When traveling or even just exploring your local area, the best place to dine can often be remembered in vivid detail. Here are some of the establishments that stood out to me from my experiences over the decades.

The Worst Mexican Food in Ketchikan, Alaska

While Ketchikan, Alaska has its own charm, when it comes to Mexican cuisine, I would much rather enjoy the bountiful offerings available in California. Remembering the worst Mexican food experience in Ketchikan, Alaska is a stark reminder of how much I miss the quality of food in California.

Local Seafood and Vegetarian Restaurant

There's a local spot in my neighborhood housed in an elegant Victorian building, which is truly splendid. This restaurant features an old-fashioned bar, an impressive wine selection, and an excellent service. It offers a mix of seafood and vegetarian options, making it a favorite in the area.

800 Degrees Pizza, Los Angeles

One of the pizzerias I still vividly remember is 800 Degrees in Los Angeles or Santa Monica. The pizza here is incredibly delicious, and the house red wine is a delightful accompaniment. Sadly, the restaurant has closed down most of its locations due to the pandemic, but the Hollywood location remains open. I hope more locations will reopen in the future.

My Favorite Dining Experience in Cincinnati

Back in 1972, when I moved to Cincinnati, it boasted three Mobil five-star restaurants. Nathan L. Comisar’s Maisonette was the one that captivated me the most. The culinary mastery was outstanding, and the setting was a true delight. The table setup was especially memorable, with our banquette seating fitting seamlessly into the ancient surroundings.

Wedding Anniversary at Maisonette

One of my favorite memories at Maisonette was celebrating a wedding anniversary. The server pulled out the customized table for us, and I recall the server's attentiveness. My wife was considering whether to use her powder to touch up before the main course arrived. However, just as she was about to get up, the table was moved away without her noticing, emphasizing the restaurant's meticulous service.

Nicks Seafood Pavilion, Yorktown, Virginia

Years ago, I dined at Nicks Seafood Pavilion in Yorktown, Virginia. This extravagantly Greek restaurant was located beneath the Coleman Bridge. The wedge salad they served was simple but elegant, with an oil and vinegar dressing that was truly exceptional. It remains one of my most cherished memories of dining experiences.

Perfect Meals at Masiniello in Naples, Italy

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Masiniello in Donna Albina, Naples, Italy, served some of the best meals of my life. The couple who ran the restaurant, he as the Maitre d' and she as the chef, prepared each dish with perfection. Naples is renowned for its incredible food, but Masiniello took it to another level.

In conclusion, each of these dining experiences left a lasting impression on me. From the excellent seafood and vegetarian options at the Victorian building to the unforgettable chateaubriand jardiniere at Maisonette, and the perfectly executed meals at Masiniello, these establishments have a special place in my heart. Whether it's the worst Mexican food or the best pizza, the memories of these dining experiences will remain etched in my mind.