Home for the Holidays: Chefs' Favorite Hometown Foods

"Things can get hectic during the holidays, so if we need a quick bite in between errands and shopping, we head to La Super Rica (622 N. Milpas St.; 805-963-4940). They have delicious tacos and my kids love it! For something more relaxed, I love Stonehouse (pictured; 900 San Ysidro Lane; 805-565-1700). They have a great wine and food selection, plus a fireplace that adds a romantic twist."

"Most of what I'm eating over the holidays is coming out of my mom's kitchen. But if I want a great dinner out in Naptown, it's gotta be St. Elmo Steak House (127 S. Illinois St.; 317-635-0636). It's downtown and has been there since 1902. It has one of the biggest wine cellars in the state (ask for a tour — it's awesome), and there's a shrimp cocktail with so much horseradish in the sauce, your hair will stand on end. A classic."

"When I go back to Sandwich, we always visit the Sagamore Inn (1131 Sandwich Rd.; 508-888-9707) on Route 6A. It's full of memories (I went there before the Sandwich High School prom) and it has everything I love about Cape Cod cuisine: stuffed quahog, fried cod and chips, amazing chowder and one of the most perfectly cooked lobsters I've ever had. Plus, most of the staff are related to friends of mine — Sandwich is a pretty small town!"

"Over the holidays, my husband and I usually go to Nashville, where he is from, and where we lived before moving to New York City. After a few days of delicious, heavy home-cooked food, I crave the Greek salads from this place called Kalamatas (3764 Hillsboro Pike; 615-383-8700). I also love Fido (1812 21st Ave. S.; 615-777-3436), a funky spot for killer coffee and eclectic food, like a toasted bagel with Neufchatel cheese and veggie sausage. Any place that can get me to eat veggie sausage over the real deal must be great!"