12 Hidden Culinary Treasures in the US

When considering the top food cities in the US, names like New York City, Los Angeles, San Diego, Miami, and Chicago often come to mind. However, if you're on the hunt for exceptional dining experiences this year, why not venture off the beaten path to explore these underrated culinary destinations?

From unexpected spots serving authentic Slovenian cuisine to the burgeoning farm-to-table trend that marries innovative cooking with fresh local produce, these cities will surprise you. Indulge in chocolate from the celebrity favorite DeBrand Fine Chocolates in Fort Wayne, Indiana, savor bourbon and burgoo stew in Bardstown, Kentucky, or taste the unique Pueblo chiles in Pueblo, Colorado. Each of these locations promises a delightful culinary experience. So grab your bags, bookmark this list, and get ready to uncover these hidden foodie gems.

1. Birmingham, Alabama

A must-try: You can’t visit the South without indulging in barbecue, and Alabama has its own unique style. Stop by Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ, run by a James Beard award-winning pitmaster, considered by many as the best barbecue in America. Opt for a personalized two-meat combo featuring brisket and whole hog, paired with collard greens, hush puppies, and a refreshing glass of sweet tea. Don’t forget to leave space for their famous banana pudding.

With a recent surge in talent and culinary innovation, Birmingham is now a leading gastronomic destination in the South. Skilled chefs are utilizing fresh ingredients from the lush farmlands, the Appalachian foothills, and the nearby Gulf of Mexico. For exquisite Gulf seafood, visit Hot & Hot Fish Club, and don’t miss out on El Barrio for delicious Mexican tostadas. For an upscale dining experience, Chez Fonfon offers exceptional French bistro-inspired dishes that rival those in New Orleans.

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2. Pueblo, Colorado

A must-try: The renowned Pueblo green chile has transformed this former steel town into one of Colorado’s top culinary hotspots. You can savor this Colorado classic at some of the finest Mexican eateries in town, including Lobo’s Tacos and Tequila (don’t miss the Korean fire taco), Tacos Navarro (everything with their specialty carnitas is a winner), and Estela’s Mill Stop Cafe (be sure to try the stuffed sopapillas). For a twist, check out Brues Alehouse on the Pueblo RiverWalk, where they serve delicious brews and burgers, along with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.

You absolutely must experience the Slovenian cuisine! Pueblo boasts Bojon Town, a close-knit community of Slovenian immigrants who settled here in the early 1900s. One highlight is potica, a walnut-stuffed pastry available at Gagliano’s Italian Market and various local restaurants. 

Insider tip: Be ready for a wait at Estela’s Mill Stop Cafe, a beloved family-run spot known for generous portions of comforting Mexican dishes at affordable prices. If you visit for brunch, the huevos rancheros are a must-have!

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3. Traverse City, Michigan

A must-try: No trip to this lakeside gem is complete without indulging in fresh seafood while enjoying the view. For the finest scenery and fish in town, head to Boathouse Restaurant. This French-inspired seafood spot is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Be sure to try the Lake Michigan walleye, a member of the perch family with mild, almost sweet flesh.

Nestled on Lake Michigan, you might not realize that this Northern Michigan city is famous for its year-round outdoor activities, wine, and diverse dining options. If you can visit just one winery, make it a festive choice like Mawby in nearby Suttons Bay, known for its award-winning sparkling wines.

Visit Samsara for a creative twist on Southeast Asian dishes, featuring a lemongrass burger and pineapple fried rice. At Hexenbelle, enjoy delightful vegetarian Mediterranean offerings like falafel and shakshuka, complemented by fresh coffee and a delicious peach matcha. Don’t miss The Cook’s House for intimate, sustainably sourced dishes—try the oyster mushroom soup and braised rabbit, both favorites. Meanwhile, Sleder’s Family Tavern (established in 1882) serves up signature burgers, sandwiches, and bar food with a Midwestern flair.

Insider tip: Make sure to try a Michigan Montmorency tart cherry dessert from Grand Traverse Pie Company before you leave Traverse City. If cherries aren’t your favorite, there are plenty of pies made with local berries as well.

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4. Greenville, South Carolina

Must-try dish: Since 1997, Soby’s in downtown Greenville has been serving up its legendary white chocolate banana cream pie—an absolute classic!

