One of the Darden food group’s best properties is Bahama Breeze, a Caribbean-themed, 38-store national chain restaurant. Be prepared to wait for a table, though, as Bahama Breeze seems to be always crowded. Pictured here is one of the best pasta dishes I’ve ever had in North Carolina, Bahama Breeze’s Blackened Chicken Pasta. The cream sauce is somewhat heavy, but isn’t so rich or overwhelmed with garlic that the dish gets monotonous. Add some parboiled asparagus, and you have a delicious entrée.

With the pasta I’ve also selected a photo of the Yaka Hula Hickey Dula, a delicious Hawaii-inspired concoction of pineapple juice, Meyer’s Dark, and Bacardi 151.

Also recommended: Bahama Breeze’s ribs are in my Top 5 of the Triangle.