtesy of RW Restaurant Group; Almanac by No Entry Design;

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Much like the little black dress or the perfectly shaken martini, roasted chicken — in all its crisp-skinned, golden browned glory — never goes out of style. Whether roasted on a rolling rotisserie or in a wood-fired oven, seasoned with an Italian or Latin American flair, prepared simply or complexly, all forms of this classic dish have the superpower to comfort with rich flavor and heady aroma. So as winter finally descends, find a foil to the deep freeze. Here are 10 spots across the country that serve up some deliciously comforting roasted chicken.

The NoMad, New York, New York
Perhaps the most lavish bird of the bunch, The NoMad’s Whole-Roasted Chicken for Two features foie gras, black truffle, and brioche, and it is plated with seasonal accompaniments — currently cauliflower, lentils, and currants. Pair it with a Le Poulet, the Belgian-inspired brown ale Brooklyn Brewery created just for this occasion, and relax in one of the restaurant’s warm, darkly wooded spaces. The fireplace, with its marble mantle direct from a French château, is particularly inviting on a freezing winter evening. Make a reservation at The NoMad.

Fork, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This beloved contemporary American restaurant in Old City has received 15 Best of Philly awards from Philadelphia Magazine and for good reason — the supremely fresh ingredients and inventive flavor combinations continue to impress (to wit: the delicately handmade chicken liver ravioli with pickled swiss chard, ginger, and coriander, or bright vitello tonnato with raw veal, tuna, and capered cucumbers.) But on frigid winter nights, the classic Lancaster Farm Chicken, served with dirty rice and herb salad, is unbeatable. Make a reservation at Fork.

Isla, Austin, Texas
Chef Roman Murphy’s Cast Iron Lime Chicken spends a full 48 hours in a bright bath of orange and lemon juices, garlic, vinegar, and spices, for a decidedly island-inspired twist on the classic at this Caribbean cantina in Austin’s Warehouse District. Pan-seared and then oven-roasted, the juicy result is paired with a side dish — choose from elote, Cuban beans, rice, or caramelized sweet potatoes, among others. Add a Prickly Pear Margarita or spicy Cantina Mule, made with tequila, lime juice, jalapeño, and ginger beer, to really get into the Island spirit. Make a reservation at Isla.

Kapnos, Washington, D.C.
Chefs Mike Isabella and George Pagonis make good use of the wood-fired grills at his modern Greek restaurant on D.C.’s 14th Street Corridor, spit roasting whole animals like lamb, goat, and suckling pig to smoky perfection. The chicken is seasoned with a traditional blend of Greek spices, cooked rotisserie-style over the hickory fire, and served alongside lemon potatoes. If sitting next to a lamb on a spit weren’t enough, start with a “kegged” spiked lemonade and shareable mezze plates or spreads served with fresh, stone-baked flat bread to fully channel a Greek feast. Make a reservation at Kapnos.

Xico, Portland, Oregon
The aroma of hot corn tortillas delightfully permeates Portland’s Division Street Mexican eatery. You can sample them, freshly stamped from the housemade masa, with any number of perfectly spiced dishes, including the Chicken Dinner for two. Organic chicken is brined in a bath of hot and sweet chiles, dusted with ground avocado leaf and more chiles, and then basted with house chile vinegar while it slow roasts, rotisserie-style. The fiery, fragrant dish, accompanied by black beans, Mexican rice, red onion escabeche, and house salsas, is guaranteed to liven up any dreary winter day. Make a reservation at Xico.

Untitled, New York, New York
Normally, fried chicken edges out its roasted counterpart by the sheer fact that it’s fried. In fat. But not at Untitled, Danny Meyer’s latest pillar of perfection at the recently relocated Whitney Museum. In a crisp, sun-filled space, tuck into the dish of remarkably tender Roasted (on a rotisserie) and Fried (post-soy garlic marinade) Chicken with kale and radicchio — and wonder how each bite tastes better than the last. Make a reservation at Untitled.

Tanta, Chicago, Illinois
Opt for a half or whole Pollo a la Brasa at chef Gastón Acurio’s lively Peruvian place in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. Both sizes of the Peruvian-style Amish Roasted Chicken — super-flavorful with hints of garlic and lime — come with a feast of cannellini beans, rice, salad, potatoes, and several spicy sauces for dipping and drizzling. For an even more authentic experience, go beyond the pisco sour (although that’s pretty outstanding here, too) and sample one of the other myriad house specialty cocktails made with the traditionally Peruvian-produced spirit. Make a reservation at Tanta.

