Ladies and gentlemen and foodies of all ages, allow us to introduce the USA Foodie Guide! Today, we’re going to take your imaginary taste buds on an expedition through the most delicious, mouth-watering destinations the land of the free has to offer, all so that your real taste buds can follow suit.
Whether you fancy yourself a culinary critic looking for the next great restaurant to add to your list, or you’re just someone that loves a good meal, we have you covered.
And of course, we won’t just be sticking to the big cities; this article has hidden gems from all across the 50 states, waiting to be discovered.
As you wander with us, you’ll see some top-rated food and drink tours linked throughout. If you end up purchasing through one of our links, we’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. If you like our content, don’t be afraid to share with your fellow wanderers on your favorite platform.
USa Foodie | Houston, Texas
Houston is widely considered one of America’s most diverse cities, and when it comes to food, it certainly lives up to its reputation. From Viet-Cajun fusion to Southeast Asian-Latin American cuisine, the city has an array of options to satisfy every palate. Houston’s best food and drink tours can be found here.
One place that stands out is Post Market, a bustling international food hall featuring renowned chefs and their delicious creations. Among the favorites are ChópnBlok, serving up West African delicacies, and East Side King, offering Japanese street food like pork buns and beet home fries.
Additionally, Houston’s food truck scene is rapidly growing, with award-winning spots like Coreanos serving up Korean-Mexican fusion fare, including Korean barbecue tacos. So, don’t miss the chance to explore Houston’s vibrant food culture!
USa Foodie | Burlington, Vermont
Burlington, VT, is a gem of a foodie city, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of rolling mountains and the shimmering Lake Champlain.
The town boasts an array of bistros and cafes, each serving up delicious and satisfying meals. Strolling through the pedestrian-friendly Church Street, visitors can explore boutique shops and farm-to-table eateries, sampling dishes that celebrate Vermont’s farm-fresh flavors.
Don’t miss the chance to try out classics like sharp cheddar soup, maple-glazed pancakes, and mulled apple cider during the fall season. Burlington promises a delightful culinary adventure that is not to be missed.
USa Foodie | Nashville, Tennesee
Nashville has always been known for being the epicenter of country music. However, because of Southern Cuisine, it’s hot chicken, it’s now famous, and absolutely delicious, barbecue, Nashville is getting deserved recognition as a foodie town. Downtown Nashville was and still is a hotspot for tourists. Still, East Nashville is an entirely unique experience that should not be missed under any circumstances.
Local coffee roasters and bistros offer the finest food you could hope to have: the likes of Butcher & Bee come to mind. Whether you’re looking for some scrumptious classic Southern dishes or some out of the box and inventive fusion cuisines, East Nashville is where it’s at.
So you might go to Nashville for the music, but once you head on East, you’ll end up staying for the food! A few hype Nashville food tours can be reviewed here.
NASHVILLE CHICKEN: Check out the 11 Best Nashville Hot Fried Chicken Sandwiches.
USa Foodie | Sonoma, California
Sonoma has always been overshadowed by Napa Valley, but now it has emerged to be a strong culinary rival. It is filled to the brim with specialty food stores, tasting rooms, and farm-to-table restaurants. To fully experience the diverse culinary experience, you should definitely sign-up for a three-house guided walk with a local expert from the Sonoma Food Tour to make sure you don’t miss out on all the food gems this city has to offer.
You can also learn about the history, unique culture, and intricate architecture, and experience various foods with the Original Food, Wine & History Tour. And chocolate to cheese lovers can satisfy their cravings from venues like Vella Cheese Company and Wine Country Chocolates.
Several high quality Sonoma Food and Wine Tours are linked here.
Though they may be underrated, these little-known flavors of Sonoma are definitely worth the tours and trips.
USa Foodie | Seattle, Washington
Nestled against the stunning backdrop of Mt. Rainier, Seattle is a must-visit destination for any foodie. The city’s diverse culinary offerings include wild-caught seafood and the original Starbucks location, all of which will leave you wanting more. To kick off your culinary journey in Seattle, head to Pike Place Market, which overlooks the picturesque Elliot Bay.
Here, you can witness the artistry of fishmongers as they carve up fresh wild salmon, or indulge in a delicious doughnut from the nearby Top Pot Doughnuts.
For a more in-depth exploration of Seattle’s gastronomic scene, consider taking a food tour to discover the city’s top culinary delights. With so much to savor and experience, Seattle is a true food lover’s paradise.
USa Foodie | Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville, a former cotton mill town, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, emerging as a culinary destination that rivals larger cities like Charlotte and Asheville.
