From California to New York
The United States has 50 wildly unique states with their own individual culture, attitudes, and cuisine. This list narrows in on the cuisine and breaks down the best restaurant in every single state. Did we get your state right, and which of these eateries are you looking forward to eating at? This definitely makes for the ultimate US restaurant bucket list!
1. New York
New York is all about energy, diversity, and world-class dining that represents global cultures. At the Musket Room in NYC, it's Michelin-starred tasting menus that offer both omnivorous and vegan options that make dishes like steak tartare and oyster mushrooms into masterpieces. Bright interiors, beautiful presentation, and attentive service make every meal here a modern and memorable dining experience.
2. Louisiana
Louisiana is a state known for its lively culture, spicy flavors, and culinary traditions. Cochon Butcher serves up artisanal meats in the New Orleans neighborhood with the help of five full-time butchers that transform fresh cuts into sandwiches, charcuterie, and sausage plates. The menu's standouts include a transcendent muffuletta made with house meats and olive salad, as well as the indulgent Butcher Burger.
3. Maine
Maine is renowned for its rocky coastline, fresh seafood, and bustling food scene that combines tradition with innovation. In Portland, Mr. Tuna exemplifies this with sushi, sashimi, and creative bites like crispy salmon skin with yuzu mayo or halibut with Peruvian peppers and avocado. Celebrated for local bluefin tuna and popular “halfie hour” hand rolls, this spot brings a fresh, global perspective into Maine’s seafood tradition.
Stefan Schauberger on Unsplash
4. Oklahoma
Falling right in the middle of the U.S., Oklahoma cuisine is a cross between Western and Southern food culture. Oklahoma City’s Cheever’s Café is known for its shrimp and grits. This dish features bacon-wrapped jumbo shrimp with cheesy green onion grits and sriracha honey butter. Cheever’s, a historic restaurant with original terrazzo floors, serves elevated New American cuisine in a friendly, casual atmosphere.
5. Wisconsin
Wisconsin is no stranger to hearty comfort food, long-held brewing traditions, and good ol’ American classics. At Milwaukee's Swingin’ Door Exchange, step into the Wild West with wood-paneled interiors and a menu loaded with the same old favorites, from barbecue ribs and Reuben sandwiches to NY strip steaks. Try the Friday fish fry, which features crispy Icelandic cod, perch, and shrimp.
6. Iowa
Iowa is a state of agriculture and tradition, but its creative chefs are making local ingredients shine in new ways. In Dubuque, Brazen Open Kitchen Bar is a farm-to-table restaurant that elevates classics like sticky ribs with tamarind and dan dan noodle spaghetti with Szechuan sauce to sophisticated but approachable comfort food. Craft beers and imaginative cocktails make it a cozy spot to unwind and enjoy a memorable meal.
7. Kansas
Kansas is a state of open plains, big hearts, and unparalleled barbecue. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que has been a legend since the 1990s, turning out tender brisket, burnt ends, and fall-off-the-bone ribs from its original gas station in Kansas City. Joe’s now has outposts in Leawood and Olathe as well, but all of them are always in the running for the best barbecue in the country.
8. Montana
Montana is a state of mountains and plains, and filling up on good grub is always welcome after a day outside. At the Notorious P.I.G. BBQ in Missoula, you'll find smoked-fresh-every-day ribs, pulled pork, and sandwiches that sell out early, often. Their four sauces are full of flavor, their sides, like the potato salad, are standouts, and on Fridays they have pho.
9. Nevada
Nevada is a state known for the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip, desert terrain, and classic American comfort food. Located in Las Vegas, Lou’s Diner has served guests since 1969, providing the familiarity that Las Vegas is often in need of. Offering up such staples as hot cakes and French toast, biscuits and gravy, mac ‘n’ cheese, and fried pickle chips, this eatery is always a welcome stop for returning locals and visitors alike.
