Here’s Marneys Tidbits guide to the top restaurant in each US state.
The ultimate guide to the best restaurants in the United States of America is here, with expert reviews and recommendations, including casual and fine-dining establishments. Read on to learn about the top 50 best restaurants in the US.
Orchids Restaurant, Waikiki, HI
Located in the Halekulani Hotel on iconic Waikiki beach, Orchids Restaurant, in our opinion, is the best restaurant on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Orchids is known for it’s sophisticated oceanfront dining experience and refined menu. Whether you’re looking to enjoy breakfast, lunch, a beautiful afternoon tea, dinner, or an exquisite Sunday brunch, Orchids offers it all, and will not disappoint. In the evenings, enjoy live Hawaiian music and classic Hawaiian dancers, as you savor every bite and take in the beautiful ambiance. For more amazing Oahu, Hawaii restaurant recommendations, check out Marneys Tidbits article, “Your Top Five 2024 Dream Oahu Hotel And Resorts.”
Island Prime Steak House, San Diego, CA
Located on Harbor Island in San Diego, Island Prime is the only steakhouse offering waterfront dining in all of downtown San Diego. Enjoy panoramic views of the San Diego Bay, the city skyline, and Coronado bridge, while watching boats cruise by. Island Prime specializes in prime steaks and fresh seafood, lavishes it’s patrons with hospitality, and invites diners to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views, making it the best restaurant in San Diego, a premier dining destination and one of the best 50 restaurants in the US. The fresh hot popovers, served before your entree, delicious culinary offerings and friendly service make for especially good memories.
Galatoire’s
Canlis, Seattle, WA
When looking to dine, at the best restaurant in Seattle, look no further. From the soothing ambience, to the exceptional service, to the creative menu, and beyond, you’ll love your time at Canlis. Canlis’s staff are the first to tell you that their “top priority is taking care of others” and it proves true in every facet of this classy restaurant. Canlis is a “must visit” restaurant in Seattle. With a focus on Pacific Northwest cuisine, Canlis also boasts an award-winning wine list and has some of the most exceptional service you’ll ever experience. Add to that, the views of the city, Lake Union, and the Cascade mountain range for a truly memorable evening at one of the top 50 best restaurants in the US.
The Chart House, Portland, OR
The Chart House Portland, is the winner of, the best restaurant in Portland title. While savoring your meal, you’ll take in one of the most beautiful panoramic views in all of the city of Portland. The Charthouse offers exquisite steak and seafood dishes, such as macadamia nut Mahi Mahi and Prime Rib. Our personal favorite aspects are, the warm and welcoming fireplace, the view, the iconic Caesar salad, the Coconut Shrimp and the hot Chocolate Lava Cake.
Mason Jar Brews and Burgers, Kansas City, KS
Located off the beaten path, the best restaurant in Kansas City, is known for its hearty burgers and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a go-to for comfort food in Kansas City. Be sure to check the specials board when you walk in as there are always new and fun things to try such as the “Burger of the Month.”
Mary Mahoney’s Old French House
Chimayo Restaurant, Park City, UT
Chimayo is renowned for its Southern Mexico and Southern Utah inspired dishes, as well as, it’s cozy, rustic, and fun ambience. The incredibly tasty cuisine, creative drinks, and roaring Spanish-style fireplace make it the best restaurant in Park City, and one of the 50 best US restaurants, a place where locals and visitors alike enjoy. Be sure to savor a hot cup of their homemade hot chocolate. It’s one of our favorite things to order on a cold, wintery, evening.
Seven Glaciers Restaurant, Anchorage, AK
If breathtaking views, exquisite food, and an award-winning wine list are some of your favorite things, then book a table at Seven Glaciers, considered the best restaurant in Anchorage. Offering bounty from the forest and culinary treasures from the artic sea it will quickly become one of your favorite restaurants. Perched atop Mount Alyeska, the only way to access this restaurant, is to take a fun ride on the Alyeska Tram, 2300 feet up the side of the picturesque mountain. You’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of the surrounding Chugach Mountains, as well as, the beautiful 7 glaciers. Seven Glaciers was named one of America’s 100 Best Wine Restaurants in 2023 by Wine Enthusiast. This is one we suggest you put at the top of your list of places to visit.
El Barrio Restaurante Y Bar, Birmingham, AL
El Barrio has become one of the most popular, and best restaurant in Birmingham, thanks to it’s vibrant and casual setting, as well as, it’s creative and modern take on Mexican cuisine. When visiting in the summer months, be sure to try the watermelon margarita, and the summer seasonal guacamole with strawberries and candied bacon.
