1. Table 8 in Los Angeles. "I love chef Govind Armstrong’s take on California food. Plus, it’s a quiet place to have a conversation after going to an art exhibit."

2. Pastis in New York City. "One of Thelma’s favorite places. I go for the salade niçoise and croque-monsieur."

3. 5 Ninth in New York City. "I always get Zak Pelaccio’s whole sea bass steamed with a cilantro-chile paste."

4. St. John Bread and Wine in London. St. John features overlooked cuts of meat like duck hearts, but Samuelsson especially likes the superfresh fish. "The last time I was there I had a perfect skate with brown butter and lemon."

5. The Restaurant at the Raleigh in Miami Beach. "I order the gazpacho and the tuna tacos. It’s very Miami Beach, with tables outside near the pool."