3070 Best Restaurants in USA

Background Illustration for Restaurants

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.

Bub & Grandma's

$ | Highland Park

Not far from the hubbub of Highland Park lies Eastside’s Bub & Grandma’s, an early-morning American diner complete with cushy booths and a wrap-around bar. It’s a perfect spot to start the day after a walk through Glassell Park; order the egg cheese sandwich with a cup of coffee and a doughnut for the road. For lunch, Bub & Grandma’s switches its menu to a variety of heavenly sandwiches and deli sides. Arrive early to beat the rush and be sure to try their classic sesame loaf bread to see why it is the bread of choice for many other restaurants throughout the city.

Horn Barbecue

$ | Downtown

It's hard to keep track of how many awards pitmaster Matt Horn has won at this point. After roving around the Bay Area for years as a pop-up with his smoker "Lucille," Horn set up shop permanently in West Oakland, then was forced to move to Downtown Oakland because of a fire in 2023. Wherever he goes, long lines of fans follow. And for good reason—this is undoubtedly some of the greatest Texas-inspired barbecue on the West Coast. Of course, brisket is the signature here, but almost everyone tries multiple kinds of meats and sides. Make sure to come early and preferably on a weekday.

464 8th St., Oakland, CA, 94607, USA
510-225–6101
Known For
  • Tender, irresistible smoked meats and sausages
  • Best-in-class banana pudding
  • Must-order pit beans on the side
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon. and Tues.

Something incorrect in this review?

Yank Sing

$ | Financial District

This bustling, lunch-only classic dating back to 1958 serves some of San Francisco's best dim sum to office workers on weekdays and boisterous families on weekends, and the take-out counter makes a satisfying meal on the run. The several dozen varieties prepared daily include the classic and the creative; steamed pork buns, shrimp dumplings, scallop skewers, and basil seafood dumplings are among the many delights. Crowds are just as large at its nearby Rincon Center sibling.

49 Stevenson St., San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA
415-541–4949
Known For
  • Peking duck on weekends
  • Shanghai pork soup dumplings
  • Egg custard tarts for dessert
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon. No dinner

Something incorrect in this review?

Recommended Fodor's Video

Zeitgeist Coffee

$ | Pioneer Square

Even Seattleites who don't haunt Pioneer Square will happily hunt for parking to spend a few hours at this colorful local favorite. In one of Pioneer Square's great brick buildings, with high ceilings and a few artfully exposed ducts and pipes, Zeitgeist has a simple, classy look that's the perfect backdrop for the frequent art shows held here. If you're feeling hungry, Zeitgeist has a modest breakfast and lunch menu, featuring sandwiches, salads, and baked egg dishes. The roasted veggie topped with goat cheese on a local Macrina baguette is a fresh and filling lunch. 

808 on Main

$ Fodor's Choice

Delicious artisan sandwiches, classic burgers, and signature items make 808 on Main a local favorite. The pupus, cocktails, and draft beers will make you wish the place was open later (10–3 pm). Check out its counterpart, 808 Deli in Kihei, for breakfast, paninis, and gourmet hot dogs.

2051 Main St., Wailuku, HI, 96793, USA
808-242–1111
Known For
  • Refreshing house-made strawberry lemonade
  • Fun and friendly atmosphere
  • Tasty fish sandwiches
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun. No dinner

Something incorrect in this review?

8th & Roast

$ | Waverly Fodor's Choice
The original location of this growing local coffee roaster serves ethically sourced coffee roasted in-house, plus seasonal treats, breakfast sandwiches, and lunch items. Lined with exposed brick, the bright space is industrial yet cozy, featuring seating for both individuals and larger groups.
2108 8th Ave. S, Nashville, TN, 37204, USA
615-730–8074
Known For
  • In-house coffee bean roasting
  • Slow-style pour-over coffee
  • Quick service

Something incorrect in this review?

