Om Nom Nom! The 8 Best Food Cities in America

ODESSA, UKRAINE – JULY 07, 2018: FOOD FESTIVAL IN ODESSA, UKRAINE.

No matter where in the world you’re from, you like to eat. But some countries enjoy eating more than others, and certain countries eat a little more than they should.

Do any countries come to mind? Most will think of the United States. 30% of Americans are obese and the U.S. is the least healthy country in the world. However, this is good news if you’re a foodie.

If you’re planning a trip to the U.S., visit these foodie destinations. Here are the 8 best food cities in America.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana

No trip to the U.S. is complete without trying a po’boy. New Orleans is one of the most unique cities in the country, and the heavy Creole influence defines this culture.

Nowhere in the U.S. will you eat better Cajun food. Make sure to try some staples such as jambalaya and gumbo. But many love the cheap and filling po’boys.

The po’boy is a sandwich which includes meat (usually beef or seafood) and topped with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. The ingredients are stuffed in crispy New Orleans French bread.

2. San Francisco, California

San Francisco is the city of innovation. From Silicon Valley to its incredible economy, San Francisco does everything the right way. And the food is included in their idealistic spirit.

First, San Francisco is a hotbed for food creativity. Many immigrants influence San Francisco’s culinary scene as well as California’s unique food culture. This is why San Francisco is known for starting foodie trends, such as Mexican Brunch.

The wealthy love dining at San Francisco’s five-star restaurants. But don’t think San Francisco is only for the rich and famous. There are plenty of hole-in-the-wall restaurants and comfort food stops to fill your belly while saving a buck.

You should also make it a point to visit the Ferry Building Marketplace, which is the best food market in America.

3. New York City, New York

The debate between New York and Chicago pizza will perpetuate (we will mention Chicago later). But for now, let’s focus on the famous thin crust pizza and all of the great eats offered in New York City.

New York is one of the most diverse food cities in the U.S. You can find everything from five-star restaurants to sketchy hole-in-the-wall spots that offer some of the best food you’ll ever eat.

If you’re craving Italian food, New York is one of the best places in the world to eat Italian food (right next to Italy). Pizza aside, you can devour everything from pasta to free mozzarella cheese.

4. Chicago, Illinois

After you indulge in thin-crust New York pizza, it’s time to conquer Chicago deep-dish pizza.

And while you’re at it, snack on all of the other yummy food that’s offered in Chicago. From street hot dogs to tacos, Chicago is just as much of the foodie city as it is the Windy City.

If you’re a bigger fan of fine dining, you’ll love how Chicago offers some of the best award-winning restaurants in the country.

5. Napa Valley, California

Sure, go to Napa Valley to drink wine. Not much of a wine-o? No problem, indulge in the delicious food that America’s wine capital also offers.

First, Napa Valley is famous for its farm-to-table dishes. The best restaurants locally-source their ingredients and always have seasonal favorites. This includes fresh fruit, vegetables, and even cheese.

And of course, every meal is perfectly paired with wine.

While Napa Valley is known for fine dining, Napa Valley also offers cheap comfort food for those who splurged a little too much on wine.

6. Los Angeles, California

Another major California city appears on this list, and it wouldn’t be complete without including the City of Angels. LA is a hodge-podge of culture: from Hollywood to the melting pot of immigrants.

This is why LA is renowned for its celebrity-fueled fine dining as well as street taco stands.

LA is also one of the cities that everyone can find food they will love. From healthy vegan meals to the best oriental cuisine outside of Asia, the food options in LA are endless.

7. Miami, Florida

When we think of Miami, most think of the glitz and glamour of South Beach. But do you think of the Cuban food? If not, then you better re-think your Miami trip!

Start your day with Cuban coffee. Munch on fritas, croquetas, palomilla steak, and slather that Mojo sauce on everything.

What about the Cuban sandwich? There’s a debate whether you can find the best Cubans in Miami or Tampa. But this sandwich is necessary to try, no matter which city you’re in (but don’t try the sandwich outside of these two cities).

There’s also a Florida staple dish that is lesser-known: gator. Whether you snack on gator nuggets or eat BBQ gator ribs, you’ll never get better gator in the U.S. than Florida.

8. Independence, Missouri

Independence is one of the most historical cities in the U.S. It was the point of departure for the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trails and is now nicknamed the “Queen City of the Trails.”

If you’re making a stop in Missouri, make sure you go to Independence and get your eat on!

Independence has a great culinary scene and offers some of the most unique restaurants. Research the best places to eat and fill your belly with all types of food. You can find everything from sushi to Italian food.

From the South to the North and East to West: The Best Food Cities in America

From Southern comfort food to Latin, Italian and Oriental food and some American staples, the U.S. has some of the best food in the world. If you’re planning a U.S. trip, visit the best food cities in America.

Want more foodie travel advice? I travel all over the world. From dining in South America to Europe, continue reading my blog for more food and travel advice.