RESTAURANTS TO CHECK OUT IN 2012
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China Poblano at the Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas
www.chinapoblano.com
What brings Mexico and China together? You could start with the Spanish galleons that first sailed the Pacific in 1565 in the reign of King Philip II. Along with the lucrative trade in silk and silver, they brought Asian spices and fruit to Mexico, and New World peppers to the Middle Kingdom of China. They also brought the legend of an Asian girl kidnapped by pirates and shipped to Mexico, known as La China Poblana.
Nobuo At Teeter House - Phoenix
www.nobbuofukuda.com
Refined Asian-style teahouse by day, funky izakaya by night: Nobuo at Teeter House reflects the fascinating duality of Nobuo Fukuda. 2011 James Beard Foundation Best New Restaurant Semifinalist.
Wazuzu - Encore Hotel, Las Vegas
www.wynnlasvegas.com/dining/wazuzu
What’s up at Wazuzu? Simply the delectably innovative Pan-Asian cooking of rising star Chef Jet Tila. This dramatic café showcases his deft touch with Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Singaporean and Thai cuisines. Wazuzu is located at Encore
Zocolo - Sacramento
www.zocalosacramento.com
It's Hip to be Square.
Inspired by the majestic public square of the same name in Mexico City, Zocalo is more than just a jazzy title for a modern-yet-authentic Mexican eatery: It relates a contemporary extension of Mexico's proud heritage and distinct culture.
Bottega - Yountville - Napa Valley
www.botteganapavalley.com/index.html
Michael Chiarello steps back into his clogs at Bottega Restaurant in Yountville, California, in the heart of the Napa Valley. Bottega, "artist's workshop," will serve as Chiarello's own craftsman's kitchen, from which he celebrates deep culinary roots
Epic Roasthouse - San Francisco
www.epicroasthouse.com
Chef Jan Birnbaum has broadened the steak house experience to include a new level of culinary sophistication while maintaining the classic comfort and elegance of a traditional steak house meal. The food is deep, soulful, and resonant with exciting sparks of contrast. Entering Epic Roasthouse, guests will be greeted by the sights of working chefs on a state of the art exhibition line. Chef Birnbaum will preside over a custom-built wood-fired grill and a large wood-burning oven, which, along with a spectacular fireplace, will serve as the design focal point of the restaurant.
Maverick - San Francisco
www.sfmaverick.com
Maverick serves Dinner nightly and Brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Our kitchen focuses on regional American cuisine using as much organic produce and sustainable meats and fish as possible. It is our goal to serve you the best possible product at the best price all with style and grace.
ABC Kitchen, New York City
www.abckitchennyc.com
2011 James Beard Foundation -Restaurant Semifinalist, abc kitchen with jean-georges passionately committed to offering the freshest organic & local ingredients possible.
Grange Restaurant - Sacramento
www.grangesacramento.com
Grange is a culinary expression of all things local, reflecting the authentic essence and soul of its community. Service is warm, friendly, and embracing at Sacramento's premiere dining destination. With an intimate atmosphere of urban sophistication, Grange is the quintessential Sacramento restaurant experience.
Staple & Fancy Mercantile, Seattle
www.ethanstowellrestaurants.com/stapleandfancy
Staple & Fancy highlights Ethan’s simple Italian-inspired food and offers innovative à la carte Staple choices in addition to a chef’s choice Fancy menu: a multi-course feast of seasonal dishes crafted by Ethan just for your table. Willing to put your dining experience in the hands of the chef? You will not be disappointed
Prospect, San Francisco
www.prospectsf.com
One of 2010's most highly anticipated openings, Prospect is the more casual concept from the team behind SanFrancisco's acclaimed Boulevard. Partners Nancy Oakes,Pam Mazzola, and Kathy King, together with Executive Chef Ravi Kapur, have created a convivial venue that pays tribute to contemporary American cuisine. Whether it's a cocktail and a bite at the bar, a casual meal at the communal table, or a relaxed dinner in the main dining room, guests can enjoy the full menu and exceptional service.