Every state has its go-to food joint—the one place locals brag about to out-of-towners and road-trippers plan their detour around. From backroad barbecue pits and neon-lit diners to white-tablecloth dining rooms with Michelin stars, these restaurants aren’t just places to eat—they’re institutions. They tell the story of a state’s culture, flavor, and spirit one unforgettable bite at a time.
You won’t find a list of trendy pop-ups or fleeting foodie fads here. These are the restaurants that have earned their fame the hard way—through generations of loyal patrons, accolades from critics, or scenes etched into pop culture history. Some serve regional staples so well they’ve become culinary landmarks, while others transformed the way we think about food entirely. Whether it’s a plate of saucy ribs in Alabama or a ten-course tasting menu in California’s wine country, each of these iconic spots offers more than a meal—they deliver a sense of place.
And what’s especially remarkable? They’re all still operating today. While countless beloved eateries have faded over the years, these 50 legends are still standing strong, feeding new generations with the same pride and passion that made them famous.
So ask yourself: how many of these legendary spots have you actually tried? Have you cracked a crab claw in Miami Beach, tucked into a Jucy Lucy in Minneapolis, or sipped soup in America’s oldest tavern? Whether you’re mapping out your next foodie road trip or just reminiscing about past meals, this coast-to-coast list is a celebration of the best bites across America. These are the most famous restaurants in all 50 states—each one unforgettable, irreplaceable, and absolutely worth the journey. Let’s dig in.
1. Alabama – Dreamland Bar-B-Que (Tuscaloosa)
Founded in 1958 by “Big Daddy” Bishop, Dreamland began as a single shack with one mission: serve up unforgettable ribs. It quickly became a local treasure, drawing barbecue fans from across the South.
What sets Dreamland apart is its unwavering dedication to simplicity—smoked ribs, white bread, and a tangy, peppery sauce that keeps customers licking their fingers. The no-frills menu hasn’t changed much in decades, and fans wouldn’t have it any other way.
Over the years, its fame has spread far beyond Tuscaloosa, earning national recognition and appearances on food TV shows. The original location still holds that smoky magic.
2. Alaska – Club Paris (Anchorage)
This old-school Anchorage steakhouse exudes timeless charm, with red leather booths, vintage lighting, and a warm, intimate ambiance. Housed in a historic 1920s building, Club Paris has been delighting diners since the 1950s.
Its crown jewel is the massive filet mignon, hand-cut and aged on-site, grilled to juicy perfection. The simplicity of the food—steaks, seafood, and classic sides—lets quality speak for itself.
Alaskans and tourists alike flock here for a taste of tradition. With a glowing neon sign and generations of loyal patrons, Club Paris is more than a restaurant—it’s a culinary landmark in the Last Frontier.
3. Arizona – Pizzeria Bianco (Phoenix)
It all started in a humble corner of Phoenix where Chris Bianco began crafting wood-fired pizzas by hand. His obsession with detail—from the dough to the mozzarella—earned him a James Beard Award and national acclaim.
Each pizza tells a story of regional sourcing and culinary care. The “Wiseguy” with house-smoked mozzarella and fennel sausage is a standout, but even the margherita is unforgettable.
Lines form daily, and celebrity chefs regularly cite Bianco’s pizza as the best in the country. For many, a visit to Phoenix isn’t complete without experiencing this artisanal pizza revolution firsthand.
4. Arkansas – McClard’s Bar-B-Q (Hot Springs)
Opened in 1928, McClard’s began as a tourist court before evolving into a legendary barbecue institution. It’s been family-run for four generations and still draws long lines of hungry guests.
The menu is anchored by smoky ribs, homemade tamales, and their cult-favorite, peppery barbecue sauce. The secret recipe has remained unchanged for decades and keeps fans returning year after year.
Perhaps its most famous devotee is former President Bill Clinton, who regularly celebrated birthdays with a McClard’s feast. It’s more than a restaurant—it’s a piece of Arkansas history with a bold, smoky flavor.
5. California – The French Laundry (Yountville)
Nestled in Napa Valley, The French Laundry transformed fine dining in America under the vision of chef Thomas Keller. Its serene blue facade hides a world-class gastronomic temple where every dish is an art form.
The ever-changing nine-course tasting menu is rooted in precision, with no ingredient repeated. Dishes like “Oysters and Pearls” and truffle custards have become legendary in the culinary world.
