9201 Best Restaurants in USA

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We've compiled the best of the best in USA - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Guru's Cafe

$

The vegetarian-friendly fare includes cilantro-lime quesadillas and rice bowls; options for nonvegetarians include a Southwestern chipotle chicken wrap with a side of sweet-potato fries. An art deco portrait of Gandhi decorates one wall of this downtown hippie refuge; elsewhere you'll find metal sculptures and blue skyscapes.

Guy's Po-Boys

$ | Uptown

When you walk into this tiny po'boy shop on Magazine Street, you can almost guarantee that your sandwich will be made by owner Marvin Matherne. His warmth and humor make it feel like you're invited to eat at an old friend's house, but the food is probably much, much better than anything your buddy can cook: "The Bomb," in particular, is out of this world, with grilled shrimp and catfish piled on and topped with melted Swiss and cheddar.

5259 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA, 70115, USA
504-891–5025
Known For
  • Warm and conversational owner
  • Busy crowds during lunchtime
  • Huge and memorable special po'boys
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun. No dinner

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GW Fins

$$$$ | French Quarter

Long famous for its seafood, GW Fins has shifted its efforts to support sustainable, local fishing practices, and its menu now focuses on the Gulf Coast’s bounty—and whatever fresh catch is delivered daily. The steaklike, dry-aged bluefin tuna rib eye, Parmesan crusted sheepshead, and snapper ceviche with habanero sorbet are just some of the delicious ways that local seafood is utilized here. For dessert, try the pretzel-crusted ice cream pie. The spacious dining room's attractive modern decor and the enthusiastic service make this a relaxing refuge from the French Quarter's crowds.

808 Bienville St., New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
504-581–3467
Known For
  • Fresh fish
  • Modern setting
  • Creative menu
Restaurant Details
No lunch

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Recommended Fodor's Video

Gwe Ma’jo

$$

Located at Hualapai Point, Gwe Ma'jo is the only restaurant at Grand Canyon West that serves breakfast, although its offerings are limited to an egg and meat plate, breakfast burrito (with or without meat), French toast, and fry bread. At lunch, you can sample Navajo dishes like pinion stew and tacos made with fry bread. 

Gwennie's Old Alaska Restaurant

$$ | Spenard

Historic photos, mounted animals, and state memorabilia adorn this old family favorite near the airport. Lunch is available, but the restaurant is best known for its old-fashioned all-day breakfasts, which include menu items like reindeer sausage and crab omelets. Don't expect anything fancy; this is diner food in an Alaskana-filled setting.

4333 Spenard Rd., Anchorage, AK, 99517, USA
907-243–2090
Known For
  • Sourdough pancakes
  • Generous portions
  • Endless entertainment from the wall decor
Restaurant Details
No dinner

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Gwin's Lodge & Restaurant

$$

This roadhouse was first built in 1952 replete with cut, hauled and split timber. It's a great place to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with specialties ranging from double quarter-pound burgers topped with applewood-smoked bacon and cheddar to halibut fish-and-chips.

14865 Sterling Hwy., Cooper Landing, AK, USA
907-398–3987
Known For
  • Rustic and historic ambience
  • Full bar
  • Hefty burgers

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H & R Sweet Shop

$

In Lowcountry vernacular, "sweet shop" has nothing to do with confections: It refers to a type of building. But everyone agrees H & R is very sweet indeed, with three-quarters of a century of history of serving homestyle plates and a terrific burger.

102 Royall St., Charleston, SC, USA
Known For
  • Classic griddled cheeseburgers
  • Charmingly gruff service
  • Fried okra
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun.

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The Haab

$ | Woodside

With colorful bottles of Jarritos (a Mexican soft drink) lining the window and sepia-toned photographs adorning the yellow walls, this small, no-frills café named after the Mayan calendar serves Mexican breakfast all day, as well as an array of tacos, tortas (sandwiches), Mexican coffee (made with star anise, cinnamon, and piloncillo, or Mexican brown sugar), chilaquiles (a breakfast dish made with fried corn tortillas and eggs), and aqua frescas. You can also order beer, cocktails, or a michelada.

Habana Outpost

$ | Fort Greene
If the hearty Cuban sandwich and spicy Mexican corn on the cob don't win you over, the exceptionally potent margarita slushies will. An indoor--outdoor party scene with democratic appeal and crowd-pleasing Latin American fare, Habana Outpost occupies a spacious corner lot that is popular with families, first dates, and the occasional raucous-but-friendly group of revelers. On Sunday nights, May through October, the restaurant screens free movies like Purple Rain,Pulp Fiction, and at least one Spike Lee feature.

