Barnaby's-Fairview

A funky neighborhood café named after a beloved dead dog and adorned with canine décor (like dog bones nailed to the walls along with paintings of flying pups) could, on the face of it, seem like the overly-earnest attempt of someone to work through the grief process. But the reality is that Barnaby met his maker a long time ago and the namesakes are lively, upbeat diners where inspired variations on comfort food (like meatloaf, buffalo burgers and smoked chicken tostadas) meet friendly service thanks to an often tattooed and body-pierced staff, many of whom have served here for years. Of all the locations, we like this original one the best, even though it's smaller than the others and parking can be bitch.

The salads are so huge that two can share. Or take home what you don't eat for another meal—perfect in the current economy.