It has held three Michelin stars since 2007 and earned countless accolades. For gourmets and global travelers alike, The French Laundry represents the pinnacle of refined American cuisine.
6. Colorado – Casa Bonita (Lakewood)
Few restaurants in America offer an experience quite like Casa Bonita. With its bright pink façade and cliff-diving stage, this massive Mexican eatery is more theme park than restaurant. Originally opened in 1974, it’s become a Colorado cultural icon.
Diners enjoy chimichangas and sopapillas while watching live entertainment like puppet shows, mariachi bands, and staged gunfights. The food may be secondary to the experience, but the spectacle keeps generations coming back.
In 2023, South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone purchased and restored it, preserving its quirky charm and reviving one of the nation’s most beloved kitsch attractions.
7. Connecticut – Mystic Pizza (Mystic)
Immortalized by the 1988 film starring Julia Roberts, Mystic Pizza has become a real-world destination for movie fans and pizza lovers alike. What began as a small-town pizzeria quickly gained national attention thanks to Hollywood.
The walls are now covered in film memorabilia, and the interior mirrors the movie’s set design. Guests come for the nostalgia, but stay for the cheesy, crispy-edged pies that have earned a loyal following.
More than just a filming location, Mystic Pizza represents the enduring charm of a family-run pizzeria turned cultural touchstone, serving up slices of pop-culture history daily.
8. Delaware – Le Cavalier at The Green Room (Wilmington)
Situated inside the historic Hotel du Pont, Le Cavalier occupies the former Green Room—a regal dining space dating back to 1913. Its French brasserie menu adds modern flair to a century of tradition.
While the chandeliers and grand columns remain, the cuisine has evolved with dishes like steak frites, duck confit, and oyster stew. The ambiance is timeless, and the culinary approach is refreshingly current.
This fusion of heritage and innovation has made Le Cavalier Delaware’s most celebrated fine dining experience, continuing a long-standing legacy of elegance in the heart of Wilmington.
9. Florida – Joe’s Stone Crab (Miami Beach)
Since 1913, Joe’s Stone Crab has drawn crowds to its corner of Miami Beach for seasonal stone crab claws and legendary key lime pie. It began as a modest lunch counter and grew into a national dining destination.
The restaurant’s famous claws are served chilled with mustard sauce, a combination that helped put Florida seafood on the map. The rest of the menu—from hash browns to fried chicken—also holds cult status.
Beloved by celebrities, politicians, and everyday visitors alike, Joe’s remains a must-visit icon with century-old charm and enduring culinary excellence.
10. Georgia – Mary Mac’s Tea Room (Atlanta)
Opened in 1945, Mary Mac’s was one of several “tea rooms” run by women post-WWII, but it’s the only one that stood the test of time. It has since become a Southern hospitality stronghold in the heart of Atlanta.
With sweet tea on every table and a handwritten order pad, the restaurant serves fried chicken, collard greens, and peach cobbler like grandma made. It’s equal parts meal and memory.
From celebrities to civil rights leaders, Mary Mac’s has welcomed generations through its doors, earning its affectionate title as “Atlanta’s Dining Room” for a reason.
11. Hawaii – Roy’s (Honolulu)
In 1988, Roy Yamaguchi opened the first Roy’s in Honolulu, combining Hawaiian ingredients with classical French technique and Asian flavors. His approach helped define “Hawaii Regional Cuisine” and set the stage for a new era of island fine dining.
Signature dishes like misoyaki butterfish and blackened ahi became instant classics, showcasing the bounty of the Pacific with sophistication. The vibrant open kitchen and ocean-inspired decor make for a warm, elegant experience.
Roy’s legacy continues to shape Hawaiian cuisine today, and the original location remains the gold standard for fusion dining on the islands.
12. Idaho – Big Jud’s (Boise)
Big Jud’s isn’t just a burger joint—it’s a rite of passage for Idahoans and hungry challengers alike. Founded in 1993, it built its reputation on sheer burger size and bold, satisfying flavor.
The signature “Big Jud” is a one-pound burger that barely fits on the bun, and the two-pound challenge draws crowds eager to land on the Wall of Fame. Beyond the gimmick, the food is consistently fresh and hearty.
Despite its growing fame, Big Jud’s retains a small-town atmosphere where big appetites and friendly service keep people coming back for more.