Summer House
Prospect Restaurant, Aspen, CO
This upscale eatery in The Hotel Jerome, an Auberge property in Aspen, features contemporary American dishes, a sophisticated ambiance and is known as the best casual restaurant in Aspen. Prospect’s stellar reputation is due to it’s emphasis on locally sourced ingredients such as the Colorado rainbow trout with agnolotti, watercress, and horseradish, as well as, it’s elegant presentations.
Lon’s At The Hermosa Inn, Paradise Valley, AZ
Located in The Hermosa Inn, Lon’s Restaurant was voted one of Open Tables “Top 100 Romantic Restaurants” in 2024. Lon’s is well known for it’s globally inspired and Southwestern cuisine and incredibly romantic atmosphere. Located in an historic hacienda with adobe walls and wood beams. It features a beautiful outdoor patio and an extensive wine list. Enjoy seasonal live music Wednesdays through Sundays. Come find out why Lon’s is the best restaurant in Paradise Valley, AZ and one of the best 50 restaurants in the US.
Lon’s At The Hermosa
One Coastal, Fenwick Island, DE
One Coastal focuses on farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on fresh, local seafood. The Local Cheeseboard and Chicken and Biscuits are the perfect starters. The New Jersey Day Boat scallops are as close to perfection as possible. The beautifully presented Instagram-able dishes are a work of art and it’s intimate setting and creative menu make it the standout best restaurant in Fenwick Island.
Viron Rondo Ostaria, Cheshire, CT
This quaint, best Italian restaurant in Cheshire, offers a cozy, rustic setting with a menu full of traditional Italian dishes and wood fired paninis and Italian sandwiches during lunchtime. It has been consistently praised for it’s authentic Italian flavors and welcoming atmosphere making it the best restaurant in Cheshire, CT.
Gianni’s At The Former Versace Mansion, Miami, FL
Located in the iconic Versace Mansion, Gianni’s offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, in an exquisitely beautiful and lavish setting paired with exceptional service. The mosaic pool, water feature is one of our absolute favorite places, to take cool pictures, and soak this glamorous experience up. Gianni’s received the diners choice award of 2024. The top notch service offered definitely adds to the allure of Gianni’s. Check out their website for an in depth and interesting articles on the history of this mansion. Overall, Gianni’s wins our spot for the best restaurant in Miami, FL.
The Preacher’s Son, Bentonville, AR
Located in a restored, historic, church The Preacher’s Son offers modern American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Everything about the decor, including the building itself, the stained glass windows, stone wall clad bar, and the beautiful high ceilings make this the best restaurant in Bentonville for ambience and culinary delights. The Burrata, Caesar salad, Beets and the Gnocchi are our top picks.
Gianni’s At The Former Versace Mansion
Vic’s On The River Restaurant And Bar, Savannah, GA
In 2024 Vic’s received “The Experts Choice Award,” from Trip Expert. This prestigious award honors Vic’s On the River as one of the top-rated restaurants in Savannah. Vic’s specializes in comforting Southern cuisine with a touch of elegance. We love the overall feel of the historic brick building, as well as, the amazing views of the Savannah River. Sit at a window table, to enjoy the views from, the best restaurant in Savannah.
Anthony’s At Coeur D’ Alene, Coeur D’ Alene, ID
Anthony’s At Coeur D’Alene is known for it’s stunning lake views, incredible service, and delicious food. It’s a great spot for enjoying a meal while soaking up the natural beauty of the region and is sure to be your pick for best restaurant in Coeur D’ Alene.
Tre Dita, Chicago, IL
Tre Dita has been named one of the most beautiful restaurants in Chicago. Located in the stunning St. Regis Hotel, this modern Italian restaurant offers a contemporary take on traditional dishes. Known for it’s stylish decor and inventive menu they offer items, such as the, Tortelli di Zucca with heirloom squash, parmigiano and reggiano cheese, and the Gamberi in Salsa Verde with blue prawns making this the best restaurant in Chicago.
Salt On Mass, Indianapolis, IN
Salt On Mass features a menu of contemporary American dishes such as Hawaiian Poke, Chicken and Lemongrass Dumplings, and Crab Stuffed Mushroom Caps inspired by global influences in a chic urban setting. Fresh and sustainable is the focus here and one of the reasons this is the best restaurant in Indianapolis.