10. Colorado
Colorado is known for its beautiful scenery and rapidly expanding food scene. Its cuisine is known for embracing the state's culinary traditions while also experimenting with inventive new dishes. In Denver, Tocabe features Indigenous cuisine, highlighting the local cuisine of Native Americans. Tocabe's menu includes Indian tacos and Posu Bowls that utilize Indigenous ingredients such as blue corn, wild rice, and bison.
11. Washington
Home to some of the country’s most beautiful natural landscapes, cutting-edge innovation, and a buzzing food scene, Washington has a lot to offer. Canlis has been a Seattle institution since 1950, serving dishes alongside city views in its airy space decorated with mid-century modern furnishings. The three-course tasting menu features elegant dishes such as duck with daikon and orange or apple crullers with brown butter and rose.
12. California
California is a diverse state known for beautiful scenery, innovation, and a buzzing food scene. Chez Panisse is a Berkeley standard for farm-to-table cuisine. Since 1971, Alice Waters has brought locally sourced, organic, and seasonal dishes to customers' tables. The Berkeley restaurant continues the legacy with a rotating four-course menu of dishes made from ingredients grown on its own farm or from within 50 miles, such as grass-fed rib-eye and Sonoma duck.
13. Michigan
A state of Great Lakes, great farmland, and inventive dining: that's Michigan. In Hazel Park, Mabel Gray channels all that goodness in a constantly evolving menu based on ingredients from farmers, butchers, and foragers within arm's reach of the restaurant. Seasonal items, like duck fat–griddled cornbread or buttermilk-fried skate wing, can be eaten à la carte or as part of a tasting menu for the less adventuresome.
14. Tennessee
Music, culture, and comfort food collide deliciously in Tennessee. A crowd favorite in Nashville for its New York–style pies, Five Points Pizza is serving up thin, hand-tossed crusts piled high with everything from traditional toppings to bold creations featuring house-made sauces. Two busy locations and a boatload of national acclaim mean it's your first call when only the finest slice will do.
15. Alabama
Alabama has its share of Southern traditions, but the state also knows how to enjoy international cuisines and the trappings of haute dining. In Birmingham, Chez Fonfon offers a French culinary experience with traditional bistro offerings, such as steak frites, croque monsieur, and mussels in white wine and herbs. Chez Fonfon is run by James Beard Award–winning chef and co-owner Frank Stitt and co-owner Pardis Stitt, who create a friendly, relaxed setting that matches the consistently delicious food and impeccable service.
16. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a state with rich history, diverse cities, and comforting comfort food. The city of Erie is home to one of the best barbecue joints in the state, the Federal Hill Smokehouse. Known for serving fall-off-the-bone meats in a bustling, buzzing atmosphere, this local favorite and national standout sells out every day, so you have to be quick to try it!
17. Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, there is an abundance of New England seafood history and a love for fried fish. Sullivan’s Castle Island in Boston serves a hearty helping of fried fish sandwiches, clam chowder, and lobster rolls in addition to hot dogs and hamburgers made with local ingredients. Housed in a seaside shack with decades of neighborhood tradition, Sullivan’s is the perfect spot to visit after a day on the beach.
18. Georgia
Georgia is known for its Southern charm, comfort food, and its penchant for barbecue. In Blairsville, Jim’s Smokin’ Que delivers on all counts, with prize-winning pork, turkey, and brisket piled high in red baskets lined with checkered paper. Three sauces, all deeply flavored, and no-frills, all homemade sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and more complete this down-home taste of Georgia’s barbecue culture.
19. Kentucky
Kentucky is known for its Southern charm, bourbon, and down-home cooking. At Louisville's North of Bourbon, Southern classics are being reimagined in a hip, high-end diner setting. Chef Geoffrey Zakarian brings together Louisiana and Kentucky influences for dishes like peppered catfish nuggets and other shareable sides including mac ‘n’ cheese, grits, and milk rolls.
20. Wyoming
Wyoming is a big sky state, filled with plains, mountains, and frontier history. In Cody, The Irma, constructed by Buffalo Bill Cody and named for his daughter, is a historical hotel. It has many stories and legends, including a cherrywood bar presented to Cody by Queen Victoria. The Irma still functions as a bustling social center, serving a menu of American classics like steaks, burgers, seafood, and chicken pot pie.
