Greater Philadelphia natives are passionate about many things, including food. 

• Authentic tamales, homemade pasta, exquisite sushi -- it's all here. 
• Small, intimate BYOs abound.
• Local open-air markets tout "buy local, eat fresh."

Here is just a taste of some of the regions culinary stars:

Amada, Philadelphia -- Chef Jose Garces has established himself a leader in creating modern interpretations of Latin cuisines.

La Croix, Philadelphia -- Savor the culinary creations of Executive Chef Matthew Levin, as he incorporates his past experiences with international cuisine combining Spanish, Portuguese, Thai, Japanese, and American flavors to create his own infusion.

Morimoto, Philadelphia -- Chef Masaharu Morimoto, star of television's popular cooking show Iron Chef, creates contemporary Japanese cuisine in his ultra-chic restaurant, Morimoto.

Rats, Central New Jersey -- Anyone longing for a visit to a historic European village, but without the time or means to get there, may satisfy their craving with a visit to a new restaurant with the unlikely name of Rat's.

The Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia, is one of the oldest farmer's markets in the United States with an astounding selection of baked goods, meats, poultry, seafood, produce, flowers, ethnic foods, cookware and ethnic restaurants. 

The Green Room at the Hotel DuPont, Wilmington, Delaware  -- It's a tough decision...the Porcini-Dusted Veal Porterhouse or the Cumino-Dusted Tuna Medallion?