I ate at a new-to-me restaurant last night, and just had a good time with a friend. I hadn't been out in ages, between work and all the fun little adventures life brings, and I really needed an evening out to just laugh and drink and enjoy some music. So me and my friend Nancy went to Cheeseburger in Paradise, which sounds pretty darn good to me. We had some yummy mojitos, which we downed like water because they didn't seem to have a lot of alcohol in them, but they were sneaky little devils. I had the St. Bart's Citrus Chicken and Nancy went for the shrimp po' boy sandwich, followed by some yummy chocolate nachos topped with hot fudge, strawberries, and Ben & Jerry's ice cream. (I highly recommend trying those if you've never had them - they are wonderful!) Add that to the conversation about movies, work, weekend plans and lots of hotties, and it was quite an enjoyable evening. Plus there was a live band that sounded great, and fortunately played a lot of different kinds of music, from the Beattles to John Mellencamp. The atmosphere was somewhat tropical, with colored lights to brighten the mid-sized room as it got dark, and there was definitely palm trees and boats and umbrellas to set the tone. It was a nice place, but I think since it's a chain and not a stand-alone, I would describe it more as fast-food carribbean, and I mean that in the nicest possible way.

Currently, my favorite restaurant is The Cheesecake Factory, for several reasons. Their Madeira chicken is to die for, the Godiva Chocolate martinis potent and irresistible, and the cheesecake speaks for itself. From their appetizers (try the Thai wraps) to the main course, I have never had a bad experience - it's all good. I've gone there many times for after-work parties or just out with friends, and had a great time on all those occasions.

A great date restaurant is The Melting Pot, which is all about the fondue. You can go there for a work function or with friends, but I think it goes best with a date. The atmosphere is all about intimacy - sharing a somewhat private booth, with limited interruptions from the staff, and being able to enjoy each other's company gives your the perfect opportunity to talk, wallow in the luscious food and fondue, and focus entirely on each other. Very romantic :) I'll admit that it is a bit pricey, but everything was exceptionally wonderful, and I have no complaints about the experience. Well worth every penny.

So, what's your favorite food and/or restaurant? Any reason that makes it so special?