"If you’re looking for all the charm and hospitality of a casual dinner in the South but don’t particularly feel like leaving the Pacific Time Zone, head to Alta Adams. Their versions of Southern classics are great–specifically, the black-eyed pea fritters and the shrimp and grits–and the staff is very friendly and attentive. Book a table on their warmly lit patio and take advantage of the excellent list of cocktails. They’re the right balance of sweet and refreshing, not to mention strong enough to make you forget about that white hair you found on your head this morning." - garrett snyder, sylvio martins