Habaneros

$

The fish tacos here are to die for, but the full menu of Mexican favorites at this colorful cantina proves that Pawleys Island is not just about seafood. Take a seat inside or on the festive deck and order a burrito with secret sauce and a margarita. There's a second location in Murrells Inlet. 

11151 Ocean Hwy., Pawleys Island, SC, 29585, USA
843-235–9595
Known For
  • The sunny outdoor bar and deck
  • Margaritas priced right
  • Party scene on weekend evenings

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Haikan

$ | Shaw
Located on a lively block, Haikan is a recent addition from the popular Daikaya Group, famous for its ramen restaurants throughout the city. The restaurant serves different types of ramen, featuring pork-based, Sapporo-style dishes. Vegetarians should not fret; they also offer a vegan ramen. The vibrant space is always filled with locals slurping on their ramen while listening to '90s hip-hop.
805 V St. NW, Washington, DC, 20001, USA
202-299–1000
Known For
  • Sapporo-style ramen
  • Lively dining room
  • Rotating selection of Japanese appetizers
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon. and Tues. except for takeout

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HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen

$$$

Standout food and beverage options give the lively HaiSous a one-two punch of deliciousness—choose from the array of vegetable-forward, meat, or seafood specialties paired with any of the cocktails and you'll believe it. Chef Thai Dang's seasonal tasting menu explores the regions and history of Vietnam at an affordable price point.

1800 S. Carpenter St., Chicago, IL, 60608, USA
312-702–1303
Known For
  • $68 grand tasting menu
  • Fried chicken wings
  • Inventive cocktail list
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon. and Tues.

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Haji Baba

$$

This casual treasure is a hole-in-the-wall Middle Eastern favorite that gets consistent rave reviews. The reasonably priced menu includes hummus, lebni (fresh cheese made from yogurt), fabulous falafel, gyros, shawarma, and kebab plates, all served by a friendly and efficient staff. The adjoining store stocks an ample selection of imported Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Indian, and European foods, including delicious cured olives, fava beans, grape leaves, chocolate-covered halvah bars, rose water, and countless other hard-to-find specialties.

1513 E. Apache Blvd., AZ, 85251, USA
480-894–1905
Known For
  • Feeding a decent percentage of ASU faculty
  • The grocery store, almost as busy as the restaurant
  • Hearty servings of chicken shawarma
Restaurant Details
No dinner Sun.
Reservations not accepted

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Hal Yamashita Napa

$$$$

The owner of casual and fine-dining restaurants in Japan and elsewhere, Kobe-born chef Haruyuki Yamashita gained fame within his native land for techniques that modernized Japanese cuisine. At his sparsely decorated Napa location—black, gray, and brown tones, polished concrete floor, gleaming open kitchen—his team prepares prix-fixe multicourse meals, but you can also order sushi, tempura, and other items à la carte.

1300 Main St., Napa, CA, 94559, USA
707-699–1864
Known For
  • Superlative sushi
  • Artisanal sake selection
  • Happy hour (5–6 weekdays, 4–5 weekends)
Restaurant Details
Closed Tues. No lunch

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Haleiwa Beach House

$$

This large, modern, two-story space on the North Shore takes full advantage of its epic water views; note that it doesn't take reservations. The menu is chock-full of surf-and-turf options, from juicy burgers to grilled steaks, blackened fish to red Thai curry with lobster and shrimp.

62-540 Kamehameha Hwy., Haleiwa, HI, 96712, USA
808-637–3435
Known For
  • View and setting (great for sunset) that can't be beat
  • Loco moco, spicy tuna club sandwich
  • Craft beers on draft and a nice wine list
Restaurant Details
No dinner Mon.–Thurs.

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Haleiwa Joe's Seafood Grill

$$$

After the long drive to the North Shore, watching the boats and surfers come and go from the harbor while you enjoy a mai tai on the open-air lanai here may be just what you need. This casual little joint, just past the Rainbow Bridge, rarely changes (to some, that might feel dated, but regulars appreciate the familiarity); a more upscale Kaneohe location overlooks the lush Haiku Gardens.

66-011 Kamehameha Hwy., Haleiwa, HI, 96712, USA
808-637–8005
Known For
  • Reliable food with a nice harbor setting
  • Crunchy coconut shrimp and good daily fish specials
  • Reservations not accepted
Restaurant Details
No lunch Mon.–Sat.

