The Top 5's

I'm not big into rankings but it's something I get asked a lot and a topic that aways sparks a good debate. There also is no right or
wrong answer since it is based on personal experience and preference.  Below I have listed some of my favorite places. My criteria for
ranking is completely unscientific and totally subjective. I also am only including places I have personally visited. In many cases the
difference between the top ranked place and the 5th might not be a big gap. Basically if a place made the ranking it's very good in my
opinion. Also in some categories I will not list 5 but it will be updated as I try more and more places. In fact these rankings could and
will change over time so please check back. In parenthesis I have listed the previous ranking, kind of like the college football rankings.
Pizza

Pizza is probably the most controversial topic in the New York
area. I grew up in a New York suburb with a heavy Italian
influence. Therefore I like a traditional thin crust that can be
folded without breaking, unlike that of a coal oven pizza for
example. I also don't buy into the marketing gimmick that NYC
water makes better pizza.

1. Cacciatori Pizzeria, Mahopac, NY
2. Portofino Pizzeria, Bridge, NY
3. Frank Pepe's, New Haven, CT
4. Gino's, Mahopac, NY
5. Gino's East, Chicago, IL
Bagels

Here's the second most controversial food topic in New York.
Again, I don't play into the NYC water with bagels either. I think
my preferences are pretty traditional. A nice crusty exterior with a
soft doughy center.

1. Astoria Bagels, Astoria, NY
2. Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Co, Astoria, NY
3. Hopewell Hot Bagels, Hopewell Junction, NY
4. Strathmore Bagels of Somers, Somers, NY
5. The Bagel Shoppe, Fishkill, NY
BBQ

For this topic unfortunately you have to travel outside of the
Northeast. So far I've only experienced Texas BBQ so this list is
still in progress. I hope to try Memphis BBQ sometime soon.

1. Angelos Barbecue, Fort Worth, TX
2. Salt Lick B B Q, Dripping Springs, TX
3.
4.
5.
Burger

One of my personal favorites, the burger. It's an American classic
and when done right it is one of the most satisfying meals.

1. Redamaks, New Buffalo, MI
2. Corner Bistro, New York, NY
3. Blazer Pub, Somers NY
4. Jackson Hole, Astoria, NY
5. Raccoon Saloon, Marlboro, NY
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