Devin Jacobs
Sure, the popular spots have their charm, but what about those lesser-known gems that make your taste buds dance? You know, the kind of places that locals rave about, but tourists haven’t entirely caught onto yet. We’re diving into the culinary underworld of each state, unearthing restaurants that are just as spectacular as the big names—only with shorter lines and a lot more character.
Alabama: The Bright Star
In the small town of Bessemer, The Bright Star is an old-school eatery. Established in 1907, it’s the oldest family-owned restaurant in Alabama. Specializing in Greek-style seafood, this spot serves mouthwatering dishes like snapper throats and Greek-style beef tenderloin. The warmth of Southern hospitality paired with the Mediterranean twist on classic dishes makes The Bright Star shine brightly in Alabama’s culinary scene.
Alaska: The Saltry
Accessible only by boat, this hidden gem is more of an adventure than just a meal. Surrounded by the pristine waters of Kachemak Bay, The Saltry serves up fresh seafood with a view that could easily be mistaken for a postcard. The menu changes with the tide, but the smoked salmon and seafood chowder are local legends. It’s rustic, it’s remote, and it’s so worth the journey.
Arizona: The Stockyards
Sure, Arizona is known for its Mexican cuisine, but The Stockyards in Phoenix offers a taste of the Old West that’s hard to beat. The interior feels like a step back into a time when cowboys ruled the land, with dark wood paneling, leather booths, and vintage photographs adorning the walls. But it’s not all about the meat—The Stockyards also serves up delicious seafood and decadent desserts.
Arkansas: The Pantry
In the heart of Little Rock, The Pantry is a European-inspired bistro that feels like a warm hug from your favorite relative. It’s a place where you can indulge in the comfort food of Central Europe, with dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, and Hungarian goulash. Don’t forget to save room for dessert—their homemade cheesecake is the stuff of legends.
California: The Kitchen
This farm-to-fork restaurant turns dinner into a theatrical event. Chefs prepare your meal right in front of you, explaining each step with a side of humor and charm. The food list is seasonal, but you can always expect innovative dishes made with the freshest local ingredients. It’s an interactive dining experience that’s equal parts entertaining and delicious.
Colorado: The Fort
Specializing in frontier cuisine, this restaurant offers a taste of the Wild West with a gourmet twist. Think bison, quail, and even rattlesnake prepared in ways that would make a pioneer proud. The adobe-style building and rustic decor make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The Fort is a true Colorado treasure, offering a dining experience that’s as wild as the West.
Connecticut: The Place
This outdoor restaurant is about simplicity—just you, a wooden picnic table, and some of the best-grilled seafood you’ve ever tasted. The menu is short but sweet, featuring clams, lobster, and corn on the cob, all cooked over an open fire. There’s no indoor seating, no fancy decor, just the sound of crackling wood and the smell of seafood.
Delaware: Blue Moon
Housed in an impeccably restored Victorian home, this restaurant offers an eclectic menu that’s as colorful as its decor. From the crab cakes to the duck confit, every dish is prepared with an eye for detail and a flair for the dramatic. The atmosphere is lively, with frequent drag shows and live performances. It’s a place where you can enjoy a gourmet meal and be thoroughly entertained at the same time.
Florida: Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen
Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen has served some of the best comfort food in the Florida Keys since 1976. With its retro decor, mismatched chairs, and license plates covering the walls, it’s a place that doesn’t take itself too seriously—except when it comes to the food. The menu uniquely blends Southern classics and island favorites with dishes like conch chowder, fried green tomatoes, and key lime pie.
Georgia: The Grey
The Grey in Savannah is a restaurant that’s as much about the experience as it is about the food. The Grey has become a must-visit spot for foodies with its Art Deco design and a menu that pays homage to Southern classics. The dishes here are a creative blend of Southern tradition and modern innovation, with highlights like smoked catfish, country pasta, and the famous fried chicken sandwich.
Hawaii: Mama’s Fish House
On the north shore of Maui lies Mama’s Fish House. Their menu celebrates fresh, locally sourced seafood, with dishes like macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi and ahi poke that highlight the best of Hawaiian flavors. Each fish is caught daily by local fishermen and prepared with care, making every bite an authentic taste of the islands. Mama’s Fish House is where Hawaii’s culinary heritage comes to life.
Idaho: Fork
Fork in Boise is all about “loyal to local,” with a menu that showcases the best of Idaho’s farm-fresh produce and regional ingredients. Whether it’s the grilled Idaho trout, the legendary asparagus fries, or the huckleberry cheesecake, every dish is a tribute to the state’s agricultural bounty. The rustic-chic decor with reclaimed wood and cozy lighting makes the spot warm and inviting.