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The Half Shell at the Pier

$$
On an island chock-full of seafood establishments, the Half Shell rises above the competition. It's beloved by locals and visitors alike for the combination of laid-back atmosphere, fresh seafood, and quality preparation and presentation—this is not the stereotypical fried-shrimp shack. If seafood isn't your thing, there's also tasty American fare like the Half Shell burger or the Cajun pork chops. Four-legged family members are welcome.
504 Beachview Dr., St. Simons Island, GA, 31522, USA
912-268–4241
Known For
  • Fresh oysters—raw, shucked, or steamed
  • Local Georgia shrimp and grits
  • Crab cakes
Restaurant Details
No lunch Mon.–Thurs.

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Half Shell Oyster House

$$$

Opened in 2011 inside a retrofitted historic bank building one block off Highway 90, this popular Gulf-view restaurant has earned rave reviews and loyal fans for its charbroiled oysters, the signature menu item. With a distinctly New Orleans architectural vibe, the Half Shell Oyster House features a similarly flavored creole menu of oysters prepared six ways, plus fish, chicken, pasta, burgers, and steaks—with or without a kick. Reservations are not accepted from 6 pm–8 pm on weekends to leave room for walk-ins. Guys: check out the oyster-shell walls in the upstairs men's room.

Half Shell Raw Bar

$

Smack-dab on the docks, this legendary place gets its name from the oysters, clams, and peel-and-eat shrimp that are the stars of its seafood-based menu. It's not clever recipes or fine dining (or even air-conditioning) that packs 'em in; it's fried fish, po'boy sandwiches, and seafood combos. For a break from the deep fryer, try the fresh and light conch ceviche.

231 Margaret St., FL, 33040, USA
305-294–7496
Known For
  • Daily happy hour with food and drink deals
  • Few nonseafood options
  • Good people-watching spot
Restaurant Details
Reservations not accepted

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Halibut Cove Live

$$$

HCL hosts this dining event several times throughout each summer. Seating is outside on an enormous deck that overlooks the bay, and live jazz music is performed on a floating stage. Each event, raises money for a community nonprofit in Homer, features a renowned guest chef from somewhere in the state, locally grown produce, and fresh seafood. Dinner is a set price and includes boat transportation from Homer.

Halibut Cove, AK, USA
907-235–0541
Known For
  • Unique (and expensive) dining and music experience
  • Fantastic fresh seafood dishes
  • Very romantic ambience
Restaurant Details
Closed Sept.–May

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Hallmark Drive-In

$

En route to or from the beach—or to or from anywhere, for that matter—stop at this seasonal roadside stand for a bite to eat (burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, grinders, fish-and-chips) or just a summertime treat. Arguably the best ice cream around, whether in a cup, on a cone, or in a milk shake, root beer float, or sundae.

113 Shore Rd. (Rte. 156), Old Lyme, CT, 06371, USA
860-598–9680
Known For
  • The ice cream, of course
  • Picnic area with a view of Long Island Sound
  • Occasional live music in the evening
Restaurant Details
Closed Labor Day–late Apr.

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Halls Chophouse

$$$$

Thanks to its impressive 28-day-aged USDA steaks, Halls Chophouse is regarded as one of the top steak houses in town. The 28-ounce Tomahawk rib eye, the New York strip, and the slow-roasted prime rib are especially recommended. The bustling bar is a good place to rub shoulders with a variety of well-to-do locals. A heads-up: the service borders on excessive (or is it obsessive?); the staff takes uncommon heed of its guests, though the lavishly prepared steaks offer the restaurant's greatest source of hospitality.

434 King St., Charleston, SC, 29403, USA
843-727–0090
Known For
  • Hopping upscale bar scene
  • Sunday brunch featuring live gospel singers
  • Amazing variety of steaks
Restaurant Details
No lunch weekdays
Reservations essential

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Hamburger America

$ | SoHo

George Motz is a well-known historian of the American hamburger and in late 2023, he fulfilled a dream by opening up his own burger joint. Grab a stool at the counter and watch Motz, the burger-flipper-in-chief, go to work. The casual and affordable spot serves up single and double-patty smash burgers, as well as a regional special burger that changes every few months. Crispy fries, grilled cheese sandwiches, and flavored milk round out the menu. 

