15 Hidden U.S. Food Destinations Only Locals Know About
Big cities get their fair share of attention for their culinary scenes, but there’s a whole other world of flavors to be found in lesser known places throughout the U.S. — local diners, family owned spots and lesser known gems often deliver food that’s authentic, and unexpected.
These sorts of places don’t get listed in the usual travel guide. The flavor and tradition is what these food destinations are about. Here are 15 hidden U.S. food destinations locals don’t want you to know about.
Pennsylvania, The Dutch Eating Place
The Dutch Eating Place is a must for locals who know their way around Amish cooking in Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market. They serve apple dumplings, roasted turkey sandwiches, and some hearty traditional meals.
Kansas, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Kansas City barbecue is not a secret, but Joe’s is a local treasure in a gas station. Don’t be fooled by the unconventional setting into thinking the food isn’t legendary. Tender ribs and smoked brisket are what Joe’s is known for and where locals come to get authentic, fall off the bone barbecue that draws fans from all over.
Duarte’s Tavern, California
Duarte’s Tavern is a family owned restaurant of amazing seafood dishes hidden away in Pescadero, California. Rockfish tacos and artichoke soup are what coastal California flavors are all about here. They come here for a more laid back vibe and meals featuring the best of the Pacific coast.
Minnesota, Al’s Breakfast
A tiny, narrow diner tucked into an old building, this Minneapolis favorite is loved by locals who flock outside the tiny spot on weekend mornings. Al’s Breakfast is known for its pancakes, omelets and hash browns so you can find classic American breakfasts in a cosy, throw back atmosphere. But it’s a simple spot and locals love the no frills, tasty dishes and friendly vibes.
New Mexico – Vernon’s Hidden Valley Steakhouse
Vernon’s Hidden Valley Steakhouse in Albuquerque is as much about atmosphere as food. This hidden gem is on the other hand located in a speakeasy style setting with an old school feel and some of the best steaks in town. The locals really love the “secret entrance” experience and high quality dishes, and it’s a great place for date nights or any celebration.
California, The Apple Pan
This Los Angeles small burger joint has a very loyal following in the U.S, but that may be because it’s old school. Open since 1947 are the Apple Pan’s burgers and pies. The food is why people come here, and also a taste of nostalgia in a no frills setting. Alexis Doine
California, French Dip Sandwich
Another L.A. classic is Philippe the Original, which says it invented the French dip sandwich. Locals talk about this place for the it’s roast beef and au jus sandwiches dipped in up here. It’s still a favorite of anyone who wants authentic, hearty fare, a slice of old .
Washington, Pink Door
Located in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, The Pink Door serves Italian inspired dishes with its whimsical, intimate atmosphere. The locals know it for more than just food, there is also live music and burlesque entertainment. A special place where Seattleites gather to enjoy the ambiance and Mediterranean inspired fare.
New York, Anchor Bar
Locals will tell you that Buffalo wings were born right here in Buffalo, and nowhere does them better than Anchor Bar. Fans of discovering new food steeped in history love this decades old spot, which serves up wings with classic, spicy sauce. For real Buffalo wings, you simply can’t beat Anchor Bar.
Alabama, Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q
Big Bob Gibson’s in Decatur, Alabama, is an institution in itself. This spot has garnered fans with its well rendered, shippy ones, and its smoky, tangy flavors are a regional specialty of white barbecue sauce. Pulled pork sandwiches and smoked chicken are top picks, eaten in a welcoming family friendly setting.
South Carolina, Husk
Husk is hidden in Charleston but the food is farm to table and celebrates local ingredients to elevate Southern food to a new level. The menu changes daily and is all the rage here, seasonal fare. People who live in the city or nearby love it because of its thoughtful approach to Lowcountry cuisine and relaxed, elegant atmosphere.
Minnesota, Matt’s Bar
Matt’s Bar is well known to Minneapolis locals for being the birthplace of the Juicy Lucy—the burger with molten cheese oozing out of the inside. It’s a loyal following for one of the city’s best burgers in a divey, no frills spot. For Minnesotans, it’s not just a burger, it’s a hometown icon.
Arizona, Elote Cafe
Elote Cafe is a well-kept secret serving Southwest-inspired dishes with Mexican flavors. Known for their namesake elote (Mexican street corn), this spot has built a loyal following among locals who crave fresh, innovative dishes that use locally-sourced ingredients.
Oklahoma, Eischen’s Bar
Tucked away is Eischen’s Bar, home of fried chicken in Okarche, Oklahoma. This no frills place has been a local landmark since the 1800s. This is fried chicken with pickles and bread, and beloved by locals for its simple tasty flavours and old school vibe.
Texas, Louie Mueller Barbecue
For anyone who loves Texas style barbecue, Louie Mueller Barbecue, in Taylor, Texas, is a smokery. It’s brisket, ribs and sausage cooked low and slow, heavily seasoned. For barbecue lovers, it’s the real deal, and locals know it, and it’s worth the drive.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