Illinois: The Berghoff
The Berghoff in Chicago provides a taste of old-world Germany in a city known for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs. With its wood-paneled walls, stained glass windows, and steins of house-brewed beer, The Berghoff feels like a step back in time. The menu has classic dishes like schnitzel, sauerbraten, and Bavarian pretzels, all prepared with the kind of care and tradition that’s rare to find.
Indiana: Bluebeard
Named after a story by Kurt Vonnegut, this spot in the historic Fletcher Place neighborhood has an adventurous and approachable menu. Its dishes focus on locally sourced ingredients and range from small plates like pork belly with pickled watermelon to hearty mains like duck confit with sweet potato gnocchi. Bluebeard is where foodies discover something new and exciting in the heart of Indy.
Iowa: The General Store Pub
This rustic pub, housed in a building dating back to 1897, serves classic American fare with a side of small-town charm. From the juicy burgers to the tenderloin sandwiches, every dish is made with love and a touch of nostalgia. The real draw, though, is the setting—diners can enjoy their meal on the deck overlooking the river, where the only sounds are the water rushing by and the occasional clink of a glass.
Kansas: The Cozy Inn
If you’re in Salina, Kansas, and craving a burger, there’s only one place to go: The Cozy Inn. The menu is simple—just burgers with or without onions—but the simplicity makes them so special. The Cozy Inn is all about tradition, with a tiny counter where you can watch the burgers sizzle on the grill, filling the air with the mouthwatering smell of onions.
Kentucky: Wallace Station Deli
Wallace Station Deli is a charming roadside stop that’s become a local legend. Its menu contains hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and house-baked desserts perfect for a post-ride meal. The Big Brown, a twist on the classic Kentucky Hot Brown, is a must-try, with layers of turkey, ham, bacon, and tomato smothered in a rich mornay sauce.
Louisiana: Cochon
The menu at Cochon is a carnivore’s dream, with offerings like smoked pork ribs, fried alligator, and the restaurant’s namesake cochon, a slow-roasted pork dish that’s melt-in-your-mouth good. The wood-fired oven adds a smoky depth to the dishes, while the casual, laid-back vibe makes you feel at home. Cochon is where you go to experience Louisiana’s bold, robust flavors.
Maine: The Lost Kitchen
The Lost Kitchen is one of the most sought-after dining experiences in the country. This farm-to-table restaurant, located in a restored 19th-century mill, is the brainchild of chef Erin French, who creates seasonal, locally sourced menus that highlight the best of Maine’s produce. The views of the surrounding woods offer an intimate setting for a meal. Reservations are made through a postcard lottery, adding to the mystique of this hidden gem.
Maryland: Woodberry Kitchen
This place is a true pioneer of the farm-to-table movement. Every dish celebrates Maryland’s culinary heritage, from the wood-fired oysters to the Chesapeake Bay blue crab. The rustic, industrial decor, with exposed brick walls and wooden beams, adds to the cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Woodberry Kitchen is where Baltimore’s foodies go to enjoy a meal that’s as thoughtful as it is delicious.
Massachusetts: The Clam Box
It is an iconic roadside shack shaped like—you guessed it—a clam box that has been serving golden, crispy seafood since 1935. The clams are the star here, lightly breaded and fried to perfection, but you’ll also find a variety of other seafood delights, from scallops to haddock. The no-frills atmosphere, with picnic tables outside and the salty air from the nearby coast, is charming.
Michigan: Zingerman’s Delicatessen
Known for its high-quality ingredients and artisanal approach, Zingerman’s Delicatessen offers a menu of hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and mouthwatering baked goods. The Reuben piled high with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese on rye, is a must-try, but the menu is full of delicious options. The atmosphere is lively and eclectic, with shelves lined with gourmet products and a friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Minnesota: The Bachelor Farmer
Tucked away in the North Loop of Minneapolis, The Bachelor Farmer is a Scandinavian-inspired restaurant that focuses on fresh, local ingredients and simple, elegant flavors. While the menu varies with the seasons, you can expect dishes celebrating the region’s Nordic roots, from house-made gravlax to roasted root vegetables. The cozy, minimalist decor, with exposed brick walls and vintage furniture, adds to the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Mississippi: The Little Dooey
In Starkville, Mississippi, The Little Dooey is a barbecue joint that’s big on flavor and Southern hospitality. This family-owned restaurant has been serving tender, smoky barbecue, and it’s become a local favorite for its laid-back vibe and mouthwatering dishes. Their ribs and pulled pork are the stars of the show, slow-cooked to perfection and served with a side of tangy, homemade sauce.
