Are you a food enthusiast on the lookout for unique culinary experiences? Look no further! In this article, you will discover a curated list of underrated food cities that should be on every foodie’s travel itinerary. From hidden gems tucked away in the quaint streets of the Midwest to vibrant cultural hubs bursting with culinary diversity, these cities offer a variety of delectable cuisines waiting to be explored. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds as you embark on a gastronomic adventure through these underrated food cities that will leave you craving for more.
Underrated Food Cities Every Foodie Should Visit
Portland, Oregon
Farm-to-Table Culture
In Portland, Oregon, you can immerse yourself in a farm-to-table culture that emphasizes freshness and sustainability. The city is renowned for its local produce, and many restaurants source their ingredients directly from nearby farms. This focus on farm-to-table dining ensures that you can enjoy dishes made with the freshest ingredients available. From hand-picked vegetables to locally raised meat, every bite is a delightful and flavorful experience.
Food Carts Galore
One of the unique aspects of Portland’s culinary scene is its abundance of food carts. These mobile eateries offer a diverse range of cuisines, allowing you to sample different flavors from around the world in a casual and affordable setting. Whether you’re craving Indian curries, handmade dumplings, or gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, you’ll find it all at the bustling food cart pods scattered throughout the city. This vibrant food cart culture truly sets Portland apart as a foodie destination.
Sustainable Seafood
As a coastal city, Portland takes pride in its sustainable seafood options. The culinary scene here places a strong emphasis on responsibly sourced fish and shellfish, ensuring the longevity of marine life while providing incredible dining experiences. From freshly shucked oysters to perfectly seared salmon, you can indulge in a variety of seafood delicacies that are not only delicious but also environmentally conscious.
Coffee Roasters and Craft Breweries
Known as the coffee capital of the United States, Portland boasts a thriving coffee culture. From artisanal espresso drinks to hand-poured brews, you’ll find a wide array of coffee options to suit every taste. Additionally, the city is home to a burgeoning craft brewery scene, offering a vast selection of locally brewed beers. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or a beer enthusiast, Portland’s coffee roasters and craft breweries are sure to satisfy your cravings.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Creole and Cajun Cuisine
New Orleans is a melting pot of cultures, and its cuisine reflects this rich heritage. Creole and Cajun dishes dominate the culinary landscape, combining flavors from French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions. From gumbo and jambalaya to étouffée and crawfish boils, the bold and soulful flavors of Creole and Cajun cuisine are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Po’ Boys and Gumbo
When in New Orleans, it’s essential to try the iconic po’ boys and gumbo. These quintessential dishes are beloved by locals and visitors alike. A po’ boy is a hearty sandwich typically filled with fried seafood or roast beef, dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise. On the other hand, gumbo is a flavorful stew made with seafood, meat, or poultry, and served over rice. These classic New Orleans dishes showcase the city’s unique culinary heritage and are a must-try for any food enthusiast.
Beignets and Chicory Coffee
No visit to New Orleans is complete without indulging in a plate of hot and fluffy beignets. These powdered sugar-dusted pillows of fried dough are a quintessential New Orleans treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of chicory coffee. The addition of chicory gives the coffee a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the beignets. Enjoying this iconic combination is a beloved ritual for both locals and tourists alike.
Seafood Delicacies
Given its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no surprise that New Orleans is renowned for its seafood delicacies. From fresh Gulf oysters and shrimp to succulent crawfish and blue crabs, the variety and quality of seafood available in the city are unparalleled. Whether you prefer your seafood raw, grilled, boiled, or deep-fried, you’ll find countless options to satisfy your cravings. The vibrant seafood scene in New Orleans is a testament to its coastal roots and is not to be missed.
Austin, Texas
Tex-Mex and BBQ
Austin, Texas, offers a food scene that combines the best of Tex-Mex cuisine and traditional barbecue. Tex-Mex dishes such as enchiladas, tacos, and fajitas are a staple in Austin, with a unique blend of Mexican and American flavors. Meanwhile, the city is also known for its mouthwatering barbecue, featuring slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausages that are tender and packed with flavor. Whether you’re craving spicy salsa or smoky ribs, Austin has something to satisfy every palate.
Food Trucks and Trailer Parks
When it comes to casual dining, Austin shines with its vibrant food truck and trailer park culture. These mobile eateries offer an eclectic mix of cuisines, from Korean tacos and gourmet burgers to vegan fare and artisanal ice cream. The city’s food trucks are known for their creative menus and innovative twists on classic dishes. Exploring Austin’s food truck scene allows you to sample a wide range of flavors in a relaxed and laid-back setting.
