There's nothing to fear at The Haunted Hamburger in Jerome, Ariz. — Rachael called it ''comfort food to the max'' on $40 a Day. The menu includes a huge variety of American favorites like hot dogs, barbecue ribs and cheese steaks; a favorite among regulars is the twice-baked potato.
The site of Rapid City's first fire department and the first brewery in South Dakota, the Firehouse Brewing Company specializes in craft beers. Watch the brewing in action, then try the Gorgonzola Ale Soup or Firehouse Favorite Gumbo, which Rachael calls "extra spicy and so good."
Adam Gertler, of Food Network's The Best Thing I Ever Ate, recommends Jacques Imo's Cafe for real, authentic Creole cuisine in New Orleans, LA.
Housed in a charming Charleston building from the 1800's that operated as a barbershop for many years before becoming a restaurant, Hominy Grill is known for its unique take on down-home Southern dishes like fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits.
A family-owned bakery, Freed's has been satisfying Las Vegas sweet tooths for more than 50 years. Located three miles east of the strip, the award-winning spot excels in irresistible treats, including cupcakes, cookies, pastries and Rachael's favorite: cakes that can be ordered by the slice.
When Rachael craves a big old plate of pasta, she heads to Lupa, a Roman trattoria in Soho. The casual setting ties into its homey plates, like rustic Spaghetti alla Carbonara or the favorite, Ricotta Gnocchi. Diners rave over the newest "Roman-style" late-night menu.
Giada De Laurentiis hits our nation's capital for Zola, serving exciting new American cuisine in Washington DC, on Food Network's Giada's Weekend Getaways.
Rachael Ray visits the Back Inn Cafe, Chattanooga, TN, serving up global cuisine overlooking the Tennessee River, on Food Network's $40 a Day.
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.
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.
Fans of French dip sandwiches have Philippe Mathieu to thank. As the story goes, in 1918 Mathieu accidentally dropped a French roll into the roasting pan. The customer didn't mind the wet bun and today, neither does Wolfgang Puck, who likes his sandwich with horseradish mustard.
On $40 a Day, Rachael satisfies her sweet tooth with the peanut butter chocolate ice cream cake from Icebox. Meanwhile, the Chocolate Delight (formerly The Bomb) has been called Oprah's absolute favorite. But for a true Floridian bite, locals know it's all about the creamy, deep-dish Key Lime pie.
Kelly's Roast Beef claims responsibility for the original roast beef sandwich. Other popular items at this local seaside favorite include fried clams, fish and chips, and lobster rolls. Once Rachael tasted the clam roll, she agreed it is ''a real contender'' for the very best clams in New England.
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.