Glen Ellen Star, Glen Ellen, California
The wood oven at this cozy, rustic spot in Wine Country churns out all sorts of incredible dishes — vegetables, such as sunchoke “tagine” with preserved lemon and smoked paprika oil, white pizza with guanciale and arugula, and the beautifully browned Brick Chicken. Always on the menu but with varying accompaniments, chef Ari Weiswasser’s current version features tandoori-style lentils, persimmon mustard, and Gravenstein apple vinegar. Housemade ice cream — in flavors like brown butter pecan, vanilla maple bourbon, and cinnamon toast crunch — require that you save a little room for dessert. Make a reservation at Glen Ellen Star.

Menton, Boston, Massachusetts
For a distinctly elegant take on the classic comfort dish, visit Chef Barbara Lynch’s Menton in Boston’s Fort Point neighborhood. The Poulet Farci is stuffed with a chestnut Italian sausage and cooked under a brick, a method chef de cuisine Scott Jones describes as honoring traditional Tuscan cooking. The tender result is served with chestnut and ham puree and an apple cider jus, exquisitely plated for a double dose of artistry. Make a reservation at Menton.

Tosca Cafe, San Francisco, California
At April Bloomfield and Ken Friedman’s North Beach Italian eatery, the menu advises the Roasted Chicken for Two will take an hour to arrive on your table. While you wait, take in the recently restored landmark dive bar, once the storied stomping ground of Jack Kerouac and Hunter S. Thompson, sip on a Negroni, and order a plate of the crispy pig tails. When the chicken finally appears, stuffed with ricotta and pine nuts, sitting atop grilled sourdough and a creamy pool of Marsala wine sauce, dig in and admit you’d wait double that. Make a reservation at Tosca Cafe.

What restaurant serves your favorite roasted chicken dish? Let us know here or over on Facebook, G+, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter.

Regan Stephens lives in Brooklyn, New York, and when she’s not writing about food or beer, you might find her taking in all the great things about the city (restaurants, museums, plays!), reading on her Kindle, or eating ice cream. Probably the last thing. Say hi on twitter @reganstephens.

Photo credit: Lazzarone Photography (Glen Ellen Star); Ben Russell (Untitled).

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Festival season in Austin kicks off with South By Southwest, the massive, 10-day convergence of original music, independent films, and emerging technologies. Downtown doubles in size with the influx of attendees from across the States and around the world. And while there’s plenty of amazing new acts, ideas, and technologies to discover, we all know the food is one of the major attractions of the Lone Star State’s capital. Since you’ll have plenty of options all the breakfast tacos and barbecue you can eat, we’re highlighting four new Texan SXSW restaurants that are absolutely worth a try — if you can get a break between sessions.

Lonesome Dove
This inventive bistro from Texas Chef Tim Love draws inspiration from Western cuisine with bold flavors. Starting with the spit-roasted fettine (small bites) through the main courses and hand-cut steaks, the menu is a wild game-heavy one that promises to delight carnivores. Though it’s hard to choose the best dishes, standouts include the duck and rabbit-rattlesnake sausage fettine, succulent wild boar ribs, the juicy roasted garlic stuffed beef tenderloin, seared Colorado lamb chop, and the flavor intense burnt carrots. Make a reservation at Lonesome Dove.

Revival Public House
The restaurant formerly known as Crave has transformed into a spacious pub serving Texas-inspired fare with nods to neighboring Southern food havens. Their extensive small plates offer innovative twists such as Kimchi Frito Pie, house-pickled zucchini, and red fish tacos. The ‘737’ Burger is garnished with creamy pimiento cheese and decadent bacon jam. The pork carnitas steak offers a big-flavored twist on the traditional Mexican dish. And don’t forget to order up a frosty mug of chilly hops and barley: Their extensive beer menu is curated from a wide variety of local craft brewers. Make a reservation at Revival Public House.

Stella San Jac
Inside the newly opened Westin, Stella San Jac’s focus is comfort food revised with New Texan flavors. The perfectly seared Berkshire pork chop sits on Brussels sprouts kicked-up with candied jalapeños. The Stella burger is crowned with tangy BBQ mayo and frizzled onions. Creamy fried avocado salad is balanced with Cholula ranch and esquite-styled charred corn. Legend has it that the flaky, #16 biscuits are named for the number of times the recipe was revised to perfection. Make a reservation at Stella San Jac.

Fixe
Progressive Southern supper with Texas and Louisiana flair is served with a heaping side of ambiance in this stunning downtown spot. Fresh, warm biscuits are baked to order, and the tangy potato salad is garnished with a tiny taste of pig’s blood gelee. Make sure not to miss the chicken, which is fried to crispy perfection and accompanied by a bed of sautéed kale. Head over to the grits section and let the good times roll with the sublime Gulf shrimp and grits, which are crowned with a sprinkling of salty bottarga. Make a reservation at Fixe.

