If you want to choose the best food cities in the US as your travel or study destination, we applaud you. The priority you give to food is right and sensible. Daily diet is not only a means by which you sustain your life, it also constitutes a large portion of your happiness. In this sense, choosing US cities with the best food as your settlement is beneficial for your well-being in the long run. As a melting pot of culture, the United States is also home to fine food across the world, from local flavors to foreign cuisines. There are indeed several well-acknowledged food capitals and hidden gems when it comes to the best food cities in America.
10 Best Food Cities in the US
It is not an easy task to enumerate all the best foodie cities in the US. Each place boasts special cuisines as a result of various historical and geographical backgrounds.
Some people hold that metro cities are definitely superior to small towns in gastronomy. However, as metro cities are galleries of various flavors, small towns can be explicitly specialized in one. You can not tell which one is ultimately better. Similarly, it is impossible to include all the best food places in America in one blog. Here we recommend you ten most popular US cities with the best food.
#1 New Orleans, Louisiana
Many people designate New Orleans as the top of the best food cities in the US. Dining in the city of New Orleans can directly reflect the diverse cultural influences from European, Caribbean, and West African regions. Apart from culinary offerings, the Big Easy is also the origin of sunday brunch and cocktail culture, both of which spread throughout America and even the whole world. Delicious food and rich food culture make it undoubtedly the best city for food in America.
- Specialties: gumbo, Cajun and Creole jambalaya, Po’boys, beignets, pralines…
- Famous Restaurants: Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe, Comma’s Palace, Bayona, Galatoire’s…
- Food Festivals: New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, the Oak Streer Po-Boy Festival, the Louisiana Crawfish Festival, COOLinary New Orleans…
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 3% ↓
- Colleges and Universities: Loyola University New Orleans, Xavier University of Louisiana, The University of New Orleans
#2 New York City, New York
The City that Never Sleeps always surprises us with dining scenes featuring vast volume and diversity. In the Big Apple, one of the best cities in America for food, you can have almost all the food experiences, from delicate French dining to Chinese dim sum. The five boroughs are outstanding in different flavors. Manhattan Chinatown enjoys a global reputation; Queens gives you authentic Greek and Himalayan fare; Brooklyn is home to numerous Polish bakeries; the Bronx offers the best Italian food across New York City. Besides, New York boasts 67 Michelin-starred restaurants, ranging from fine-dining places to low-key haunts.
- Specialties: New York pizza slice, New York cheesecake, Pastrami sandwich, Delmobico steak…
- Famous Restaurants: Liebman’s Deli, Sylvia’s, Abuqir, Hyderabadi Zaiqa, Le Bernardin…
- Food Festivals: New York City Wine& Food Festival, Smorgasburg, Japan Fes, Dragon Fest…
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 3% ↓
- Colleges and Universities: Loyola University New Orleans, Xavier University of Louisiana, The University of New Orleans
#3 Chicago, Illinois
Food has always been the No. 1 reason for many people visiting Chicago, one of the best cities for foodies. The intense immigration surges throughout the 20th century brought Chicago Greek, Polish, Italian, Irish, and Jewish populations and left diverse dining cultures. People in the Windy City are passionate about the deep-dish pizzas and ketchup-free hot dogs, quite different from those of other regions. Chicago boasts 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, one of which is the world’s only Michelin-star-awarded Filipino restaurant.
- Specialties: deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwich, Chicago-style hotdogs, jibarito…
- Famous Restaurants: Alinea, The Berghoff, Gene & Georgetti Steakhouse, Valois Restaurant…
- Food Festivals: Taste of Chicago, Chicago Gourmet, Mole de Mayo, Lincoln Park Greek Fest…
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 12% ↑
- Colleges and Universities: Northwestern University, University of Chicago, Wheaton College…
#4 Los Angeles, California
As one of the best cities in America for food, Los Angeles offers you top Mexican food across America. It is said that Los Angeles includes almost 30% of the Mexican restaurants across the state of California. It is said that in L.A. you can have nothing but tacos and leaves with satisfaction. There is a cornucopia of cuisines that fits the city’s diaspora communities. If you are looking for good eats in America, L.A. will live up to your expectations.
- Specialties: cheeseburgers and fries, tacos, French dip sandwich, California roll…
- Famous Restaurants: Tcos La Carreta, Noodle Art, A&J Seafood Shack, Ditroit…
- Food Festivals: Smorgasburg Los Angeles, LA Summer Wine Fest, DineLA Restaurant Week, Los Angeles Wine & Food Festival …
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 12% ↑
- Colleges and Universities: California Institute of Technology, University of California, University of Southern California…
#5 San Francisco, California
The dining scene in San Francisco can be rightly described with the adjective diverse as the Bay Area is known for its inclusive culture. The city is one of the best food cities on par with some of the greatest cities across the USA and a culinary hub on world-class. Every year, visitors come here for varying reasons including culture, landscapes, and sports, while the local food and drink remain the biggest draw.
