Craving a culinary adventure from coast to coast? From iconic barbecue joints and historic diners to hidden gems serving regional specialties, every U.S. state has a must-visit spot that defines its local flavor. Whether it’s a buttery lobster roll in Maine, a fiery plate of Nashville hot chicken, or a brisket sandwich worth lining up for in Texas, these legendary eateries serve more than just food—they dish out culture, history, and hometown pride. We’ve rounded up 50 unforgettable foodie hotspots that locals swear by and travelers seek out. Hungry yet? Here’s where your next great American bite begins.
1. Alabama – Dreamland Bar-B-Que (Tuscaloosa)
Step into barbecue heaven at Dreamland, where hickory-smoked ribs are served with nothing but white bread, sauce, and Southern pride. Founded in 1958 by John “Big Daddy” Bishop, this iconic joint keeps it simple but unforgettable. The ribs are meaty, tender, and slathered in tangy sauce that locals swear by. The scent of smoke hits you before you even walk in the door. Dreamland’s unfussy charm and finger-lickin’ goodness have earned it a cult following—and even a presidential shoutout aboard Air Force One.
2. Alaska – Snow City Cafe (Anchorage)
Anchorage mornings don’t get better than a table at Snow City Cafe. Known for its creative, from-scratch brunch menu, this cheerful downtown spot dishes out massive cinnamon rolls, reindeer sausage omelets, and Alaska crab benedicts that keep locals and tourists lining up.
It’s the type of place where servers remember your name and specials come with wild-caught flair. Even President Obama stopped by for a roll. With bright walls, good coffee, and a warm atmosphere, Snow City is a must for breakfast lovers visiting the Last Frontier.
3. Arizona – El Guero Canelo (Tucson)
Arizona’s most beloved street food finds its home at El Guero Canelo. Famous for its Sonoran hot dog—a bacon-wrapped frank stuffed into a fluffy bolillo roll and buried in beans, salsa, mayo, and jalapeño sauce—this Tucson gem has achieved legendary status.
It’s not just tasty; it’s James Beard–winning. What started as a humble food cart has grown into a full-fledged restaurant empire beloved by locals and culinary travelers alike. Each bite blends Mexican and American border-town flavors in one outrageous, flavorful package you won’t soon forget.
4. Arkansas – Lassis Inn (Little Rock)
Steeped in over a century of history, Lassis Inn is the real deal when it comes to Southern fried fish. Established in 1905, this no-frills blue building hides a culinary treasure inside: golden-fried catfish and buffalo fish ribs seasoned to perfection. Locals rave about the crunchy texture, subtle spice, and old-school charm. Once a meeting place for civil rights leaders, today it remains a cornerstone of Arkansas tradition. Recognized by the James Beard Foundation, Lassis Inn proves that sometimes the most unassuming places serve the most unforgettable meals.
5. California – La Taqueria (San Francisco)
Burrito aficionados make pilgrimages to San Francisco’s La Taqueria, and for good reason. Nestled in the Mission District since 1973, this no-nonsense shop is famous for its rice-free carnitas burritos—juicy, overstuffed, and grilled to golden perfection.
With homemade salsa, tender pork, and melt-in-your-mouth flavor, each bite packs a punch. Despite a modest interior, the flavor here is bold, fresh, and often hailed as the best burrito in America. It’s a shining example of California’s multicultural culinary scene, served up without pretense or apology.
6. Colorado – Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs (Denver)
Looking for the wild side of street food? Biker Jim’s in Denver pushes the boundaries of the traditional hot dog with exotic meats like elk, wild boar, and even rattlesnake. Topped with cream cheese and Coca-Cola–sautéed onions, these dogs are pure flavor bombs. What began as a food cart became a downtown staple beloved by Anthony Bourdain and every adventurous eater since. It’s gritty, fun, and totally one-of-a-kind—just like the city that surrounds it. Don’t be surprised if you end up going back for a second round.