A.L.C. Italian Grocery

$ Fodor's Choice
Modeled after an old-school salumeria, and run by the grandson of Bensonhurst’s beloved Italian food importing and distribution business, D. Coluccio & Sons, this specialty grocery stocks everything from cheese, chocolate, salami, imported pasta, sauces, bread, and pizza dough to prepared foods and salads. The memorable Italian heroes and sandwiches include the Pork Ridge (with homemade porchetta, Italian Crucolo cheese, and the spicy, spreadable salami called 'nduja) and the vegetable and ricotta sandwich. There are a few tables up front, but the prime picnic territory of Shore Park is just a short walk away.

Aggie Ice Cream

$ Fodor's Choice

The pride and joy of Utah State University dairy students, this historic ice-cream shop on campus has been making ice cream "from cow to cone" for 100 years. The luscious creations use milk from cows that live on USU's farm and a recipe and production process that's been perfected over the last century. Savor a scoop or two of lemon custard, blue mint, praline pecan, or huckleberry to fully grasp what all the fuss is about.

Agnes' Portuguese Bake Shop

$ Fodor's Choice

This food truck in the Manuhealii parking lot serves delicious, made-to-order malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts) that are crispy and dark brown on the outside and soft, chewy, and sweet on the inside. They're also denser than those found at some other bakeries on the island. This means that they're probably more authentic to the original Portuguese recipe.

Alimentari at Di Bruno Bros.

$ | Rittenhouse Square Fodor's Choice

Above the Di Bruno Bros. Rittenhouse location lives Alimentari, a casual Italian restaurant with plenty of seating and enough space for large groups. As its name implies, it's a neighborhood gathering place with ready-to-eat food, with a menu that largely pulls from items that are available in the store below—cheeses, meats, crackers, breads—as well as pizza alla Romana (Roman style) and hot Italian small plates like gnocchi and meatballs. The food pairs perfectly with the extensive wine list, which features draft wine in addition to wine by the bottle and glass; craft-beer options round out the offerings.

All Day Darling

$ Fodor's Choice

Breakfast is the champ at this bright and airy in-demand spot for biscuits, smashed avocado toast, and frittatas, but it's also worth a visit later in the day for delicious bites like fried halloumi with honey and capers.

Allagash Brewing Company

$ | Riverton Fodor's Choice

Arguably the best-known among all of Maine's many outstanding breweries, Allagash was one of the state's pioneers, first opening in the '90s with its signature Belgian-style wheat beer, Allagash White. There are plenty of other styles to discover at the brewery, including wilds, sours, barrel-aged brews, and special seasonal concoctions on tap, and when hunger strikes, there's a Bite Into Maine’s food truck on-site, where you'll find burgers and excellent Maine staples like lobster rolls and whoopie pies. It's a bit out of the way from central Portland, but the above, plus a fun and friendly tasting room, make the brewery well worth the small trek.

Aloha Isle

$ | Magic Kingdom Fodor's Choice

Few snacks are so popular as to have spawned their own merchandise, but the Pineapple Float at Aloha Isle has done just that. Dole pineapple ice cream on pineapple juice is one of the iconic treats offered at the Magic Kingdom, and it can only be found at Disney or at the Dole Plantation in Hawaii. If pineapples aren't your thing, still line up to try a coconut or raspberry ice cream.

American Provisions

$ | South Boston Fodor's Choice

Stop at this artisanal grocer for cured meats and cheeses, croissants and scones, pasta salad sides, packaged crackers and jams, even a bottle of wine. You can also order gourmet sandwiches—there are a few eggy options during the breakfast hours, before the menu moves on to absolutely stunning meaty delights.

Ample Hills Creamery

$ Fodor's Choice
Among artisanal ice-cream fans, nobody has earned a more passionate following than Ample Hills, the Prospect Heights creamery started by screenwriter Brian Smith and his wife, Jackie Cuscuna. Their Gowanus branch churns with families and ice-cream aficionados, who pack the second-floor terrace and attend ice-cream-making classes. Favorite flavors are Mexican Hot Chocolate and Salted Crack Caramel.
305 Nevins St., Brooklyn, NY, 11238, USA
347-725--4061
Known For
  • The dark chocolate--based It Came from Gowanus
  • Rooftop terrace
  • Windows into the production kitchen

Something incorrect in this review?

