Hi,
I am looking for a great American cook, also (while eating out). Before I retired I traveled all around the US and was surprised when I occasionally ate a great meal (very seldom). So many eating establishments open and because they need a complete menu they add all kinds of "medicore stuff".
If you get any offers, ask them to describe a great hamburger, a great hot dog, etc.
I will never forget when I walked in a new hot dog place locally. I spoke with the young owner and he was talking about his plans for more shops. I ordered a chili dog. Yawk. The worst thing I ever ate. The chili was like (hard to image) a thick tomato soup). I was thinking I would get a great hot dog like I experienced once in Detroit, or a great one in a dive in Kansas City. But this HOT DOGer cared more about his plans than his food.
If you ever get your cook and shop, let me know. I will fly over (at no cost to you, obviously) and sample and critique the food.
Bob