We were dubious about trying pizza from a shack. However, we were pleasantly surprised by how all around terrific Mary’s Pizza Shack in Rohnert Park, California, is. The decor was vintage kitchen, our waiter was a half-empty-time-for-a-refill optimist, the food was delicious and the prices just right. Our only regret was we didn’t get to go again and try the meatballs that we heard were also great. When do we get one in Wisconsin? View photos…

It’s girl’s night out and Bessie knows what this crowd likes – Pizza! We went to a favorite local place, Marty’s Pizza, for their delicious cheesy garlic bread. Also, we had a wonderful pepperoni and sausage pizza teaming with toppings. We rounded off the evening with Beatles’ Rock Band – too bad you missed it! View photos…

Bessie and the pizza-eating gang headed out to a Milwaukee favorite, Balisteri’s Italian American Ristorante. The restaurant is in a quaint old building with tin ceiling and all. It’s also smoke-free, which is a big plus for me. The most important part, of course, is the food. The garlic bread was wonderfully cheesy and balances the garlic and butter perfectly. The pizza is a wonderful value, very delicious and just the right size for four hungry people. Afterwards, we took a quick drive down to Gilles for our now traditional ice cream dessert. View photos…