Best Restaurants in Each State: Discover Iconic Dining Destinations Across the U.S.

The Ultimate Foodie Adventure Awaits

Are you a culinary explorer or a travel enthusiast hungry for new experiences? Look no further! From the bustling streets of New York to the serene landscapes of Wyoming, this guide reveals the most iconic dining spots across the U.S. – handpicked for unforgettable flavors and unique atmospheres.

Why This Guide Matters

Whether you’re chasing hidden gems or Michelin-starred marvels, this comprehensive guide caters to every palate. Experience the rich diversity of American cuisine with insider tips and standout dishes from farm-to-table eateries, classic steakhouses, and coastal seafood havens.

Plan Your Culinary Road Trip

Imagine biting into a lobster roll in Maine, savoring smoked brisket in Texas, or indulging in a truffle-infused risotto in California. Each state has its own culinary treasures waiting to be discovered. Let this guide inspire your next great meal, whether you’re a local or an adventurous traveler.

Start Exploring Now

Dive into the best restaurants in each state, and begin planning your foodie journey today. Share this guide with friends, map out your stops, and get ready to taste your way across the United States.

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Best Places to Eat in Alabama

Highlands Bar & Grill
Located in Birmingham, Highlands Bar & Grill is a Southern culinary landmark. Known for its elegant yet approachable take on Southern classics, try their stone-ground baked grits and fresh Gulf seafood. The warm ambiance and excellent service make this a must-visit.

Best Restaurants in Alaska

The Saltry Restaurant
Nestled in Halibut Cove, The Saltry offers a dining experience as breathtaking as its views. This waterfront gem specializes in locally sourced fresh seafood, including smoked salmon chowder and king crab legs. It’s a true Alaskan dining adventure.

Best Pizza in Arizona

Pizzeria Bianco
Located in Phoenix, Pizzeria Bianco is a pizza lover’s paradise. Renowned for its wood-fired pies, the Margherita pizza is a standout. Pair it with a rustic setting and a welcoming vibe for an unforgettable meal.

Best Farm-to-Table Restaurants in Arkansas

The Root Cafe
In Little Rock, The Root Cafe champions farm-to-table dining. With locally sourced burgers and heirloom tomato salads, this casual spot celebrates Arkansas produce. Don’t miss their homemade peach cobbler!

Best Fine Dining in California

French Laundry
In Napa Valley, French Laundry is a bucket-list destination for foodies. With its three Michelin-star pedigree, this fine dining restaurant offers a seasonal tasting menu featuring dishes like truffle-infused risotto. The serene setting adds to its allure.

Best Italian Restaurants in Colorado

Frasca Food and Wine
Located in Boulder, Frasca Food and Wine brings a taste of Italy’s Friuli region to the Rockies. Known for their house-made pastas and impeccable wine pairings, it’s a perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

Best Pizza in Connecticut

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
This New Haven institution, Frank Pepe’s, has been serving coal-fired pizzas since 1925. Their white clam pizza, topped with fresh clams and garlic, is a must-try. It offers a taste of history in every bite.

Best Brewpubs in Delaware

Dogfish Head Brewpub
In Rehoboth Beach, Dogfish Head Brewpub is a haven for craft beer lovers and foodies. Try their signature burgers paired with house-made brews. The laid-back vibe enhances the experience.

Best Historic Restaurants in Florida

The Columbia Restaurant
As Florida’s oldest restaurant, The Columbia in Tampa serves up Cuban-Spanish cuisine. Indulge in their famous 1905 Salad and paella while soaking in the historic atmosphere and enjoying live flamenco shows.

Best Contemporary Dining in Georgia

Staplehouse
In Atlanta, Staplehouse offers a unique dining model with a mission. Their rotating seasonal menu, featuring dishes like smoked trout, is complemented by a cozy atmosphere and an inspiring nonprofit cause.

Best Island Dining in Hawaii

Mama’s Fish House
Perched on Maui’s North Shore, Mama’s Fish House provides island-style hospitality and fresh, locally caught seafood. The mahi-mahi stuffed with crab and lobster is a crowd favorite.

Best Steakhouse in Idaho

Chandlers
Located in Boise, Chandlers is known for its upscale steakhouse experience and fresh seafood. Highlights include prime filet mignon and Alaskan halibut, served elegantly with live jazz music.

