Best Appetizer: Ahi Poke Nachos
Chelsea LupkinThis is everything I want in an appetizer: crunchy, crispy, creamy, and a little spicy. The fried wontons are topped with tuna poke, scallions, and avocado for freshness while the sriracha aioli and chiles add a kick to the back of your throat. Beware: If you eat more than one chile slice in a bite you're going to need a drink to cool off.
Best Cocktail: Raspberry Lemon Drop
Chelsea LupkinSpeaking of cooling your mouth off, please meet my newest cocktail obsession: the Raspberry Lemon Drop. I actually emailed the restaurant for this sugared-rim recipe—unfortunately, it's under lock and key. This spin on the lemon drop (vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup) adds extra tartness from the raspberry and proves sometimes the simplest recipes are the strongest.
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Best Glamburger: Macaroni and Cheese Burger
Chelsea LupkinIf you've ever had the famous mac and cheese bites from The Cheesecake Factory, you'll know how amazing this burger is. A thick charbroiled patty is topped with creamy fried macaroni and cheese along with a cheddar cheese sauce making it the most indulgent item on the menu.
Best Flatbread Pizza: Bee Sting Flatbread Pizza
Chelsea LupkinMeat lovers: This flatbread is your love language. What makes this one unique are the toppings: Calabrian chiles and honey. The sweet heat cuts through the Italian sausage, pepperoni, and bacon giving it a well-rounded flavor. This is definitely a sharing opportunity; I'd recommend splitting the macaroni and cheese burger with this flatbread.
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Best Entrée: Hibachi Steak
Chelsea LupkinThis should be your go-to order if you want something familiar yet unique at the same time. The hanger steak has the garlic, ginger, and sesame flavors you know and love from hibachi and the wasabi mashed potatoes are to die for. I typically don't bother with the sides; but these fluffy potatoes deserve a shoutout.
Best Pasta: Spicy Rigatoni Vodka
Chelsea LupkinIt's so simple yet so satisfying. Thick rigatoni noodles are tossed in a creamy, spicy vodka sauce with fresh basil and Italian cherry tomatoes to add a dose of freshness to the dish.
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Best Cheesecake: Classic Basque Cheesecake
Chelsea LupkinI know this is what you really came to this article for. I've tried nearly every single cheesecake at this point and the one I always go back to is the classic basque cheesecake. Basque cheesecake was developed in Spain and is known for its rustic look and caramelized exterior.
If you typically go for the classic strawberry, it's time you switch up your routine. The unique burnt top reminds me of a crackly caramelized crème brûlée layer while the cheesecake itself is ultra creamy. If you can't make it to your local Cheesecake Factory, you can make it at home with our recipe.
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