Anjou Bakery

$ Fodor's Choice

Located on the edge of a pear orchard in Cashmere, this family-owned bakeshop has an unusual and appealing industrial–vintage-farmhouse feel. It offers up some of the region's best breads and pastries, from bread pudding to almond meringue cookies to lemon cheesecake. Enjoy an espresso or European-style sandwich (baguette, butter, cured meats, cheeses) at a picnic table indoors or on the sunny patio anchored by a modern, concrete water feature and lots of lavender.

3898 Old Monitor Rd., Cashmere, 98815, USA
509-782–4360
Known For
  • Rustic apricot and pear danishes
  • Delicious sandwiches on baguettes
  • Lovely outdoor patio with tables
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon.–Thurs. No dinner

Something incorrect in this review?

Anna's Taqueria

$ | Beacon Hill Fodor's Choice

Anna's owner moved to Boston from San Fran's Mission District in the mid-1990s and opened shop. This West Coast--style Mexican takeout restaurant has been a hit ever since, especially with Boston residents, current and former. Diners can select from 10 meat and veggie fillings for burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and bowls.

242 Cambridge St., Boston, MA, USA
617-227–8822
Known For
  • Tacos al pastor—marinated, rotisserie-cooked pork with pineapples and onions
  • Fat, flavorful burritos
  • Bringing the heat with really spicy sauces you can add on

Something incorrect in this review?

Arepa Lady

$ | Jackson Heights Fodor's Choice

The Arepa Lady, originally known for slinging cheesy, golden arepas (stuffed corn cakes) from her famed street cart on Roosevelt Avenue has since established three stand-alone restaurants across New York City. The Jackson Heights location is the original “mother restaurant” and keeps to the classics like arepa de queso (freshly ground corn flour mixed with cheese) and arepa de choclo, served with your choice of meat. Try the popular chicharrón (smoked pork belly) or Colombian chorizo (which is sliced, rather than ground up). Expect to find Manhattanites, locals, and tourists alike sipping sangria and margs while getting their fill of savory cakes at this charming eatery.

Aroy Thai

$ | Lincoln Square Fodor's Choice

Chicago's North Side is graced with a wide variety of delicious Thai restaurants, but Aroy Thai tops the list for their array of spicy, funky, delicious Northern Thai dishes in a small, BYOB storefront just steps from the Damen Brown Line stop. Diners who dare to venture past pad thai should try the Issan and Sai Ua sausages, Thai-style chicken wings, larb salad, or noodles with roasted duck. 

4654 N. Damen, Chicago, IL, 60625, USA
773-275–8360
Known For
  • Delicious Northern Thai noodle dishes and curries
  • BYOB with inexpensive corkage fee
  • Pineapple curry served in an actual pineapple

Something incorrect in this review?

Arsicault

$ | Richmond Fodor's Choice

The search for the best, flakiest croissant in San Francisco ends at this tiny French bakery off Clement Street. Other popular items include an assortment of scones, cookies, and kouign-amann (a Breton pastry); coffee and tea complete your treat. Lines may be long but move fast and are well worth the wait.

397 Arguello Blvd., San Francisco, CA, 94118, USA
Known For
  • Best croissants in the city
  • Long lines
  • Unassuming, takeout-only storefront

Something incorrect in this review?

Arsicault

$ | Civic Center Fodor's Choice

This green and white, high-ceilinged space offers what some claim are the best croissants—not only outside France, but in the world. You simply can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Try for the almond croissant or anything with berries, and enjoy it in-store or to go. The original location thrives in the Inner Richmond ( 397 Arguello Blvd.).

87 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA, 94102, USA
415-926–5155
Known For
  • Enthusiastic following
  • Exquisite croissants
  • Specials run out quickly

Something incorrect in this review?

Ashley's Espresso Parlour

$ Fodor's Choice

Flavorful house drinks like the spicy Inca Mocha and the pistachio-and-cinnamon Lebanese Blonde set this bustling coffee shop apart from competitors. Pair your latte with a spinach ricotta croissant and stick around to appreciate the local art and crafts on display and for sale.