Greenville boasts a wide array of restaurants, ranging from the eccentric Camp with its innovative menu featuring unique dishes such as Thai-inspired calamari and lamb smothered in curry cream, to Coral and Great Jones, which serve up fresh seafood and coffee respectively.
The newest addition to Greenville’s culinary scene is Scoundrel, a French brasserie led by renowned chef and Greenville native Joe Cash. Other must-visit spots include the farm-to-table Topsoil Kitchen & Market, owned and run by 2020 James Beard Award semifinalist Adam Cooke, and Comal 864, a Mexican restaurant owned by Dayna Lee-Márquez, a 2023 James Beard Award semifinalist.
CHARMING CHARLESTON: 11 Best Things To Do In Charleston, South Carolina
USa Foodie | Denver, Colorado
Denver’s culinary scene has been on the rise, showcasing a diverse range of flavors that are sure to satisfy any foodie. From retro cocktail lounges to refined French cuisine and spicy Sichuan noodles, Denver’s dining options are endlessly intriguing. We’ve put together some of our favorite Denver food and drink tours here.
Union Station, the city’s historic train terminal, is a popular destination for food enthusiasts after undergoing a major renovation. Browse the shelves at Tattered Cover Bookstore before indulging in unique dishes like bone marrow brûlée at Mercantile Provisions. If you’re in the mood for something more international, Denver’s diverse neighborhoods offer authentic ethnic cuisine from around the world. Head to Federal Boulevard for some of the city’s best Vietnamese food, or explore the Ethiopian fare in the Five Points neighborhood.
For a more laid-back experience, explore the River North, or RINO district, known for its excellent coffee roasters, craft breweries, and vibrant street art. Denver is a city that does not disappoint.
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland’s culinary scene often goes overlooked, but it is certainly one to be reckoned with. This is largely thanks to local farms, producers, and innovative chefs. The city’s diverse population is also reflected in the variety of cuisines available.
A visit to the West Side Market is a must, offering a plethora of options for all tastes. Here, vendors like Orale! Contemporary Mexican Cuisine, Pierogi Palace, Frank’s Bratwurst, Theresa’s Bakery, and Crepes de Luxe offer a range of delicious eats.
Don’t miss out on a food tour of the city, including dim sum in AsiaTown and pierogies in Slavic Village. Cleveland also boasts an impressive selection of Black-owned and led restaurants, such as Pearl’s Kitchen for comforting food, Yonder for delectable brunch, and Cleveland Cold Brew for coffee and pastries.
Be sure to check out some of the city’s latest additions, such as Cordelia for a Midwestern twist on comfort food and The Judith, a charming Parisian-inspired cafe.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is the hub of various cultures and communities, and prides in being the home for the food offerings of these cultures. You can find our favorite Chicago food tours here.
Firstly, we have the Pilsen neighborhood to explore the excellent Mexican cuisine with mouthwatering street tacos, tamales, and carnitas available at every turn.
Then as we move to Uptown, we have a thriving Vietnamese community, offering regional specialties such as pho, banh mi, and bun cha.
If you’re a person who’s more comfortable with the less experimental side of food, they’ve got you covered. From artisanal cocktails to gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, Chicago has it all.
But when a food item is so legendary it’s named after the city, you absolutely have to try it when you visit: enter the Chicago Deep Dish Pizza. And of course, don’t you sleep on the Chicago-style hot dog. Topped with tomatoes, mustard, onions, pickles and relish, it’s a local legend.
So whether you’re a food fanatic or are just in town looking for something good to eat, Chicago has plenty to offer.
Other popular Chicago activities can be found using the tool below.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee’s rich food culture is not just limited to German and Eastern European fare. The city has also seen a rise in innovative restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients and experiment with global flavors. One such restaurant is Sanford, which has earned a coveted Michelin star and serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Milwaukee is also famous for its cheese curds, which are deep-fried and served as a snack or appetizer. The squeaky texture and creamy flavor of these little nuggets of cheese make them a must-try for any foodie visiting the city.
Kopp’s Frozen Custard is another place not to be missed for dessert! Their frozen custard, a Midwestern specialty, is made fresh daily and served in flavors like butter pecan and raspberry swirl.
In addition to food, Milwaukee is also home to a thriving craft beer scene. The city is home to more than 30 breweries, ranging from large-scale operations to small, independent brewers. Visitors can take a brewery tour, sample different beers, and learn about the brewing process. So pack your bags and check out Milwaukee’s finest food and beer tours here.
Exploring these ten cities’ food scenes will give any food lover a taste of the diverse culinary delights that America has to offer.
So if you’re planning a food-focused trip or simply looking for some inspiration for your next meal, be sure to add these cities to your must-visit list. And don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel for more foodie travel inspiration and mouth-watering content!