This vibrant city in upstate South Carolina boasts a rich cultural and entertainment scene, now complemented by its burgeoning food offerings. Greenville is renowned for its Southern cuisine; if you're around in late September, make sure to attend the Bourbon & Bacon Fest. For a unique dining experience, visit The Trappe Door for Belgian-inspired dishes like moules frites (mussels with homemade fries) paired with expertly chosen beers. Don't miss The Lazy Goat for exceptional Mediterranean fare, including top-notch paellas. Star chef Sean Brock's Husk has a location here, and Kitchen Sync offers sustainable options like shrimp burgers. For an unforgettable culinary adventure, go to The Anchorage and indulge in their tasting menu featuring innovative New American dishes using local ingredients.

Insider tip: While Soby’s is famous for its pie, be sure to start with their New Southern cuisine, as it's among the finest dining experiences in the area. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate their extensive 5,000-bottle selection.

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5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Must-try dish: While there are countless reasons to visit Wyoming, the steak tartare pizza at Snake River Grill is a surprisingly extraordinary choice. You’ll find yourself raving about it to all your friends and family!

You might not expect a quaint town nestled just below Grand Teton National Park to be a top foodie hotspot in the West, but “Jackson” (as locals affectionately call it) truly deserves this recognition. Begin your culinary journey at Persephone Bakery, known for some of the finest French pastries east of the Mississippi. While everything on the breakfast menu is delightful, be sure to try the egg sandwich on a croissant or the delectable bread pudding French toast made with croissants for a special treat. Don’t miss Alpenhof Lodge for authentic schnitzel and Bin22 for exceptional wine paired with some of the best tapas available.

Insider tip: Before leaving cowboy country, make a pit stop at Cowboy Coffee Co. If you're gearing up for an outdoor adventure or need a strong caffeine boost, order the black eye coffee, a robust blend of cold brew and espresso shots.

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6. Waco, Texas

Must-try experience: Don’t miss out on visiting Clay Pot Restaurant for exquisite Vietnamese cuisine crafted by the Le family since the 1980s. It’s tough to choose a favorite, but you absolutely have to try their signature Clay Pot dish—served in a traditional clay pot, of course!

Recently, this college town gained recognition as a foodie hotspot in North America thanks to Chip and Joanna Gaines from HGTV’s Fixer Upper. The couple owns Magnolia Market, a shopping hub featuring eateries like the Asian-American Club Sandwich and their popular Magnolia Table. However, the city’s culinary growth extends beyond the Gaines’ influence. George’s Restaurant is a beloved local spot known for its Big O (an 18oz beer) and a must-try chicken-fried steak. Meanwhile, Jake’s Texas Tea House showcases car-themed decor, serving homemade dishes and desserts, including a delightful buttermilk pie. And of course, no visit to Texas is complete without indulging in Mexican cuisine; head to Taqueria El Crucero for the oso burrito drenched in their amazing oso sauce.

Insider tip: For a taste of authentic Texas barbecue, visit Jasper’s Bar-B-Q, which has been serving up delicious brisket, pork ribs, and sausage since 1915. Arrive early, as they often sell out of their dishes daily—including their surprisingly tasty coleslaw. We also recommend R+S Barbecue in West Waco for their smoked turkey legs, brisket nachos, and Instagram-worthy layer cakes.

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7. Fort Wayne, Indiana

A must-try: Fort Wayne boasts a rich blend of American and European heritage, making JK O’Donnell’s Irish Ale House an essential stop. Be sure to order the fish ‘n chips and the JK chips, served with your choice of garlic aioli, whiskey wing, or curry sauce.

Fort Wayne and the surrounding Northeast Indiana area are experiencing rapid growth, making it one of the fastest-developing regions in the US. This surge is due to the city’s appealing quality of life and affordable living costs, attracting a younger demographic eager for new job opportunities, which is in turn boosting the restaurant scene. For a lighter start, try the signature Casaburo salad—a refreshing mix of two lettuces, Italian cheese, green onions, and peppers—before indulging in baked mostaccioli or crab lasagna rolls at any of Casa Ristoranti Italiano’s four locations. Baker Street Steakhouse is perfect for meat lovers, featuring an elegant atmosphere and a ribeye that’s not to be missed. Alternatively, visit Paula’s on Main for fresh seafood dishes like almond walleye and perch piccata.

