The Best Food in America by State

If you’re a foodie, you know that regional cuisine is one of the most exciting aspects of American dining. While every state has its own specialities, some stand out above the rest. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, barbecue, or gourmet cuisine, our guide will help you discover the best food in America by state.

🍔 The Best Burgers

When it comes to burgers, a few states reign supreme. In California, In-N-Out Burger is king, with their classic Double-Double attracting fans from all over the world. Meanwhile, Texas is famous for its juicy, flame-grilled Whataburger burgers, while Florida is home to the beloved Shake Shack chain.

California: In-N-Out Burger

If you’ve never tried In-N-Out Burger, you’re missing out on one of the best burgers in America. Their simple menu and fresh, high-quality ingredients make for a perfect burger every time.

Texas: Whataburger

For a classic, flame-grilled burger with all the fixings, head to Whataburger. This Texas-based chain has been serving up burgers since 1950, and they know how to do it right.

Florida: Shake Shack

Originally a New York City institution, Shake Shack has made its way to Florida and become a favorite among locals. Their juicy burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and thick shakes are just as good as the original.

🍕 The Best Pizza

Pizza is one of America’s favorite foods, and every state has its own take on this classic dish. From thin and crispy to deep-dish and saucy, here are the best pizza places in America.

New York: Di Fara Pizza

When it comes to classic New York-style pizza, Di Fara is the place to go. This Brooklyn institution has been serving up pies since 1965, and their crispy, thin-crust pizza is a must-try.

Illinois: Lou Malnati’s

For deep-dish pizza, head to Lou Malnati’s in Chicago. Their buttery crust, hearty tomato sauce, and gooey cheese make for a seriously satisfying pie.

California: Pizzeria Mozza

If you prefer your pizza with a gourmet twist, Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles is the place for you. Their wood-fired pies are topped with unique ingredients like squash blossoms and burrata cheese.

🦞 The Best Seafood

From lobster rolls to crab cakes, America’s coasts are home to some of the best seafood in the world. Here are a few must-try seafood spots.

Maine: Eventide Oyster Co.

If you’re a fan of oysters, head to Eventide Oyster Co. in Portland, Maine. Their fresh, briny bivalves are served with unique toppings like kimchi ice and grain mustard.

Maryland: Faidley Seafood

In Baltimore, Faidley Seafood is the place to go for crab cakes. Their jumbo lump crab cakes are made with the freshest ingredients and have been voted the best in Maryland.

Washington: Pike Place Market

If you want to sample a variety of seafood dishes, head to Seattle’s Pike Place Market. This iconic market is home to dozens of seafood vendors, serving everything from smoked salmon to clam chowder.

🍖 The Best Barbecue

Barbecue is a beloved American tradition, and every state has its own unique style. Whether you prefer pulled pork or brisket, these barbecue joints are worth a visit.

Texas: Franklin Barbecue

Franklin Barbecue in Austin is legendary for its slow-smoked brisket, which is so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Be prepared to wait in line, though- their barbecue is so popular that they often sell out hours before closing time.

Tennessee: Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint

Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint in Nashville is famous for its whole hog barbecue, which is slow-roasted for over 24 hours. Their signature sauce, made with vinegar and spices, perfectly complements the smoky meat.

North Carolina: Skylight Inn

For classic Carolina-style barbecue, head to Skylight Inn in Ayden. Their pit-cooked pork is chopped and served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce.

🍦 The Best Ice Cream

No summer road trip is complete without a stop at an ice cream parlor on a hot day. Here are a few of the best ice cream shops in America.

Wisconsin: Kopp’s Frozen Custard

Kopp’s Frozen Custard in Milwaukee has been serving up creamy, rich frozen custard since 1950. Their classic vanilla and chocolate flavors never go out of style, but they also offer unique flavors like Brandy Old Fashioned.

Pennsylvania: Bassetts Ice Cream

Bassetts Ice Cream in Philadelphia has been churning out delicious ice cream since 1861. Their high-quality ingredients and classic flavors like butter pecan and mint chocolate chip make it a must-visit spot.

Oregon: Salt and Straw

For unique ice cream flavors that push the boundaries, head to Salt & Straw in Portland. Their seasonal flavors include unusual ingredients like goat cheese and habanero peppers.

🍩 The Best Donuts

Whether you like your donuts glazed, powdered, or filled with jelly, these spots are worth a visit for their delicious pastries.

Massachusetts: Kane’s Donuts

Kane’s Donuts in Boston has been serving up fresh, homemade donuts since 1955. Their classic flavors like glazed and jelly-filled are always a hit, but they also offer unique flavors like maple bacon.

Texas: Round Rock Donuts

For a truly Texas-sized donut, head to Round Rock Donuts just outside of Austin. Their signature donut is larger than your hand, with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

California: Sidecar Doughnuts

Sidecar Doughnuts in Costa Mesa offers unique donut flavors like huckleberry and salted malted chocolate. Their donuts are made with local, organic ingredients and are always fresh and delicious.

🌮 The Best Tacos

Tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine, but they’ve also become a beloved food across America. From street-style tacos to gourmet creations, these spots serve up the best tacos in the country.

California: Tacos El Gordo

If you’re looking for authentic, street-style tacos, Tacos El Gordo in San Diego is the place to go. Their al pastor tacos, made with marinated pork, are a must-try.

Texas: Torchy’s Tacos

Torchy’s Tacos, based in Austin, serves up creative, gourmet tacos like the Brushfire, which features grilled jalapenos and a spicy sauce. Their queso dip is also a fan favorite.

Arizona: Barrio Cafe

For upscale, gourmet tacos, head to Barrio Cafe in Phoenix. Their duck and mole tacos are a unique and delicious option.

Complete Information about Best Food In America By State

With all the amazing food options across the country, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the best food in America by state. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just looking for a new spot to try in your hometown, this guide will help you discover some of the most delicious and iconic dishes in America.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular regional cuisine in America?

Regional cuisine varies widely across America, but some of the most popular styles of food include barbecue, pizza, seafood, and burgers.

What state has the best barbecue?

Texas, Tennessee, and North Carolina are all famous for their barbecue styles, with Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint in Nashville, and Skylight Inn in Ayden among the most acclaimed barbecue joints in America.

Where can I find the best lobster roll?

For the best lobster rolls in America, head to Maine, where you’ll find iconic spots like Red’s Eats in Wiscasset and Eventide Oyster Co. in Portland.

What state has the best pizza?

New York, Illinois, and California all have their own unique pizza styles, with Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn, Lou Malnati’s in Chicago, and Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles among the most beloved pizzerias in America.

What state has the best ice cream?