7. Connecticut – Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana (New Haven)
New Haven pizza reaches its pinnacle at Frank Pepe’s, the birthplace of the legendary white clam pie. Baked in a coal-fired oven since 1925, these chewy, charred-crust pizzas are topped with garlic, olive oil, and freshly shucked clams. It’s a flavor profile that’s both rustic and refined, drawing fans from across the country. There’s no need for bells and whistles here—just generations of tradition and perfect execution. Whether you’re a pizza purist or seafood lover, Pepe’s sets the standard for what true East Coast pizza should be.
8. Delaware – Sambo’s Tavern (Leipsic)
Down a winding road beside the Leipsic River sits Sambo’s Tavern, Delaware’s ultimate crab-cracking destination. This adults-only crab house has served steamed blue crabs coated in Old Bay since 1953, complete with mallets, newspaper-covered tables, and views of the water. The ambiance is relaxed, the seafood is fresh, and the experience is deeply rooted in regional tradition. It’s not fancy, and that’s the point. A meal at Sambo’s isn’t just dinner—it’s a rite of passage for anyone seeking authentic Mid-Atlantic flavor.
9. Florida – Joe’s Stone Crab (Miami Beach)
Few restaurants can claim legendary status quite like Joe’s Stone Crab. Open since 1913, this Miami Beach classic is synonymous with chilled Florida stone crab claws served with tangy mustard sauce. Seasonal and sustainable, the sweet, meaty claws are cracked tableside for maximum indulgence.
Joe’s old-school charm and top-notch service attract everyone from celebrities to locals craving a special night out. Despite its fame, it still feels like a family-run place where quality comes first. If you’re in South Florida during stone crab season, this is your culinary north star.
10. Georgia – The Varsity (Atlanta)
“What’ll ya have?” That’s the question shouted as you enter The Varsity, Atlanta’s legendary drive-in that’s been slinging chili dogs since 1928. Spanning two city blocks, this iconic eatery feeds thousands daily with fast food that’s high on flavor and nostalgia. Chili dogs, crispy onion rings, and Frosted Orange shakes are the stars of the show. The setting is chaotic, the food is messy, and the experience is undeniably fun. Whether you’re a first-timer or a lifelong fan, a visit to The Varsity feels like a deep-fried time capsule.
11. Hawaii – Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Honolulu)
Traditional Hawaiian cuisine lives on at Helena’s, a family-run spot in Honolulu that’s been filling plates since 1946. The pipikaula short ribs, dried and fried to chewy perfection, are a signature standout, but kalua pork, poi, and lomi salmon round out the comforting spread. The dining room is modest, but the flavors are rich with culture and history. Awarded a James Beard America’s Classics honor, Helena’s offers a soulful taste of Hawaii that’s as warm and welcoming as the islands themselves.
12. Idaho – Westside Drive-In (Boise)
A pink 1950s drive-in isn’t where you’d expect to find Idaho’s most beloved steak dish—but Westside’s finger steaks are legendary. Hand-cut beef strips are battered, deep-fried, and served with cocktail sauce for the ultimate meat-and-potatoes comfort.
Add on a side of fries and a whimsical “ice cream potato” for dessert (it’s actually ice cream!) and you’ve got a meal that captures Boise’s charm and quirky food culture. Guy Fieri approved it, and locals swear by it—it’s the kind of retro roadside magic that makes food fun again.
13. Illinois – Pequod’s Pizza (Chicago)
Chicago deep-dish gets a bold twist at Pequod’s, where the signature feature isn’t just the thick crust—it’s the caramelized cheese halo. Their pan-style pizzas are loaded with sauce, sausage, and stretchy mozzarella that bubbles and crisps against the cast-iron pan.
The result is a pie with texture, depth, and an edge you’ll want to fight over. Regularly topping national pizza rankings, Pequod’s isn’t touristy flash—it’s the real-deal comfort food locals devour. One bite, and you’ll understand why people return again and again for that crispy crown.
