Get ready for the most delicious road trip ever! We found the best small-town restaurants in America—50 states' worth of really good eats.
Alabama
Wildflower Cafe, Mentone
Located on Lookout Mountain, Mentone attracts visitors for its natural beauty and proximity to DeSoto Falls. The enchanting Wildflower Cafe fits right in, known for its log-cabin vibes, strings of twinkle lights and lush forest backdrop. The bohemian vibes and homestyle dishes like shrimp and grits, tomato pie and thick-cut steaks make it a worthy stop.
Alaska
Double Musky Inn, Girdwood
Tucked into a ski resort town south of Anchorage, the menu at Double Musky Inn has a surprising blend of New Orleans flavors and Alaskan seafood. Feeding locals and visitors since 1962, popular dishes include pan-fried fresh-caught salmon, halibut stuffed with Cajun bread crumbs and crab meat, and jambalaya.
Arizona
Leff-T’s Steakhouse, Dewey
This family restaurant is a favorite of Community Cook Bob Johnson, who goes for the smoked meats and fish-fry Fridays! Head to Leff-T’s Steakhouse for lunch or dinner, and dig in to mesquite-smoked ribs, a rodeo burger with cheddar and bacon, and fried walleye. Save room for homemade bread puddings and pies!
Arkansas
Craig’s Bar-B-Q, De Valls Bluff
Finding the best barbecue restaurant in every state is no easy task, and Craig’s Bar-B-Q is so unassuming, you might miss it if you’re not paying attention! That would be a shame because this roadside joint has some of the tastiest barbecue in Arkansas. Family-run since 1947, you’ll find specialties like a sliced pork sandwich slathered in a house-made sauce and smoked barbecue chicken plates.
California
Green Valley Smokehouse, Green Valley
This family-owned restaurant captures a relaxed, small-town vibe in the hills north of Los Angeles. Community Cook Marina Castle Kelley heads to Green Valley Smokehouse for smoked tri-tip and barbecue tacos, plus sides like mac and cheese and corn queso with chips.
Colorado
Main Street Restaurant, Idaho Springs
It’s worth arriving early to get a table at this small but excellent eatery! Locals meet up for breakfast and lunch at Main Street Restaurant. There are inventive eggs Benedict with ingredients like lobster and andouille sausage—you can even get a flight of eggs Benedict if you can’t decide. You’ll also find sandwiches and burgers for lunch, including one burger topped with green chili, one of Colorado’s famous dishes.
Connecticut
Nikki’s Dog House, Putnam
Head to the charming downtown of Putnam for shopping and local theater, then head to Nikki’s Dog House for the retro vibes, burgers, sandwiches and ice cream. Known for the extensive hot dog menu, you’ll find everything from Coney Island dogs to one topped with Kansas City-style barbecue sauce, baked beans, pickles and coleslaw.
Delaware
Cantwell’s Tavern, Odessa
Tucked among the Colonial-era homes and gardens in Odessa, the historic Cantwell’s Tavern draws locals and visitors for its picturesque grounds, friendly bar and homestyle food. Whether it’s baby back ribs, steak frites, or craft beers and cocktails, there’s something for everyone.
Florida
The Great Southern Cafe, Seaside
A local’s favorite along the Panhandle, there’s plenty of sunshine, views and delectable food at The Great Southern Cafe. The menu is full of southern flavors and seafood, from crab cakes and fried green tomatoes to blackened shrimp with cheesy grits. Don’t miss the mojito menu!
Georgia
Mickey Pigg’s BBQ, Alto
The atmosphere at Mickey Pigg’s BBQ is so laid-back and casual, you need to focus only on the food. The menu features classics like brisket and burnt ends, but things get really interesting with specialties like the Appalachian taco, which is a cornbread pancake stuffed with pulled pork and coleslaw.
Hawaii
Cafe Haleiwa, Haleiwa
Opened by famed surfer Duncan Campbell on the north shore of O’ahu, Cafe Haleiwa has been a favorite of the surfing community and locals since 1982. Hearty meals run the gamut, from big egg and potato burritos, Hawaiian sweet bread French toast and fluffy banana pancakes for breakfast to grilled mahi mahi with veggies for lunch.
Idaho
Buffalo Cafe, Twin Falls
A favorite of the Twin Falls community, Buffalo Cafe is known for its homestyle breakfasts and welcoming atmosphere. Folks flock here for biscuits and gravy, French toast, fluffy buttermilk pancakes, homemade jams and the signature Buffalo chip—a pile of fried potatoes with chiles, tomatoes, bacon, sour cream, cheese and eggs.