Are you headed to #SXSW? So is OpenTable! Find out what we’re up to during the festival by following us on Instagram — and tag us in all your favorite food photos from restaurants on the network. 

Christy Goldfeder is a writer and world traveler living in Austin, TX. She’s not afraid of street foods and has eaten at night markets around the world without getting food poisoning. When not seeing live music, she’s sampling the best of Austin’s latest food offerings. Follow her on Instagram: @clgink

Photo credits: Aimee Wenske (Lonesome Dove). 

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Being a mother is one of the most rewarding and challenging jobs in the world. So why not reward a mom in your life with a delicious meal on Mother’s Day? There are options to suit every appetite on OpenTable in a city near you, and we’re highlighting a few Mother’s Day 2016 restaurant offers here to give you a better idea of how eateries are rolling out the red carpet for mothers on Sunday, May 8.

Aureole, New York, New York
Choose from the a la carte menu or three refined courses for $49 from 11:45AM-2:15PM at Charlie Palmer’s Michelin-starred Manhattan eatery. Moms can take respite in the relaxing, luxurious setting of Aureole’s dining room and indulge in chef Marcus Gleadow-Ware’s brunch dishes like Lobster Benedict with beef tenderloin, Poached Egg and bearnaise sauce, a Soft Shell Crab BLT with pomme gaufrette, avocado, and sauce remoulade, and mainstays including Roasted Cod with braised fennel, spring beans, and an herb nage. Mothers will receive an individual-sized bottle of Banfi Rosa Regale Rosé to enjoy at home.

 Make a reservation at Aureole.

Bedford & Co., New York, New York
Give mom the gift of bragging rights on Mother’s Day as you take her to chef John DeLucie’s just launched brunch at Bedford & Co. in the Big Apple. The menu features contemporary American cuisine infused with inspiration from DeLucie’s travels to Argentina. The wood-fired grill gives rise to dishes like Eggs in Purgatory and Rotisserie Chicken Salad, and there are also de rigueur dishes like Avocado Toast, Chicken and Waffles, and made-to-order cinnamon buns! Make a reservation at Bedford & Co.

BOA Steakhouse, West Hollywood, California
Celebrate mom like the celeb she is at hot spot BOA from 11AM-2:30PM. For $60 per person, this lavish buffet includes a selection of BOA’s most beloved dishes, like Mini Goat Cheese Baklava, a raw seafood bar, egg station, a taco bar, and for the first time, a carving station featuring BOA’s signature 40-day dry-aged New York Strip Loin. There’s also a dessert table and special crepe station featuring Vanilla Crepes with Chantilly cream and choice of strawberry chocolate or banana caramel sauce. And mothers will leave with a special gift. Make a reservation at BOA Steakhouse.

The Cecil, New York, New York
Kick things up a notch with live jazz and a big special on Mother’s Day at The Cecil. Jazz and soul singer Emily Braden performs, and chef JJ Johnson is serving a one-day only (available at brunch from 10AM-3:30PM and dinner from 5:30PM-9:30PM), large-format crispy whole duck for $160 that serves four people. Caramelized Kale Sprouts, Pickled Ramps, Housemade Yeast Rolls, and Pineapple Hot Sauce round out the feast. Make a reservation at The Cecil.

Cook Hall, Dallas, Texas
At Cook Hall, many of the plates are shareable but you may not want to, as they’re so tasty. For Mother’s Day brunch from 11AM-3PM, the specials at this gastropub are delicious and affordable, with Brioche French Toast with sorghum smoked paprika, mixed berries confit, and southwestern spiced whipped cream for $15, Coffee Rubbed New York Strip Steak with a fried egg, country-style potato hash, and peppercorn sauce priced at $20, and the aptly named Mama’s Bread Pudding with Godiva chocolate and Grand Marnier crème anglaise for just $8. Make a reservation at Cook Hall.

District, Oakland, California
From 11AM to 2:30PM, head over to District for an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet and a bottomless Mimosa for $35.00 ($22.00 for just the buffet). Children 10 and under can enjoy the buffet for $10.00. Menu highlights will include Buttermilk Pancakes with Banana Rum Syrup, Scrambled Eggs with Cheese, Steel-Cut Oatmeal with Bourbon Vanilla Brown Sugar, Biscuits and Sawmill Gravy, and Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Bourbon Caramel, and much, much more. Specialty cocktails will also be available. Make a reservation at District.

Esterel at Sofitel Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California
The Mother’s Day Brunch for $59 per person at Esterel, available from 11AM-4:30PM, features carving and omelette stations, a selection of flatbreads, a cold display featuring a smoked salmon and bagel bar, and a tableside a la carte menu. For dessert, indulge in a chocolate foundation with handmade garnishes, French pastries, seasonal cobblers, and pies. Bonus: All mothers are welcomed with a complimentary glass of Champagne and will be treated to other gifts. Make a reservation at Esterel at Sofitel Beverly Hills.

Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails, Hallandale Beach, Florida
Pump up the volume on May 8^th with stellar Atlantic Ocean views, a $45 brunch buffet with items like Blueberry Pancakes, Fried Chicken and Waffles, an omelette station, and more, plus beats by DJ YSL. Diners will also receive a complimentary mimosa or bellini. Make a reservation at Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails.

Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria, New York, New York
Noho foodie emporium IBAV has a something-for-every-eater three-course Mother’s Day brunch menu for $50. From 10AM-4PM, choose from fresh dishes including avocado toast,  Chia Pudding, Porchetta and Organic Eggs, Soft Shell Crab, and delicious dessert options, such as Warm Rhubarb Crostata and Champagne Granita. Make a reservation at Il Buco Alimentari.

Kingside, New York, New York
Say cheese at Kingside’s Mother’s Day brunch buffet! Start grazing on charcuterie and artisanal cheeses, and move on to a cereal and granola station, cured fish and bagels, signature salads, made-to-order eggs and omelettes, raw bar offerings, and a pasta station, and then choose from a table of delicious desserts. It’s $59 for adults and $12 for children from 11AM-3:30AM. Make a reservation at Kingside.

Kona Grill, Miami, Florida
They heart moms so much at the cool-yet-casual Kona Grill that they’re celebrating Mother’s Day with four days of specials. From Thursday, May 5th to Sunday, May 8th, Kona Grill  will offer a Steak Oscar filet (on which crab and asparagus meet hollandaise sauce) for only $29. Plus, moms will $6 pours of bubbly Gruet Brut. Make a reservation at Kona Grill.

KTCHN, New York, New York
Dare to be differently delicious! Take your mom to the Haus of Mimosa Brunch. Anita M. Buffem and Gina Marie Rittale, the comedic songstresses of The Haus of Mimosa, will tickle your funny bone (Think SNL’s Coffee Talk-meets-Glee with punch lines) as you indulge in mimosas and sangria, along with with delectable brunch favorites, including the Fire Island, a hollowed out pineapple filled with creamy Greek yogurt, diced pineapple, strawberries, granola and walnuts, a Classic Eggs Benedict, and Challah French Toast. Shows are at 12:30PM and 2:30PM. PS: You can up your fun factor with bottomless brunch drinks! Make a reservation at KTCHN.

KYU, Miami, Florida
Everyone can get in on the fun at the Wynwood-style Mother’s Day celebration from 11AM-8PM at KYU. Mother’s and grandmothers can sip on rosé and enjoy a variety of KYU’s favorite brunch dishes, priced $8 to $28, including Crispy Kale Eggs Benedict and Buttermilk Pancakes with local fruits. Be sure to save room for the amazing Mom’s Coconut Cak,e based on Lewis’ mother’s own recipe. KYU will also feature a kiddies’ package from which children can decorate planters and pot herbs for their loved ones. Make a reservation at KYU.

The Lambs Club, New York, New York
Chef-owner Geoffrey Zakarain’s The Lambs Club will be offering guests a pre- or post-theatre prix-fixe brunch spread for the holiday, complete with live jazz music featuring coffee, tea, or juice, pastries for the table, and a selection of seasonal spring entrees and sides to share, including a large-format offering of a Whole Roasted Amish Chicken with sautéed ramps, gem lettuce salad, and roasted cauliflower for the table.. Celebrate mom with lovely pre or post-theatre dining and be transported from the hustle and bustle of Broadway to the welcoming oases of the restaurant’s unique art deco décor. Make a reservation at The Lambs Club.

Le P’tit Laurent, San Francisco, California
Le P’tit Laurent Restaurant in San Francisco will be open from 10AM to 2PM serving an a la carte brunch menu that will include onion soup, smoked salmon with salad and dill cream, six escargots from Burgundy with garlic parsley butter, oysters with shallot vinegar, steamed mussels with white wine and garlic, a shrimp and cheese omelette, eggs Benedict with two poached eggs, spinach and ham with Hollandaise sauce; a Croque Madame, and a crepe with banana, chocolate sauce and whipped cream. A bottomless mimosa will also be offered for just $14.00. The a la carte dinner menu, served from 5:30 to 9:30PM, will include specials in the spirit of the occasion. Make a reservation at Le P’tit Laurent Restaurant.

Mastro’s Ocean Club, Malibu, California
Treat mom to a beachside meal at Mastro’s in the ‘bu from 10AM-3PM. Brunch features faves like Maine Lobster Benny, Lox and Bagel, an Egg White Omelette, and satisfying sides including thick-cut Nueske’s bacon and an artisan pastry basket. Toast mom with a Peach Bellini, a Sparkling Sunrise, or a Bloody Maria. Make a reservation at Mastro’s Ocean Club.