- Specialties: dungeness crab, sourdough bread, mission burrito…
- Famous Restaurants: Scoma’s Restaurant, Abacá, Dalida, Golden Boy Pizza…
- Food Festivals: Oysterfest, Outside Lands, Taste of Potrero, Soy and Tofu Festival, Eat Drink SF…
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 23% ↑
- Colleges and Universities: University of California, Berkeley, University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University…
#6 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia boats two culinary calling cards as the birthplace of cheesesteaks and hoagies, both make Philly one of the best food cities. It is said that no trip to this city can be complete without a taste of Philadelphia cheesesteak. In Philly, you can experience various dining scenes, including street food, BYOB(bring-your-own-bottle) restaurants, sidewalk seating, and vegan eateries.
- Specialties: cheesesteaks, hoagies, roast pork sandwich, Philly soft pretzel, pork roll…
- Famous Restaurants: Jansen, Down North Pizza, Cantina La Martina, Kalaya…
- Food Festivals: Philly Halal Food Festival, Manayunk StrEAT Festival, Italian Market Festival…
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 3% ↑
- Colleges and Universities: University of Pennsylvania, Villanova University, Drexel University, University of Delaware…
#7 Houston, Texas
As a home to some of the largest immigrant populations, Houston provides a collision of all flavors. The culinary fusion makes it one of the best cities for foodies. It is said that foodies can have the world on their tongue without leaving the Texas city. The city is also home to several James Beard Award-winner chefs. Houston, the culinary capital of South America, is much known for its Texas barbecue beef brisket and fresh seafood.
- Specialties: Fried chicken, Tex-Mex cuisine, Texas barbecue, tamales, Banh Mi…
- Famous Restaurants: Amrina, Gatlin’s Fins & Feathers, Tatemó, Squable…
- Food Festivals: Houston Halal Food Fest, Houston City Soul Food Festival, Houston Top Taco Festival…
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 2.5% ↑
- Colleges and Universities: Rice University, University of Houston, University of St. Thomas…
#8 Austin, Texas
Austin shares features with Houston from a culinary perspective as one of the best food cities in US. Both of the cities are known for meat and Tex-Mex cuisine. Austin is also hailed as serving the best barbecue in Texas and unmatched tacos across America. In Austin, the dining scenes vary from upscale dining places to food trucks, which pop up everywhere to tantalize your taste buds. These mobile eateries have weaved into Austin’s cultural fabric, serving innovative dishes catering to all stomachs.
- Specialties: Breakfast tacos, Migas, barbecue brisket, kolaches…
- Famous Restaurants: Interstellar BBQ, Ramen Del Barrio, Con Todo, Usta Kababgy…
- Food Festivals: Austin Food & Wine Festival, Austin Tequila Fest, Austin Foodie Fest…
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 2%↓
- Colleges and Universities: The University of Texas, Texas State University, Southwestern University…
#9 Boston, Massachusetts
With a coastal location, Boston, a candidate for best city for food in America, is a hub for fresh seafood. From jumbo lobster rolls to bacon peanut butter bagels, Boston always surprises the foodie’s palate. Apart from seafood, other specialties in this region include North Shore-style roast beef sandwiches, South Shore-style bar pizza, and the chows mein sandwich.
- Specialties: New England-style clam chowder, broiled Boston scrod, raw clams & oysters, Yankee pot roast…
- Famous Restaurants: Boston Sail Loft, Bagelsaurus, Sugidama, Sarma, La Brasa…
- Food Festivals: Boston Local Food Festival, Boston Food Festival, Boston Wine & Food Festival…
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 5%↑
- Colleges and Universities: Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) , Boston University, Tufts University…
#10 Denver, Colorado
As one of the best cities for food in America, Denver’s storied past and its vibrant future are reflected in local cuisine, which incorporates the long-held tradition of native people and innovation brought by newcomers. Except for well-known omelets and Rocky Mountain oysters, Denver offers more bold and diverse dishes as culinary wonders to be explored by travelers.
- Specialties: Bison steak, bowl of green chili, Mexican hamburger, game meat tartare…
- Famous Restaurants: Quiero Arepas, Santiago’s, La Abeja, Illegal Pete’s…
- Food Festivals: Denver Food & Wine Festival, Polish Food Festival
- Regional Cost of Food Compared with National Average: 4%↑
- Colleges and Universities: Colorado School of Mines, University of Denver, University of Colorado Denver…
Best Food Cities in America: Eat Well, Live Well
Foodie capital of the US can be a suitable study or travel destination. However, there are many more things that jointly constitute a comfortable life, of which housing can be a perfect example.