51 MacDougal St., New York, NY, 10012, USA
Known For
  • Excellent, affordable burgers
  • Very friendly service
  • Flavored milk

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The Hamilton

$$ | Downtown

Formerly a Borders bookstore, the Hamilton (no relation to the hit musical) is now an enormous multiroom restaurant (38,000 sq feet) that includes a subterranean live-music hall capable of accommodating almost 1,000 people. The menu is just as ambitious as the venue, offering burgers, sushi, pasta, steaks, salads, seafood, and one solitary vegetarian entrée. All can be washed down with cocktails, beer, wine, or milk shakes. While typically a kitchen with so many offerings excels at none of them, the crowds—especially around happy hour—show that's not the case here.

600 14th St. NW, Washington, DC, 20005, USA
202-787–1000
Known For
  • All-encompassing menu
  • Huge space with live music
  • Happy hour deals
Restaurant Details
Reservations essential

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Hamilton's

$$
On a relatively quiet stretch of Fort Hamilton Parkway, this gastropub pairs a vibrant atmosphere with classic dishes like mussels in a garlic-and-white-wine broth or decadent macaroni and cheese topped with crunchy bread crumbs and studded with bacon. Weekend brunch options are similarly satisfying: try the Ella Fitzgerald sandwich with grilled chicken, ham, and Gruyère cheese, topped with a fried egg. The beer list usually has at least 10 to 15 selections on tap and a few unusual bottles.

Hamley & Co.

$$$

A large downtown complex of western-style brick and log cabin buildings holds a steak house, café, and saloon, and captures Pendleton's cowboy heritage with its ornate interior. The swanky steak house is open for dinner only, the saloon serves a lighter bar menu, and the café serves breakfast and lunch. Peppercorn-crusted top sirloin, slow roasted prime rib, burgers, and fire-roasted salmon are among the favorites.

8 S.E. Court St., Pendleton, OR, 97801, USA
541-278–1100
Known For
  • Meat-heavy menu of steaks and burgers
  • Old West setting with 19th-century mahogany bar and period memorabilia
  • Daily happy hour in saloon
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun. and Mon.

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Hampton Coffee Company

$

The smell of coffee roasting is enough to entice you inside, but there's more: homemade nachos and salsa; breakfast to go or eat in the bright dining area, and a good range of lunch choices. Beer-battered fish and chips are a favorite, and the Mexican entrees like chicken enchiladas à la Mexicana and huevos rancheros with chorizo, avocado, and queso blanco will get your heart going. There are many low-fat, vegetarian, and gluten-free options too, including salads, sandwiches, wraps, and entrees. Bring home a pound of the fresh-roasted, estate-grown coffee.

The Hampton Social

$$$ | International Drive

Hampton Social covers many bases with its menu of "coastal-inspired food." With options ranging from California-style pizzas and lobster rolls to steak or seafood tacos and crispy calamari, there's likely to be something for everyone in your party. Weekend brunch adds boozy and nonalcoholic bevs, as well as live music.

9101 International Dr., Orlando, FL, 32819, USA
689-800–6760
Known For
  • Free parking with $25 purchase
  • "Rosé all Day" lounge
  • Weekend brunch with live music and kids' choices

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Hampton Street Vineyard

$$$ | Downtown

This cozy bistro with upscale French fare is set in a below-ground-level dining room in one of the first buildings constructed in the city after Sherman's infamous march. It has exposed brick walls, arched windows, and original wide-plank floors, plus sidewalk seating, and feels like a true city bistro. Dinners are creative but not over the top, with entrées such as seared breast of duck with orange and fennel, and a classic steak frites.

1207 Hampton St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA
803-252–0850
Known For
  • 650-bottle wine list that won Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence
  • Locally inspired, seasonally changing menu
  • Attractively presented entrées
Restaurant Details
Reservations recommended

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Hamura Saimin

$

Folks just love this cash-only, old plantation-style diner, though the very simple food doesn't quite live up to the buzz. Locals and tourists still stream in and out all day long: the famous saimin noodle soup is the big draw, and each day the Hiraoka family dishes up about 1,000 bowls of the steaming broth and house-made noodles topped with a variety of garnishes. The landmark eatery is also famous for its lilikoi (passion fruit) chiffon pie. Parking is often a challenge.  This is one of the few Lihue restaurants open late—10 pm on weeknights and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

2956 Kress St., HI, 96766, USA
808-245–3271
Known For
  • Counter-style dining
  • Grilled chicken and beef sticks
  • Open late for Lihue

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