Johann Hunt
The United States offers a diverse and delicious food scene, and it’s often hard to determine which state has the best to offer. Some areas are more popular than others, but they all have one thing in common: great food! Here are 15 cities stirring up a storm in the food world.
New York City
Bagels and pizza are a must-try, but The Big Apple is more than just that. Sink your teeth into a pastrami sandwich at Katz’s Deli or brave the lines for a cronut at Dominique Ansel Bakery. Don’t miss the NYC Wine & Food Festival in October—it’s a star-studded culinary party!
New Orleans, Louisiana
NOLA’s food selection is as vibrant as its jazz. Devour beignets at Café du Monde, slurp oysters at Acme Oyster House, and savor a steaming bowl of gumbo. You may time your trip to the New Orleans Food & Wine Experience in June for a taste of the Big Easy.
Chicago, Illinois
Deep-dish pizza is highly rated in the Windy City, but don’t stop there. Try a Chicago-style hot dog with no ketchup, or take a bite of a rainbow cone at the original Rainbow Cone shop. Food lovers flock to the Taste of Chicago festival each July, the world’s biggest food event.
San Francisco, California
There’s no denying that SFO’s food scenario is as varied as its population. Taste their clam chowder from a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf, or enjoy dim sum in Chinatown. Also, take advantage of the San Francisco Street Food Festival to celebrate the city’s lively food truck culture.
Houston, Texas
Tex-Mex and BBQ are king here, so try the original fajitas at Ninfa’s On Navigation. But Houston also has one of the largest Vietnamese populations! So, visit Bellaire Boulevard for amazing pho and banh mi. You can also visit the “Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo” for a food feast!
Tucson, Arizona
Tucson’s culinary legacy dates back 4,000 years, recognized as the “City of Gastronomy” by UNESCO. Worth trying is the Sonoran hot dog, a bacon-wrapped masterpiece, or the nosh prickly pear cactus, which is present in everything, including ice cream. The quirky Tucson Tamale and Heritage Food Festival is celebrated here every December.
Cleveland, Ohio
The “Mistake on the Lake” is a delectable surprise. Bite into Polish boy sandwiches or sample the city’s notable pierogies. Cleveland’s West Side Market, operating since 1912, is a yummy haven for foodies. You can also check out the Giant Pierogi at Berea’s National Pierogi Day party in October.
Asheville, NC
This mountain town is a food lover’s paradise. Visit the Bite Me AVL, which honors the city’s homegrown food businesses and allows visitors to participate in a variety of gourmet activities. At Cúrate, indulge in delectable farm-to-table fare, or try “Hop Ice Cream,” which is crafted using locally brewed craft beer.
Louisville, KY
Home of the Kentucky Derby and Bourbon, Louisville is a winner. And apparently, the cheeseburger was invented here too! Savor the iconic Hot Brown sandwich at the Brown Hotel while indulging in sweet Bourbon balls. Local favorites include burgoo stew, beer cheese, and the city’s unique spin on barbecue.
Greenville, SC
Greenville is a charming, rising star in the South. Its food community has exploded in recent years, with over 120 restaurants on Main Street alone! Among the town’s most liked is the shrimp at Soby’s. The annual Fall for Greenville festival in October is also an excellent time to visit.
Portland, Maine
Looking beyond lobster rolls, although this is a must-try at Eventide Oyster Co., Portland is booming with innovative restaurants. One of them is Central Provisions. The much-known Whoopie Pie was actually created in Maine! Also, the Harvest on the Harbor festival, celebrated in October, is a seafood extravaganza.
Columbus, Ohio
Try the unique “Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams” or enter the German Village for authentic schnitzel. In August, the notable Columbus Food Truck Festival features around 70 food trucks with live music. The Buckeye State’s capital is literally a hidden foodie corner and the headquarters of both Wendy’s and White Castle.
Savannah, GA
The birthplace of Girl Scout Cookies, Savannah, brings together Southern delight and culinary creativity. You must give River Street Sweets’ pralines a try. Also known for its fried chicken, black-eyed peas, and cornbread, Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is a family-style restaurant that has been a Savannah landmark since 1943.
Nashville, TN
Nashville’s food hub harmonizes with its musical heritage. Taste fiery hot chicken at Hattie B’s or savor traditional meat-and-three at Arnold’s Country Kitchen. The city’s diverse food factions cater to all tastes. In September, the Music City Food + Wine Festival orchestrates a perfect blend of Nashville’s renowned food and music scenes.
Seattle, WA
Apart from coffee and fish, Seattle has a distinct food setting. Savor the whole fried trout at May Kitchen and Bar or the famed clam chowder at Pike Place Chowder. Cementing Seattle’s reputation as a gastronomic haven for the Pacific Northwest, the July Bite of Seattle festival highlights the city’s authentic flavors.
Sources: Travel and Leisure Cozy Meal