Here are some great restaurants and places to eat around Gainesville and Alachua County. My tastes vary, but there is something for everyone here. Bon Appetit!

Dragonfly Sushi and Sake Company: 201 SE 2nd Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601- The best sushi place I know. Extensive menu of innovative cooked and raw sushi, traditional Japanese dishes with a flare, and a great selection of wine, beer and a full bar. You'll love the setting with lots of energy and open kitchen. I love the kitschy Japanese movies in black & white.  Don't miss my favorite desserts- the red bean ice cream or the tempura cheesecake. Winner of the Golden Spoon-three years running! Special events and limited seating VIP room available by reservation. Outdoor and sushi bar seating as well. 352-372-3359.

Paramount Grill is located in the heart of downtown Gainesville at 12 SW 1st Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601. They can be reached at 352-378-3398. Reservations accepted. Paramount is the run by owner Clif Nelson and staffed by the best group in town. Excellent service and the best recommendations make dining here a delight. I love the elegant, yet relaxed setting. I love the flat bread appetizer, berry salad, angus filet and a nice bottle of the Cakebread Chardonnay. Here's their full menu. Also, Sundays offers a superb brunch.

(Photo: the intimate setting at Paramount Grill)

Marks Prime Steakhouse: 201 SE 2nd Avenue, Suite 102, Gainesville, FL  32601. A beautiful setting for some really great food. Start with a great selection of appetizers like blue crab claws or a seared Ahi tuna. Don't skip the salads as the "Original Blue" is not to be missed. Their US Prime steaks are served sizzling and range from the petit filet to my favorite the 16 ounce Ribeye. There are many options besides beef including my mom's favorite, Wood Grilled Salmon. All sides are served family style. Try their new piano bar or their many private dining options available for meetings or special events. Full bar and large wine list. Mark's can be reached at 352-336-0077.

Rocky used to have a place in Gainesville. Now his famous ribs are known throughout Alachua County and can be found at Newberry's Backyard BarBQ. Just a short 15 minute drive from West Gainesville, his spare ribs are worth the trip. Start with his footlong onion rings and then try his special smoked turkey or better yet bring some friends and splurge for "The Newberry Feast for Four" and try it all! They're located at 25405 West Newberry Rd. • Newberry, FL 32669. Open for lunch, but closed Sundays.

When I get the chance and happen to be in Williston, I head for the Ivey House. Williston is a growing area and I worked with a gentleman who bought a house not far from the restaurant. I love their raspberry tea. Great fried shrimp and real home cooking. You can also enjoy their gift shop. The setting is very relaxed. You feel like your visiting some friends as you dine in a rambling Southern house. They're located at 106 North Main Street, Williston FL 32696. You can't miss it, but just in case~ 352-528-5410. Ivey House is now open in Alachua too!

I told you this list was going to be eclectic. Here is the best pizza in town: Leonardo's Pizza of Millhopper. It is actually located at the corner of NW 16th Blvd and NW 43rd Street. Chicago style pizza with really thick crust, amazing sauce and generous toppings all under lots of cheese. I love the the Big Leo. They have a real down to earth approach: this is great pizza and you came here to eat well. They're located at 4131 NW 16th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32605. Order to go at 352-376-2001.

Leonardos 706-

The Wine & Cheese Gallery-

The Top-

Satchel's Pizza-