In Good Taste by Candy Duncan: A long-time favorite plus Carson City's latest foody hangout

When I began writing this column about great places to eat in Carson City, I fully intended to make it a monthly endeavor. I think I managed to do three or four columns and then we decided to help run the V&T train on the newly reconstructed track from Gold Hill to Carson City for a few weekends last summer.

That project turned out to be much more complicated than I had imagined, but it was worth it.

While I have been learning how the operations of a tourist railroad work, great dining is still going on here in Carson City and I want to tell you about a couple of my favorite spots.

Garibaldi's is my go-to place for a consistently great meal. I love the brick walled interior, the comfortable booths and the martinis aren't bad either. For lunch I forgo the martini, but I love the Cajun Grilled Shrimp Spinach Salad. It is served over spinach with fresh mozzarella, delectable blackened shrimp, a tasty warm dressing and seasonal berries.

For dinner, (martinis now allowed), I love the Veal Oscar, tender veal toped with crab and lobster and a wonderful Bearnaise-style sauce. It is usually accompanied by pasta and veggie sides, both are always very good. The dinner entrees always include soup or salad, which makes for an affordable night out.

The last time we were there I tried one of owner/chef Mark Claypool's fresh fish specials and I was not disappointed. The evening's special was Opah with a garlic white wine sauce that made me want to literally lick the plate clean. Mark's specials are always very good, as are his appetizers and the garlic bread. Hint: wait for the server to tell you the specials before you decide.

Don't look for a wine list, as Mark has a variety of wines to offer, by the bottle or glass, depending on the menu. Your server will give you some excellent choices.

Save a little room, because the tiramisu is amazing. I mean seriously amazing.

Garibaldi's is located at 301 North Carson Street, 775-884-4574. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., and dinner is served seven nights a week, from 5-9 p.m.

Carson Mall

Believe it or not, the Carson Mall is turning into quite the place for "foodies." Of course the addition of Schott's Bakery has been a huge success, customers are lined up to the door almost every time I go. It is a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach, the cases, walls and racks are filled with delicious looking breads, rolls and pastries. It is also a great place to have lunch, with a choice of several breads, meats and cheeses. I love their turkey sandwiches - real slices of turkey - not that pressed stuff. I have mine on nine-grain bread with smoked Gouda, lettuce and tomato. Very satisfying. They are open 6 a.m.-6 p.m., everyday. 775 888-9090.

One of my favorite travel destinations is Hawaii and thanks to L&L Hawaiian BBQ, I can revisit the Islands anytime I want.

The restaurant is a chain and looks just like the ones in Hawaii with the bright red and yellow surf board logo. They even have copies of the Honolulu Advertiser and Hawaiian music playing, so you can order your plate lunch, (the Hawaiian version of comfort food) grab a copy of the paper and sit at a table and dream of your next visit. A plate lunch consists of two scoops rice, macaroni salad and your choice of entree, barbecued beef, pork, chicken, Mahi Mahi or shrimp.

They also have a healthy plate, which eliminates the macaroni salad and features brown rice and grilled fish and a small salad.

Other Hawaiian favorites include Loco Moco, Lau Lau and Saimin. You can even order Spam and eggs for breakfast.

L&L is located at 1300 S. Stewart St. and is open from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sundays. 775-887-8888.

Other places to try in the mall are Charlie's Fresh Grilled Subs and the Deli Francisco.

Try them out and let me know what you think.

This month's question: If Guy Fieri, host of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" wanted to film in Carson City, where would you send him? I will be looking forward to your answers!

• Candace Duncan is executive director of the Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau. Contact her with local dining recommendations at 687-7410 or candace@visitcarsoncity.com.