Padma Lakshmi Takes Us on an Epic Food Tour

Photo by: Michael Flores, R29

What do you look for in a restaurant when you're going to go out?
"Atmosphere is really important. That's why we go out; it's not just for the food. I like restaurants where you can have fun, and there's great atmosphere and it seems lively, but you can actually hear the other person you're with. I want privacy - I want to be seen but not heard at a restaurant."

Stop # 1: Mission Chinese

What makes Mission so good? ... more 

Photo by: Michael Flores, R29

What do you look for in a restaurant when you're going to go out?
"Atmosphere is really important. That's why we go out; it's not just for the food. I like restaurants where you can have fun, and there's great atmosphere and it seems lively, but you can actually hear the other person you're with. I want privacy - I want to be seen but not heard at a restaurant."

Stop # 1: Mission Chinese

What makes Mission so good?
"I just love how so authentic and extreme it is. A lot of restaurants, especially ethnic restaurants, try and do gentle versions of their homestyle food to have a greater audience, but Mission Chinese doesn't do that. I love spicy food, and some of those recipes are even too hot for me. I love that it's gritty and it's about food, and they don't take reservations and they don't care who you are. less