To help you plan your next road trip, we’ve rounded up some of the best food stops in the USA. From small-town diners to upscale eateries, these places offer a unique and tasty experience that you won’t want to miss.
So, buckle up and get ready to feast your way through America’s best food stops!
The Big Texan Steak Ranch – Amarillo, Texas
If you’re a fan of steak, The Big Texan Steak Ranch is a must-visit. This iconic Texas restaurant is known for its 72-ounce steak challenge, where if you can finish the meal within an hour, it’s free! Even if you’re not up for the challenge, the steak is still top-notch and the atmosphere is classic Americana.
Joe’s Stone Crab – Miami Beach, Florida
For a taste of fresh seafood, head to Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami Beach. This restaurant has been a local favorite since 1913 and is known for its world-famous stone crab claws. Be sure to make a reservation, as this place is always packed.
Franklin Barbecue – Austin, Texas
Another Texas gem, Franklin Barbecue in Austin is a must-visit for BBQ lovers. This joint serves up some of the best brisket in the country, with a line that starts forming hours before it opens. But trust us, it’s worth the wait.
Lardo – Portland, Oregon
If you’re in the mood for a sandwich, Lardo in Portland is the place to go. This restaurant offers creative twists on classic sandwiches, like the Korean Pork Shoulder or the Griddled Mortadella. Plus, they have a killer beer selection to wash it all down.
Pie Town Cafe – Pie Town, New Mexico
A road trip isn’t complete without a slice of pie, and Pie Town Cafe in New Mexico has some of the best around. This cozy cafe serves up homemade pies in flavors like apple, cherry, and pecan. Plus, the small town vibe is a refreshing break from the highway.
Pink’s Hot Dogs – Los Angeles, California
For a classic LA experience, head to Pink’s Hot Dogs. This iconic hot dog stand has been serving up delicious dogs since 1939 and has become a Hollywood staple. Be sure to try their signature chili cheese dog.
The Red Arrow Diner – Manchester, New Hampshire
The Red Arrow Diner in New Hampshire is a classic diner with a local twist. They serve up dishes like the “Piggy Mac” (mac and cheese with pulled pork) and the “New Hampshire omelet” (filled with maple sausage and cheddar cheese). Plus, they’re open 24/7 for all your late-night cravings.
Phil’s Fish Market – Moss Landing, California
If you’re driving along the California coast, Phil’s Fish Market in Moss Landing is a must-visit. This seafood restaurant serves up fresh catches from the nearby Monterey Bay, with dishes like clam chowder and fish tacos.
The Donut Whole – Wichita, Kansas
For a sweet treat, head to The Donut Whole in Wichita. This funky donut shop serves up creative flavors like Maple Bacon and Cinnamon Sugar. Plus, they have a rotating selection of local artwork on display.
The Varsity – Atlanta, Georgia
For a taste of classic Southern fast food, head to The Varsity in Atlanta. This drive-in restaurant has been serving up hot dogs, burgers, and fries since 1928. Be sure to order a Frosted Orange, their signature frozen drink.
Langer’s Deli, Los Angeles, California
Langer’s Deli is a classic Jewish deli in the Westlake neighborhood of Los Angeles. They are known for their hot pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball soup. Their food is so delicious, in fact, that even The New York Times declared that their pastrami sandwich was the best in America.
Beignets at Cafe Du Monde, New Orleans, Louisiana
No trip to New Orleans is complete without a visit to Cafe Du Monde for beignets and coffee. These warm, fluffy, powdered-sugar-covered pastries are a staple of New Orleans cuisine and a must-try for any road trip through the city.
Voodoo Doughnut, Portland, Oregon
Voodoo Doughnut is a quirky doughnut shop in Portland that offers an array of interesting and unique doughnut flavors, like the Bacon Maple Bar and the Voodoo Doll doughnut. Their funky interior decor adds to the fun and unique experience.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, Chicago, Illinois
Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a must-try for any food lover, and Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria in Chicago serves up some of the best. Their pizza is known for its flaky, buttery crust and thick layers of cheese and toppings.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Memphis, Tennessee
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken has been serving up delicious fried chicken in Memphis since 1953. Their chicken is known for its crispy, spicy breading and juicy meat. It’s a perfect stop for a southern-style comfort food break on your road trip.
Salt & Straw Ice Cream, Portland, Oregon
Another must-visit spot in Portland is Salt & Straw, an artisanal ice cream shop that creates unique and inventive flavors using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their flavors range from classic vanilla to more adventurous options like Black Olive Brittle & Goat Cheese or Honey Lavender.
In conclusion, road trips are not just about the destination, but also about the journey, and experiencing local cuisine is a crucial part of that journey. So, be sure to add some of these food stops to your next road trip itinerary and indulge in some delicious, unique, and unforgettable meals.
