Rosemary Fries at Michael Symon's Roast in Detroit, Michigan

Thankfully the servings are generous. I couldn't stop.

Sweet potato fries at Zingerman's Roadhouse in Ann Arbor, MI

This was like one and a half whole potatoes, rough cut, crisped (I suspect also grilled for a bit) with SKIN ON! Best I've ever had. Ever. In life.

Panna Cotta at Graffiato in Washington, DC

Chocolate, a thin layer of salted caramel topped with candied pretzel bits. Loved the approach of the flavor combo. The pretzel didn't work for me (texture). Chef Mark Isabella (Top Chef All Star).

Popeye's Pizza at Graffiato in Washington, DC

12 inch wood fired oven pie with a great thin, crispy crust. Perfect amount of char. Spinach, bacon strips, tomato, mozzarella, mushrooms...I added white anchovy. I'm not ashamed to say that I ate the entire thing. Chef Mark Isabella (Top Chef All Star)

Brussel sprouts at Graffiato in Washington, DC

With pancetta, maple, yogurt: Chef Mark Isabella (Top Chef All Star)

Baked Macaroni at Vidalia in Washington, DC

Yum! Tender curly noodles, chunks of ham swimming in a light creamy cheese (is that possible?) and finished with crumbly toasted top. Can easily feed two folks.

Roast Pork Loin at Vidalia in Washington, DC

This place has been on my "must-eat" list for a while. I'd describe it as cosmopolitan Southern cuisine. This good looking dish came out hot but a bit salty.

Breakfast Sandwich at Max & Erma's Restaurant in Detroit, MI

Not bad for breakfast at the airport. Scrambled eggs, bacon and cheese on English Muffin. Breakfast potatoes and fruit cup.

Candy Canes at Food Dance in Kalamazoo, MI

Chocolate filled! Need I say more?

carne asada at El Gallo Blanco in Kalamazoo, MI

Lots of thinly sliced, tender steak. Refried beams and rice. Yum!

Pollo Adobado at El Gallo Blanco in Kalamazoo, MI

Chicken marinated in adobe sauce. Refried beans. Mexican rice. Salad (lettuce, tomato, avocado). Had corn tortillas on the side. Great meal.

Cobb Salad at Summer Thyme Cafe in Kalamazoo, MI