Miss Lily’s + Miss Lily’s 7A, New York, New York
See and be seen with mom at the stylish Miss Lily’s restaurants in Manhattan. The three-course includes selections like Scotch Bonnet Grilled Shrimp, Pimento Crusted Prime Rib, and (the totally on-trend) Sticky Toffee Pudding, plus a complimentary One Love Bellini for moms at brunch (from 11AM-4PM) or sparkling wine for moms at dinner (5PM-12AM). Make a reservation at Miss Lily’s and Miss Lily’s 7A.

The Restaurant at The Raleigh, Miami Beach, Florida
Life’s a beach on Sunday when you hit up brunch at the Raleigh Miami Beach. A delicious a la carte brunch awaits, along with a raw bar that includes fresh oysters, king crab legs, poached lobster, and shrimp cocktail. Extra sweet: Every mother will receive a complimentary glass of rosé and end the meal with chocolate-covered strawberries. Make a reservation at The Restaurant at The Raleigh.

Revival Public House, Austin, Texas
Celebrate your family’s favorite mom with a family-style meal with a Southern accent from 11AM-4PM. Executive chef Frank Johnson is preparing his Warm Buttermilk Biscuits with Jalapeno Bacon Gravy alongside regular favorites. For $27.95, celebrants can pick an entrée such as crab florentine quiche, or green chile chicken enchiladas and enjoy a cold buffet featuring a variety of salads, smoked salmon, and more plus a complimentary mimosa. Still thirsty? Wash the indulgent dish down with a Bloody Mary garnished with prosciutto, pickled pepper, celery, and olive), $2 Mimosas and Bellinis, or one of Revival’s dozens of local Texas craft beers on tap for just $3. Available from 11am-4pm on Sundays. Make a reservation at Revival Public House.

Tarallucci E Vino, New York, New York
Enjoy Mother’s Day like your nonni would. Executive chef Cara Hermanson has created specials like Lemon Pancakes with whipped ricotta, fresh blueberries and candied almonds for brunch; Black Pepper Fettuccine with shrimp, garlic, black olives and basil for dinner; and a Torta di Mamma: a sablé tart with strawberries and Nutella for dessert. Don’t forget to order a Cocktail della Mamma (with strawberries and extra booze!). All moms leave with a bag of their famous housemade cookies. Make a reservation at Tarallucci E Vino.

The Terrace Room, Oakland, California
Head down to The Terrace Room in Oakland for the brunch’s biggest hits served buffet-style from 10AM to 3PM for $59. Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, French Toast, Broccoli Rabe Frittata, Tortilla Espanol, a made-to-order Omelet Station, a Prime Rib carving station, a build your own Huevos Ranchero station, Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Poached Salmon, a classic Caesar Salad, and Strawberry Shortcake, plus about 15 additional selections. Kids 12 and under eat for $25.00 and those 5 and under dine free. Make a reservation at The Terrace Room.

TRIO Grill, Falls Church, Virginia
You’ll find a Mother’s Day buffet to remember at TRIO. Think foie gras-stuffed Deviled Eggs (!), Crab Cakes Benedict, Smoked Pork Belly, Cauliflower Gratin, Carrot Cake, a carving station, raw bar delights and more for $55 per person, $25 for kids 6-12, and the 6 and under set eat free. Moms will receive a complimentary white carnation a glass of Champagne or a mimosa upon reaching their table. Make a reservation at TRIO Grill.

Tuscan Kitchen, Salem, New Hampshire 
Spring into the day with mom at Tuscan’ Kitchen’s Festa della Mama celebration. From 11AM-9PM, tuck into a special spring-centric prix-fixe menu with seasonal dishes such as Arugula Salad with blood orange, red onion, mint, and pistachio vinaigrette and Orecchiette with spring peas, asparagus, prosciutto, and basil pesto. Don’t miss the patio seating options at Burlington and Salem. And, Salem diners, you can burn off your brunch with a fun game of bocce on one of the Tuscan’s four tournament-worthy bocce courts. Make a reservation at Tuscan Kitchen Salem. Make a reservation at Tuscan Kitchen Burlington.

The Vine, New York, New York
This elegant brunch buffet from 11:30AM-3PM will be music to mom’s ears with a live performance by Hilary Gardner (who has been called the secret love child of Peggy Lee and Tom Waits – and if that doesn’t intrigue you, we’re not sure what will) and complimentary Champagne. Dishes include Eggs Benedict with ramp béarnaise, Lemon Soufflé Pancakes, Cedar Planked Salmon and a Milk Chocolate “PB&J” Croquante for $60 per person. And the patio will be open weather permitting. Make a reservation at The Vine.

