Foodie’s Guide to America: 10 Best US Cities for Culinary Enthusiasts

For food lovers, the United States is a treasure trove of flavors, from fresh seafood on the coast to hearty Southern barbecue, innovative fusion cuisine, and world-renowned fine dining. Each destination on this list offers a unique culinary experience that celebrates the local culture, traditions, and ingredients. Here are the ten best US destinations for food lovers looking for a taste of the country's rich gastronomic diversity.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana

Known for its vibrant fusion of French, African, and Spanish influences, New Orleans is a paradise for adventurous eaters. Cajun and Creole cuisines offer dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and étouffée alongside beignets dusted with powdered sugar at the famous Café du Monde. Seafood lovers will enjoy fresh Gulf oysters, crawfish boils, and the ever-popular po'boy sandwich. Don’t forget to indulge in classic cocktails like the Sazerac or a refreshing Hurricane while exploring the French Quarter.

Explore the food and culture of New Orleans with this audio tour on Around Travel. Book now. 

2. New York City, New York

The diversity of New York City's food scene is unmatched. Whether you’re after street food or Michelin-starred dining, the city has it all. Start with a New York bagel with lox and cream cheese, grab a slice of classic New York-style pizza, and end the day at a trendy restaurant in SoHo or a fine-dining spot in Manhattan. Iconic foods to try include pastrami sandwiches at Katz’s Delicatessen, hot dogs from Gray’s Papaya, and international dishes in Chinatown, Little Italy, and Jackson Heights.

Book this walking tour with Around Travel to explore the flavors of Soho, Chinatown, and Little Italy at your own pace.

3. San Francisco, California

San Francisco is known for its fresh, farm-to-table approach, with ingredients often sourced from the nearby Napa Valley and local farms. A visit to Fisherman’s Wharf is essential for clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, a San Francisco staple. Explore this iconic waterfront with this audio tour on Around Travel

The city is also a hotbed for global cuisine, from dim sum in Chinatown to Mission-style burritos in the Mission District. With world-renowned chefs and innovative menus, San Francisco’s culinary scene constantly pushes boundaries.

4. Austin, Texas

Known as a barbecue mecca, Austin boasts smoky, tender brisket, ribs, and sausage from iconic spots like Franklin Barbecue. Beyond barbecue, Austin is also a Tex-Mex haven where you can find mouthwatering tacos, enchiladas, and queso. Food trucks play a big role in Austin’s food culture, serving everything from gourmet donuts to Korean-Mexican fusion. During a trip to Austin, don’t miss out on the local breakfast taco – a true Texas staple.

Book your hotel with Around Travel for a front-row seat to Austin’s vibrant food scene.

5. Chicago, Illinois

Deep-dish pizza might be Chicago’s most famous export, but the city’s food scene has so much more to offer. Chicago is home to a melting pot of cuisines, including Italian, Polish, and Mexican influences. Try a Chicago-style hot dog, complete with mustard, onions, pickle, tomato, and a poppy seed bun. For dessert, indulge in an Italian beef sandwich or try classic treats like Garrett’s popcorn. The city’s upscale dining, led by renowned chefs like Grant Achatz, adds a modern twist to its culinary identity.

Book your hotel with Around Travel and experience the best of Chicago’s culinary delights.

6. Portland, Oregon

Portland’s food culture is defined by its emphasis on sustainability and creativity. The city has a robust food cart scene featuring an array of options from Thai street food to artisanal grilled cheese. Portland is also known for its coffee culture, with plenty of craft roasters to explore. Locally sourced ingredients shine in everything from handmade doughnuts at Voodoo Doughnut to farm-fresh dishes at acclaimed restaurants. Craft beer is another highlight here, with plenty of breweries offering unique brews.

Explore Portland’s sustainable food scene and more with this audio tour on Around Travel

7. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is synonymous with hot chicken – a fiery fried chicken dish that locals and visitors alike swear by. Beyond hot chicken, Nashville’s food scene has evolved to include a variety of Southern comfort foods like biscuits and gravy, fried catfish, and banana pudding. The city also has a burgeoning craft cocktail scene, offering inventive takes on Southern-inspired drinks. End your day with live music and a hearty Southern meal at one of the city’s renowned music venues.

Find the perfect stay on Around Travel and dive into Nashville’s delicious comfort food.


8. Miami, Florida

Known for its vibrant Latin American and Caribbean influences, Miami’s food scene is a blend of cultures. Cuban cuisine is a must, with dishes like the Cuban sandwich and empanadas, and refreshing drinks like mojitos. Miami also boasts fresh seafood options, from ceviche to stone crab claws, often served beachside with a tropical twist. Little Havana is a must-visit neighborhood for authentic Cuban flavors, while the city's trendy Wynwood area offers creative fusion dishes from local chefs.

Get a taste of the local flavors with this self-guided audio tour on Around Travel

9. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s food scene is rooted in Southern hospitality and Lowcountry cuisine, offering dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes. Fresh seafood is plentiful here, often served in the form of a traditional seafood boil. For a true taste of Charleston, dine at one of the historic homes turned restaurants, where chefs serve farm-to-table Southern fare with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Charleston’s charming streets and warm ambiance add to its allure as a top food destination.

Pair this Charleston city tour from Around Travel with plenty of delicious southern fares for an immersive experience. 

10. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas has transformed into a world-class dining destination, drawing celebrity chefs from around the globe. The city offers a range of culinary experiences, from lavish buffets to high-end Michelin-starred dining. A must-try experience is the buffet at the Bellagio, where you can sample cuisines from around the world. For a high-end experience, try restaurants by chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Thomas Keller, and Joël Robuchon. Vegas also offers plenty of unique food events, making it an ever-evolving destination for foodies.

Find the best deals on hotels in Sin City with Around Travel for the ultimate Vegas culinary adventure.


These top US food destinations invite food lovers to explore, savor, and experience an incredible variety of cuisines. Find the best tours and hotels on Around Travel to complement your journey across these culinary destinations.

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