14. Indiana – St. Elmo Steak House (Indianapolis)
If you can’t handle heat, steer clear of St. Elmo’s shrimp cocktail. This century-old Indianapolis steakhouse is renowned for its sinus-searing horseradish sauce that accompanies jumbo shrimp—and the punch hits fast. Beyond the famed appetizer, dry-aged steaks and classic sides round out a refined, masculine menu. It’s old-school in all the best ways, with dark wood, white tablecloths, and legendary service. A local institution since 1902, St. Elmo’s offers timeless steakhouse tradition with just enough fire to keep things exciting.
15. Iowa – Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop (Des Moines)
In Iowa, the pork tenderloin sandwich is a culinary badge of honor, and Smitty’s serves it proudly. Their golden-fried slab of pork spills well beyond the bun, crisp and juicy in every bite. Since 1952, this modest diner has stuck to what it does best—making Iowa’s favorite sandwich with consistency and care. The locals love it, the out-of-towners crave it, and the tenderloin speaks louder than any neon sign could. It’s a must-eat monument to the state’s love affair with pork.
16. Kansas – Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (Kansas City)
Joe’s might just be the only gas station where you’ll willingly wait in line for an hour—and it’s worth every second. The Z-Man sandwich—smoked brisket, crispy onion rings, and provolone on a toasted bun—is pure barbecue bliss. The ribs, burnt ends, and pulled pork are equally excellent, slow-smoked with the kind of care that defines Kansas City ‘cue. What began as a competition team turned into one of the most respected names in BBQ. It’s messy, meaty, and massively satisfying.
17. Kentucky – The Brown Hotel (Louisville)
Created in 1926 for hungry ballroom dancers, the Hot Brown at The Brown Hotel is a decadent, open-faced masterpiece. Thick slices of turkey are smothered in creamy Mornay sauce, layered with tomato, and finished with broiled bacon.
The historic dining room, with its opulent chandeliers and Southern elegance, adds gravitas to every gooey bite. The Hot Brown isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a piece of Louisville’s culinary identity. From late-night invention to regional icon, it remains one of Kentucky’s proudest plates.
18. Louisiana – Café Du Monde (New Orleans)
Few places capture the spirit of New Orleans like Café Du Monde. Open since 1862, this French Quarter mainstay is famed for its fluffy beignets drowning in powdered sugar, paired with chicory coffee rich enough to power a parade.
Open 24/7, the café hums with tourists, street musicians, and powdered-sugar-covered smiles. Simplicity is its secret—just three beignets to a plate and a cup of dark roast magic. Whether you sit streetside or grab a box to go, it’s a NOLA experience you’ll never forget.
19. Maine – Red’s Eats (Wiscasset)
Along Maine’s scenic Route 1, Red’s Eats is impossible to miss—with its long lines, tiny red shack, and lobster rolls that overflow like seafood treasure chests. Each buttered bun is stuffed with over a full pound of fresh-picked Maine lobster, served with warm butter or mayo on the side. It’s a messy, glorious, and deeply satisfying bite of coastal heaven. Red’s has been a lobster roll legend for decades, attracting food lovers willing to wait hours for perfection. And trust us—it’s worth the wait.
20. Maryland – Faidley’s Seafood (Baltimore)
Baltimore’s Lexington Market comes alive around Faidley’s, where jumbo lump crab cakes have reigned supreme since 1886. Formed by hand, lightly bound, and flash-fried to golden perfection, these crab cakes are nearly all meat and pure Maryland pride.
Stand at the market counter elbow-to-elbow with locals and savor one with a splash of lemon or tartar. It’s fast, fresh, and full of tradition. For many Marylanders, Faidley’s is the benchmark by which all other crab cakes are judged—and few ever measure up.
21. Massachusetts – Union Oyster House (Boston)
As the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States, Union Oyster House blends history with briny indulgence. Since 1826, its shuckers have been serving fresh oysters at the raw bar alongside steaming bowls of creamy New England clam chowder.