13. Illinois – Alinea (Chicago)
Grant Achatz redefined fine dining in America when he opened Alinea in 2005. This three-Michelin-starred powerhouse quickly gained a global following for its avant-garde, multi-sensory tasting menus.
Each course is a performance, with creations like edible helium balloons and deconstructed classics served on custom-designed tableware. The experience blurs the line between science, art, and cuisine.
Consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants, Alinea remains a symbol of culinary innovation and a must-visit for those seeking to be wowed in every possible way.
14. Indiana – St. Elmo Steak House (Indianapolis)
A downtown Indianapolis institution since 1902, St. Elmo Steak House has built its fame on tradition, quality, and fiery shrimp cocktail. The timeless wood-paneled interior sets the tone for a classic steakhouse experience.
Its world-renowned shrimp cocktail, doused in a horseradish-laced sauce that clears sinuses, is almost as famous as the perfectly grilled steaks. Regulars range from sports stars to politicians.
Whether you’re seated in a booth or at the bar, dining at St. Elmo means enjoying a piece of Indy’s culinary heritage in its purest form.
15. Iowa – Northwestern Steakhouse (Mason City)
Tucked in a modest brick building since 1920, Northwestern Steakhouse has become a legendary fixture in Mason City. Its Greek-American roots set it apart from typical Midwest steak joints.
The house specialty—ribeye broiled in olive oil, butter, and Greek spices—is tender, aromatic, and utterly unforgettable. Baked spaghetti on the side may seem unorthodox, but it’s tradition here.
With its loyal following and unchanged recipes, the restaurant has earned national praise while staying true to its quiet, small-town identity. It’s Iowa’s most deliciously enduring secret.
16. Kansas – Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (Kansas City)
What began as a humble gas station barbecue joint has grown into one of the most revered smokehouses in America. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que consistently lands on top BBQ lists for its slow-smoked meats and casual charm.
Their signature Z-Man sandwich—beef brisket topped with provolone and crispy onion rings on a Kaiser roll—is now the stuff of legend. Ribs, pulled pork, and burnt ends round out a menu that satisfies every carnivore.
Even Anthony Bourdain called it one of the 13 places to eat before you die, cementing Joe’s place in barbecue history.
17. Kentucky – Jack Fry’s (Louisville)
Originally opened in 1933 by a bookie named Jack Fry, this Louisville landmark has lived many lives—but always with a sense of elegance. The low lighting, jazz music, and vintage photographs create a warm, timeless atmosphere.
The menu reflects upscale Southern comfort with French influence—think shrimp and grits, lamb chops, and bourbon-glazed pork. Presentation is meticulous, but never fussy.
Locals cherish Jack Fry’s for its intimacy and sophistication, while visitors see it as a window into Louisville’s past and present culinary soul.
18. Louisiana – Commander’s Palace (New Orleans)
tanding proudly in the Garden District since 1893, Commander’s Palace is the crown jewel of Creole cuisine. The iconic blue-and-white Victorian mansion welcomes diners with a blend of opulence and Southern warmth.
The menu celebrates Louisiana’s rich culinary traditions with turtle soup, bread pudding soufflé, and seasonal Gulf seafood. Each dish is delivered with white-tablecloth polish and New Orleans flair.
Having launched the careers of legends like Paul Prudhomme and Emeril Lagasse, Commander’s Palace remains a rite of passage for food lovers visiting the Crescent City.
19. Maine – The Lost Kitchen (Freedom)
Tucked inside a restored 19th-century grist mill, The Lost Kitchen is one of America’s most sought-after dining experiences. Chef Erin French created more than just a restaurant—she built a movement rooted in simplicity, seasonality, and soul.
Reservations are granted only through postcard lottery, with tens of thousands sent in each year for a chance to dine. Those who win enjoy a nightly-changing menu sourced from nearby farms and fields.
It’s more than the food that captivates—it’s the setting, the story, and the feeling of being part of something rare and meaningful.
20. Maryland – Woodberry Kitchen (Baltimore)
This rustic-chic eatery in a converted 19th-century mill helped define Baltimore’s farm-to-table movement. Opened in 2007 by Chef Spike Gjerde, Woodberry Kitchen is a love letter to the Chesapeake Bay region.
Oysters, rockfish, and heirloom vegetables take center stage, crafted with precision and seasonal flair. The wood-fired oven and reclaimed wood decor reflect the restaurant’s sustainability-first ethos.