WaterBar, San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s iconic seafood restaurant will be offering an especially sweet Mother’s Day prix-fixe dessert menu inspired by each pastry staff’s mother. The eclectic dishes highlight the diversity of the pastry team, taking dessert inspirations from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and the U.S. Each unique concoction is named after each staff member’s mother, such as “The Angela,” which is made of coconut and almond milk tapioca, mango sorbet. and candied pecans. Experience it, along with breathtaking Bay Bridge views, as part of a three-course Mother’s Day brunch menu priced at $55 per person from 11:30AM-2:30PM. Make a reservation at WaterBar.

Are you feting mom with at brunch on Mother’s Day? Share where you’re headed here or over on Facebook, G+, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter.

Photo credits: www.mattsimpkinsphotography.com for Tarallucci e Vino; Juan Fernando Ayora (KYU); Claire Hogan (Revival Public House); Michael Grimm (Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria); 

The post Mother’s Day 2016 Restaurant Offers: Where to Brunch Like a Boss with Mom appeared first on OpenTable Blog.

Sorry, plain Jane Bloody Mary; you’re just way too basic these days. That goes for you, too, champy and OJ! Mixologists are creating radical cocktails that seriously raise the bar when it comes to midday imbibing. We’re talking cocky concoctions to boost your lobster benny – and your spirits (as well as mom’s) on Mother’s Day and beyond. Here are delish sips of spring in the form of the best brunch cocktails you need to drink this weekend.

The Ruby Soho, Left Bank, New York, New York
The Ruby Soho cocktail is deftly mixed by head bartender Claiborne Fortenberry, who combines grapefruit and pink peppercorn-infused tequila (made in-house), Pamplemousse liqueur, fresh lime, and a salt rim for a super-fresh day drink. Goes especially well with the eggs Benedict, don’t you think? Make a reservation at Left Bank.

Eiffel Affair, Eiffel Tower Restaurant, Las Vegas, Nevada
The Eiffel Affair is the best-selling “new classic” cocktail served at the Eiffel Tower in the desert and features fresh berries macerated in Stoli Blueberi Crème de Cassis, Cointreau, and Rose Nectar. It’s topped off with a splash of Eiffel Tower Cremant for added effervescence. Make a reservation at Eiffel Affair.

Bloody Bull, Momofuku CCDC, Washington, D.C.
Grab the horns and order The Bloody Bull. Made with vodka, tomato, horseradish, and beef broth, the beef broth stars beef shank and oxtail, and is also used in CCDC’s Beef Noodle Soup. The cocktail, served only during weekend lunch, pairs particularly well with Momofuku’s Twice-Cooked Pork Noodles with maple fish sauce vinaigrette and the Scrapple, Egg, and Cheese steamed buns. Make a reservation at Momofuku CCDC.

Citrine, Harvest Table, St. Helena, California
Lead bartender Joel Pfeifle mixes unique, non-spirit based cocktails — many of the ingredients are sourced from the inn’s five culinary gardens — but these certainly aren’t your garden-variety cocktails. Top brunch libations include the Strawberry Belle (Mirabelle Brut, Strawberry Shrub, Garden Mint Syrup, Lime Juice), The Pampered Moose (Giffard Pamplemousse, No. 209 Gin, Grapefruit Oleo, lemon juice), and the Citrine (sparkling wine, garden mint syrup, fresh squeezed orange, bitters). Make a reservation at Harvest Table.

The Lunchbox, Farmer & The Seahorse, San Diego, California
A seashell’s fling from the beach in San Diego’s Torrey Pines neighborhood, the status cocktail at celebrity chef Brian Malarkey’s restaurant is called The Lunchbox — made with Mama’s Lil Pilsner beer, Peach liqueur, and freshly squeezed orange juice. It is the perfect pairing to the brunch menu’s duck confit and waffles or the pastrami-style pork belly hash. Make a reservation at Farmer & The Seahorse.

Asparagus Negroni, Davio’s, Boston, Massachusetts
The Asparagus Negroni (Cynar, Stoli Vodka, Peychaud’s bitters, orange bitters and muddled asparagus) is a nod to the star of springtime. And, it’s a perfect complement to Davio’s brunch menu, including specials like the Beef Tenderloin with poached eggs, potatoes, popover, and truffle hollandaise. Make a reservation at Davio’s.

Bashment Punch, Solomon & Kuff’s Rum Hall, New York, New York
Known for its almost 100 varieties of rum and a monthly reggae brunch, it’s no shocker that co-owner and mixologist Karl Franz Williams chose to channel the islands when he created his fruity Bashment Punch — a Caribbean-inspired libation of rum, pineapple juice, mango puree, lime juice, and orange bitter. Bonus: Sip it to up your daily fruit intake. Make a reservation at Solomon & Kuff’s Rum Hall.

