6 Foodie Cities For Your Next Cross Country Tour

Have you ever traveled just to eat great food? Food is life. So, why not take a trip just to experience the amazing food culture of a different city? While there are many cities across the country that are making a name in the food scene, there are a few cities that have solidified and are working towards making themselves a food capital. Check out our recommendations of where you should travel to, to get your grub on in a way you have not before.

 

Austin, Texas

The craze for this foodie town has yet to die down. Food trucks (or trailers as Texans refer to them) and BBQ galore makes this capital city a haven for local and international savory and sweet treats.

Where to stop?

You cannot go to Texas and not get BBQ! In Austin, take some time (by some I mean a few hours) to devour brisket, ribs, and other BBQ’d meats at Franklin’s Barbeque. Want something less sticky but just as filling? You will want to visit the farm-to-table Olamaie on the North Side. If you are into the less formal, you can visit a food truck park. You can grab amazing gyros, donuts, tacos, vegan and Venezuelan food all week on Rainey Street or at Spider House Food Trailers and Village.  

 

Los Angeles, California

Quite possibly the king of the food scene on this list, Los Angeles is a hub for diverse and new food. With most of the city’s population being made up of transplants, LA is an exciting city to see how all the different cultures of food are fused together, With the weather being pretty amazing year round, LA is fortunate enough to have many rooftop restaurants and bars that keep business through the winter months.

Must visit restaurant?

E.P. & L.P. is the epitome of fusion with Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese and Fijian influences, this restaurant and rooftop bar is one you will want to stop at. Cereal bars are the new wave, so of course, LA is not exempt. Milk Tavern in Koreatown takes a grown-up approach to your childhood favs. LA is also a great city for vegans and vegetarians. Go to Cafe Gratitude for an easy introduction to vegan cuisine or for the more adventurous, check out Jackfruit Cafe, which takes a different approach to veganism by having vegan soul food.

 

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit looking to increase the country’s perception and change the reputation by putting the city on the map as a must visit food destination is sure to help boost the local economy and tourism to the state.

Grab grub from…?

The historic district Corktown is known for its culinary delights. With inclusions like Ima, whose blend of Japanese and Indian food is an interesting collaboration, and The Farmer’s Hand, providing a menu with locally produced items, it is easy to see how the Motor City is beginning to rank as a food tourism city.

 

San Diego, California

San Diego is not usually a traveler’s first stop in California, but it should be seriously considered. San Diego is a low-key version of its big northern sister city, LA. With this city, you are able to get the best of being in a big city, while still feeling like you are in a smaller city. This laidback town combines elements of history, surf culture, beaches and awesome food.

Where to go for dinner?

Upscale American restaurant Juniper &  Ivy in Little Italy, the local bar and small bites Neighborhood and Mexican flare Puesto in Seaport Village are stops that are a must when visiting this Naval town.

 

Chicago, Illinois

While Chi-town is known for its deep dish pizza and its unique take on hot dogs, the city also has an amazing food scene that expands far beyond that. The dining options range from high-end to street style.

Can’t leave the city without trying…?

Any Chicagoan will tell you that you have to go to Portillo’s. They will also tell you to order the Italian beef with peppers, wet. Just listen. You will also want to check out Parachute for a refreshing Korean American mix or to Honey Butter Fried Chicken for presumably the best fried chicken in the city.

 

Providence, Rhode Island

The obvious underdog city on the list, Providence is starting to make its name in the foodie sphere. Home to one of the country’s best culinary programs at Johnson & Wales University, the city is not only producing great food but cultivating great chefs.

Places to check out?

In downtown Providence, you definitely have to check out Ken’s Ramen, Gracie’s and North for an introduction to what the city has to offer.