Illinois
Big Ed’s BBQ, Waukegan
The smoked meats at Big Ed’s BBQ are perfectly seasoned, so you don’t really need to add anything else. Still, don’t overlook those house-made barbecue sauces—they’re amazing! People flock here for dinner plates with baby backs, burnt ends, smoked links and dry-rub chicken, plus sides like “lawd ham mercy” beans and mac and cheese. Want barbecue on a bun? Don’t ask for a sandwich; at Big Ed’s, it’s called a “sammich”!
Indiana
Converse Big Dipper, Converse
Head to the Converse Big Dipper for burgers, deli sandwiches and Coney dogs, but don’t leave without trying an old-fashioned ice cream parlor dessert. The “heavenly treats” include ice cream sodas, hand-dipped shakes and nostalgic sundaes like a banana split.
Iowa
209 Main, Paton
In Iowa, 209 Main is a classic gathering place for friends meeting for after-work drinks, graduation or anniversary parties, or just a low-key date night without the kids. The menu has a little bit of everything, from brisket quesadillas to Iowa’s favorite sandwich, a huge flattened fried pork tenderloin sandwich on a toasted bun. The toolbar, a burger made with a 50/50 split of ground beef and bacon, is another standout.
Kansas
Hays House Restaurant and Tavern, Council Grove
This restaurant, founded by the great-grandson of Daniel Boone, was originally a trading post for local Native Americans, and the log cabin is a National Historic Landmark. Today, Hays House serves down-home cooking, including chicken-fried steak and smothered hamburger steak. Wash it down with a gold rush cocktail made with Kansas whiskey.
Kentucky
Patti’s 1880’s Settlement, Grand Rivers
Patti’s 1880’s Settlement is a family-friendly spot perfect for hearty meals and old-fashioned fun. The menu features famous Kentucky hot brown open-faced sandwiches, but the Patti Brown, made with a burger smothered in sauteed mushrooms, cheese and potato chips, is just as famous here. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with traditional chess pie or a towering lemon meringue. After dinner, there’s mini golf, garden walks and the chance to pan for gold!
Louisiana
Buck & Johnny’s, Breaux Bridge
Buck & Johnny’s sits in a beautifully renovated building that stood abandoned for years, breathing new life into this small town deep in the heart of Cajun country. Featuring an eclectic mix of Cajun and Italian favorites, you’ll find things like crawfish etouffee and seafood pasta for dinner. The real excitement is at weekend zydeco breakfasts, where you get omelets with tasso ham, grits and crawfish and bottomless mimosas accompanied by live music and lots of dancing.
Maine
Richard’s Restaurant, Brunswick
Richard’s Restaurant has been a mainstay for Mainers looking for authentic German fare and warm hospitality. Housed in the historic Snow Block building, some of the specialties at the cozy, family-owned spot include schnitzels, bratwurst, spaetzle noodles, a few American classics like burgers and lots of good German ales.
Maryland
The Trolley Stop, Ellicott City
Set in a historic 1833 tavern building in this charming town west of Baltimore, The Trolley Stop is a regional favorite for classic American comfort food and rustic vibes. In addition to Maryland favorites like classic crab cakes, as well as big burgers, steaks and kid-friendly dishes, there’s karaoke and open mic nights to keep the place lively.
Massachusetts
Honest Town Eats, Southbridge
In just a few short years, Honest Town Eats has become a favorite dinner destination for locals and folks from neighboring towns. (“Honest Town” was the original name of Southbridge!) The menu blends global flavors, including a chicken katsu sandwich and French onion ramen noodles (a couple of favorites of my husband and me). The gorgeous seasonal cocktails are hard to beat.
Michigan
Herman’s Boy, Rockford
Herman’s Boy has a long, storied history in this neck of the woods. Founded in 1979 and now run by third-generation family members, you’ll find great coffee made with beans roasted on-site, baked goods and a bustling deli in a historic farmhouse. Fresh-baked bagels—and the bagel hot dog—are standouts, as is the Mackinac Island-style fudge made in an old-fashioned copper pot.
Minnesota
Betty’s Pies, Two Harbors
As the story goes, Betty got her start selling coffee and donuts to her father’s friends at his fish shack. Eventually, the old fish shack became Betty’s Pies, a lunch stop and bakery. They have pies, of course, plus a full breakfast and lunch menu with dishes like Beaver Bay beef pasty and red flannel hash.
Mississippi
Abe’s Bar-B-Q, Clarksdale
Located at the same crossroads in Mississippi where blues guitarist Robert Johnson supposedly sold his soul to the devil, Abe’s Bar-B-Q is everything you want a barbecue joint to be. A Clarksdale favorite since 1924, the famous “come back sauce” comes on everything, from ribs to chili cheeseburgers or fries.