Jessica Kantak Bailey on Unsplash
21. Idaho
Rugged mountains, twisting rivers, and the ghost of the Old West lingering in frontier towns. The Pioneer Saloon in Ketchum has it all. After years serving up prime rib and thick, juicy steaks, the saloon is keeping its history alive while wearing a new hat: James Beard America’s Classic 2025 Award.
22. Alaska
In a state known for its wilderness, icy peaks, and rugged good looks, filling up with hearty grub is never out of style. Anchorage's Club Paris has been providing just that since the 1950s, serving perfectly sliced and aged steaks inside a historic building that once served as both a funeral home and a furniture store. Locals are devoted to its world-famous 4-inch-thick filet mignon, and the glowing neon sign out front is now a beloved landmark of the legendary steakhouse.
23. Arizona
Arizona is a desert state, a place of red rock vistas, blazing sunsets, and Old West charm. In Phoenix, Durant's Steakhouse has those timeless touches, too: low lighting, red leather booths, and a history that goes back more than 50 years. Built by Jack Durant, the restaurant still shines with first-rate steaks and Martinis made just so.
24. Connecticut
Connecticut is a tiny state with a long history. It's a New England state that has more than its fair share of coastal communities and maritime towns. Mystic Pizza is a great slice of heaven right out of the Julia Roberts film. In addition to its signature pies, it also serves salads, soups, wings, and, of course, the cult-favorite deep-fried pickles. Fans have returned year after year to dine at the restaurant, which actually redecorated its interior to replicate the movie set.
25. Arkansas
Rolling hills, thermal springs, and a rich tradition of Southern hospitality: welcome to Arkansas. In the state's capital, Hot Springs, McClard's Bar-B-Q has been serving up smoky classics since 1928. The secret: a traveler who couldn't pay his rent one month left the restaurateur a recipe for barbecue sauce instead. That sauce has been going strong ever since, and is the legend around which the still family-owned restaurant thrives.
26. Florida
The Sunshine State is known for its sunshine, sandy beaches, and a vibrant mix of cultures that extend to its food scene. In Tampa, Bern’s Steakhouse has been serving up indulgent appetizers, cut-to-order prime steaks, and an entire upstairs dessert room that feels like another world since 1956. With over 40 desserts, 15 flavors of ice cream, and a full caviar menu, Bern’s more than lives up to its claim of “an experience to remember.”
27. Delaware
Delaware is the First State, and it has some of the oldest, yet chicest history on the East Coast. In Wilmington, at the iconic Hotel Du Pont, find Le Cavalier at The Green Room. The century-old restaurant in this famous resort is newly refreshed but still true to form, and it’s been pampering guests for over 100 years with old-world classics such as shrimp cocktail, oysters, French onion soup, and more in a setting of dark oak walls and paneling.
28. Hawaii
Steeped in volcanic landscape, miles of white-sand beaches, and a rich multicultural history, Hawaii is a dream destination for travelers seeking to experience pristine tropical climates and cutting-edge cuisine. In Honolulu, Roy’s, the James Beard Award–winning chef Roy Yamaguchi’s first restaurant, has been serving big-flavor Hawaiian-Japanese fusion fare since 1988. The chef and his son, Kollin, are credited with putting poke on the map, and Roy’s is the place to try some of the most innovative poke around. Go for their blackened ahi, or other favorites like butterfish with sweet ginger and wasabi beurre blanc.
29. Illinois
Illinois is home to large and culturally diverse urban centers. In Chicago, the state's kitchen, Alinea has been awarded 3 Michelin stars. Led by Chef Grant Achatz, the highly creative restaurant has earned international attention since it opened in 2005. It has a multisensory approach to dining, and its signature dishes include a dessert assembled tableside by chefs.
