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Tough one but I think I have to go with Art Smith. The waterworks will surely come when he talks in his keynote about how proud his mom would be of him for being chosen by XYZ charity and the donations will roll right in. That would be a big wallet opener for me. Art Smith all the way!

They just opened up a Burdick's on 20th in the old Fleur de Sel space. I haven't been yet but the hot chocolate in their Boston location is AMAZING.

Ushi is on vacation the first half of this week so try calling again maybe Thurs. Chef/owner Hideo needs to rest sometime.

In terms of atmosphere Ushi is very casual and laid back which I like but if you're looking for something fancier try either 15e or Azabu. Between those two I prefer Azabu for better service and perceived value on the same check. If you're on a 1980s style expense account Karuma is your place.

Yasuda is simply a straight forward classic. If you haven't been you must try at least once. If available request to sit in front of Yasuda himself, good time guaranteed.

Jessica Schupak
www.whatssheeatingnow.com

There are three books missing from the above:

The Tummy Trilogy by Calvin Trillin (its actually a collection of three shorter works). Its perhaps my favorite book of all time. Its a beautifully written memoir of all of Trillin's most important relationships told through stories about food.

Cooked by Chef Jeff Henderson. In addition to a work about food and climbing the ranks in the culinary world its a story about personal growth and triumph over adversity. His is an unusual journey and a good read.

Setting the Table by Danny Meyer. Some people classify this as more of a business book but Meyer's business philosophy is explained in a chronological and autobiographical manner that also qualifies it as a memoir in my opinion and its a great read.