Living in those best food cities in the US may not be budget-friendly since the cost of living in most of the above culinary capitals is higher than the national average across America. But don’t worry, uhomes.com strives to provide you the cheap and fine US accommodation. Visit our website to find more housing resources and a surprising discount!
Best Places to Live in New Orleans
Harmony Oaks: The dynamic community is in the heart of the Central City neighborhood of New Orleans. Enjoy convenient access to the area’s best Cajun eateries, entertainment, and shopping. Local attractions include the New Orleans Jazz Market, The French Quarter, and the Mercedes-Benz Superdome!
Marrero Commons: The apartment is located in the heart of New Orleans, you’ll be moments away from cafes, fine dining, shopping, galleries, and the best entertainment in New Orleans. Nearby attractions include The French Quarter, Mercedes-Benz Superdome, museums, and scenic parks.
Best Places to Live in New York City
Harrington Housing: Harrington Housing is an affordable student housing in New York. With Harrington premises come with high-speed Wi-Fi, Big Screen Smart TV, Premium Netflix, and a smart streaming device. Your stay will turn into a pleasant vacation. Our cozy and comfortable rooms will make you feel at home.
The Refinery: The Refinery Apartments provides cheap student apartments for rent in NYC at 490 Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn, New York(NY) 11205, in the Clinton Hill neighborhood. You can live in the studio, 1- and 2-bedroom student apartments.
180 Franklin: Situated in the lively and culturally diverse neighbourhood of Bedford-Stuyvesant, 180 Franklin offers a sophisticated room for rent in NYC. This modern residential building provides a range of apartment options, from cosy studios to spacious two-bedroom units, each designed to maximize comfort and convenience.
Best Places to Live in Los Angeles
The Lorenzo: The Lorenzo Apartments Los Angeles is a brand-new student housing in Los Angeles. Beyond its prime location in West Adams, plenty of natural light and stylish déco let people feel spacious and enjoy a panoramic view of the LA city. One-, two- or three-bedroom apartments in The Lorenzo are available for you to choose from. Special Offers in The Lorenzo include 10% off rent for 2b apartment; $200/month parking concession; $500 gift card; private apartment starts from $1845.
Jefferson Flats: Jefferson Flats is an affordable student housing in Los Angeles that features newly renovated studio, two- and three-bedroom apartments with stunning views of the downtown skyline. Jefferson Flats USC is modern-style and offers many luxury furnishings like a washer/dryer, stainless steel appliances, air conditioning, a refrigerator with high-speed internet access, and spacious closets.
La Plaza Village: LA Plaza Village offers spacious studio to three-bedroom apartment homes for rent. Around LA Plaza Village, retails, dining, cultural, and residential venues are everywhere. The Fashion Institute is 3 minutes drive away from LA Plaza Village. USC Health Sciences Campus is 5 minutes drive(2.3 miles away). LA Plaza Village is close to public transportation, Civic Center/Grand Park station is 6 minutes walk away.
Final Thoughts About the Best Food Cities in the US
Food is always the best part of exploring a new destination, especially in the best food cities in the US. The United States embraces immigrant populations from every corner of the world as well as numerous distinct regional flavors, all of which collide and fuse with each other on this open land. The above ten cities have long been hailed as American foodie destinations. Go and have a taste of their charm in person!
FAQs
What cities have the best food in the US?
If you want to have a taste of the best American flavor and explore the cultural stories behind the mouthwatering dishes, here are 10 of the best cities for food across America:
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- New York City, New York
- Chicago, Illinois
- Los Angeles, California
- San Francisco, California
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Houston, Texas
- Austin, Texas
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Denver, Colorado
What is the food capital of the USA?
There are many candidates for the food capital of the USA
New York City: The comprehensive nature of New York City makes it a container of international flavor. Here you can enjoy different cuisines in its five boroughs. New York can always surprise your palate.
New Orleans: Many food critics list New Orleans as the food capital of America. It is said to be the land of gumbo, po’boys, and beignets. The cuisine of New Orleans is perhaps the most distinctively recognized regional cuisine in the United States.
What is the best food city on the West Coast?
San Francisco, California. With contributions of immigrants from far and wide, the city is a food capital on par with some of the greatest cities across America, and a world-class culinary hub. Local specialties in San Francisco include Dungeness crab, sourdough bread, mission burrito, etc. With so many extraordinary foods, it is not surprising that this Northern California city ranks as one of the best food cities in the US!