The wood-paneled interior, cobblestone setting, and Presidential Booth where JFK dined all add to the charm. This Boston icon isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a living, slurping piece of American culinary history that defines Massachusetts one oyster at a time.
22. Michigan – Lafayette Coney Island (Detroit)
In Detroit, coney dogs aren’t just food—they’re a way of life. At Lafayette Coney Island, the chili-topped, mustard-slathered, onion-crowned hot dogs are served lightning-fast in a setting that hasn’t changed much since the 1920s. Its no-frills charm and elbow-to-elbow counter seating make it a city institution. Rivalries aside (hello, American Coney next door), Lafayette is the one locals swear by. Cheap, iconic, and bursting with Motor City pride, it’s a place where the ketchup ban is real and every bite is tradition.
23. Minnesota – Matt’s Bar (Minneapolis)
From the outside, Matt’s Bar looks like a modest neighborhood tavern. But inside lies the molten magic of the original Jucy Lucy—a burger stuffed with a lava flow of American cheese. Since the 1950s, this Minneapolis institution has been winning hearts (and maybe burning a few tongues) with its ooey-gooey surprise. No lettuce, no frills—just griddled perfection and a warning to let it cool. A true Midwest marvel, it’s the kind of place where comfort food reigns and simplicity sizzles.
24. Mississippi – Doe’s Eat Place (Greenville)
Doe’s doesn’t need polish to shine. This humble joint, originally a grocery store, has been serving giant porterhouse steaks and Delta-style tamales to presidents and locals since 1941. Walk through the kitchen to get to your table, and you’ll feel like part of the family. The tamales are spicy and soul-warming, but it’s the sizzling steaks cooked in cast-iron skillets that steal the show. Doe’s is more than a meal—it’s a Southern rite of passage wrapped in history and flavor.
25. Missouri – Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque (Kansas City)
Arthur Bryant’s is pure Kansas City barbecue royalty. The smoky scent hits you before the door even swings open, promising burnt ends, brisket, and ribs slathered in a vinegar-tinged tomato sauce that’s as bold as the legacy behind it.
Presidents and food critics alike have made the pilgrimage to this no-frills pit stop. The beef is juicy, the bark is real, and the sauce is unapologetically tangy. With a grease-stained counter and decades of barbecue mastery, Arthur Bryant’s is KC at its most authentic.
26. Montana – The Burger Dive (Billings)
In Big Sky Country, flavor reigns supreme at The Burger Dive, where creativity and quality collide. Known for their award-winning “I’m Your Huckleberry” burger—featuring huckleberry barbecue sauce, goat cheese, bacon, and arugula—this cozy Billings joint doesn’t mess around.
Each burger is griddled to juicy perfection and built with flair. The atmosphere is laid-back, but the menu reads like a gourmet burger dream. Whether you crave bold toppings or just a classic done right, The Burger Dive delivers big flavor with small-town charm.
27. Nebraska – The Drover (Omaha)
Tucked away in Omaha, The Drover has earned its reputation one whiskey-soaked steak at a time. Their signature whiskey-marinated filet is tender, flavorful, and unlike anything you’ve had before—rich with smoky depth and a hint of sweetness. The cozy, lodge-like atmosphere makes it a local favorite for date nights, celebrations, or simply indulging in the best steak in town. If Nebraska is known for beef, then The Drover is its temple. Don’t skip the salad bar—it’s old-school in the best possible way.
28. Nevada – Lotus of Siam (Las Vegas)
Hidden in a humble strip mall off the Vegas Strip, Lotus of Siam delivers Northern Thai cuisine that outshines the glitz around it. Known for crispy garlic prawns and deeply spiced khao soi, this James Beard–winning spot is a haven for flavor hunters.
Wine lovers will also appreciate its unexpectedly stellar cellar. The décor is unassuming, but the food is anything but. From fiery curries to delicate noodles, every dish is made with soul, heat, and balance. For in-the-know foodies, it’s the jackpot of Vegas eats.
