best-restaurants-in-america
Best Restaurants in America: A Guide to Must-Try Dining Spots Across the USA
The United States boasts a diverse culinary landscape, with restaurants that showcase both innovation and tradition. In this list of the 25 best restaurants in America, we journey through establishments that have been consistently rated as the finest by TripAdvisor users, covering a range of cuisines and styles. Whether you’re a local or planning a cross-country culinary tour, these top picks embody the essence of American dining.
1. Eleven Madison Park – New York, NY
Elevated, Plant-Based Cuisine in Manhattan’s Heart
Eleven Madison Park is a beacon of fine dining in the bustling city of New York. Known for its meticulously crafted plant-based menu, this three-Michelin-star restaurant redefines sustainable luxury dining. The tasting menu offers an array of seasonal ingredients, with dishes like eggplant glazed with fermented peppers, embodying both innovation and flavor.
2. Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar – Nationwide
Casual American Dining with a Neighborhood Feel
Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar is a beloved chain across the United States, known for its accessible American fare and comfortable atmosphere. With a menu offering everything from steak and ribs to burgers, salads, and appetizers, Applebee's provides a casual dining experience that appeals to a broad range of tastes. Signature items like the Quesadilla Burger, Boneless Wings, and the popular Applebee's 2 for $20 meal deal make it a go-to for families and groups looking for variety and value.
Applebee's has also adapted over the years, incorporating local menu items and seasonal dishes to suit regional tastes, while maintaining the consistent quality and friendly service patrons expect. With locations in nearly every state, it’s a convenient and dependable option for a satisfying meal with a friendly neighborhood vibe.
3. French Laundry – Yountville, CA
Classic French Techniques with a Napa Valley Twist
Chef Thomas Keller’s French Laundry has set the standard for American fine dining with its refined French cuisine. Located in a historic stone building, the menu changes daily, featuring classics such as oysters and pearls and white truffle oil-infused dishes. The restaurant’s focus on local Napa Valley ingredients enhances its reputation as a culinary landmark.
4. Per Se – New York, NY
An Exquisite French Dining Experience Overlooking Central Park
Owned by Thomas Keller, Per Se offers a distinctive nine-course tasting menu that showcases Keller’s French influences combined with American ingredients. Signature dishes like butter-poached lobster and caviar-laden oysters highlight this restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence.
5. Commander’s Palace – New Orleans, LA
Historic Creole Dining in the Heart of the Garden District
Known for its bold Creole flavors and vibrant ambiance, Commander’s Palace is a New Orleans institution. Established in 1893, it is famous for dishes like turtle soup, gumbo, and pecan-crusted gulf fish, offering an authentic taste of the South.
Fine Dining Across the United States
Each region in the United States boasts unique culinary traditions and flavors, from the Southern comfort of Charleston to the farm-to-table movement in California. Below is a regional breakdown showcasing TripAdvisor's top-rated restaurants across various parts of the country.
6. Brennan’s – New Orleans, LA
A vibrant Creole restaurant, Brennan’s delights patrons with its flambéed Bananas Foster and a classic New Orleans brunch. Located in the French Quarter, it offers a true Southern hospitality experience.
7. Canlis – Seattle, WA
Situated on Queen Anne Hill, Canlis offers breathtaking views alongside Pacific Northwest cuisine. Known for its family-owned tradition, the menu features dishes like Dungeness crab salad and wagyu steak.
8. Herbsaint – New Orleans, LA
With a modern take on Southern cuisine, Herbsaint blends European flavors with New Orleans flair. Highlights include house-made spaghetti with guanciale and Gulf shrimp and fish entrees sourced directly from local fishermen.
Popular Coastal Destinations for Dining
9. Husk – Charleston, SC
James Beard Award-winning chef Sean Brock showcases Southern ingredients at Husk. The restaurant is famous for its locally sourced menu, featuring dishes like smoked chicken wings and cornmeal-crusted catfish.
10. Providence – Los Angeles, CA
An upscale seafood restaurant, Providence emphasizes sustainable ingredients, with a menu that includes New Zealand langoustines and Santa Barbara spot prawns. Located on Melrose Avenue, it captures the spirit of Californian cuisine.