Vic’s On The River
Ikigai, Brooklyn, NY
The beautiful minimalistic courtyard reminiscent of a Japanese tearoom, boasts shoji screens, and potted Japanese maple trees. Guests start with cold towels, to revive hot summer diners, portions of rhododendron kombucha, and pillowy milk bread, just to start. Ikigai serves a 12-course Kaiseki-inspired menu, incorporating seasonal ingredients and a fresh outlook on classic Japanese cuisine. Procuring our spot as the best restaurant in New York is Ikigai.
Orchard Green, the best restaurant in Iowa City, offers upscale American, Mediterranean cuisine in a sophisticated, yet relaxed, setting. It’s a local favorite for fine and casual dining. Be sure to try the focaccia bread with Kalamata olives, roasted garlic and rosemary. I love the soup selection of Lobster butternut squash bisque and French onion soup.
610 Magnolia, Louisville, KY
Located in historic Old Louisville, 610 Magnolia is a fine dining restaurant that offers seasonal tasting menus. 610 Magnolia has been featured in Bon Appetit Magazine, Food & Wine, The New York Times Magazine, Saveur, Southern Living Magazine, Esquire, and Wine Enthusiast. The intimate setting, and innovative dishes, have made it a Louisville staple and a must try best restaurant in Louisville.
Galatoire’s, New Orleans, LA
A New Orleans classic, Galatoire’s was founded in 1905. This restaurant is famous for it’s traditional Creole cuisine, and lively atmosphere. The history behind this restaurant makes it a must-visit, best restaurant in New Orleans, and one of the 50 best US restaurants.
Prospect Restaurant
The Point Crab House And Grill, Arnold, MD
Ideally located on the waterfront, The Point offers fresh seafood and a casual and cozy dining atmosphere. Get your iconic Maryland crab here. Chef Bobby Jones revamps the menu seasonally to provide the freshest and most exciting culinary options. The picturesque location provides the perfect spot for a relaxing meal and a beautiful space to enjoy the best restaurant in Arnold, Maryland.
Gibbet Hill Grill, Groton, MA
Located on a 500 acre “farm”, Gibbet Hill Grill is one of the only restaurants in all of New England that has a produce farm on site. This farm-to-table restaurant shapes it’s menu around whatever is seasonably available guaranteeing you, fresh off the farm produce. You won’t want to miss out on the warm rolls and cornbread with maple syrup butter. The fun rustic charm, and quality dishes, draw diners from afar making this the best restaurant in Groton, Massachusetts.
Shaws Fish And Lobster Wharf Restaurant, New Harbor, ME
Shaws restaurant is an actual commercial “working” fishing harbor. Seafood doesn’t get any fresher and more exciting than eating at a commercially active wharf. Shaws is a quintessential Maine seafood spot offering fresh catches in a casual, waterfront setting. It’s the perfect place to enjoy fresh lobster and other seafood favorites. Shaws is not only the best restaurant in New Harbor, Maine but a destination dining spot with a dock, restaurant, bar, seafood counter, and gift shop.
The Mansion Restaurant
Spoon And Stable, Minneapolis, MN
Housed in a former stable, Spoon and Stable is a stunningly beautiful restaurant. Spoon and Stable serves seasonal American cuisine with a French twist. They offer an extensive oyster selection and many dishes made from Heritage Grain pastas. The Entree list provides abundant seafood selections, a Wagyu steak, dry-aged duck, pork chops and a lamb loin. Spoon and Stable’s warm and inviting atmosphere and delicious food make it the best restaurant in Minneapolis.
Mary Mahoney’s Old French House, Biloxi, MS
This historic, best restaurant in Biloxi, offers a blend of Southern and French cuisine. The many appealing menu options include Crabmeat Imperial specialties, steaks, and the fish of the day topped with lump crabmeat. “Enjoy an upscale and elegant meal in one of the South’s most unique restaurants, centered around one of the oldest homes in America. Dine in an elegant New Orleans style courtyard under the canopy of a centuries old live oak, where for 50 years, presidents, dignitaries, celebrities, and millions of others have experienced the rich history and legendary cuisine of Mary Mahoney’s.”
Farm Club, Traverse City, MI
Visit the best restaurant in Michigan for an all around organic dining experience. Farm club, is a destination in itself, including a bakery, brewery, farm, restaurant, and market. Eat in the restaurant or bring your own blanket, to set up a leisurely afternoon picnic , on their sprawling grass lawn with items from their bakery and market.