Missouri: Bluestem
Bluestem in Kansas City is a unique dining experience in a city known for its barbecue. This fine dining restaurant, helmed by James Beard Award-winning chefs, offers a menu of contemporary American cuisine concentrating on locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques. The tasting menus are a culinary journey, with dishes that showcase the best of the region’s produce and protein, from roasted duck to heirloom vegetables.
Montana: The Silk Road
The Silk Road’s menu spans continents, with small plates highlighting flavors from Asia, Africa, the Mediterranean, and beyond. Whether it’s the Moroccan-spiced lamb, the Thai green curry, or the Spanish patatas bravas, every dish is an adventure in flavor. The eclectic decor, with colorful textiles and artifacts from around the world, appeals to explorers.
Nebraska: The Drover
Located In Omaha, The Drover is a steakhouse with a reputation for serving some of the best whiskey-marinated steaks in the country. The star of the menu is the whiskey-marinated ribeye, aged to perfection and grilled over an open flame, but you’ll also find other hearty dishes like prime rib and pork chops. The dimly lit, wood-paneled dining room adds to the old-school charm.
Nevada: Lotus of Sia
In the land of glitzy casinos, Lotus of Siam in Las Vegas is a hidden gem that specializes in authentic Thai cuisine. This unassuming restaurant has garnered a cult following for its flavorful dishes and casual vibe. The extensive menu offers everything from traditional curries and stir-fries to Northern Thai specialties like khao soi and nam prik ong. The crispy duck with drunken noodles is a fan favorite.
New Hampshire: Black Trumpet
Black Trumpet is a hidden gem with a Mediterranean twist on farm-to-table dining. This cozy, intimate restaurant features a menu that changes with the seasons, highlighting the freshest local ingredients. Dishes like pan-seared scallops with saffron risotto and lamb shank with roasted vegetables are as comforting as they are refined. Rustic decor, including exposed brick walls and candlelit tables, screams romance.
New Jersey: Kubel’s
On the northern tip of Long Beach Island, Kubel’s has been a beloved seafood spot serving fresh catches for decades. It is a favorite among locals for its laid-back vibe and unbeatable seafood. The menu features everything from clam chowder and lobster rolls to fried flounder and crab cakes, all prepared with the care that comes from decades of tradition.
New Mexico: The Shed
The Shed is famous for its red and green chile, which is made from locally grown chile peppers that pack a flavorful punch. The enchiladas, served with blue corn tortillas and smothered in chile, are a must-try, as are the famous Shed Burgers. The colorful decor, with hand-painted murals and traditional folk art, is unforgettable.
New York: Roberta’s
In the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood of Bushwick, Roberta’s has become a pizza lover’s paradise. This pizzeria prepares wood-fired pizzas with inventive toppings and a perfectly blistered crust. Topped with soppressata, chili, and honey, the Bee Sting is a favorite. Still, the menu also has a variety of other Italian-inspired dishes, from handmade pasta to fresh salads.
North Carolina: Buxton Hall Barbecue
This smokehouse specializes in whole-hog, Eastern Carolina-style barbecue. The pork is slow-cooked over wood for hours until it’s tender and smoky, then served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce that’s a regional staple. The menu also features various Southern sides, from collard greens to mac and cheese, all made from scratch. The casual, retro decor, with checkered tablecloths and vintage signage, is part of the nostalgic charm.
North Dakota: Humpback Sally’s
Featuring a menu of creative, shareable dishes, this place highlights local ingredients and global flavors. Each plate is a little adventure in taste, from bison tartare to fried chicken sliders. The bar is famous for its expertly crafted cocktails with house-infused spirits and fresh herbs. The dimly lit, intimate setting, with cozy booths, makes Humpback Sally’s the perfect spot for a special date night.
Ohio: The Pearl
The Pearl is a hidden gem that’s known for its elevated pub fare and oyster bar. With its rustic-chic decor and lively atmosphere, this gastropub offers a menu of hearty dishes. The house-made pierogies, served with braised short ribs and horseradish cream, are a standout, as are the fresh oysters, flown in daily and shucked to order. The Pearl also has an impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails.
Oklahoma: Nic’s Grill
Serving some of the best burgers in town since 1997, Nic’s Grill is the place to be in Oklahoma City. This tiny diner, with just a handful of counter seats and a few tables, is famous for its juicy, hand-pressed burgers. The classic burger, topped with grilled onions and melted cheese, is a must-try, but the menu also features other comfort food favorites like meatloaf and chicken-fried steak.
Oregon: Le Pigeon
Le Pigeon is an intimate, French-inspired bistro in a cozy space with communal tables and an open kitchen. Their dishes are a creative blend of French technique and Pacific Northwest ingredients, with standout items like the foie gras profiteroles and beef cheek bourguignon. The quirky, eclectic decor, with mismatched chairs and vintage accents, adds to the restaurant’s unique charm.
