"TD" is not a person but a team (Telly and Deanna), who created an award-winning Southern California eatery. Telly started in the restaurant business at the tender age of 4, when he peeled potatoes at his Greek mother Helen's famous place called, "Nick's." Deanna, Telly's partner in business and life, shares his love of the food biz, having started out as a waitress at the legendary Arthur's. She has lived in four houses in Downey since the 1960s. Together, TD sizzle because of their knowledge of great local eats, their chemistry in the kitchen and their genuine love of customers--always taking time to listen and truly care about their guests. They listened to our question, and even though there are many fine food facilities in Downey, here's what they said are 10 of their favorites.

1. CHRIS & PITTS, 9243 Lakewood Blvd.
"The BBQ Pork Ribs & Top Sirloin Steak are fantastic!"

2. EL TACO, 7665 Firestone Blvd.
"Best Quesadillas, red or green."

3. STOX, 9518 Imperial Highway
"Bacon and eggs; diced ham and eggs."

4. MAUI SUSHI & TERIYAKI, 9230 Lakewood Blvd.
"Big Bear Roll and Downey Roll."

5. MARISA'S, 11949 Paramount Blvd.
"Beef & Bean Burrito"

6. PLAZA GUADALAJARA, 8200 Third St.
"Love the Wet Green Burrito"

7. GRANATA'S ITALIAN VILLA, 11032 Downey Ave.
"Delicious Lasagna, with meat sauce, ricotta and mozzarella"

8. DIPPITY DONUTS, 9512 Firestone Blvd.
"Bearclaws and Banana Nut Muffins"

9. PINA PIZZA, 11102 Paramount Blvd.
"Get the Pastrami Pizza with mustard, pickles, tomato and cheese"

10. ARTHUR'S, 8813 Lakewood Blvd.
"'Arthur's OJ' with fresh squeezed orange juice and homemade biscuits and gravy"

Downey Dining

Downey is home to the the oldest surviving McDonald's building shown in photo, located at 10207 Lakewood Blvd. Built in 1953 as the third franchised McDonald's, it is on the National Trust for Historic Preservation. It was one of the first restaurants franchised by Dick and Mac McDonald and still has the original Golden arches and a 60-foot animated neon Speedee sign. Very cool!

Downey is also home to the first Taco Bell, opened by Glen Bell on Mar. 21, 1962.

Downey has one of three remaining Chris & Pitts BBQ restaurants. Once a larger chain, most outlets have closed.