Jess & Jim's Steak House   

When Jess and Jim's Steakhouse opened in 1938, it was way outside the city. But the restaurant's founders figured that high-quality steaks served by a friendly waitstaff would make the drive worthwhile. More than 60 years later, the restaurant still lives up to that test. Jess and Jim's continues to be worth a drive (though you won't see as much countryside as folks did on the way to the restaurant in 1938). The steakhouse serves certified Black Angus beef, which is cut into generous portions in house, ensuring fresh, flavorful steaks. And don't miss the loaded baked potatoes. The huge spuds would make a great meal in themselves, if only the grilled steaks weren't so good. If it's your first time at Jess and Jim's, consider ordering the Playboy Strip steak. The restaurant put the 25-ouncer on the menu after writer Calvin Trillin brought the steakhouse national fame with a 1972 Playboy article. The filet mignon is also especially good. -- Anna Foote