Missouri
Cowan’s Restaurant, Washington
Cowan’s Restaurant is as classic and old-school as it gets. Folks drop in regularly for hearty breakfasts, lunchtime classics like BLTs and turkey clubs, and dinnertime meat loaf and burgers. Leave room for homemade pies, such as caramel apple crumb, peach blackberry and lemon pie with a mountain-sized meringue topping.
Montana
Front Porch Dewey Burger and Fish Co., Eureka
It’s hard to say which is more popular at Front Porch Dewey Burger and Fish Co., the Star Wars Lego display or the huckleberry burger—an all-beef bacon cheeseburger with a scoop of huckleberry ice cream on it. Just about everything is made in-house, from the hand-pressed burgers and homemade buns to the hand-cut fries.
Nebraska
Rosita’s Restaurant, Scottsbluff
Rosita’s, a vibrant Mexican family restaurant in western Nebraska, is known for its warm service, fresh ingredients and citrusy, rainbow-hued margaritas. Signature dishes like chile verde burritos and panchos—puffy fried tortilla chips topped with beans, cheese and guac—are must-tries.
Nevada
The Star Hotel, Elko
The Star Hotel dates back to 1910, built as a home-away-from-home for Basque sheepherders who emigrated to the United States. The menu leans heavily on grilled steaks and seafood with a smattering of Basque-inspired specialties like chicken with pimentos and slow-cooked lamb.
New Hampshire
Pickity Place, Mason
Fans of the 1948 Little Red Riding Hood Golden Book will recognize this red cottage, which served as the real-life inspiration for the illustrations! Pickity Place is famous for its five-course dinners, which change monthly. You might see things like stracciatella soup, beef roulade Florentine or stuffed eggplant Parmesan, all made with herbs grown on-site. A kids’ menu includes a sandwich, fruit and fresh-baked cookies. Community Cook Pattie Prescott suggests strolling through the beautiful grounds of lovely herb and flower gardens after your meal.
New Jersey
The Goffle Grill, Hawthorne
The no-nonsense Goffle Grill has been serving hot dogs, burgers, fries and milkshakes since 1979. Community Cook Kim Spaccarotella says it’s a favorite for local families, who flock there for loaded hot dogs topped with homemade chili, mustard and onions.
New Mexico
The Owl Bar and Cafe, San Antonio
Sure, you can get breakfast, steaks and more at the family-owned Owl Bar and Cafe, a San Antonio institution since 1945. But its claim to fame is the Owl burger, made with beef ground per order and a special green chile sauce made fresh daily.
New York
Brown’s Brewing Co., North Hoosick
Brown’s Brewing draws craft beer enthusiasts and families (like my own!) for beers and classic bar fare. Try unique seasonal brews like watermelon lime basil ale alongside meat loaf sandwiches, oatmeal-stout short ribs, fried wings or cauliflower, and loaded fries.
North Carolina
Southern, A Gathering Place, Southport
Community Cook Theresa Ravencraft says everything at Southern, A Gathering Place is a winner, mostly because chef Ashley Davis sources ingredients from local bakeries, fish markets and farms. Think sweet tea-brined roasted chicken or vermillion snapper with peach salsa.
North Dakota
Rusty’s Saloon and Grill, Saint Anthony
This nearly 80-year-old establishment tucked away in tiny Saint Anthony is well worth a visit. Rusty’s Saloon and Grill has a homey, rustic atmosphere; the decor includes items salvaged from local businesses and hand-hewn wood furniture. Saddle up to the bar for ribeye steaks, juicy burgers, fun cocktails like a Caesar-flavored Bloody Mary, and cold brews.
Ohio
Das Dutch Haus, Columbiana
The homestyle meals at Das Dutch Haus will make you feel as if you’re back in grandma’s cozy kitchen. The menu features comfort food like creamed turkey on biscuits, country ham, and hot beef sandwiches with gravy and potatoes. And save room for bakery cookies and cream pies. You can even order your wedding cake here!
Oklahoma
Stables Cafe, Guthrie
Filled with cool porcelain signs gathered over the years by the owners, Stables Cafe has that laid-back aesthetic that welcomes everyone. The menu has a little bit of everything: loaded potatoes, queso topped with sausage, barbecue, hot links, pulled pork and a 16-ounce ribeye named the tallman. Save room for pecan pie and vanilla buttermilk pie!
Oregon
Camp 18, Seaside
Camp 18, a beautiful log cabin filled with the history of Oregon’s logging industry, is a great place to stop and eat on the way to the coast. In the winter, sit by the cozy fireplace; when the weather’s nice, sit outside surrounded by the beautiful forest. Favorite menu items include the massive riggin’ boss burger topped with sauteed mushrooms and the legendary, Paul Bunyan-sized cinnamon rolls.
