📍 Address: 1635 Robson Street, Vancouver

⭐ Stars:⭐⭐⭐ (3)

When it comes to Asian fried chicken, I either make my own karaage, or go to Aberdeen for the huge wings. Then my partner in crime introduces me to Zabu. First thing that caught my eye was the makgeoli. It's pricey at $15 but it comes in the traditional aluminum pots and cups. It also beats home-brewing your own, no need to sterilize bottles and monitor for fermentation. ( yes, that is my summer project ) The food is also pricey, but quite large, so split amongst your companions, it doesn't cost too much in the end. Oh and if you order a full chicken with a pitcher of beer, a plate of pork hock and edamame is available for $1. Their regular fried chicken is crispy on the outside, and juicy inside, but lacks in flavour. It was much better after using the dipping sauce that came with the pork hock. We usually order the spicy chicken, and realized, we shouldn't deviate from what we know is guaranteed good. Why the -1 star? The manager looking man always fidgets with the music and turns it way too loud for an early evening. And the K-pop can get a little annoying after awhile. I actually start humming the music by the time we leave. If you live in the westend, they will also deliver through a third party delivery service.

📍 Address: 32 Church St, Cambridge

⭐ Stars:⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)

I am from Texas so the food here was on par with a decent Tex-Mex chain restaurant. The service was good, the atmosphere was fun, and the food was cheap and filling. I guess you couldn't ask for much more than that in a restaurant.

📍 Address: 931 Monroe Dr NE, Ste C103, Atlanta

⭐ Stars:⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)

Apres Diem, why do you have me so torn? Well, simply put, the food is pretty great and the drink selection is solid. The restaurant is also located next door to the finest arthouse theater in Atlanta, Landmark Midtown Art Cinema. There are several nice tables on the patio, which is perfect for people watching. There are plenty of nice things to say about Apres Diem. Of course, you have to consider the service staff, and that, by far, is the worst part of this restaurant. I've been there more times than can I count, and I would say that about 70% of the time I'm disappointed with the service. At best, the servers here are absent-minded, flighty or forgetful. At worst, they don't exist. Don't go here if your movie starts in less than half an hour. In fact, don't go here if you have scheduled plans. I recommend the restaurant, but it's simply impossible to be timely with it. Go when your post-dinner evening consists of no other plans. A shame, really.

📍 Address: 2144 Johnson Ferry Rd, Atlanta

⭐ Stars:⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)

First visit to a restaurant featuring Indian cuisine. I had passed it several times and finally decided to stop. Sadly, no lunch specials on weekends. Ordered Fish Coconut Curry on a whim with medium spice and was pleasantly surprised. I'm very picky when it comes to fish too. I only wish it had a bit more fish chunks in the sauce. The service was friendly and prompt. Wasn't real busy so the host was playing cashier and waiter as well. I would return but I think I will wait until I know I can make it on a weekday for lunch. The specials seem like a better deal.

📍 Address: 2337 E Burnside St, Portland

⭐ Stars:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5)

Holy Cow Batman! We've been here numerous times for dinner (with an average wait time of 5 minutes- just lucky I guess) but this was a long awaited (and bucket list crossing off'ng) trip to the Screen Door for brunch! The wait wasn't too bad, about 45 minutes so we went next door to the fun little coffee shop and got hot chocolates. We chatted with a few people and the wait went by quickly. Once inside. ... The place is packed with tables and the servers were super busy, but our waiter never let us feel rushed or neglected. He checked on us often and took care of our few requests promptly and cheerfully. The food... (Sorry, one second, a couple tears escaped, I think I'm getting emotional recalling that epicurean bonanza...) We decided to go big and ordered: the Chicken & Waffles (3 perfectly fried and wonderfully seasoned chicken breasts w/ a nice peppery bite PLUS a to-die-for sweet potato Belgium waffle. Yes. I said sweet potato Belgium waffle. Oh man was that good), Biscuits and gravy (wonderfully buttery and soft biscuit smothered in delicious and savory sausage gravy paired w/ 2 perfectly over-medium eggs), breakfast cornbread ( a piece of 'only fair [being honest]' cornbread topped with luscious cream, a dollop of FANTASTIC blueberry compote & cane syrup) and finally a side of cheesy grits (rich creamy with a wonderful cheesy finish). Everything was awesome and perfectly done. Our breakfast was without a doubt the best brunch we've had in ages. Will definitely be back. Now I need a nap...

📍 Address: 901 Front St, Louisville

⭐ Stars:⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)

We stopped by to use the discount coupons and to give them a try. Big mistake. Atmosphere is the worst that I've experienced in many moons. Kids are given "playthings" and are everywhere. The noise level was so high that I would have preferred the passing train noise had it not been raining. The acoustics are awful. Tacos- fish for both of us were the worst. Appeared to be mini frozen filets- tough and tasteless. We ate fast and ran. Too many other choices downtown for similar price.