10 Urban Escapes Where Food Lovers Can Indulge in the Finest Culinary Cities Across the U.S.
You don’t need to venture to remote locations to find solace. Urban retreats are enhancing their offerings with chic spas, stunning rooftop pools, and, most importantly, exceptional dining. These resorts invite renowned Michelin-starred chefs to helm their kitchens and serve afternoon tea in iconic venues, providing unparalleled food experiences for those seeking a delightful getaway alongside access to some of the city's best eateries.
Take in breathtaking 270-degree views of New York City while enjoying cocktails at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Nomad. Delight in some of California’s finest produce at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. Master the technique of sabrage (opening champagne with a saber) at The St. Regis San Francisco. Here, uncover more about the ideal places to stay for a remarkable culinary journey in the U.S.'s premier food cities.
Relish farm-to-table dining and warm southern hospitality in Dallas
Situated in downtown, directly across from the Dallas Museum of Art, the newly opened JW Marriott Dallas Arts District offers prime access to the city’s finest shopping, dining, and entertainment options, featuring acclaimed restaurants like Uchi and Lucia. Yet, you don’t need to venture out—or even leave the premises—for a taste of exceptional Texas cuisine. Enjoy a farm-to-table banquet at Margaret’s, with dishes like bourbon-braised pork belly and BBQ-rubbed short rib for two. Afterwards, take a refreshing dip in the heated rooftop pool or sip a meticulously crafted cocktail at Vincent’s, an open-air sky bar on the 11th floor inspired by Vincent van Gogh, boasting spectacular views of the downtown Dallas skyline.
At The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, Texas's first Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Hotel, you can pamper yourself with a day at the spa and a dip in the outdoor pool before enjoying dinner at Fearing’s. Here, celebrated chef Dean Fearing presents a modern twist on Southwestern cuisine, featuring favorites like BBQ short rib enchiladas with chorizo queso fundido, jumbo lump crab cakes with chipotle crema, and achiote-glazed antelope served over mole rojo with braised rabbit enchiladas, chile verde, and heirloom squash.
Savor Latin-inspired dishes at a beachfront paradise in Miami Beach
Combining the amenities of a large resort with the personalized service of a boutique hotel, The Miami Beach EDITION offers an unparalleled luxury experience. For true indulgence and a sense of seclusion, reserve a chic and spacious bungalow with views of the pool or ocean. The top-tier bungalows even feature a rooftop deck complete with a private plunge pool.
The on-site restaurants, crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, are equally remarkable. At Matador Room, inspired by the glamorous supper clubs of the 1950s, Vongerichten offers a menu that reflects the flavors of Spain, the Caribbean, and Latin and South America, with dishes like sweet pea guacamole, crackling-skin arroz con pollo, and coconut tres leches cake. You can also experience the chef's signature style at Market at EDITION, a café offering a variety of dishes from ceviche to black truffle pizza.
Experience Miami’s vibrant nightlife at the property’s own Basement Bowl—a four-lane bowling alley with a fully stocked bar and gourmet snacks that transforms into an adults-only venue after 8 p.m.—or at nearby hotspots in Miami Beach, such as Ball & Chain or Joe’s Stone Crab.
Discover a serene oasis complete with a renowned restaurant just minutes from Washington, D.C.
Getting to nearby Washington, D.C. is a breeze with Metro access right outside The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City. Only two stops away from the capital, guests can spend a day exploring iconic landmarks and dining at Michelin-starred venues like Rose’s Luxury and The Dabney, before retreating to their peaceful room or suite featuring expansive views of Arlington.
On-site, Santé showcases seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in Mediterranean-inspired shareable plates, including grilled Virginia oysters with citrus harissa butter, lamb osso buco with okra and pearl couscous, and ratatouille-stuffed eggplant. The inviting glow of the restaurant’s fire makes it a cozy spot for a nightcap or afternoon tea on Saturdays and Sundays.
Travel back in time with historic venues and exquisite dining in San Francisco
Courtesy of The Luxury Collection
Blending timeless elegance with contemporary flair, The St. Regis San Francisco is a sanctuary for lovers of art and architecture, featuring an impressive collection of works by renowned local artists and a prime location next to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). The St. Regis Bar program beautifully marries history with modernity. Spice up your weekend with the hotel’s Golden Gate Mary, a unique twist on the St. Regis Signature Bloody Mary, paired with a hearty brunch of lumache carbonara and French toast drizzled with Devonshire cream. In the evening, indulge in a memorable champagne experience, complete with the signature Art of Sabrage ceremony and a new champagne Cart featuring curated caviar pairings, oysters, and desserts.