Millennial Mimosa, CUCINA enoteca, Newport Beach, California
Mimosas are to brunch what beer is to baseball — traditional, but kinda boring. Meet the millennial mimosa! The ingredients are rolled on a cart to your table and a more exciting mimosa is prepared just for you. You’ll have your choice of mixers, purees, and garnish, and the ingredients are seasonal, including pineapple-blood orange, vanilla bean, Meyer lemon, strawberry jalapeno, pomegranate peach, rosemary ginger pineapple, candied ginger, blueberries, rosemary sprigs, blackberries, fresh strawberries, and pomegranate seeds. Make a reservation at CUCINA enoteca.

The Board, Nick & Toni’s, East Hampton, New York
Brunch in the Hamptons, such a chic chill. Wait, what, your bloody is bland, not enough horseradish? Or, hot sauce? Oh, bloody hell, you hate to send it back—what will the Seinfelds think? Or Billy Joel? Such a high maintenance brunchster you are. Nick and Toni’s has your back. They call their brunch Bloody Mary cocktail, “The Board” and describe it as “a drink, a snack and an activity.” The way it works: Pick a liquor (house-infused sweet pepper-onion-and basil-infused Absolut, hot pepper and peppercorn Absolut ,or Maestro Dobel Tequila, choose a mix and and garnish away – and toss in a few condiments to your tasting. Special Stuff: Pickled green garlic from the garden will be rotated into the Bloody Board lineup, too. Make a reservation at Nick & Toni’s.

P-Town Punch, Sabio on Main, Pleasanton, California
The “deceptively light and fruity” P-Town Punch cocktail served at this newbie restaurant packs a lot of punch — Pisco, Strawberry-Rhubarb Gum Syrup, fresh lemon juice, and a strawberry garnish. The cocktail plays well with menu items like the Hamachi “Nicoise” salad and Eggs Benedict, and, thanks to the acid that is needed to cut through fat, the cocktail can also stand up to bigger flavors like the Liberty Duck Croque Monsieur and burgers. Make a reservation at Sabio on Main.

Muddy Waters, Geraldine’s, Austin, Texas
Named for the father of Chicago blues music, the Muddy Waters cocktail (Pierre Ferrand 1840 Cognac, Averna, Orgeat syrup, cold brew coffee, condensed milk, and nutmeg) is a boozy coffee cocktail that harmonizes well with Geraldine’s Brioche French Toast and Smoked Short Rib Tacos. Make a reservation at Geraldine’s.

Buffalo Soldier, South Water Kitchen, Chicago, Illinois
Order the Buffalo Soldier (Buffalo Trace Bourbon, egg, maple syrup, two strips crumbled bacon, Peychaud’s Bitters, powdered sugar, and bacon strip garnish), expertly mixed cocktail from by head bartender Dan Rook, and you’ve basically got a beautiful brunch in a glass. Make a reservation at South Water Kitchen.

Brunch Punch III, Hearth, New York, New York
East Village weekend brunchers get punch drunk with the Brunch Punch III, a brunch-only cocktail that stars Four Roses Bourbon, Atsby, Cocchi di Torino, and blood orange. Order it alongside one of Hearth’s delicious spring brunch dishes like the seasonal vegetable frittata. Make a reservation at Hearth.

I-5 High Five, Café Eugene, Albany, California
The I-5 High Five (gin, Oregon Marionberry Liqueur, California spiced pear brandy, lemon, rosemary) gives Café Eugene’s cheesy grits with tomatillo-braised pork shoulder, chayote, butternut squash, wild herb sauce and a poached egg a perfect boost. Or, if it’s pancakes you crave, order the Duck-Duck-Punch (rum, orange, carrot, lime, pomegranate, falernum, Oregon chai, nutmeg) and the sweet yogurt raspberry pancakes with orange butter and Vermont maple syrup. Make a reservation at Café Eugene.

Proud Mary, Blue Smoke, New York, New York
Blue Smoke’s Proud Mary cocktail is Bloody Mary’s right-brained, more creative sister. The cocktail features smoked chicken wing-infused vodka, a special house Bloody mix, Blue Smoke hot sauce, and pickled vegetables. The perfect hook up for a Proud Mary is the popular Bright Eyed Breakfast Sandwich (biscuit doughnut, fried egg, pimento cheese and spicy fried chicken). Make a reservation at Blue Smoke.