29. New Hampshire – Puritan Backroom (Manchester)
You haven’t truly tasted New Hampshire until you’ve had chicken tenders from the Puritan Backroom. These golden, juicy strips—served with a variety of house-made sauces—are credited with sparking the national chicken tender craze. Founded in 1917, this family-run restaurant also offers Greek-American comfort dishes in a warm, welcoming space.
Politicians regularly stop here on the campaign trail, but it’s the locals who keep the booths full. Affordable, filling, and downright nostalgic, the Puritan Backroom proves that sometimes the simplest food can make the biggest impact.
30. New Jersey – Rutt’s Hut (Clifton)
A crackle, a snap, and a flash-fried masterpiece—that’s what awaits you at Rutt’s Hut. Famous for its “Ripper,” a deep-fried hot dog with blistered skin and juicy interior, this roadside legend has been delighting Jersey appetites since 1928. Topped with their signature mustard relish, it’s a hot dog that’s as gritty and glorious as the state itself. Don’t expect frills—just counters, paper trays, and timeless flavors. Rutt’s is where generations have gone to experience New Jersey’s most beloved bite in its purest form.
31. New Mexico – The Shed (Santa Fe)
Bright red chile, centuries-old adobe, and blue corn tortillas converge at The Shed, a Santa Fe classic nestled near the historic plaza. Known for its red chile enchiladas made with sun-dried chiles and locally sourced ingredients, the food here sings with earthy spice and regional pride. Inside, it’s colorful, cozy, and buzzing with conversation. This James Beard–honored gem offers a taste of Northern New Mexico’s culinary soul with every plate. You don’t just eat here—you feel connected to centuries of tradition and flavor.
32. New York – Katz’s Delicatessen (New York City)
Famous from film and food lore alike, Katz’s is the beating heart of the New York deli scene. Their pastrami on rye is thick, hand-carved, and layered with smoky, peppery perfection. Since 1888, this Lower East Side icon has fed everyone from presidents to tourists, always with the same no-nonsense flair. The brisket melts in your mouth, and the mustard hits just right. With a ticket system that’s as iconic as the meat, Katz’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a New York institution you can taste.
33. North Carolina – Skylight Inn BBQ (Ayden)
Down in Ayden, the whole hog is king—and Skylight Inn wears the crown. This humble smokehouse has been slow-cooking entire pigs over wood coals since 1947, then chopping the meat finely and dousing it in a vinegar-pepper sauce with just the right kick.
Served on a paper tray with slaw and cornbread, it’s barbecue stripped to its purest, most delicious form. A James Beard award-winner, Skylight isn’t flashy—but its smoky scent and deep-rooted tradition tell you everything you need to know.
34. North Dakota – Kroll’s Diner (Bismarck)
Slide into a mint-green booth at Kroll’s Diner and you’ll be greeted with “Sit down and eat!”—a warm nod to its German-Russian heritage. The star dish? Knoephla soup: a thick, creamy blend of potatoes, dumplings, and chicken that hugs you from the inside out.
This ‘50s-style diner celebrates North Dakota’s immigrant roots with hearty portions and homemade flair. It’s not fancy, but it’s full of flavor and history. If you’re craving comfort, Kroll’s delivers it by the bowlful—with a smile and some sauerkraut on the side.
35. Ohio – Camp Washington Chili (Cincinnati)
No visit to Cincinnati is complete without a stop at Camp Washington Chili, where the five-way reigns supreme. Spaghetti, chili, beans, onions, and a mountain of shredded cheddar come together in this messy, marvelous regional specialty. Open 24/7 since 1940, this Art Deco diner is a cornerstone of Queen City cuisine. Whether you’re a chili aficionado or a late-night wanderer, the flavor is uniquely Cincinnati—sweet, spiced, and surprisingly addictive. It’s more than a meal; it’s a rite of passage in a bowl.
36. Oklahoma – Cattlemen’s Steakhouse (Oklahoma City)
Nestled in Stockyards City, Cattlemen’s has been serving Oklahoma’s hungriest cowboys and governors since 1910. The T-bone steak here is charcoal-grilled to juicy perfection, and the side of lamb fries is a true local delicacy.
