Everyone loves eating out from time to time, even if they do not mention it. By restaurants, I am not talking about McDonald’s, Hardees, Burger King, Arbies and all of those other ones, which seem to be “popular.”  I’m talking about real, amazing restaurants that you must visit at least once in your lifetime!

8. Acacia – Chef Dale Reitzer, Richmond, VA

Photo Credit: Abllo™

This restaurant is located at 2601 W. Cary St. sitting at the corner of Robinson and Cary streets in Richmond’s Fan district. The owners, Aline and Chef Dale Reitzer continue to grow their tradition of fine cuisine that they have been perfecting for ten years. The menu has some of the freshest, highest quality food you will ever have.

7. Marcellino Ristorante – Chef Marcellino Verzino, Phoeniz, AZ

Photo Credit: Satya W

This is the real deal here. It is an Italian cuisine that does not require an eleven hour flight or a passport. Chef Marcellino has opened up restaurants in Abruzzo and Calabria. He has cooked on the Island of Poros, which is in Greece. He has also owned a trendy bistros in Rome. He received a highly coveted rating of Excellence from the New York Times.

6. Emeril’s – Emeril Lagasse, New Orleans, LA

Photo Credit: Thomas Hawk

I am sure you have heard of Emeril Lagasse before. His name is pretty big on the Food Network and when you look in the spice aisle, you will find his popular spices. Well, now, you can have him personally cook your food!