Woodberry’s devotion to local sourcing earned Gjerde a James Beard Award and national acclaim, putting Maryland’s native ingredients on the map in unforgettable ways.
21. Massachusetts – Union Oyster House (Boston)
As the oldest continuously operating restaurant in America, Union Oyster House has been serving New England classics since 1826. Nestled near Boston’s Freedom Trail, it exudes Colonial charm with wooden booths and low ceilings.
The raw oyster bar is legendary, often manned by shuckers with decades of experience. Clam chowder, baked cod, and lobster are staples that honor regional tradition.
Daniel Webster dined here regularly, and even JFK had a favorite booth. Its deep history and dedication to local seafood make it a cornerstone of Boston’s culinary identity.
22. Michigan – Bavarian Inn Restaurant (Frankenmuth)
Set in Michigan’s charming Bavarian-themed village, this massive family restaurant has been welcoming guests since 1888. With servers in dirndls and polka music in the air, the atmosphere is festive and nostalgic.
The all-you-can-eat fried chicken dinners, served alongside German schnitzels and sausages, are the main draw. Plates arrive in waves, accompanied by mashed potatoes, gravy, buttered noodles, and seasonal sides.
Millions have passed through its doors, making it one of the most visited independent restaurants in America—and a cherished destination for tradition-filled meals in a storybook setting.
23. Minnesota – Matt’s Bar (Minneapolis)
Opened in 1954, Matt’s Bar is ground zero for the famous Jucy Lucy—a burger with molten cheese tucked inside the patty. The spelling may be quirky, but the flavor is serious business.
This unassuming neighborhood joint doesn’t take reservations, and it doesn’t accept frills. Burgers come wrapped in paper, sizzling hot, and always with a warning to bite carefully.
From locals to presidents (Obama stopped in for a bite), Matt’s has become a burger pilgrimage site, serving Minnesota’s most iconic dish with charm and grit.
24. Mississippi – Mayflower Café (Jackson)
A Greek-American gem that’s been around since 1935, Mayflower Café blends Jackson’s seafood traditions with Mediterranean roots. Located near the state capitol, it’s a favorite of politicians and movie crews alike.
The redfish and snapper are menu highlights, often paired with the café’s signature comeback sauce—a tangy blend of mayo, ketchup, and spices born right here.
With cameo appearances in films like The Help and Ghosts of Mississippi, the café holds a unique place in Mississippi lore, offering classic flavors in a time-honored setting.
25. Missouri – Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque (Kansas City)
Considered a holy site for barbecue lovers, Arthur Bryant’s has been dishing out smoky meats since the 1920s. The walls are lined with photos of presidents, celebrities, and athletes who’ve made the pilgrimage.
Their legendary ribs and brisket, slathered in a gritty, vinegar-based sauce, are served on white bread without pretense. It’s the flavor—and the history—that does all the talking.
Anthony Bourdain once called it “the best BBQ joint in the country,” and many still agree. For Kansas City ‘cue, this is as authentic and iconic as it gets.
26. Montana – Lucca’s (Helena)
This intimate Italian fine dining spot in downtown Helena is widely considered the best restaurant in Montana. With just a handful of tables and a reservation-only policy, Lucca’s focuses on quality over quantity.
Dishes like veal piccata, seafood risotto, and handmade ravioli are prepared with refined skill and artful presentation. The warm lighting and crisp white tablecloths create a polished yet welcoming vibe.
Locals treat it as the go-to destination for special occasions, and visitors often call it a hidden gem worth the detour. Its consistent excellence has made it a statewide treasure.
27. Nebraska – The Drover (Omaha)
Tucked beside Omaha’s historic stockyards, The Drover has made a name for itself with its signature whiskey-marinated steaks. This rustic chophouse has a cowboy spirit and a devoted local following.
Each steak is soaked in a secret whiskey-based marinade, giving it a distinct depth of flavor before being grilled to perfection. The dark wood interior and vintage décor amplify the Western feel.
For decades, it’s been the go-to spot for celebrating milestones or hosting business dinners. In a state proud of its beef, The Drover serves some of the finest.
28. Nevada – Golden Steer Steakhouse (Las Vegas)
Established in 1958, Golden Steer is a living slice of old Vegas glamour. Red leather booths and gold-framed photos line the walls, marking the seats of Sinatra, Elvis, and Muhammad Ali.
The menu is classic steakhouse fare—prime rib, filet mignon, and Caesar salad tossed tableside—all executed with timeless flair. Waiters in tuxedos deliver polished service from start to finish.
