Traveling for food has to be one of the best ways to get to know a new city. Maybe you’re after smoky BBQ, fresh seafood, or some wild fusion dish you’ve never heard of—sampling local favorites just hits different. Tripadvisor has guided thousands to the best food cities in the country, thanks to reviews and rankings from real travelers.
If you’re hungry for your next food adventure, here’s a look at the U.S. winners of the annual Travelers’ Choice Awards. See what makes these spots a hit with travelers and locals alike.
10. San Francisco, California
If you’re into variety, San Francisco’s your playground. Grab fresh seafood at Fog Harbor Fish House or pick up sourdough from a classic bakery. Dim sum in Chinatown? Always a win for quick bites.
Got a sweet tooth? B. Patisserie’s pastries get a lot of hype for a reason. Or hit up La Taqueria for burritos that people swear are the best around.
Old-school places like Tadich Grill still serve those classic seafood plates. If you just want something simple, street food and diners are everywhere. Honestly, San Francisco’s food scene is chill and packed with choices—there’s always something new to try.
9. San Diego, California
San Diego’s food scene is a big, tasty mix. The city is known for fresh seafood, solid Mexican favorites, and new spots popping up nonstop. The Fish Market and Dockside 1953 keep drawing crowds who want good food with a view.
Downtown, you’ll stumble across everything from fancy steakhouses to taco joints. If you’re after something healthy, Covewood Restaurant is a go-to. For dessert, local gelato shops never disappoint, and Salt & Straw’s creative ice cream flavors are worth the wait.
Eating out doesn’t have to break the bank here. You can find cheap eats like pizza joints and food trucks serving up big flavors. Whether you want comfort food or something more upscale, San Diego delivers.
8. Portland, Oregon
Portland’s food scene hits you right away. Folks here love new flavors, but they still care about local ingredients.
Seafood at Southpark Seafood? Yes, please. Q Restaurant & Bar mixes up creative American dishes, while Mucca Osteria nails Italian. If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean, the Mediterranean Exploration Company has you covered.
Cheap eats? Portland’s got ‘em. Pip’s Original is famous for donuts, and Salt & Straw scoops up wild ice cream flavors. Food trucks are everywhere, so you’re never far from a quick bite.
From bakeries to fine dining, Portland keeps things casual. You don’t have to dress up or spend big—good food’s just part of the vibe here.
7. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville serves up all kinds of food. Sure, hot chicken is a must, but there’s a lot more going on.
Try Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina for a steakhouse fix, or grab sushi at Harriet’s Rooftop. Downtown, you’ll find everything from burgers to barbecue.
The city mixes Southern tradition with fresh ideas, and local spots bring a friendly, lively energy.
If you’ve got a sweet craving, bakeries have plenty of pastries and desserts. No matter your taste, Nashville’s got a spot for you.
6. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston’s food scene is all over the map, from seafood to Italian classics. You can get a lobster roll near the harbor or dig into clam chowder that’s creamy and rich.
Strolling around, you’ll spot diners, bakeries, and steakhouses tucked in every neighborhood. Each area has its own flavor.
Grab cannoli in the North End or hit up a diner for breakfast. Many places are family-friendly and serve up big portions.
With so many options, it’s easy to find something for every taste and budget in Boston.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, packs a lot of food choices into a small mountain city. Tripadvisor put Asheville at number nine on their Best Food Destinations in the U.S. for 2025.
Grab Southern comfort food, fresh farm-to-table plates, or creative Spanish tapas. Hot spots range from American classics at Posana and Chestnut to Italian favorites at Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian.
Downtown’s packed with options, and many places focus on local ingredients and creative menus. If you like trying new things, Asheville’s always got something fresh to offer.
4. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s got charm—and the food scene’s just as inviting. Tripadvisor calls it one of the top food destinations in the U.S.
Menus are loaded with Southern flavors. Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room serves comfort food that tastes homemade, and seafood fans should check out Chive Sea Bar & Lounge for local catches.
Vic’s On the River pairs river views with hearty Southern plates. If you want something relaxed, Cotton & Rye or Crystal Beer Parlor are favorites for their friendly vibes and American classics.
Savannah’s food means big flavors, local ingredients, and laid-back meals with friends. The city’s restaurants welcome you in and make it easy to feel at home.
3. New York City, New York
New York City’s food scene? It’s basically endless. You’ll find everything from giant Italian meals at Carmine’s in Times Square to French dishes at La Grande Boucherie.
Bagels from corner shops, pizza slices bigger than your face, and food halls like Chelsea Market or the High Line—there’s always something going on.
Maybe you’ll grab a deli sandwich or splurge on a steak at a famous spot. Food tours let you explore what makes each neighborhood special. Honestly, no trip here feels right without a street pretzel or a slice of cheesecake.
2. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s food scene jumps out at you. The city blends Southern comfort with creative new dishes, and there’s truly something for everyone.
Try local favorites like shrimp and grits or fried green tomatoes at Poogan’s Porch. Swig & Swine gets a lot of love for barbecue.
If you’re after something special, check out 82 Queen or Circa 1886. Many restaurants use seafood caught right off the coast. Every meal here feels relaxed and welcoming—just like Charleston itself.
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
You just can’t skip New Orleans when talking about food in the U.S. The city’s flavors are one-of-a-kind. Walk through the French Quarter and you’ll catch the scent of beignets and strong coffee drifting by.
Nearly every menu in town has gumbo and crawfish boils. If you’re into sandwiches, grab a po’boy stuffed with fried shrimp or roast beef.
Tables everywhere fill up with seafood, spicy sausage, and rice dishes. Creole and Cajun cooking runs deep here, and plenty of spots offer both. Even breakfast can turn into a feast, with plates piled high at local joints.
Street carts or fancy restaurants, the food’s always bold and full of flavor. You might even leave wanting to try making jambalaya at home—though it probably won’t taste quite the same.
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