Aster Marfa

$ Fodor's Choice
The hearty fare, potent coffee, and fresh-squeezed juices served in this small patio café across from the Presidio County Courthouse will help you fuel up for a day of hiking or art-touring. Good bets include the Bernese rösti potato pancakes with ham, Gruyère, and eggs, while the vegan Swiss Müsli with coconut yogurt is a bit on the lighter side. There are also house-made bagels and an array of decadent baked pastries and sweets.
215 N. Highland Ave., Marfa, TX, 79843, USA
432-729–4500
Known For
  • Made-from-scratch baked goods
  • Rösti potato pancakes
  • Cheerful patio
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon. and Tues. No dinner

Something incorrect in this review?

Atlantic Baking Company

$ Fodor's Choice

Classic European and American breads such as batards, baguettes, ciabatta, focaccia, sourdough boules, and rolls come out of French ovens every morning at this popular little spot. The cases are also filled with just-baked croissants, scones, muffins, cookies, and more. Various specialties are available on different days of the week. There's also a selection of sandwiches and salads for lunch. It's a quick walk across the street from the Farnsworth Art Museum.

Atticus Bookstore Café

$ Fodor's Choice

Come to this independent bookstore, café, and bakery to buy a book, have lunch (or breakfast), or have breakfast (or lunch) and buy a book. "Nourishment for mind and body" is the approach here—in the style of a European neighborhood café.

Au Cheval

$ | West Loop Fodor's Choice

A menu packed with burgers, fries, and chopped liver might sound like a classic dive, but Au Cheval is no greasy spoon—exposed brick, dim lighting, and antique-inspired fixtures give a sultry feel, and rich takes on classic American diner dishes satisfy cravings. There’s a perennial wait, but sneak in after 10:15 pm Monday–Saturday for a limited menu consisting of the crowd-favorite cheeseburger and fries.

Ayu Bakehouse

$ | Faubourg Marigny Fodor's Choice

This women-owned bakery has killer sourdough bread, an assortment of sweets, and unique savory treats like the boudin boy, which has a Cajun sausage and boiled egg filling in a flakey croissant dough. The muffuletta bread sticks studded with olives and salami are not to be missed.

Azucar Ice Cream Company

$ Fodor's Choice

More crafty than churning, flavors at this Cuban ice cream shop are inspired by and derived from ingredients at nearby fruit stands, international grocery shops, and farmers' markets. The menu features creations that nod to the culturally rich Little Havana location (café con leche, flan, and the signature Abuela Maria—made with Maria cookies, cream cheese, and guava) as well as seasonal specialties (like sweet creamed corn and egg nog).

Ba Xuyên

$ Fodor's Choice
Head to this nondescript spot at the north end of Chinatown for outstanding bánh mì sandwiches that cost just $5. The No. 1, with several kinds of pork, pickled vegetables, and a mound of cilantro on a baguette that's perfectly crusty on the outside and soft on the inside might very well blow your mind. Order one to go, with an avocado shake, and enjoy lunch alfresco in Sunset Park, just a block away.
4222 8th Ave., Brooklyn, NY, 11232, USA
718-633--6601
Known For
  • Awesome bánh mì
  • Avocado shakes
  • Bare-bones decor but very friendly service

Something incorrect in this review?

Ba-Le Sandwiches & Bakery

$ Fodor's Choice

This popular spot began as a French–Vietnamese bakery on Oahu and has branched into popular small restaurants sprinkled throughout the Islands, with some locations set up as kiosks in malls and others, like this one, as stand-alone spots with a few picnic tables out front. Vietnamese pho (soup laden with seafood or rare beef, fresh basil, bean sprouts, and lime) shares menu space with local-style saimin and plates of barbecue or spicy chicken, beef, pork, or local fish served with jasmine rice.

1824 Oihana St., Wailuku, HI, 96793, USA
808-249–8833
Known For
  • Affordable Vietnamese cuisine
  • Boba teas in fun flavors like taro or pineapple
  • Opakapaka (pink snapper) with garlic shrimp
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun.

Something incorrect in this review?