With walls lined with history and tables packed with loyal regulars, this is the kind of place where tradition is on the menu. It’s straightforward, hearty, and packed with frontier charm. If you want a taste of the Old West with a full stomach to match, Cattlemen’s delivers.
37. Oregon – Voodoo Doughnut (Portland)
At Voodoo Doughnut, the wild side of breakfast is always in bloom. Known for their pink boxes and eccentric toppings, this Portland icon slings maple bacon bars, cereal-covered creations, and the signature Voodoo Doll doughnut—filled with jelly and stabbed with a pretzel stick. Open late and always buzzing, the vibe is playful, punk, and a little offbeat—just like Portland itself. With a cult-like following and ever-changing specials, it’s more than a bakery. It’s a sugary celebration of weirdness that’s impossible to resist.
38. Pennsylvania – Pat’s King of Steaks (Philadelphia)
Pat’s is the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak—and the rivalry. Since 1930, this South Philly institution has dished out sizzling steak, onions, and gooey Cheez Whiz on crusty rolls to eager crowds. The ordering process is fast, and the line moves even faster, so know whether you want it “wit” or “witout” onions. The charm is in the chaos, the grease, and the unmistakable local attitude. In a city that takes sandwiches seriously, Pat’s is the gold standard for cheesesteak glory.
39. Rhode Island – Olneyville N.Y. System (Providence)
Don’t let the name fool you—this is pure Rhode Island. Olneyville N.Y. System is ground zero for the state’s iconic hot wiener, served “all the way” with meat sauce, mustard, onions, and a dash of celery salt. The counter is small, the stools are vinyl, and the atmosphere is wonderfully unpretentious. A James Beard award winner, this late-night favorite has been a part of Providence’s DNA since the 1940s. Grab a coffee milk to wash it all down—it’s as Rhode Island as it gets.
40. South Carolina – Rodney Scott’s BBQ (Charleston)
Rodney Scott doesn’t just smoke pork—he tells stories with fire. His Charleston joint, Rodney Scott’s BBQ, is built around whole-hog traditions and a vinegar-pepper mop sauce that’s both punchy and addictive. Every piece of meat is slow-cooked over hardwood coals with precision and heart.
Winner of a James Beard Award, Scott has brought global attention to South Carolina’s distinct barbecue style. From tender pulled pork to crisp-skinned ribs, every plate reflects generations of pitmaster knowledge—and a whole lot of soul.
41. South Dakota – Nick’s Hamburger Shop (Brookings)
Since 1929, Nick’s has been flipping tiny, greasy miracles one slider at a time. These palm-sized burgers, cooked on a sizzling flat-top and served with pickles and onions, are a Brookings staple—beloved for their simplicity and nostalgia.
The no-frills diner vibe and paper-wrapped bundles of sliders make for the perfect quick bite or late-night fix. Whether you eat two or ten (no judgment), Nick’s delivers that perfect balance of crispy edges, juicy center, and old-school charm that keeps generations coming back.
42. Tennessee – Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack (Nashville)
If you’re craving heat with history, Prince’s is where it all started. Credited with inventing Nashville hot chicken, this legendary spot fries up bird with a cayenne-heavy crust that’ll light up your taste buds. Served over white bread and pickles, the combo of spice, crunch, and tang is unforgettable. What began as a revenge recipe has become a fiery phenomenon, spawning imitators across the globe. But no one does it quite like Prince’s—bold, authentic, and unapologetically spicy.
43. Texas – Franklin Barbecue (Austin)
People wait in line for hours—yes, hours—for a taste of Franklin’s brisket, and every second is worth it. This Austin institution is the holy grail of Texas barbecue, where pitmaster Aaron Franklin’s technique turns beef into something transcendent.
