As the name implies, there is more to a list of the best restaurant dishes of 2013 than just the typical charcuterie platter. For starters, there’s the requisite salads and entrees but there are also notable exceptions to the rule. To name a few, we’ll start with a seafood establishment from New Orleans. This is a city that’s known for its fish but also its braised dishes. The aptly named Peche serves sustainably sourced seafood from the likes of shrimp to crawfish to oysters. Aside from the aforementioned seafood, the list boasts a number of entrées with names such as rabbit cassoulet and chicken and waffles.
Food & Wine Magazine has sifted through the plethora of culinary delights to present us with the top ten list of the year. To round out the list, the editors have compiled a wine list spanning the state of Arizona. It’s not often that you see a list that includes a number of wines from one locale. Among the highlights is a red blend from Sonoita, Arizona called the Dos Cabezas Toscana.
The food is certainly a plus but it’s the wine that makes the experience a memorable one. There’s plenty of choice here and the wine is well matched to the dishes on offer. From the aforementioned oysters to shrimp to charcuterie, Peche offers it all.
The one-Michelin starred Tanoreen serves up a number of noteworthy dishes. While it’s a bit of a drive from Chicago’s Loop, it’s worth the trip. It’s not only a solid choice for a dinner date but it’s also a locals’ favorite. If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, try the 22-ounce ribeye or grilled fish. Fortunately, you’ll have plenty of time to savor the evening because the place closes at midnight.
Other notables include the aforementioned hawt-mimed entrant, the aforementioned shrimp roll, and the aforementioned caviar sized oysters. These aren’t your grandpa’s gyro but you’ll definitely be impressed by the presentation.