Even with flashy new venues nearby, Golden Steer remains the soul of Las Vegas dining. It’s where nostalgia and luxury continue to thrive in every bite.
29. New Hampshire – Moxy (Portsmouth)
Chef Matt Louis launched Moxy as a love letter to New England’s ingredients, reimagined through a tapas-style lens. Its sleek, modern space belies the deeply local and seasonal ethos behind every plate.
Creative dishes like pork belly bites, salt cod fritters, and maple-glazed carrots showcase the bounty of the region in surprising ways. Small plates encourage sharing and lingering.
As a four-time James Beard semifinalist, Louis helped elevate Portsmouth’s food scene nationally. Moxy remains a forward-thinking standout that’s both regionally rooted and globally inspired.
30. New Jersey – Tops Diner (East Newark)
New Jersey is known for its diners, but Tops stands in a league of its own. Open since 1942, this retro landmark delivers both comfort and ambition on a massive, crowd-pleasing menu.
Whether you’re craving lobster mac and cheese, short rib tacos, or a classic cheeseburger and shake, it’s all made with care and flair. The updated decor adds polish without sacrificing warmth.
Named America’s best diner by several publications, Tops attracts everyone from late-night locals to food travelers. It’s proof that a great diner can be both nostalgic and next-level.
31. New Mexico – El Pinto (Albuquerque)
With adobe walls, vibrant patios, and seating for over 1,200 guests, El Pinto is as much an experience as it is a restaurant. Founded in 1962, it has grown into New Mexico’s largest and most celebrated spot for authentic cuisine.
Its fiery red and green chile sauces—made from locally sourced Hatch chiles—are legendary, often bottled and shipped nationwide. Dishes like carne adovada and chile rellenos keep the menu rooted in tradition.
Beloved by celebrities and politicians alike, El Pinto combines scale and soul, offering a flavorful introduction to the heart of New Mexican cooking.
32. New York – Katz’s Delicatessen (New York City)
A Lower East Side icon since 1888, Katz’s is the most famous Jewish deli in America. Its towering pastrami on rye sandwiches and hand-carved meats have become symbols of classic New York dining.
Inside, it’s loud, fast-paced, and lined with photos of famous visitors and loyal regulars. The “Send a salami to your boy in the army” slogan still hangs above the counter.
Made even more iconic by its role in When Harry Met Sally, Katz’s isn’t just a meal—it’s a piece of living history with a side of mustard.
33. North Carolina – Fearrington House Restaurant (Pittsboro)
Located on a former dairy farm just outside Chapel Hill, Fearrington House is a refined escape in the North Carolina countryside. Since 1980, it has offered elegant Southern hospitality with European technique.
Menus highlight local farms and gardens, with dishes like heirloom tomato salad, lamb loin, and seasonal sorbets crafted into multi-course experiences. The inn and gardens add to its charm.
One of the few Forbes Five-Star restaurants in the South, Fearrington House delivers grace, flavor, and calm in equal measure, making it a cherished fine dining retreat.
34. North Dakota – Peacock Alley (Bismarck)
Housed in the historic Patterson Hotel, Peacock Alley has been a staple of downtown Bismarck since 1933. With its rich wood interiors and long bar, it still reflects the grandeur of its Prohibition-era roots.
The menu is anchored by hand-cut steaks and craft burgers, like the Gorgonzola bacon burger and the prime rib melt. Weekly specials and bold cocktails round out the offerings.
Peacock Alley is more than a restaurant—it’s a local institution where political figures, ranchers, and food lovers alike gather to share hearty meals in a timeless setting.
35. Ohio – The Golden Lamb (Lebanon)
Established in 1803, The Golden Lamb is Ohio’s oldest continuously operating inn and restaurant. Its creaky wooden floors and antique decor offer a warm window into early American life.
Guests enjoy traditional fare like roast turkey, pot roast, and spoonbread served with seasonal vegetables and classic pies. Each dining room has its own personality, many named after former presidential guests.
Twelve U.S. Presidents have dined here, and its connection to historical figures like Mark Twain makes every visit a step back in time. It’s living history with a side of mashed potatoes.
36. Oklahoma – Cattlemen’s Steakhouse (Oklahoma City)
Located in the heart of Stockyards City, Cattlemen’s Steakhouse has been feeding cowboys, ranchers, and presidents since 1910. Its frontier-style dining room evokes the grit and charm of Old West Oklahoma.