Smoky, tender, and capped with a perfect black bark, the brisket practically melts at first bite. Add ribs or pulled pork and a side of espresso barbecue sauce for the full experience. Franklin’s isn’t just a meal—it’s a pilgrimage for meat lovers.
44. Utah – Crown Burgers (Salt Lake City)
Crown Burgers elevates fast food with its signature pastrami burger—a beef patty piled high with smoky sliced pastrami, melted cheese, and Utah’s beloved fry sauce. It’s indulgent, messy, and completely unforgettable. Founded by Greek immigrants, this local chain fuses diner vibes with unique regional flair. The portions are generous, the flavors bold, and the loyalty fierce. Locals swear by it, and first-timers quickly become regulars. Crown Burgers doesn’t just serve food—it serves pride between two buns.
45. Vermont – Al’s French Frys (South Burlington)
Al’s French Frys is pure Americana with a maple twist. Open since the 1940s, this retro roadside diner draws crowds for its hand-cut, double-fried potatoes—crispy outside, fluffy inside, and perfectly salted. Pair them with a juicy cheeseburger or a Vermont maple creemee, and you’ve got a simple, satisfying meal done right. The decor is nostalgic, the prices are fair, and the food is as comforting as it gets. In a state known for natural beauty, Al’s offers edible serenity one fry at a time.
46. Virginia – Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que (Williamsburg)
In the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, Pierce’s brings serious smoke to the table. Since 1971, this laid-back spot has dished out juicy pulled pork dressed in tangy, tomato-vinegar “Doc” sauce—a bold, zippy twist on Carolina ‘cue.
The bright yellow building and picnic-style seating scream summer road trip, but the flavors are timeless. Locals love it, tourists discover it, and the barbecue keeps them coming back. If you’re passing through the region, one taste is enough to make it your go-to pit stop.
47. Washington – Pike Place Chowder (Seattle)
Nestled in Seattle’s bustling Pike Place Market, this chowder counter draws lines for a reason. Their award-winning New England clam chowder is luxuriously creamy, brimming with fresh clams, potatoes, and herbs—and served in warm sourdough bread bowls. But don’t sleep on their smoked salmon variety either. With rich flavor and locally sourced ingredients, it’s a spoonful of the Pacific Northwest in every bite. Whether it’s raining or shining, Pike Place Chowder offers comfort, character, and crowd-pleasing flavor by the ladle.
48. West Virginia – Country Club Bakery (Fairmont)
Fairmont’s pepperoni roll isn’t just a snack—it’s a source of state pride. Country Club Bakery, the original creator, has been baking these soft rolls stuffed with spicy sticks of pepperoni since 1927. Designed as a miner’s lunch, this portable treat has since become West Virginia’s signature bite.
Slightly greasy in the best way and utterly satisfying, it’s perfect straight from the oven or packed to go. Country Club’s humble storefront hides a legacy that’s baked into every savory, doughy bite.
49. Wisconsin – Kopp’s Frozen Custard (Milwaukee area)
In Wisconsin, custard isn’t just dessert—it’s a way of life. Kopp’s serves up ultra-creamy frozen custard in rotating flavors like tiramisu, butter pecan, and cherry amaretto, all rich enough to stop you in your tracks. But don’t overlook the butter burgers—juicy patties on toasted buns slathered with butter and attitude. This Milwaukee-area staple combines indulgence with old-school flavor in one irresistible combo. Whether you’re visiting in July or January, Kopp’s keeps the crowds—and the cravings—coming year-round.
50. Wyoming – The Irma Hotel (Cody)
Buffalo Bill’s legendary Irma Hotel offers a taste of the Wild West with its showstopping prime rib buffet. Served in a dining room decked out with a cherrywood bar gifted by Queen Victoria, the ambiance is as rich as the roast itself.
Generous cuts of slow-roasted beef, hearty sides, and cowboy charm fill this historic dining room with frontier flavor. Since 1902, the Irma has hosted travelers, outlaws, and history buffs alike. For a meal that echoes Wyoming’s rugged roots, there’s no better place.
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