The views expressed in this column are the opinion of the writer and not necessarily those of the ownership or management of this newspaper.

We can argue politics or the value of Carlos Boozer to the Utah Jazz – but a more popular (and tasty) argument among Utahns concerns their favorite restaurants. Here’s the Cyclops itinerary for great food in Davis County:

BEST NEW RESTAURANT: An easy choice…Arella Pizzaria in West Bountiful (near the Texas Roadhouse). If you’re a fan of Italian food, you might even call this the best restaurant in Davis County! Prior to Arella’s opening late last year, the only site for authentic Italian thin-crust pizza was Settebello’s in downtown Salt Lake. Arella’s is every bit as good and has a nicer atmosphere. If you feel like trying an exotic pizza, try the signature pie with pears, pecans, and gorgonzola cheese. And splurge for the caprese salad, the best I’ve ever encountered.

BEST TOTAL RESTAURANT: Sego Lily Cafe on Bountiful’s Main Street consistently serves high-end food at lower than high-end prices. The menu is somewhat limited, allowing the chef to focus on making sure meals are prepared correctly and with flair. The owner previously won awards for his Cafe Molise in downtown Salt Lake. The same professionalism is seen here.

BEST HAMBURGER: Sorry Five Guys, but Tonyburgers in Centerville (near Chili’s) beats you by a nose. If you’re not a red meat fan, try the salads, but always order the fries and a shake.

BEST STEAKHOUSE: Texas Roadhouse packs in the customers, but the best steak is served at Corbin’s in Layton. A beautiful environment (ask for a seat near the water wall), the most prized cuts of beef, and daily seafood specials make the restaurant worth its higher-end menu prices.

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT: A co-worker dismisses El Matador’s fare as “gravy” but it remains my favorite. Predictable is not always bad; when I’m in the mood for cheese enchiladas and tacos, Bountiful’s El Matador is my main choice. No one would call it authentic, it doesn’t have the best atmosphere or the most professional service – but, hey, it’s about the food.

BEST MALT OR SHAKE: No fast-service restaurant does better than Arctic Circle. Thick and flavorful – plan your diet tomorrow.

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT: Yes, it’s a chain, but Red Lobster in Layton still serves the most consistently enjoyable meals. Stay away from the fried combos and order from the daily fresh fish menu. (The lobster pizza is still my favorite appetizer in Davis County.)

BEST UNIQUE DESSERT: It sounds strange, but the deep-fried cheesecake at Iggy’s Sports Grill in Layton or Centerville is worth the calories.

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT: I’m not a fan, but readers rule. The majority rave about The Mandarin in Bountiful, so who am I to argue?

If you disagree with my picks, let me know. Now about Carlos Boozer……..