Oyster Martini, Castle Hill Inn, Newport, Rhode Island
Castle Hill’s signature Oyster Martini is a gem of a drink – even without the pearl. Sip and slurp your brunch martini (Three Olives Tomato Vodka, Clamato juice, cilantro, fresh lime, sambal chili pepper, and sugarcane syrup) in the main dining room — or on The Lawn for a stately feeling. Make a reservation at Castle Hill Inn.

El Bolero, Mercat a la Planxa, Chicago, Illinois
Iron Chef Jose Garces’s Catalan-inspired tapas restaurant has a revamped brunch menu, so beverage director Wesley Jackson created “a few vegetal cocktails for a creative hair of the dog.” The El Bolero cocktail features creamy avocado shaken with tequila and orange, and The Corpus de Sang is made with garlic- and basil-infused gin, tomato water, lemon, and olive brine, with a Spanish olive garnish. Make a reservation at Mercat a la Planxa.

Dimmelo, La Pecora Bianca, New York, New York 
The classic spritz gets a makeover with the Dimmelo cocktail, made with Dimmi (a flavorful Milanese liqueur), lemon, Prosecco, and slightly bitter Contratto aperitif. Sip it on the patio, and pair it with on-trend avo toast or always-pleasing pancakes. Make a reservation at La Pecora Bianca.

Fresca Amaro, Americano, Dallas, Texas
They say everything is big in Texas and that goes for big brunch beverages, too. The Cuffs & Buttons cocktail team (Chad Solomon, Christy Pope, and Sasha Petraske) have created several cocktails especially for brunch lovers here, including the popular Fresca Amaro (Blanco Tequila, honey, lime, grapefruit, and rosemary)—a cool match for Italian-American brunch dishes like housemade Nutella-filled doughnuts and the breakfast pizza with sausage gravy, a farm egg, and potatoes. Make a reservation at Americano.

Tequila Sunrise, Kachina Southwestern Grill, Westminster, Colorado
Kachina’s Sunday’s “Wild Wild West” brunch gets things going with the Tequila Sunrise (Sauza Blue Reposed tequila, fresh-squeezed orange juice, a cherry juice floater, served in a highball glass over ice, garnished with orange zest and a cherry). Drink it with Southwestern-inspired brunch dishes like the Duck Hash and Eggs (with duck confit, gold potatoes, caramelized onions, and two eggs any style) and Blue Corn Waffles topped with toasted pinon nuts, whipped cream, and maple syrup. Make a reservation at Kachina Southwestern Grill.

Orange Crush Martini, 333 Pacific, Oceanside, California
You’ll heart mixologist Frank Valentine’s Orange Crush Martini, a lovely union of Bella Mar Orange Basil Vodka, white cranberry juice, Prosecco float, with an orange twist and basil leaf garnish. Make a reservation at 333 Pacific.

Bloody Bunny, Peacock Alley-Waldorf Astoria, New York, New York
The Bloody Bunny was created by Frank Caiafa, the Waldorf’s expert beverage manager at the iconic Waldorf Astoria hotel in midtown. It’s a twist on the classic bloody made with Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce, Tabasco sauce, kosher salt, black pepper, celery seed, Stolichnaya Vodka, fresh carrot juice, and a toasted pink peppercorn and coriander seed rim. A true 14-carrot gold drink. Make a reservation at Peacock Alley.

Are you ready to raise a glass with something different in it this Mother’s Day? Which cocktail sounds most delicious to you? Let us know here or over on Facebook, G+, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter.

Laurie Bain Wilson is a Boston-based journalist, author, and essayist who writes often about travel, food, and baseball. Find her on Twitter @laurieheather.

Photo credit: Aubrie Pick (Geraldine’s); Nader Khouri (Cafe Eugene); Jean Schwarzwalder (Blue Smoke); Brian Park (Pecora Bianca). 

The post Best Brunch Cocktails: Go Beyond the Basic on Mother’s Day appeared first on OpenTable Blog.

With autumn in full swing and Thanksgiving fast approaching, sweet potatoes are in peak season. Chefs love the tawny-tinted tubers because they work well in both savory and sweet preparations. Here are 11 stellar sweet potato dishes showcasing the highly versatile root vegetable. Sweet Potato Cake at Bub City, Chicago, Illinois Think of this as autumn’s answer to carrot cake. Forged out of roasted sweet potatoes accented with cinnamon and vanilla, the triple layer treat is held together with bourbon brown sugar cream cheese frosting. Wavy sweet potato chips top it off to add color and crunch. Make a reservation at Bub City. Sweet Potato Casserole at Wildfire, Chicago, Illinois The team is offering this Southern staple exclusively on their Thanksgiving menu. A casserole of mashed sweet potatoes topped with baby marshmallows is baked in the oven till the top turns gooey and golden. Though it’s a side dish for […]

The post Yamming It Up: 11 Stellar Sweet Potato Dishes appeared first on OpenTable Blog.