Dumb Idea and Dumber Idea......the Tale of the Tape

Dumb Idea-
So, 6 months ago I quit smoking.
I figured I'd gain weight doing it.
After 3 months or so, I went from about 170 to 180ish
Dumber Idea-
So, we decided to join the new gym down the street
Now, after several months of free weights I am......
190 pounds!!!!
I can benchpress 200 lbs, curl 100 lbs, but going up in weight instead of down.

So today starts the diet. No strict Atkins, South Beach, etc. Just cutting out the bread, pasta, potatoes & sugar and see where we go. I go to the gym 5-6 days a week, but will do more aerobics than the past.

The Tape

When I was Smoking, After 6 months of not Smoking

Waist 34" , 37"

Belly 35" , 39"

Chest 40" , 42"

Weight 172 lbs , 190 lbs.

At least the Chest increase is because of the gym. I used to only benchpress a 12 pack.

What is my goal? I don't know numberwise.
I just want to fit back into my 34" jeans, without muffin top and have my Chest stick out further than my belly.

Any other diet advice?