Best Innovative Dining in Illinois

Alinea
Alinea in Chicago redefines fine dining with its innovative multi-sensory tasting menu. Alinea offers dishes like the edible helium balloon, with each item a work of art. The modern ambiance and impeccable service are unmatched.

Best Historic Steakhouse in Indiana

St. Elmo Steak House
In Indianapolis, St. Elmo Steak House is famous for its fiery shrimp cocktail and perfectly aged steaks. Established in 1902, this iconic spot blends history with hearty Midwestern cuisine.

Best Comfort Food in Iowa

The Machine Shed
Located in Urbandale, The Machine Shed celebrates farm-to-table fare with generous portions. Signature dishes include pork tenderloin and homestyle fried chicken.

Best Barbecue in Kansas

Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
A barbecue haven in Kansas City, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is renowned for its Z-Man sandwich, a brisket and provolone masterpiece. It’s a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts.

Best Art-Inspired Dining in Kentucky

Proof on Main
In Louisville, Proof on Main combines art and cuisine for a unique dining experience. Try their bison burger and explore the contemporary art installations throughout the restaurant.

Best Creole Cuisine in Louisiana

Commander’s Palace
Commander’s Palace in New Orleans is a classic known for its Creole cuisine and legendary jazz brunch. Commander’s Palace serves dishes like turtle soup and bread pudding soufflé that are not to be missed.

Best Seafood in Maine

Eventide Oyster Co.
Located in Portland, Eventide Oyster Co. is a paradise for seafood lovers. Indulge in their famous brown butter lobster roll and a selection of fresh oysters.

Best Crab Cakes in Maryland

Thames Street Oyster House
In Baltimore, Thames Street Oyster House serves impeccable seafood with a view. Their lobster roll and crab cakes are standout dishes.

Best Historic Dining in Massachusetts

Union Oyster House
Boston’s historic Union Oyster House has been serving fresh seafood since 1826. Be sure to try their clam chowder and traditional baked stuffed lobster.

Best Seasonal Dishes in Michigan

Selden Standard
In Detroit, Selden Standard offers creative small plates made with seasonal ingredients. Their wood-fired dishes and craft cocktails make for a perfect pairing.

Best Midwestern Cuisine in Minnesota

Spoon and Stable
Located in Minneapolis, Spoon and Stable offers Midwestern cuisine with a French twist. The duck à l’orange and honey and cream dessert are must-tries.

Best Southern Classics in Mississippi

Mary Mahoney’s Old French House
In Biloxi, Mary Mahoney’s is a historic gem that offers Southern classics like gumbo and stuffed flounder in a charming antebellum home.

Best Burgers in Missouri

Blueberry Hill
In St. Louis, Blueberry Hill is a lively spot known for its burgers, live music, and pop culture memorabilia. Their “famous burger” is a fan favorite.

Best Italian-Inspired Cuisine in Montana

The Emerson Grill
Located in Bozeman, The Emerson Grill offers locally sourced Italian-inspired dishes in a historic setting. Try their Montana beef lasagna or the risotto of the day.

Best Whiskey Steaks in Nebraska

The Drover
Omaha’s The Drover is famous for its whiskey-marinated steaks. This rustic steakhouse provides hearty Midwestern meals in a cozy ambiance.

Best Fine Dining in Nevada

Joel Robuchon
Located in the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Joel Robuchon offers three-Michelin-starred French cuisine. Its tasting menu is a must for luxury dining enthusiasts.

Best Comfort Food in New Hampshire

The Common Man
With multiple locations across New Hampshire, The Common Man serves comforting classics like lobster mac and cheese and Yankee pot roast in a welcoming New England atmosphere.

Best Pizza in New Jersey

Razza Pizza Artigianale
In Jersey City, Razza elevates pizza-making to an art form. Their Jersey Margherita—made with fresh mozzarella and local tomatoes—stands out.

Best Southwestern Cuisine in New Mexico

Geronimo
Located in Santa Fe, Geronimo blends Southwestern flavors with global influences. The elk tenderloin is a memorable dining experience.

Best Deli in New York

Katz’s Delicatessen
A New York City icon, Katz’s Delicatessen has been serving its famous pastrami sandwiches since 1888. The old-school charm and massive portions make it a must-visit for deli lovers.