Situated in the esteemed Nob Hill, The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco occupies a historic 1909 Neoclassical building, with the city’s iconic cable car right at its doorstep. Drawing inspiration from the city's glamorous couture and distinctive architecture, guests can relish exceptional experiences, including dining at The Lounge, which offers California coastal cuisine complemented by handcrafted cocktails inspired by the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, along with exclusive wine tastings at JCB, hosted by world-renowned vintner Jean-Charles Boisset.
Another property steeped in history, Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Francisco, invites guests to enjoy afternoon tea beneath stunning Austrian crystal chandeliers and a 110-year-old glass atrium dome in the Beaux Arts–styled Garden Court Restaurant. For dinner, head to Pied Piper Bar & Lounge to admire the famous Maxfield Parrish painting that adorns the bar while savoring elevated classics like quail Scotch eggs and the Pied Piper burger featuring wagyu beef and garlic aioli. Still craving more? Experience classic California flavors at House of Prime Rib and Zuni Café, both just a short taxi ride away from the hotel.
Embark on a culinary adventure with a legendary chef in New York City
Located in the heart of Manhattan and surrounded by iconic sites, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Nomad offers a retreat of luxurious suites, a 6,800-square-foot holistic spa, and exquisite dining curated by one of the nation’s top Michelin-starred chefs, José Andrés. Experience a creative mezze menu inspired by Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese flavors at Zaytinya, where you can share delightful small plates such as crispy chickpea fritters and cumin-spiced meatballs.
The hotel’s latest dining venue, The Bazaar, celebrates a blend of Japanese and Spanish culinary techniques, serving fusion dishes like steamed buns with cured yolk, pancetta Ibérica, and sea urchin, along with a tortilla featuring glazed ama ebi shrimp and yuzu-nori mayo. Situated on the top floor, Andrés’s bar Nubeluz offers small bites, inventive cocktails, and stunning 270-degree views of New York City. For more Michelin-star dining, don’t miss Atomix and Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare in the city.
Kick off your celebration at a vibrant resort in Nashville
With seven unique food and beverage outlets, spacious suites, the largest hotel pool area in the city, and a state-of-the-art gym, W Nashville offers endless entertainment, from live music to luxurious cabanas. Relax on the expansive 9,700-square-foot WET Deck pool area while enjoying a perfectly crafted margarita from Sunset Bar. Indulge in prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and authentic Italian dishes at Carne Mare, along with classic American fare like fried chicken at The Dutch, both helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini.
Relax at Living Room Bar, a lively social spot that features local entertainment and curated whiskey tastings. No night in downtown Nashville is complete without a visit to Proof, one of the city’s top rooftop bars. Keep the party alive at Station Inn, a beloved venue for bluegrass and country music.
Dive into the beauty of nature and its treasures in Palm Springs
Perched above the breathtaking San Jacinto Mountain Range, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage encourages guests to engage with the surrounding desert through open-air designs, holistic spa experiences inspired by the land, and seasonal dining options. Indulge in a custom-made burger and fresh farm salad while lounging in your VIP-style cabana at the Air Pool Bar. Enjoy farm-to-table fare paired with selections from local wineries and small-batch distilleries at State Fare Bar & Kitchen. Relish California cuisine from a cliffside location adjacent to Coachella Valley at The Edge, where you can savor sunset views while dining on Snake River Farms American Wagyu, roasted beet tartare, and Cauliflower Five Ways with avocado, green tomato salsa verde, and fennel.
Located less than 45 minutes from Palm Springs’ premier attractions, the property allows guests to easily explore top sites, shopping, and dining options, including Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey and Farm. For an urban adventure, consider a day trip to Los Angeles, just over two hours away by car.
Cultivate wellness for your mind, body, and spirit in Tampa
Courtesy of EDITION Hotels
Emphasizing an organic and wellness-centered approach, The Tampa EDITION serves as a contemporary urban retreat, complete with a spacious spa, fitness center, and a rooftop pool. Guided by Michelin-starred chef John Fraser, dining at The Tampa EDITION showcases seasonal, modern cuisine. Recently honored with a Michelin star, Lilac offers a four-course prix fixe dinner that highlights the chef’s vegetable-centric philosophy, featuring dishes like spanakopita cannelloni and diver scallops accompanied by pine nut–preserved lemon risotto.
For a more relaxed dining experience with a focus on seaside-inspired dishes and breathtaking views, visit Azure on the hotel’s rooftop. Nestled in the vibrant, 56-acre Water Street Tampa neighborhood, guests can explore a variety of additional dining options in this sustainable, walkable urban setting, including Jeni’s Ice Creams and Naked Farmer.
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