Midwestern Gems
11. Pappy’s Smokehouse – St. Louis, MO
An award-winning BBQ joint, Pappy’s is a favorite for its Memphis-style smoked meats. Known for its ribs, smoked turkey, and burnt ends, it offers a casual dining experience rooted in Midwestern barbecue traditions.
12. St. Elmo Steak House – Indianapolis, IN
A staple since 1902, St. Elmo Steak House is famous for its world-renowned shrimp cocktail. Its Midwestern charm and top-quality steaks make it a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
Culinary Leaders in the Mountain States
13. Frasca Food and Wine – Boulder, CO
This Italian-inspired restaurant brings Friulian cuisine to Colorado. Signature dishes include house-made pasta and locally-sourced cheeses, paired with an award-winning wine list curated by sommeliers.
14. Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm – Boulder, UT
Located amidst stunning desert landscapes, Hell’s Backbone Grill offers sustainable, farm-to-table dining. Dishes include lamb and roasted vegetables from their farm, making it a staple for travelers exploring Utah’s natural beauty.
Iconic American Steakhouses
15. Peter Luger Steak House – Brooklyn, NY
Peter Luger is a legendary steakhouse renowned for its expertly dry-aged steaks. Known for its classic porterhouse and minimalist menu, it offers an authentic New York steakhouse experience.
16. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse – Chicago, IL
With USDA-certified Gibsons Prime Angus beef, this Chicago institution stands out for its consistency and quality. Signature dishes include the 32-ounce porterhouse steak and seafood options like Alaskan king crab.
Casual Dining with Quality Cuisine
17. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria – Chicago, IL
Known for its deep-dish pizza, Lou Malnati’s is a staple in Chicago’s pizza scene. The buttery crust and generous cheese layers make it a must-try for pizza enthusiasts.
18. Di Fara Pizza – Brooklyn, NY
A family-owned pizzeria, Di Fara serves some of the best pizza in New York. The hand-tossed crust and traditional Italian ingredients make it a top choice for pizza lovers nationwide.
Celebrated Farm-to-Table Restaurants
19. Blue Hill at Stone Barns – Pocantico Hills, NY
Blue Hill’s farm-to-table concept offers a unique, seasonal tasting menu with ingredients sourced from the restaurant’s own farm. Chef Dan Barber is a leader in sustainable agriculture, making Blue Hill a cornerstone of American farm-to-table dining.
20. Chez Panisse – Berkeley, CA
Founded by Alice Waters, Chez Panisse is known for its role in popularizing California cuisine. This farm-to-table restaurant emphasizes organic, local produce and simple yet flavorful dishes.
Award-Winning Sushi and Seafood
21. Nobu Malibu – Malibu, CA
With ocean views and a world-class menu, Nobu Malibu offers a premier sushi experience. Signature dishes include black cod with miso and toro tartare, which exemplify its high-quality Japanese-inspired cuisine.
22. Le Bernardin – New York, NY
A New York institution, Le Bernardin focuses on elevating seafood with French technique. Dishes like tuna carpaccio and poached lobster in a lemongrass broth have earned it numerous accolades.
Standout Vegan and Plant-Based Options
23. Crossroads Kitchen – Los Angeles, CA
This upscale vegan restaurant serves dishes like artichoke “oysters” and spicy rigatoni, appealing to both vegans and non-vegans. Crossroads is a pioneer in making plant-based cuisine accessible and gourmet.
24. Plant Food + Wine – Miami, FL
Offering a chic plant-based menu, Plant Food + Wine is known for its nut-based cheeses, raw lasagna, and organic wines. Its commitment to quality vegan dining makes it a standout in Miami’s food scene.
Famous Dessert Destinations
25. Milk Bar – New York, NY
Founded by Christina Tosi, Milk Bar is renowned for its unique desserts like cereal milk soft serve and compost cookies. The inventive treats make it a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth.
26. Alinea – Chicago, IL
Avant-Garde Dining Experience in the Windy City
Alinea, led by Chef Grant Achatz, offers an immersive experience that combines artistry with molecular gastronomy. The restaurant's tasting menu includes highly experimental dishes such as edible balloons and black truffle ravioli, transforming traditional concepts into unforgettable creations.