Novel Restaurant, Kansas City, MO
Novel is known for it’s inventive New American cuisine and stylish wood paneled setting. The ever-changing menu using locally sourced, fresh, ingredients, and contemporary techniques keeps diners coming back to the best restaurant in Kansas City for more.
Spoon And Stable Restaurant
Horn And Cantle, Big Sky, MT
Located in The Lodge at Lone Mountain Ranch, Horn and Cantle offers a true Big Sky Montana dining experience with locally sourced, farm to table dishes and a upscale rustic ambiance adorned with antler chandeliers, wood beams, and checkered curtains. Enjoy live music nightly. Be sure to book the best restaurant in Big Sky, Montana at least a month in advance due to it’s immense popularity.
Summer House, Las Vegas, NV
Summer House features California-inspired cuisine with delicious appetizers such as cheesy dream puffs, jalapeno cornbread, and prime beef meatballs, in a garden-like, bright, and airy setting. The specialties include salads, burgers, pizzas, tacos and pastas. It’s a refreshing change from the typical Las Vegas dining scene making Summer House the best restaurant in Las Vegas.
Copper Door, Bedford, NH
This upscale best restaurant in Bedford offers a menu of American classics, including seasonal specials, and stone oven comfort food. The warm crab dip, chicken rangoon, and tuna poke wontons are some of my favorites. The elegant setting is perfect for brunch, lunch, or a special night out. Make sure to try one of their many homemade desserts. The Copper Cupcake is their signature dessert and a customer favorite. A fun “must try” is their ever changing cupcake of the month.
The Frog And The Peach, New Brunswick, NJ
This American restaurant is known for it’s creative seasonal menu items in a sophisticated setting. Locally sourced meat, seafood, and produce are the foundation for all their dishes. The chefs are more than happy to accommodate vegan and gluten free diners. Be sure to visit when they offer their sensational annual Festival Of Peaches dining menu. Overall, The Frog and the Peach is the best restaurant in New Brunswick.
Geronimo Restaurant
Geronimo Restaurant, Santa Fe, NM
Housed in a historic adobe building, Geronimo Restaurant offers a blend of Southwest and global cuisine. The beautiful decor, white washed beams, horse paintings, creamy drapes and cozy booths are only matched by their impeccable service, and unique and perfectly prepared culinary delights. To experience, how truly beautiful, this best restaurant in Santa Fe is visit their Instagram page.
The Fearrington House Restaurant, Pittsboro, NC
This classy best restaurant in Fearrington, North Carolina, sits on a gorgeous estate housing both the Fearrington House Inn and Restaurant. Reminiscent of a French country farmhouse, the menu reflects the sophistication of the overall estate. This beautiful restaurant is the only Green Certified AAA, Five Diamond, and Forbes Five-Star restaurant in the county. Fearrington House is ranked a top 100 restaurant for foodies in America.
Mezzaluna, Fargo, ND
Mezzaluna serves contemporary American cuisine in an upscale, urban setting. Be sure to try the Shrimp Fettuccine, and the Coconut mousse with grilled pineapple, spiced rum syrup, toasted coconut, and mint for an extra special treat. Check out why this is the best restaurant in Fargo.
Restoration Hardware Rooftop, Columbus, OH
This extension of Restoration Hardware, is a rooftop restaurant, offering a chic setting with stunning views and a unparalleled menu of American classics; such as burgers. The food is incredible. It’s located in the trendy Easton Gateway. The crispy Artichoke appetizer and the Shaved ribeye on charred garlic bread are sure to delight, making Restoration Hardware Rooftop Restaurant the best restaurant in Columbus, Ohio.
Restoration Hardware Rooftop
The Mansion Restaurant, Dallas, TX
Located in uptown Dallas, inside of The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, this restaurant offers refined American cuisine with an emphasis on Southern hospitality, alongside refined culinary traditions. With unique menu options like the Smoked salmon gougeres, Squash blossom beignets, (see Marneys Tidbits Article on “Fun Edible Flower How To’s” for other delicious squash blossom recipes), Sweet corn tortellini and the Atlantic lobster thermidor you’re sure to enjoy a culinary adventure, making this the best restaurant in Dallas.
Red Rock Grill, Oklahoma City, OK
At Redrock Canyon Grill, you’ll enjoy classics with an American and Southwest flair served in a fun, energetic atmosphere. A few of the intriguing house specialties include Persimmon hill meatloaf, the chicken enchilada platter, and the barbecue pork ribs. An epic ambiance and an all around good vibe make this the best restaurant in Oklahoma.
