Isn’t it just so exciting when a close friend, loved one or family member is venturing to one of your favorite places. First thought: so many great places to go.

Google Maps has a gem of a feature, which goes largely untold and it’s the very best way to share your favorite things to do in a city…. Open up Google Maps and tap the top menu to bring up the screen below….

Once you’ve tapped “My Places” you’ll find the screen below, go to “Saved” where you can tap the “+” sign to add a new “My Places” list, such as “Best NYC restaurant recommendations”….

If you don’t, or you’re on the go, we’ll cover a way to add places as you move around below….

A screen similar to the one below will pop up. Next, tap the name of the location again.

In the additional options (below), you’ll find the “Save” button, where you can save the location to a specific list you’ve created, or make a new one. Repeat over and over, until your list is complete….

Perhaps the coolest feature here, is that you can share the entire list, and map. with anyone-instantly.

We started a list of our favorite NYC bars and restaurants for this post, so we’ll share it with you right here to see first hand. Enjoy.

Thanks to the nice guys behind GastroGays.com for showing me this cool trick a while back.

Thoughts Food+Drink. Kelly Carlson, photos by Andrea Paulseth | May 31, 2023.

Treat yourself and your partner or friend to a night of good conversation and great food, suggested by this Chippewa Valley local. (Pictured is Lucette’s Brewing Co.).

Date night is a chance to connect and laugh with your partner while pretending you’re out at a high-end restaurant in New York or enjoying that small-town joint you’ll never get sick of. Need an excuse to try somewhere new.

These are my top seven restaurants in the Valley for date night (in no particular order). 2426 London Rd., E.C.

The ambiance provided by soft, traditional Japanese music envelops your eating experience, Tokyo Japanese Restaurant specializes in a few mouth-watering eats that are always a knock-out. 405 Water St., E.C.

With to-die-for skillets, extra creamy crépes, some of the best mochas in town, and a separate vegan menu, The Nucleus Café has me and my partner wrapped around its finger. I’ll always join the wait list for fun staff and community clamoring with joy around you while you enjoy your own Crunch Wrap Supreme, E.C.

910 Hudson Rd., Menomonie. This place just simply shouldn’t be as good as it is.

Lucette’s makes me remember I actually love pizza. Or maybe it’s just Lucette’s.

THE BEST VEGGIE BURGER I’VE EVER HAD. Seriously.

The drinks are custom and the truffle fries. Get out of here (and go to Sheeley House Saloon).

Barstow St., E.C. This place is all about the atmosphere.

The food is great, and the drinks are even better. It’s quiet and just the right spot for a simple night.

Akame not only has all-you-can-eat sushi, but it also has my favorite food of the Valley: vegetable fried rice. Truly the best, it’s got all the onions, broccoli, and carrots cooked to perfection that makes my vegetarian heart flutter.

2161 Eastridge Center, E.C. Let’s face it: this one is for the girls.

Treat yourself and your friends to a dinner (or brunch. ) worth the buzz.

My last hot take: I’ve never been to some of the “classic” or more popular Valley eateries (including Mona Lisa’s, Silly Serrano Mexican Restaurant, or The Eau Claire Cheese & Deli). None of us are perfect.

Where is your go-to date night spot.