The menu is classic and unpretentious—juicy T-bones, lamb fries, and baked potatoes the size of saddles. A legendary whiskey-laced house dressing tops every crisp salad.
Once famously won in a dice game, Cattlemen’s remains a steak-lover’s institution where generations have gathered for hearty meals and a taste of tradition.
37. Oregon – Jake’s Famous Crawfish (Portland)
Operating since 1892, Jake’s is one of the oldest continuously running restaurants on the West Coast. Set in a historic downtown building, it combines white-tablecloth elegance with Pacific Northwest bounty.
Seafood is the main attraction—Dungeness crab, cedar plank salmon, and of course, the namesake crawfish when in season. The bar’s old-school vibe adds to its enduring appeal.
With a loyal following and a long list of celebrity fans, Jake’s continues to define Portland’s culinary scene as a refined but accessible seafood staple.
38. Pennsylvania – Zahav (Philadelphia)
Chef Michael Solomonov’s Zahav brought Israeli cuisine to the forefront of American dining. Since opening in 2008, it has dazzled diners with bold flavors, silky hummus, and fire-kissed meats.
The tasting menu—centered on house-made laffa, pickled vegetables, and pomegranate lamb shoulder—offers a culinary journey through the Levant. Everything is designed for sharing in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
Winner of the James Beard Award for Best Restaurant in America, Zahav is a testament to the power of heritage, innovation, and the beauty of breaking bread.
39. Rhode Island – White Horse Tavern (Newport)
Established in 1673, the White Horse Tavern holds the title of America’s oldest operating restaurant. Stepping inside feels like traveling back in time—creaky wooden floors, candlelit tables, and centuries-old fireplaces create a rich, atmospheric setting rooted in colonial charm.
The menu bridges the past and present, offering refined dishes like lobster bisque, rack of lamb, and traditional Rhode Island johnnycakes. Locally sourced seafood and seasonal ingredients showcase the region’s bounty with modern flair.
Having hosted everyone from British soldiers to Rhode Island governors, the tavern isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a living museum where history is served daily alongside dinner.
40. South Carolina – Husk (Charleston)
Husk changed the conversation about Southern food when it opened in 2010. With the motto “If it doesn’t come from the South, it’s not coming through the door,” its mission was clear.
Chef Sean Brock’s dedication to heirloom ingredients and traditional techniques redefined Lowcountry cuisine. Dishes like heritage pork, shrimp and grits, and cornbread made with stone-ground grits shine on a seasonal menu.
Set in a beautifully restored Charleston mansion, Husk offers both a culinary education and a celebration of Southern roots with every elegant plate.
41. South Dakota – Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge (Brookings)
Originally a gas station café in 1949, the Pheasant evolved into a beloved community hub that celebrates South Dakota’s culinary roots. Its retro neon sign still glows as a beacon for locals and road-trippers alike.
The menu blends homestyle comfort with regional specialties—try the legendary pheasant salad sandwich, house-made bison burger, or seasonal rhubarb pie. Everything is made with local pride and generous Midwestern portions.
In 2024, it earned a James Beard America’s Classics Award, solidifying its legacy. With three generations of family ownership, the Pheasant offers more than great food—it delivers a true taste of South Dakota hospitality.
42. Tennessee – The Loveless Cafe (Nashville)
Since 1951, the Loveless Cafe has welcomed hungry travelers with its iconic neon sign and aroma of fresh biscuits. Located on the edge of Nashville, it began as a roadside motel and evolved into a Southern food mecca.
Their famous biscuits are handmade daily—flaky, buttery, and served with house-made preserves. Fried chicken, country ham, and hashbrown casserole round out a menu that honors timeless recipes.
With a devoted fanbase that includes Dolly Parton and generations of families, Loveless offers comfort food with soul. It’s more than a meal—it’s a Nashville tradition worth the detour.
43. Texas – Franklin Barbecue (Austin)
Launched in 2009 by Aaron Franklin, this modest barbecue joint quickly became a global pilgrimage site for brisket lovers. What started as a trailer turned into one of America’s most talked-about restaurants.
Franklin’s slow-smoked brisket—marbled, bark-covered, and impossibly tender—is widely considered the best in the country. Customers line up before dawn for a taste, often waiting hours for their turn.