Block 16, Omaha, NE
Block 16 is probably the most popular casual restaurant in Omaha. There’s a reason why there’s nearly always a line at Block 16. It’s that good! The Croque Garcon burger is a standout with a 1/3 pound Jon’s Naturals burger patty, so much so, that Alton Brown named it one of the best burgers in the world! This is our pick for the best restaurant in Omaha.
Vetri Cucina, Philadelphia, PA
Vetri, is a premier Italian restaurant, located in an historic townhome in downtown PA. Vetri Cucina is celebrated for it’s exquisite pasta dishes and intimate setting. Vetri offers private dining, interactive cooking classes, and fun events making it the best restaurant in Philadelphia.
The Mooring, Newport, RI
The Mooring is located on Newport’s historic waterfront, providing stunning harbor views. They are well known for their fresh seafood, such as, local oysters, and the iconic warm buttered lobster roll. The classic “Bag of Donuts,” lobster-shrimp fritters are a must try starter. The scallops, fish & chips, and chicken with chimichurri sauce are excellent meal choices. Be sure to try this best restaurant in Newport, Rhode Island.
Horn And Cantle
Husk, Charleston, SC
Husk offers modern Southern cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The White lily biscuits with smoked black pepper, and sorghum butter are delightful. The historic setting adds to the charm of this best restaurant in Charleston.
Maribella Ristorante, Sioux Falls, SD
Maribella is an upscale Italian restaurant located in the heart of downtown Sioux Falls. Maribella received Open Table’s Diners Choice Award in 2022 and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2023 and 2024. The menu is well thought out providing a wide array of appetizers, salads, pizza, and main courses. They also offer an all-Italian wine list, Italian beer, and Italian cocktails in an elegant setting, elevating it to the best restaurant in Sioux Falls.
The Catbird Seat, Nashville, TN
Considered the best restaurant in Nashville, The Catbird Seat is known for Chef Tiffani Ortiz and Andy Doubrava’s chef tasting menus. The Catbird Seat provides an interactive and memorable dining experience. They are known for seasonal menu rotations and intimate guest chef dinners.
Hen Of The Wood, Waterbury, VT
This farm-to-table restaurant is beloved for its seasonal dishes and rustic, cozy setting. They offer oyster hour and most of the vegetables on their menu are from local Burnt Rock Farm, Pitchfork Farm, and Jericho Settlers Farm making it the best restaurant in Waterbury.
Husk
The Inn At Little Washington, Washington, VA
This world-renowned restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience. Patrick O’Connell’s American cuisine will inspire your tastebuds. Dining here makes you feel like you’re at a romantic dinner party in a private country mansion. Most of the produce and herbs used in the restaurant are grown on a small farm by the farmer in residence, Joneve Murphy. A rolling cow displays cheeses inviting guests to relax and have fun. The Inn at Little Washington has established relationships with some of the best, and most well known, farmers and suppliers in the region. In 2021, Michelin awarded The Inn At Little Washington a Green Star for sustainability and is our top pick for the best restaurant in Washington, Virginia.
The Chop House, Charleston, WV
The Chop House is known for its premium choice and prime steaks and appetizers, such as the sweet and spicy calamari and the lollipop lamb chops. Be sure to indulge in one of the many sweets like the Banana pecan bread pudding or the Vanilla bean creme brulee. This elegant steakhouse oozes ambiance and is our top pick for best restaurant in Charleston.
L’Etoile Restaurant, Madison, WI
Offering a fresh menu focused on seasonal local ingredients, L’Etoile is praised for its innovative cuisine and sophisticated ambience. L’Etoile, believes in supporting local farmers and artisan producers. The Swordfish garnished with Door County sweet cherries, Morren Orchard Almata apples, and braised artichokes won’t disappoint. For dessert be sure to savor the homemade apricot galette. Featured in Gourmet Magazines, “Americas Top 50 Restaurants” this is the best restaurant in Madison, Wisconsin.
The Handle Bar, Teton Village, WY
Located in the Four Seasons Jackson Hole, The Handle Bar is an American Pub and Beer Hall. This restaurant offers comfort food with a modern twist and stunning views of the Teton Mountains. Enjoy chefs signature dish, “The Handle Bar Burger” featuring caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms, white cheddar cheese, and truffle aioli. Visit this must try, best restaurant in Teton Village, Wyoming for an unforgettable dining experience.
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