30. Indiana
Indiana is known for its fertile farmland, bustling cities, and quintessential Midwestern culture. Opened in 1902, Indianapolis' St. Elmo Steak House has been dishing out some of the country's finest meals for over a century and is considered to be among the best steakhouses in America. Head there to feast on the large selection of steak options and incredibly spicy shrimp cocktail, which are not to be missed.
31. Maryland
Maryland is a state with beautiful coastlines, historic towns, and a growing food scene. Woodberry Kitchen in Baltimore has transcended foodie trendiness to become a long-lasting destination, where visitors can enjoy American food prepared from farm-to-table. Famed for its locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant has been the destination for a host of celebrity diners, including Michelle Obama and her daughter Malia in 2016.
32. Minnesota
Minnesota is a state of lakes, frozen winters, and a weirdly intense food culture. At Matt’s Bar in Minneapolis, the Jucy Lucy is legendary, sparking a feud with its cross-town rival, The 5-8 Club. Iconic enough to have been eaten by Barack Obama, Matt’s Bar features no-frills, straight-up Minnesota that brought the cheese-stuffed burger to the world.
amirali mirhashemian on Unsplash
33. Nebraska
Nebraska is known for its sprawling plains, rugged agriculture, and some of the finest beef in the world. In Omaha, The Drover has been slinging their whiskey-marinated steaks for over 40 years, giving you the time to enjoy the taste of locally raised beef. Along with its famous steaks, the Western-style interiors and lively atmosphere provide for a memorable experience.
David Foodphototasty on Unsplash
34. New Mexico
New Mexico is a land of desert landscapes, rich Native American and Hispanic history, and adventurous, spicy food. Albuquerque's El Pinto is New Mexico's largest Mexican restaurant. A family restaurant, El Pinto has been satisfying customers' palates since 1962 with their popular menu items and award-winning sauces and salsas, available in supermarkets across the country.
Ethan Wright-Magoon on Unsplash
35. Mississippi
Mississippi is full of deep South traditions, soul-stirring music, and down-home cooking. In Jackson, the Mayflower Cafe was opened in 1935 by Greek immigrants, and is a local institution for steaks and seafood. The popular restaurant is famous for its signature comeback sauce, a mayo-based concoction that is a cross between chili sauce and ketchup with a squeeze of lemon juice and spices.
36. North Carolina
North Carolina's natural beauty ranges from mountain to coastline, with a strong Southern culinary tradition throughout. Fearrington House Restaurant, just outside of Chapel Hill in Pittsboro, has been serving up elegant, modern interpretations on farm-to-table fare since 1980. European techniques meet Southern traditions and fresh local ingredients for a classic and sophisticated dining experience.
37. South Carolina
South Carolina has charm, history, beaches, and a great Southern culinary tradition. In Charleston, Husk has been earning accolades throughout the Southeast for its commitment to ingredients that are 100 percent, exclusively Southern. Slow-smoked pork ribs, crispy catfish, and fried cornbread panzanella are among the dishes available on its ever-changing menu.
Alexandru-Bogdan Ghita on Unsplash
38. Missouri
In Missouri, you should definitely check out Blues City Deli in St. Louis. This restaurant is best known for its po’boys and pastrami sandwiches. It has a casual vibe with high-quality offerings and even has delectable sides, including loaded potato salads and old-fashioned sodas.
39. Oregon
Oregon is a place of evergreen forests, mountain ranges, and rugged coastlines. For a long history and fresh seafood in Portland, stop by Jake's Famous Crawfish. Opened in 1892, Jake's is a local favorite and a tourist attraction. Sure, the crawfish is the main event, but locals can't stop talking about the Dungeness crab and bay shrimp cakes, either.
40. New Hampshire
New Hampshire is home to picturesque coastlines, quaint towns, and a deep-seated New England culinary tradition. Located in Portsmouth, Moxy has been leading the pack since 2012 with inventive small plates from four-time James Beard Best Chef semi-finalist chef Matt Louis. Inspired by local farmers and fishmongers, Moxy's ever-changing menu highlights include fried clams, crackly pork belly, beef short rib marmalade, and whoopie pie sliders with chocolate dipping sauce.
