We sat down with Chef/Owner Nick Devellis of Marcello’s Italian Eatery in Monroe, Connecticut. Marcello’s is a contemporary, upscale Italian restaurant born from a lifetime in the hospitality industry. Here, each dish is more than food; it’s a carefully crafted work of culinary art.

We sat down with Executive Chef Benard Tamburello of Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato in Hoover, Alabama. What lifts their pies from simply delicious to authentic Neapolitan excellence is more than technique—it’s a rigorous devotion to tradition.

We sat down with Peter Renzo of Cosi Cucina in Clive, Iowa. Cosi Cucina is a Des Moines-area favorite, serving approachable yet inventive Italian fare in a relaxed setting. The menu centers on blistered wood‑oven pizzas, specialty pastas and authentic entrees, rounded out by house‑made desserts and an attentive, well‑curated wine list.

We sat down with Chef de Cuisine Steven Tang of Mi Xun Teahouse at Upper House Chengdu. Influenced by tea traditions and interpreted through modern vegetarian cooking, every menu offers a subtle conversation between the landscape and the plate. Diners depart with more than lingering flavors; they leave with a renewed connection.

We sat down with Chef de Cuisine Tony Ye of Sui Tang Li at Upper House Shanghai. Sampling xiaolongbao is essential—the heart of the city’s cuisine. At Sui Tang Li, their signature fusion xiaolongbao pairs delicate soup dumplings with Spanish Iberian ham, marrying East and West in a single bite.

We sat down with Executive Chef Oscar Perez of Blind Rabbit Kitchen in Salt Lake City, Utah. Blind Rabbit Kitchen pairs bold, adventurous flavors with humble hospitality. The New American menu is playful yet precise—craveable dishes built on solid technique—while the atmosphere stays laid-back, and every plate tells a story.

We sat down with Executive Chef Robert Willits of Vernon’s Speakeasy in Los Ranchos, New Mexico. Vernon’s Speakeasy isn’t just a meal—it’s a high-end dining experience hidden behind a secret door, shaped by a chef who learned the craft from the ground up.

We sat down with Executive Chef Rachel Conn of The Rathskeller at The Montana Club in Helena, Montana.

We sat down with Executive Chef Mitch Arens of Carmelo’s in Covington, Kentucky. Carmelo’s honors his memory by living his values—generosity, warmth, honesty, and good humor—present in every dish and their welcoming atmosphere.

We sat down with Executive Chef Mario Mendieta of Momento Tapas & Craft Cocktails in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Every element—from the ambiance to the service—is intentional. Savor tapas that marry international techniques with Latin flair, the cocktails are imaginative and expressive, and the staff operates like family, dedicated to delivering an exceptional experience to every guest.

Go behind the scenes at Utopia, Bangor’s farm‑to‑table restaurant, with Chef Rachel Moyse’s philosophy, seasonal menus, and what makes this Maine dining spot a must‑visit.

We sat down with Executive Chef Angie Cline of Quench Taps and Tapas in Surprise, Arizona. Quench delivers a unique dining experience—sophisticated yet relaxed. The team is expertly trained and well-versed in their culinary offerings and curated wine selection.

We sat down with Executive Chef Shane Owens of Buena Vida Tapas Bar in Atlanta, Georgia. Old Fourth Ward’s Buena Vida brings a breezy slice of Southern Spain to Atlanta’s Beltline with a stylish, island-inspired vibe and a menu of lively, shareable tapas. Loved for its inviting ambiance, eclectic cocktails, and generous selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

We sat down with Executive Chef Bianka Mbeng of Pleroma Cuisine in Laurel, Maryland. Pleroma is a warmly regarded African restaurant known for its flavorful, authentic dishes inspired by West and Central African traditions. It offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with vibrant stews, grilled meats, and spicy specialties. Diners praise the rich, market-inspired flavors and welcoming service.

We sat down with Executive Chef Seth Vider of Edwin and The Carter at Hotel Alpenrock in Breckenridge, Colorado. Relax in elegance at The Carter, the ultimate après-ski lobby bar. Cozy up by the fireplace, indulge in expertly crafted cocktails, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere as you reconnect with friends or celebrate your day on the slopes.

We sat down with Bryan and Gina, the husband-and-wife duo behind Z&M Twisted Vines Winery & Tasting Room in Lawrence, Kansas. Tucked into the rolling hills of Lawrence, Kansas, Z&M Twisted Vines Winery & Vineyard is more than a winery — it’s an experience. Founded by Bryan and Dr. Gina Montalbano Zesiger, this 100-acre working vineyard estate combines craftsmanship, courage, and community.

We sat down with Owner Tiffany Nguyen of Ethos Wine & Tea in Charlottesville, Virginia. She is no stranger to gathering people together “just because.” A long-time resident of Charlottesville, Virginia, and mother to four wonderful kids, she desired to see an inclusive space where many people from all backgrounds could come together and feel comfortable, and thus the dream of Ethos began.

We sat down with Sommelier/Owner Krista French of Stylus Wine & Vinyl Bar in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Stylus plays vinyl records all day on a custom hi-fi system inspired by 1920s Tokyo jazz kissas. The wine bar presents a curated wine list highlighting French selections with a small, focused menu featuring high-quality, simple French dishes loved by the owners.

We sat down with Owner Pam Creel and Executive Chef Autumn Walcutt of Wine Down on Market in Parkersburg, West Virginia. They provide exclusive "extras" including wine tastings, live music in The Cellar, 6 wine-themed 5-course dinners annually, and a truly exceptional dining event known as “The Chef Experience.” Each course is a surprise, crafted to engage your senses.

We sat down with Sommelier/Owner Elizabeth Rodriguez of Estilo Y Vino Wine Bar in Beacon, New York. Known for its inviting atmosphere where great wine and delicious tapas spark conversations, this charming wine bar offers a warm, welcoming space perfect for connecting over expertly paired drinks and bites. You're invited to experience the special vibe that makes this Hudson Valley wine bar unique.