“Where do you eat when youre off the clock?”
In advance ofspring breakand summer travels, we decided to go straight to the source: chefs.
Where do they dine out when they have a rare night away from their own kitchens?
Credit:Getty Images / d3sign
Luckily, all of this (and so much more) can be found in the South.
I love the traditional offerings on the menu, but dont sleep on their specials.
Everything from crispy catfish curry, shrimp and avocado curry, and summer rolls are too good to miss.
Petersburg, Florida
When I have a day off or visitors in town, I always recommendAllelo.
It perfectly captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a contemporary twist.
The dining room is intimate, with a warm ambiance that feels both welcoming and refined.
The menu focuses on easy-to-share small plates makes it perfect for groups; youll find something for everyone.
As a chef, I appreciate the restaurant’s rotating menu and the teams dedication to locally-sourced ingredients.
This keeps things fresh, both figuratively and literally.
The beef tartare, nduja steamed mussels, and lamb Bolognese are too good to miss.
If you’re feeling over-the-top, add on an order of their pate.
So, I’m a self-proclaimed connoisseur.
And I can confirm that El Sabor Oaxaqueno, a humble trailer behind a gas station, is awesome.
Pho 101 has stood out since Ive moved from New Orleans to Sarasota.
Pho is all about the broth, and Pho 101 does not disappoint.
The brisket and tendon are always tender, and the house-made chili oil really rounds out the dish.
My kids and I also always share the chicken lettuce wraps and at least two orders of steamed dumplings.
The ambiance is great, with stunning views of the water and passing boats.
We share a common appreciation for using seasonal ingredients and local farms to curate a one-of-a-kind menu.
I have never had a disappointing meal hereand theyve been open and successful for 14 years.
Its a family run hidden gem, and mom and dad are always on-site.
No matter what you order for a main, you must get the loco bean dip before every meal.
Pro tip: Add the homemade green hot sauce for an extra kick, but do so sparingly.
They bring traditional flavors of West Africa to Houston in a contemporary way.
Eating at Berthas is just a big, warm hug.
It tastes like love.
), red rice, and lima beans.
Folks love to hate on poor okra, but Berthas has elevated the treasured pods to high culinary art.
Dunking cornbread into a bowl of their okra soup will make you a believer.
Forrest Parker, chief culinary evangelist atUndiscovered Charlestonin Charleston, South Carolina
