Living in Modesto, here's what I'd recommend:
Best Italian: Benni's (great Italian in a converted Foster Freeze) Best Mexican: El Ranchito (Riverbank, 8 miles away) Best Hamburger in a Bar: Monaco's Special Meal: (Both of these are an hour out of town)
Wente Bros Winery (Livermore) or City Hotel (Columbia)
Best Coffee House: Diva's
Feel free to ask me further if you wish!California