Local Executive Chef Sean Richardson, a James Beard Best Chef nominee, has recently opened Rune in a charming 19th-century building adorned with 12-foot ceilings and antique glass milk lighting. His ever-changing menu features an eclectic range of dishes, dependent on seasonal foraging.

Insider tip: For some of the finest chocolate in the US, visit Fort Wayne’s DeBrand Fine Chocolates. A favorite among celebrities like Demi Lovato and Jessica Simpson, their beautifully crafted chocolate art boxes make for an ideal treat to bring home—or enjoy en route, because who can resist sharing such good chocolate?

Side trip: Don’t miss Joseph Decuis, the premier farm-to-table restaurant located in Roanoke, about 16 miles from Fort Wayne. Owners Alice and Pete Eschelman raise their own Wagyu beef, heritage chickens, and Mangalista hogs to supply their acclaimed dining establishment. They also offer overnight stays, including a charming guest home from 1910 just a short walk away and a luxurious, restored farmhouse directly across from their farm.

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8. Tupelo, Mississippi

A must-try: Kick off your day right at D’ Cracked Egg, an award-winning breakfast and brunch spot. Highlights include fluffy waffles, eggs benedict with housemade hollandaise, and the D’ Cracked Egg burger, featuring an all-beef patty topped with grilled peppers, onions, American cheese, and your choice of egg. Enjoy live performances from blues and contemporary musicians once a month.

While this northeast Mississippi town is famed as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, it’s also gaining recognition for its vibrant food scene. For a taste of both The King and great food, visit Johnnie’s Drive-In (cash-only) to dine in Elvis’ original booth and try their dough burger—a Depression-era classic made with potato and bread crumbs to stretch the meat—paired with pimento cheese. For something off the beaten path, check out O’Lucky B’s Famous Nachos for hefty portions of gourmet nachos topped with your choice of gyro meat, chicken, or catfish, along with creative quesadillas. Sweet Tea & Biscuits Cafe serves up beloved Southern dishes, including a fantastic fried green tomato BLT. If you're craving something more carnivorous, stop by the Neon Pig Cafe, which combines a butcher shop, restaurant, and market to offer their smash burger—dubbed one of the best in America.  

Insider tip: For craft brews and live music enthusiasts, don’t miss Blue Canoe. This eclectic venue proudly claims the title of “Tupelo’s home of original live music” and serves some of the best pub fare in the state.

9. Lexington, Kentucky

A must-try: Indulge in the sticky buns topped with candied pecans and caramel from Spalding’s Bakery, a beloved establishment since 1929.

Lexington beautifully marries traditional Southern cuisine with innovative options. Nestled in the heart of horse and bourbon country, it offers a plethora of delightful food and drink experiences complemented by warm hospitality. For over 40 years, Debbie Long has run Dudley’s on Second, located in a charmingly restored bank building. The ultimate treat is to enjoy a wonderful meal at Dudley’s, followed by cocktails and stargazing on their rooftop patio. If Debbie swings by to chat, that’s a bonus!

One of James Beard Award nominee and cookbook author Ouita Michel’s latest projects features her Smithtown Seafood in a unique development known as The Bread Box. This vintage bakery venue also houses Magic Beans Coffee Roasters, Bluegrass Distillers, and West Sixth Brewing Brewery & Taproom.

While a racetrack might not be the first place that comes to mind for dining, Keeneland, a National Historic Landmark, offers a delightful culinary experience across three levels. What truly sets it apart is the opportunity to enjoy early morning grits, biscuits, and gravy alongside jockeys, owners, and trainers at Keeneland’s Track Kitchen.

Side trip: Venture to Bardstown, a distilling epicenter featuring renowned names like Heaven Hill and Maker’s Mark. However, the real treasures are the smaller distilleries where you might meet the master distiller. Don’t miss Barton 1792, awarded the 2020 World Whiskey of the Year. Afterward, visit the stylish Bar at Willett for seasonal small plates that beautifully complement brown spirits, and don’t be surprised if master distiller Drew Kulsveen strikes up a conversation with you.

