"You’re planning a group dinner with your friend who likes to yell when he tells stories for dramatic effect and another friend who snorts when she laughs. Skip the quiet tucked-away joint and head for Ranch 616, which expects you to enjoy yourself at full volume. The Texas-style menu is heavy on fried things, like crispy oysters, calamari and fish tacos, and there’s no shortage of red meat. For a nightcap (or a night starter), get the Fire in the Hole shot, which is served inside a fresh jalapeño. " - adele hazan, nicolai mccrary