Known for its high-class ambiance, Dragonfly restaurant, located in Dallas's Hotel ZaZa, serves modern American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you just want to dip your toe in the luxe decor, Rachael recommends ordering something modest like an appetizer or dessert.
Bobby Flay heads to Good Enough to Eat on the Upper West Side of New York for the ultimate American comfort food, on Food Network's Boy Meets Grill.
When Bobby heard about A Salt & Battery's award-winning fish and chips, he immediately called for a throwdown. But chef Mat Arnfield had his British roots to guide him. Today they're using a sustainable Pollock with their classic light batter. Ultimately, these chips were the best catch of the day.
Located just off the Las Vegas strip, Bahama Breeze is a tropical-themed oasis that serves up affordable meals in huge portions. Check out the nightly entertainment, creative cocktails and late-night specials. Rachael recommends trying a mojito and the "absolutely fantastic" Seafood Paella.
If you're in Las Vegas, Eric Greenspan knows a place for a guaranteed win: Mr. Lucky's. As a 24/7 restaurant, you can step in any time of day. But if you want a real jackpot, order the Gambler's Special that comes with three giant shrimp, an 8-ounce steak, mashed potatoes and salad, all for $7.77.
A favorite of Santa Fe, N.M., locals since 1953, The Shed serves up classic New Mexican cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere. Try an order of enchiladas or the salmon salad for dinner and make sure to save room for their housemade desserts. Rachael called their fresh lemon souffle "heaven."
Calling all Chicken-Fried Steak fans: Your prayers are answered at Threadgill's in Texas. This home-cookin', music-pumpin' joint upgrades the Southern delicacy with quality steak and a beautiful batter that turns golden. Threadgill's also does burgers, meatloaf, fried catfish — you name it.
On The Best Thing I Ever Ate, Alex hears a calling for Five Points' delectable Yukon Gold Potato Pizza. Come time for the weekend, it's all about brunch. Wake up with the Angry Skillet, a frittata of summer squash. Or stay sweet with tangy Brioche French Toast or Lemon Ricotta Pancakes.
To locals, you can rely on Water Street Seafood Co. for fresh seafood, with the daily fish specials and waterside location to prove it. Many dishes draw on the rich, comforting flavors of nearby Mexico and Louisiana. After sifting through the huge menu, Rachael went for the Seafood Pasta Jambalaya.
To taste the funky and weird side of Austin, Rachael gets a local tip to visit Maria's Taco Xpress with its bright murals and good cheap eats. Rachael ordered the popular migas breakfast tacos, but for dinner, it's all about the pollo guisado chicken tacos made with a smoky chipotle sauce.
On Food Network's $40 a Day, Rachael Ray stops by Lela's Cafe, for fresh baked breads and hand rolled stone-baked pizzas in Ashland, OR.
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company is the perfect port for hungry diners. Owner Tom White keeps prices low so customers can buy lots of fish and he can make space for daily fresh catches. Rachael was impressed by this commitment to freshness, as even her Caesar salad dressing was mixed to order.
Walk through the front door of this family-run joint and you’ll be standing right in the kitchen, where tasty hot tamales have been served up since 1941. Bite into one of these beauties to savor a meaty filling seasoned with garlic, onion and a secret blend of spices for just the right kick.
The Huevos Barbacoa dish at Cafe Pasqual does the impossible for Chris Santos -- it makes him love eggs. Not typically an egg fan, Santos found the spicy, smoky dish made with succulent beef cheeks and sunny-side egg as nothing short of remarkable for this beloved Santa Fe restaurant.
Make restaurant favorites at home with copycat recipes from FN Magazine.
Let Guy take you on a coast-to-coast tour Friday at 9|8c.