Kelly intimately knows the city’s outsized culinary scene. “New restaurants are opening constantly, it’s hard to keep up,” but unlike some bigger cities, it’s never too hard to get a table, even at the buzziest places. “It’s full of artists and creatives here,” Kelly asserts, “people aren’t afraid to try something new.”

This city is home to some of the country’s best cocktail bars, most storied fine dining establishments, and inventive street food — sometimes all within the same block. The best way to experience New Orleans is to have a robust list of recommendations, and then to be ready to throw them out the window and let the energy of the Big Easy sweep you away.

Spring in Yosemite brings rushing waterfalls and wildflowers. Summer means sightseers from all over the world crowding the valley floor, jostling for the best views. Fall, though, is a quieter time, before the snow fall shuts things down but after the crowds die down.

A city by the sea, defined by its working waterfront and a proud but fading industrial history. A rocky peninsula packed with arts and culture, world-class cuisine, and a few kitchy gift shops for the cruise ship crowd.

It also happens to be our home.

Gregory’s culinary standards are high, but in a fast-paced hospitality scene like DC with endless exceptional options, his recommendations are based as much on vibes as cuisine. He knows you can get an incredible meal in a lot of places, but he gets most excited about how an establishment makes you feel through that enigmatic combination of service, setting, and scene.

Monterey, California is a charming seaside community about 120 miles south of San Francisco. Numerous boutique stores, hotels, and restaurants along the waterfront in Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf make downtown Monterey perfect for a dreamy weekend stroll!