By: Michael Symon

Don Angie (New York City)

I just love this place. The lasagna is epic as is the rest of their food.

La Barbecue (Austin)

For me this is as good as BBQ could possibly be. Great people, amazing food and the brisket will make you weep.

Vetri Cucina (Philadelphia)

If there is a better Italian chef around, I haven’t met them. This is my “last meal” restaurant all day.

Zhug (Cleveland Heights, OH)

Just amazing, thoughtful Israeli and Middle Eastern food. Don’t sleep on the Lamb Hummus!

Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop (Charleston)

Perfect oysters, frozen gin and tonics, and rosé on tap. 'Nuff said.

Playa Provisions (Playa del Rey, CA)

Smart, thoughtful, food from a smart, thoughtful chef with great vegetables galore.

The Publican (Chicago)

My favorite restaurant from the chef who changed the way Chicago ate. Tons of great veggies and a smoked Ham Chop in hay, plus some of the best beers in Chi-Town.

Catch miss back-to-back new episodes of Throwdown with Michael Symon on Tuesday, Dec. 14 and Tuesday, Dec. 21, both at 9:30|8:30c and 10|9c.