The James Beard Award-winning pitmaster helped redefine Texas barbecue for a new era. Despite the hype, Franklin remains down-to-earth, focused on craft, smoke, and feeding people right.
44. Utah – Ruth’s Diner (Salt Lake City)
Perched in scenic Emigration Canyon, Ruth’s Diner has been serving comfort food since 1930. Originally run by a cigar-smoking cabaret singer named Ruth, it now occupies a vintage trolley car with a panoramic patio.
Their “mile-high” biscuits are legendary—light, fluffy, and piled high with sausage gravy or butter and jam. The menu includes diner classics with Utah flair, from meatloaf to trout Benedict.
Locals and tourists alike make the trek for hearty breakfasts and canyon views. Ruth’s Diner is a quirky, heartfelt institution that honors its colorful past with every plate.
45. Vermont – Hen of the Wood (Waterbury)
Tucked inside a restored gristmill, Hen of the Wood transformed Vermont’s food scene when it opened in 2005. The rustic setting and candlelit tables reflect a deep reverence for nature and seasonality.
Menus change daily and highlight locally foraged and farmed ingredients—expect dishes like Vermont rabbit, mushroom toast, or heritage pork belly with maple glaze. Everything feels rooted in time and place.
With rave reviews and a second location in Burlington, Hen of the Wood set the standard for refined, hyper-local dining in New England. It’s where Vermont’s forests meet fine dining.
46. Virginia – The Inn at Little Washington (Washington)
Nestled in a tiny town at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Inn at Little Washington is a culinary sanctuary like no other. Opened in 1978 by chef Patrick O’Connell, it has since become Virginia’s most acclaimed restaurant.
With three Michelin stars and Relais & Châteaux prestige, the Inn dazzles with theatrical, French-inspired tasting menus served in opulent, whimsical dining rooms. Signature dishes like truffle-stuffed chicken and lamb carpaccio exemplify O’Connell’s precision and creativity.
Its reputation extends far beyond state lines. From presidents to royalty, it’s a dream destination where every meal feels like a once-in-a-lifetime event.
47. Washington – Canlis (Seattle)
Perched above Lake Union with sweeping city views, Canlis has defined fine dining in Seattle since 1950. Its modernist architecture and panoramic setting are matched by a legacy of impeccable service and innovation.
The Pacific Northwest menu blends sophistication with soul—dishes like cedar-planked salmon, duck with huckleberry, and the famed Canlis salad reflect decades of refinement. A new generation of Canlis family owners continues to evolve the vision.
With multiple James Beard Awards, Canlis is as much a symbol of Seattle as the Space Needle. It’s where locals go to mark milestones and visitors go to be amazed.
48. West Virginia – The Greenbrier Main Dining Room (White Sulphur Springs)
Inside the luxurious Greenbrier resort, the Main Dining Room has served guests in style since 1913. Decked out in Dorothy Draper décor, it pairs old-school elegance with Southern hospitality.
The menu is a celebration of classic American fine dining—think prime rib, rainbow trout, and rich peanut soup. Each evening begins with a dress code and a sense of ceremony.
This historic room has hosted presidents, dignitaries, and celebrities. Dining here isn’t just about the food—it’s about stepping into a living piece of West Virginia’s most storied retreat.
49. Wisconsin – Mader’s (Milwaukee)
Since 1902, Mader’s has brought hearty German fare and Old World charm to Milwaukee. From its medieval decor to its waitstaff in lederhosen, every detail immerses guests in Bavarian tradition.
The menu features staples like sauerbraten, wiener schnitzel, and pork shank, served with steins of German beer and soft pretzels as big as your head. The apple strudel is a fan favorite.
Mader’s has welcomed everyone from John F. Kennedy to Mick Jagger. It’s a festive and enduring landmark that embodies the spirit of Milwaukee’s German-American heritage.
50. Wyoming – The Irma Hotel & Restaurant (Cody)
Built in 1902 by Buffalo Bill Cody himself, the Irma Hotel is a true frontier relic. Its dining room, anchored by a cherrywood bar gifted by Queen Victoria, oozes Wild West character.
Buffalo burgers, Rocky Mountain oysters, and prime rib dinners are staples, served amid mounted antlers and vintage lanterns. The Sunday buffet is a long-standing local tradition.
More than a meal, it’s a full-on Western experience. Whether you’re a history buff or a hungry traveler, dining at the Irma is like stepping into the pages of a cowboy novel.
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