Pennsylvania: The Victor Café
It is known as “The Music Lover’s Rendezvous” for a reason—every 15 minutes, the waitstaff, who are trained opera singers, serenade diners with live performances. Here, you will find classic Italian dishes like veal saltimbocca, handmade gnocchi, and tiramisu, all made with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. Adding to the romantic atmosphere is the old-world decor, with its vintage photos and dark wood paneling.
Rhode Island: Matunuck Oyster Bar
Located on a scenic pond with views of the oyster farm, this restaurant’s menu contains fresh and locally sourced seafood. The oysters, harvested right from the pond, are the star of the show, but you’ll also find other delights like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and pan-seared scallops. It has a casual, nautical-themed decor, with outdoor seating overlooking the water.
South Carolina: Husk
Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century home, Husk’s food list changes daily based on what’s fresh and in season. The food here is a modern take on classic Southern fare, with highlights like shrimp and grits, cornmeal-dusted catfish, and smoked pork ribs. Charleston locals and visitors go to Husk to experience the rich flavors of the South in a setting steeped in history.
South Dakota: Tally’s Silver Spoon
In the gateway to the Black Hills, Tally’s Silver Spoon is a place where classic diners meet modern bistroes. It has been serving locals since the 1930s, but a recent revamp has taken it to new culinary heights. The menu offers everything from decadent breakfasts like the Duck Fat Hollandaise Eggs Benedict to sophisticated dinner plates like the Wagyu Beef Burger.
Tennessee: Monell’s
This family-style restaurant has no menu—just long communal tables where guests pass around heaping platters of fried chicken, biscuits, mashed potatoes, and other Southern staples. The food is made from scratch, and the portions are generous, making every meal feel like a Sunday supper at Grandma’s. The laughter and conversation filling the room are as warm and inviting as the food.
Texas: Justine’s Brasserie
On Austin’s east side, Justine’s Brasserie transports diners straight to a Parisian bistro. This dimly lit, bohemian spot is known for its late-night hours, eclectic crowd, and French-inspired menu. Classics like steak frites, escargot, and duck confit are prepared with a Texas twist, using locally sourced ingredients. The outdoor garden, complete with string lights and mismatched furniture, feels like a secret oasis.
Utah: The Tree Room
High in the mountains of Sundance, The Tree Room offers a dining experience as breathtaking as the views. The menu features dishes like bison tenderloin and Utah trout, all artfully prepared and presented. Due to its cozy ambiance, warm wood accents, and Native American art, it is a perfect spot for a special celebration.
Vermont: Hen of the Wood
Set in a historic grist mill, Hen of the Wood celebrates local ingredients with a creative, modern twist. The ever-changing menu might include wood-grilled quail, roasted root vegetables, or fresh ricotta with honeycomb, all sourced from nearby farms. This restaurant is where Vermont’s food lovers go to experience the rich, earthy flavors of the Green Mountains in a setting that’s as charming as it is delicious.
Virginia: The Shack
Despite its modest name and unassuming exterior, this tiny restaurant is known for its innovative cuisine. Chef Ian Boden’s ever-changing menu features dishes like smoked pork shoulder, pickled peaches, and grilled corn pudding, all crafted with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. With just a few tables and a casual, down-home vibe, The Shack feels more like a secret supper club than a traditional restaurant.
Washington: The Pink Door
True to its name, the restaurant’s entrance is an unmarked pink door that leads to a cozy dining room with views of Elliott Bay. Go there for house-made pasta, fresh seafood, and other Italian classics, all prepared with a nod to the Pacific Northwest. But the eclectic ambiance—complete with nightly entertainment ranging from trapeze acts to live jazz—really sets The Pink Door apart.
West Virginia: The French Goat
People love this charming bistro, located in a restored Victorian house, offering a menu of classic French dishes. Every dish is a delightful fusion of flavors, from escargot and coq au vin to shrimp and grits and buttermilk-fried frog legs. The intimate dining room, with its antique furnishings and soft candlelight, is perfect for a cozy, romantic setting.
Wisconsin: The Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned exudes a nostalgic charm that immediately transports you to a simpler time. The decor is a nod to classic Wisconsin taverns, with wood-paneled walls, vintage beer signs, and retro touches that give it an authentic, old-school vibe. Their menu has many comforting dishes like beer-battered cheese curds, Wisconsin fish fry, and their specialty, The Old Fashioned Burger.
Wyoming: The Gun Barrel Steak & Game House
Walking into The Gun Barrel Steak & Game House feels like stepping back in time. The restaurant is housed in what was once a wildlife museum. One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is prime rib, which is slow-roasted to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy meat packed with flavor. And don’t forget their elk chops, grilled to your liking and served with a side of huckleberry demi-glace.