 10. Austin, Texas

A must-try: Experience Texas barbecue with an Asian flair at Loro, a collaboration between renowned chef Tyson Cole and James Beard Award-winning pitmaster Aaron Franklin. The combination of smoky meats with their gingery cabbage salad, sweet corn fritters, and a seasonal boozy slushie (the peach Aperol spritz is a highlight) is simply irresistible.

Austin is famous for its barbecue, but there’s so much more to explore in this vibrant capital city. Mexican cuisine shines at spots like Veracruz All Natural, which offers handmade tortillas stuffed with grilled meats and a variety of vegan and vegetarian choices. A pilgrimage for barbecue enthusiasts is Franklin Barbecue, where the wait for brisket is well worth it. For wholesome Southern dishes crafted with care, Hoover’s Cooking excels, serving everything from fried chicken to homemade sausages and meatloaf. For an upscale dining experience, Emmer & Rye is renowned for its cocktails and farm-to-table offerings, especially the cacio e pepe. And when the sushi craving strikes, Uchiko is the place to be, with chef Tyson Cole's exquisite seafood paired with innovative sauces like brown butter.

Insider tip: For a delightful culinary experience with a touch of stardom, visit Walton’s Fancy and Staple, a charming flower shop, bakery, and deli owned by actress Sandra Bullock.

11. Madison, Wisconsin

A must-try: Sample an organic craft brew from Giant Jones, a woman-owned brewery known for its bold selections like the Grand Porter, which features rich cocoa and bread crust notes.

The German and Swiss dairy heritage of Wisconsin is prominently featured in Madison, particularly at eateries like Essen Haus and the city's many sausage shops and cheesemakers. This culinary culture comes together at the renowned Dane County Farmers’ Market, attracting 20,000 visitors weekly, making it the largest producers-only farmers' market in the US. In warmer months, the market operates on Saturdays and Wednesdays; during winter, it shifts indoors to a new location.

Madison also boasts a variety of culinary delights, including vegetarian and vegan options. Consider a cheese tour or dine at one of three James Beard award-nominated restaurants. Among them, Pasture & Plenty is a cafe and deli led by Christy McKenzie and chef Nate Carney that champions local producers, while Mint Mark, headed by chef Sean Pharr, offers creative dishes like duck frites and pierogi pork verde. For dessert, don’t miss CocoVaa, a chocolate shop where chef/owner Syovata Edari crafts bonbons inspired by her Kenyan, Irish, and Russian roots.

Travel tip: Don’t miss a tour of Monona Terrace, a convention center featuring an exterior crafted by Frank Lloyd Wright. Be sure to explore the art exhibitions and the delightful gift shop.

12. Cleveland, Ohio

A must-try: Experience the inventive and seasonal doughnuts at The Vegan Doughnut Company, including flavors like Peach Cobbler, Boston Cream Pie, and Lemon Lavender.

Nestled along Lake Erie, Cleveland boasts vibrant neighborhoods and a lively downtown. 4th Street is bustling with foot traffic and intriguing dining options. Check out chef Michael Symon's two-story Mabel's BBQ for ribs, brisket, pork belly, and kielbasa, or head to Blue Agave for tasty tacos, bowls, and unique margarita combinations like pineapple habanero and blood orange.

Cleveland’s Italian Village truly embodies its heritage, featuring streets lined with Italian grocers, bakeries, and restaurants. The heart of this culinary scene beats on Mayfield Road, but be adventurous and explore the charming side streets too.

When it comes to baked treats, the choices can be overwhelming. Renowned chef Emeril Lagasse has praised the cassata cake from Corbo’s, a bakery that has been around for over 60 years. Just a block away, Presti’s, established in 1903, offers both sweet delights and savory options like pizza and sandwiches, complete with a cozy dining area.

Enjoy vineyard-style dining on the back patio at Guarino’s, the city’s oldest restaurant. If you visit Mia Bella— and you definitely should— don’t miss their award-winning shrimp saganaki appetizer. This contemporary Italian spot has a welcoming neighborhood vibe. For soul food lovers, Angie’s Soul Café serves up delicious dishes like chicken and waffles, smothered pork chops, and catfish.

Tip for planning: For a fantastic selection of Italian groceries, baked goods, and hot take-out options including salads and sandwiches, visit Gust Gallucci. This Cleveland staple, founded by an Italian immigrant, has been serving the community for over 110 years.

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