Best Steakhouses in North Carolina

Angus Barn
In Raleigh, Angus Barn is a legendary steakhouse offering exceptional cuts of meat and an extensive wine list. Their chocolate chess pie is the perfect sweet ending to your meal.

Best Upscale Dining in North Dakota

Mezzaluna
Located in Fargo, Mezzaluna offers an upscale dining experience in a chic setting. It serves creative dishes like duck confit poutine and bison short ribs.

Best Historic Inn Dining in Ohio

The Golden Lamb
As Ohio’s oldest continually operating restaurant, The Golden Lamb in Lebanon offers classic American fare like roast turkey and pot roast in a historic inn.

Best Burgers in Oklahoma

Nic’s Grill
In Oklahoma City, Nic’s Grill is a local favorite known for its juicy onion burgers and hearty breakfasts in a cozy, diner-style setting.

Best Creative Cuisine in Oregon

Le Pigeon
Portland’s Le Pigeon is a haven for adventurous eaters. Known for its creative French-inspired dishes, such as beef cheek bourguignon and foie gras profiteroles, the intimate setting adds to its charm.

Best Israeli Cuisine in Pennsylvania

Zahav
In Philadelphia, Zahav is celebrated for its modern Israeli cuisine. The lamb shoulder and hummus with laffa bread are highlights of this James Beard Award-winning restaurant.

Best Seafood in Rhode Island

The Mooring
Located in Newport, The Mooring serves fresh seafood with stunning harbor views. Don’t miss their lobster fritters, famously known as a “bag of doughnuts.”

Best Southern Cuisine in South Carolina

Husk
In Charleston, Husk redefines Southern cuisine with its farm-to-table approach. Try their Carolina gold rice risotto or pork chop for an unforgettable meal.

Best Intimate Dining in South Dakota

Skogen Kitchen
In Custer, Skogen Kitchen offers an intimate dining experience with inventive dishes like wild boar ragu and trout almondine.

Best Tasting Menus in Tennessee

The Catbird Seat
Located in Nashville, The Catbird Seat offers a unique dining experience. Guests enjoy a tasting menu prepared right before them. Dishes like beef tartare and inventive desserts make it a standout.

Best Barbecue in Texas

Franklin Barbecue
In Austin, Franklin Barbecue is synonymous with melt-in-your-mouth brisket. Be prepared to wait in line for this legendary BBQ, but the smoky, tender meat is worth every second.

Best Romantic Dining in Utah

Log Haven
Nestled in a forested canyon near Salt Lake City, Log Haven is a romantic spot offering New American cuisine. Highlights include the bison tenderloin and pan-seared trout.

Best Farm-to-Table Dining in Vermont

Hen of the Wood
Located in Waterbury and Burlington, Hen of the Wood is a farm-to-table gem that offers dishes like local pork loin and foraged mushroom toast in a cozy, rustic setting.

Best Michelin-Starred Dining in Virginia

Inn at Little Washington
Nestled in Washington, Inn at Little Washington offers an extraordinary dining experience. Signature dishes include whimsical “Tin of Sin” caviar and crab. The refined decor and personalized service elevate the experience further.

Best Fine Dining in Washington

Canlis
In Seattle, Canlis is an iconic fine-dining destination with breathtaking views and an exceptional menu. Try their signature Canlis salad or the Wagyu steak for an unforgettable meal.

Best German Cuisine in West Virginia

The Bavarian Inn
Located in Shepherdstown, The Bavarian Inn combines German-inspired cuisine with a cozy, upscale atmosphere. Favorites include the jägerschnitzel and Black Forest cake.

Best Seasonal Menus in Wisconsin

Ardent
Ardent is a culinary treasure in Milwaukee. Ardent offers a refined menu with seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes include dry-aged duck and house-made pastas.

Best Mountain Dining in Wyoming

Snake River Grill
In Jackson, Snake River Grill is a mountain town favorite known for its rustic elegance. Dishes like the onion rings with spicy ketchup and elk chops showcase local flavors.

Plan Your Culinary Journey

The United States offers an extraordinary range of culinary experiences from coast to coast that reflect its diverse culture and flavors. Whether you’re seeking upscale fine dining, rustic farm-to-table meals, or hidden gems off the beaten path, this guide provides a roadmap to the best restaurants in each state. Share this list with fellow food lovers, plan your next foodie road trip, and indulge in unforgettable dining experiences nationwide.

Let your culinary journey begin!