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:

Striped Bass, Philadelphia -- Chef Christopher Lee took the top honor of the James Beard Award in the "Rising Star Chef of the Year" Category (2005)

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. 

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

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