Carla Hall's 10 Favorite Restaurants Across the U.S.

by Carla Hall

Updated March 13, 2019

We asked Carla Hall, the queen of soul food, about her favorite restaurants all across the nation. You may know her from her many appearances on Bravo’s Top Chef, or maybe you know her from America’s foodie-themed talkshow The Chew. Regardless of where you know her, the one thing you should know about her is her love for cuisines of all kinds. Lucky us, she filled us in on all her favorite eateries and dishes. You’re sure to find something on this list that’ll satisfy any and all of your cravings. Hootie hoo and happy eating!

Fork - Philadelphia

4.7

4.7 (5122)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Old City

About the restaurant

Innovative and thoughtfully-prepared food that’s approachable in a sophisticated and modern setting. I'm always blown away by the creative vegetarian selections, even though I’m not a vegetarian. Ideal spot for afternoon tea and Sunday brunch. Homemade pastries and granola will have you coming back.

Top review

Christina

Dined 2 days ago

Christmas Eve Seven Fishes dinner was truly spectacular! The newly remodeled restaurant is beautiful, and the ambience was warm and buzzing. Can’t forget the food — which was wonderful. Owner Ellen Yin was there circulating and helping out the staff, which really made the whole night special. Thank you Fork for helping make this year’s Christmas festivities memorable!

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Experience

New Year's Eve 2024

International Smoke San Francisco

4.4

4.4 (2856)

$31 to $50

American

SOMA

About the restaurant

The seafood platter is a must! There’s a whole vegetable section on the menu that’s just as fantastic as the ribs and steaks.

Top review

OpenTable Diner

Dined on Dec 3, 2024

International Smoke house is always a great experience! The food is consistently delicious. The hostess that greeted us was super nice, and we decided to sit at the bar before our dinner, but we ended up staying at the bar and enjoying cocktails and bar bites. It was overall a wonderful experience.

Maypop

4.6

4.6 (1350)

$31 to $50

Southeast Asian

Central Business District

About the restaurant

An eclectic mix of Asian influences, hints of Cajun and sprinklings of Italian. The dim sum brunch is a must! The bibb lettuce salad with chaat spice with a few different dumplings makes for the perfect order. Their homemade, hand-pulled noodles are toothsome and full of flavor.

Top review

Linett

Dined on Dec 10, 2024

Chef was able to accommodate my many food allergies and give me a Grand Tasting menu experience that was truly sensational. Made my remote worker holiday party the talk of my virtual office colleagues. The many recommendations to come here were spot on. My server Grayson was amazing. Overall an exceptional dining experience.

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Experience

Ring in the New Year with Maypop!

Saba Italian Kitchen + Bar - Chicago

4.8

4.8 (699)

$30 and under

Italian

Logan Square

About the restaurant

Great cocktails accompanied by an airy and light decor with a warm atmosphere. Great place for a group, because you must order everything on the menu. The pita and hummus combo is so good, you’ll feel like it’s your first time experiencing this. This place is also great for vegetarians.

Top review

AnnVIP

Dined 4 days ago

Great festive meal for the holidays! Our server was great! Espresso martinis and Cranberry spritz were tasty! Our pastas were delicious. Love the shrimp fettuccine dish!

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4.6

4.6 (654)

$30 and under

Ramen

Shaw

About the restaurant

Shoyu ramen with a spicebomb, egg and corn is so flavorful and craveable. In addition to the ramen, be sure to try their amazing appetizers.

Top review

Qiaoshi

Dined on Dec 5, 2024

It was our second visit! The experience was fantastic just like the first time. Ramen was yummy! And we were lucky to sit by the countertop to witness all the excitements and the heat was real! Highly recommended

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UAE

Dubai

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