This Burbank spot is a great place to grab lunch, particularly given its customizable soup-and-sandwich combinations. One pairing that earned props on Top 5 Restaurants is the BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich and Corn Chowder. The sandwich is built on an aioli-slicked pretzel roll that’s piled high with wild arugula and fresh-roasted chicken, then finished with pickled red onions and a creamy goat cheese spread. A hearty bowl of corn chowder studded with bacon and corn completes the plate.

Head here to savor New American cuisine from high atop the cliffs of Big Sur. Sierra Mar’s focus is on innovative dishes that incorporate local ingredients. A standout is the roasted rack of lamb served with mushrooms, barley risotto and Japanese pumpkin plucked straight from the garden outside.

Locals can’t get enough of the chicken and waffles that Larry “Lo-Lo” White slings at his namesake Phoenix joint. The fried bird is punched up with 11 secret spices, and the waffles are made with a vanilla-cinnamon buttermilk batter. The signature dish is KK’s Combo: three pieces of extra-crisp fried chicken and two golden-brown waffles served with cheesy scrambled eggs and buttery grits on the side.

Got a hankering for smoked turkey? Dr. Barbecue (Ray Lampe) will prescribe you a visit to this family-run restaurant, which he says serves the "juiciest turkey you’re ever going to eat." Another must-try is the smoked chicken, which is locally sourced and served with a tangy white barbecue sauce.