Pennsylvania
Snuzzles, Mertztown
Aside from being the cutest-named restaurant on the list, Snuzzles has a big menu of dishes the whole family will love, from pizza to sandwiches and salads. Community Cook Susan Bikta says the stromboli are a must-try, including the pastrami stromboli with Swiss cheese, coleslaw and homemade Russian dressing.
Rhode Island
The Middle of Nowhere Diner, Exeter
It’s worth the trip to get excellent old-fashioned diner food at The Middle of Nowhere Diner. Everyone here makes you feel like family, right down to feeding you well. My husband and I are big fans of this out-of-the-way spot; his favorite is the eggs and home fries for breakfast, while I love the huge western omelet sandwich.
South Carolina
Steak House Cafeteria, Walhalla
Despite what the sign above the door says at Steak House Cafeteria, you won’t find steak here! According to Community Cook Brooke Wofford, you will find some of the best fried chicken and southern side dishes you’ve ever tasted. “It’s the South’s best-kept secret,” she says. The menu changes daily with specialties like fried flounder, roasted chicken, collard greens and fried okra.
South Dakota
Cheyenne Crossing, Lead
This Black Hills landmark was a stagecoach stop in the late 1800s along the route between Deadwood, South Dakota, and Cheyenne, Wyoming. Today, Cheyenne Crossing includes a lodge, a general store and the Stage Stop Cafe, which serves the heartiest breakfast around. The restaurant’s specialty is the Indian taco, a South Dakota staple served with fry bread instead of a tortilla.
Tennessee
Southern Fare, Shelbyville
Home cooking and friendly folks are hallmarks of Southern Fare. Specialties at this unassuming meat-and-three in the heart of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail include slow-cooked pot roast, fried salmon patties and meat loaf. Don’t forget sides like onion rings and mashed potatoes with white gravy.
Texas
Bluebonnet Cafe, Haltom City
Community Cook Joan Hallford loves the “good ol’ home cooking” at the Bluebonnet Cafe. Favorites include big servings of chicken and waffles and enormous omelets at breakfast, and fried pork chops and spicy Mexican burgers at lunch. Themed party rooms include one decorated in honor of I Love Lucy star Lucille Ball.
Utah
Maddox Ranch House, Perry
The family-owned Maddox Ranch House is a Beehive State favorite with something for everyone. Have filet mignon at the sit-down restaurant for date night or take the kids to the Maddox drive-in for burgers, fried chicken and homemade soda. For parties or busy weeknights, the “takeout cabin” prepares dinners, sides, drinks and desserts to go.
Vermont
Bentley’s Bakery and Cafe, Danville
Head past Joe’s Pond (Vermonters know the way!) to find the tiny town of Danville and the downtown favorite Bentley’s Bakery and Cafe. My family and I love the amazing baked goods, like fresh homemade bagels and Vermont maple croissants. For lunch, try the autumn wrap, made with Cabot cheddar and crisp apples.
Virginia
The Apple House, Linden
Folks traveling through Linden stop at The Apple House restaurant and country store every chance they get. Families enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner here, but the restaurant is famous for homemade apple butter cinnamon donuts. You can try to take some home, but chances are they won’t last the car ride!
Washington
Blue Moose Cafe, Port Townsend
Folks love the rustic vibe and wonderfully sassy staff at Blue Moose Cafe. One of the most popular dishes is corned beef hash made with slow-cooked corned beef, along with rotating lunch specials like meatball subs, huevos rancheros or a polenta loaf with spicy chorizo.
West Virginia
The Pizza Place, Parkersburg
Community Cook Becky Carver loves The Pizza Place, a long-standing family-run spot for thin or thick-crust pies, calzones and more. She says the crust is always crispy, the cheese is appropriately oozy, and the sauce is just right.
Wisconsin
Huckleberry’s Restaurant, Prairie du Chien
The no-frills Huckleberry’s Restaurant has an impressive menu to satisfy travelers morning, noon and night. Think eggs, pancakes and bacon for breakfast and, for dinner, fried chicken and mashed potatoes with gravy and green beans, plus homemade strawberry shortcake for dessert. The restaurant also frequently holds buffets and dancing on Friday evenings.
Wyoming
Twisters, Guernsey
Visitors love Twisters for friendly service, big portions and budget-friendly prices. Among typical comfort foods, specials might include an open-face green chili burger, beef tips with mashed potatoes, and Indian tacos. For dessert, grab a scoop or two from the ice cream counter.
