Writers Spotlight Restaurants Across Five States

The Backyard of Kalamazoo in Michigan is presented as a relaxed, family-friendly destination where an open lawn, cornhole, picnic tables and a covered patio encourage diners to linger. In Charlottesville, Virginia, Tavola draws repeat visitors with seasonal Italian cooking, handmade pastas, local ingredients and warm service in an intimate Belmont setting. Connecticut’s AJs Steak and Pizza grew from a small Goshen pizza bar into a community gathering place, supported by the Wasdo family and longtime staff and enlivened by events such as karaoke and game nights. Cleveland’s Sachsenheim Hall is described as a memorable date-night spot whose distinctive, warmly eclectic interior is part of its appeal.