The 12 best unexpected best food cities in the US

11.09.2024 - 21:21 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 11, 2024 • 10 min read

When you think of the best food cities in the US, the usual cities come to mind – New York City, Los Angeles, San Diego, Miami and Chicago. But if you’re traveling in search of great eats this year, consider thinking outside the box and heading to these great but underrated culinary destinations instead. 

From surprising places to find some of the country’s best food made by immigrants to the growing farm-to-table movement as it mixes with traditional cuisine, these cities go beyond expectations. We’re talking about chocolate from celeb-fave DeBrand Fine Chocolates in Fort Wayne, Indiana, bourbon and burgoo stew in Bardstown, Kentucky or discovering the namesake Pueblo chiles in Pueblo, Colorado. Each destination offers a taste of something new, great and unexpected. So pack up your suitcase, save this list and head out to discover these under-the-radar foodie destinations.

The one thing not to miss: You can’t head down South without trying some barbecue, and you certainly can’t visit Alabama without trying their unique take. Head to Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ by the James Beard award-winning pitmaster. It’s considered the best barbecue in America by some. You can’t go wrong with a customized two-meat combo plate with brisket and whole hog selections, collard greens and hush puppies on the side and a cold cup of sweet tea. Just be sure to save room for the signature banana pudding.

Recent growth and an influx of diverse talent have led to Birmingham becoming one of the South’s top culinary destinations below the Mason-Dixon line. Talented chefs have access to ingredients from fertile farmlands, the Appalachian foothills and the nearby Gulf of Mexico. Go to Hot & Hot Fish Club for tasty Gulf seafood and El Barrio for must-have Mexican tostadas. If you’re craving a fine dining night out, then Chez Fonfon is the place to go for the best French bistro-inspired fare outside of New Orleans.

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The one thing not to miss: The famed Pueblo green chile that turned this former steel town into one of Colorado’s best food cities. This Colorado staple can be found at some of the best Mexican restaurants across town – Lobo’s Tacos and Tequila (try the Korean fire taco), Tacos Navarro (try anything with their specialty carnitas) and Estela’s Mill Stop Cafe (don’t miss the stuffed sopapillas). But you can also find some of the area’s famous green chili at Brues Alehouse, located on the Pueblo RiverWalk. They’re known for their brews and burgers, but they have lots of options for vegetarians and vegans too.

You have to try the Slovenian food! Yes, really. Pueblo is home to Bojon Town, a tight-knit neighborhood of Slovenian immigrants