41. Ohio
Ohio is a state of bustling cities, rolling farmlands, and strong historical traditions. In Lebanon, The Golden Lamb was built in 1803. Twelve U.S. presidents have dined at the tavern, which is Ohio's longest continually operated business. It remains a popular stop for travelers, where they can order classic comfort food like burgers, fried chicken, shrimp, and ribs.
42. New Jersey
The Garden State is filled with bustling cities, picture-perfect shorelines, and a lively, diverse food scene. Open since 1942, Tops Diner in East Newark has earned legendary status for its outstanding food and sleek interiors. In addition to traditional diner food like milkshakes, burgers, and meatloaf, the menu features other notable dishes, such as English-style fish and chips and Cajun shrimp with chicken jambalaya.
43. North Dakota
North Dakota is a state of prairies, craggy expanses, and strong agricultural tradition. In Bismarck, Peacock Alley pays homage to the state’s beef with award-winning steaks and a menu focused on the finest ingredients. Burgers are a big seller, especially the Ultimate Burger piled with smoked bacon, Gorgonzola crumbles, caramelized onions, and sautéed mushrooms on a pretzel bun.
44. South Dakota
South Dakota has sweeping prairies, rugged landscapes, and a proud culinary tradition of local ingredients. In Brookings, the family-owned Pheasant Restaurant and Lounge, opened in 1949, was the first restaurant in South Dakota to receive a James Beard America’s Classics Award in 2024. Once a gas station and café, it now serves upscale casual fare, including bison burgers, local lamb, duck wings, and house-made ice cream.
45. Rhode Island
Rhode Island is a small coastal state filled with maritime history, quaint towns, and fresh seafood. In Newport, the White Horse Tavern, the building of which is thought to date to 1673 and is the oldest tavern structure in the U.S., has reemphasized its historic offerings by focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Fish, clams, and lobsters from Narragansett Bay, as well as artisan cheese, honey, and beef, are from farms in the surrounding area.
46. Texas
Texas is a big state, full of big flavors, wide-open spaces, and big-eatin' pride. Royers Round Top Café in Round Top has a statewide reputation for gourmet comfort food with a Southern flair in an eccentric atmosphere. Make a trip for their world-renowned pies, including the Sweet 'N Salty chocolate fudge and caramel topped with sea salt, but don't miss the rest of the menu either.
American Heritage Chocolate on Unsplash
47. Utah
Utah is a land of dramatic mountains, sweeping deserts, and a burgeoning food scene. Salt Lake City's Ruth's Diner, originally opened in 1930 and moved to its current location in Emigration Canyon in 1949, provides a nostalgic, historic meal in one of the city's vintage trolley cars. Ruth, a former cabaret singer, opened the diner that is now run by her sons and grandsons. The diner is renowned for its breakfasts, which are served on the patio during warmer weather.
48. Vermont
Land of scenic mountains, charming towns, and a deep commitment to local, sustainable food, Vermont boasts a world-class dining scene. Hen of the Wood, which opened in Waterbury in 2005, helped lead the state's farm-to-table movement, serving simple yet exquisitely crafted dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. A sister restaurant opened in Burlington in 2013, and both restaurants continue to be very popular with diners.
49. Virginia
Virginia is steeped in history, scenic beauty, and a culinary tradition unlike any other. In Middleburg, The Red Fox Inn & Tavern has been a local favorite since the village was known as Chinn’s Crossroads in 1728. The red brick tavern has hosted a long list of celebrity guests including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Tom Cruise, Paul Newman, and Elizabeth Taylor.
50. West Virginia
West Virginia is a state of rolling mountains, lush forests, and a storied tradition of hospitality. The Main Dining Room at the Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs has welcomed diners for over a century. America’s first resort, The Greenbrier’s historic main dining room, steeped in charm, serves classic fine dining dishes like roasted hen and glazed pork loin. It is one of the most famous dining rooms in the country.