Tacos and Margaritas
Tacos and margaritas go hand in hand in Austin, where you’ll find an abundance of taquerias serving up delicious handheld delights. From traditional street-style tacos to inventive gourmet creations, there’s a taco for every taste bud. Pair your tacos with a refreshing margarita, and you’ll have the perfect combination to beat the Texas heat. Austin’s taco and margarita scene is a true culinary delight and should be on every foodie’s bucket list.
Live Music and Food Festivals
Austin’s vibrant live music scene and food festivals make it a city that truly caters to both the auditory and gustatory senses. As the self-proclaimed “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin offers a plethora of venues where you can catch live performances spanning various genres. Combine this with the city’s numerous food festivals, such as the Austin Food and Wine Festival and the Austin Margarita Festival, and you’ll find yourself in a haven of both great tunes and delectable food.
Nashville, Tennessee
Hot Chicken
When it comes to Nashville’s culinary scene, hot chicken takes center stage. This fiery dish is a local specialty known for its spicy kick that leaves a lingering heat on your taste buds. Hot chicken is typically served with pickles and white bread to balance out the heat, making for a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether you prefer it mild or extra spicy, trying hot chicken is a rite of passage for any food lover visiting Nashville.
Biscuits and Gravy
In Nashville, biscuits and gravy are a beloved breakfast staple that will make you feel right at home. These fluffy, buttery biscuits smothered in rich and creamy white sausage gravy are the epitome of Southern comfort food. Paired with a side of crispy bacon and a cup of strong coffee, biscuits and gravy are the perfect way to start your day in Music City.
Southern Comfort Food
Nashville is renowned for its soul-soothing Southern comfort food. From hearty meat dishes like country fried steak and slow-cooked pulled pork to classic sides like collard greens and macaroni and cheese, Nashville’s culinary scene showcases the heart and soul of Southern cooking. Indulging in these comforting dishes is like taking a bite out of Southern hospitality itself.
Honky Tonk Eats
The vibrant music scene in Nashville extends to its dining options with a variety of honky tonk eats to satisfy your hunger. Many of the city’s iconic music venues feature restaurants serving up classic bar fare, such as juicy burgers, crispy fried chicken wings, and loaded nachos. Pair these delicious bites with a cold beer or a stiff cocktail, and you’ll be fully immersed in Nashville’s lively honky-tonk atmosphere.
Asheville, North Carolina
Craft Beer and Breweries
Asheville, North Carolina, has earned a well-deserved reputation as a craft beer mecca. The city boasts a vast number of breweries, ranging from small, independent operations to larger-scale establishments. Beer enthusiasts can explore the diverse range of styles and flavors, from hoppy IPAs and rich stouts to crisp lagers and fruity sours. With its picturesque mountain views as a backdrop, enjoying a locally brewed beer in Asheville is an experience that should not be missed.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Similar to Portland, Asheville takes pride in its farm-to-table dining scene. Restaurants in the city prioritize using locally sourced ingredients, often procuring them directly from nearby farms. This commitment to supporting local farmers and showcasing the region’s bounty results in dishes brimming with freshness and flavor. From seasonal salads to expertly prepared meats, every meal in Asheville is a celebration of the area’s agricultural heritage.
Appalachian Cuisine
Asheville also offers a taste of Appalachian cuisine, highlighting the flavors and culinary traditions of the region. This rustic and comforting fare features dishes like cornbread, fried green tomatoes, and country ham. The simple yet delicious preparations showcase the ingredients’ natural flavors while paying homage to the area’s cultural roots. Exploring the rich tapestry of Appalachian cuisine allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culinary heritage.
Food Halls and Food Tours
For foodies looking to sample a variety of flavors in one place, Asheville’s food halls are a must-visit. These communal spaces house multiple vendors under one roof, offering an array of cuisines to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, Korean barbecue, or wood-fired pizza, you’ll find it all in Asheville’s vibrant food halls. Additionally, food tours are a popular way to explore the city’s culinary offerings. These guided experiences allow you to discover hidden gems and local favorites while learning about Asheville’s food culture from knowledgeable guides.
Charleston, South Carolina
Lowcountry Cuisine
Charleston, South Carolina, is synonymous with Lowcountry cuisine, a style of cooking that draws inspiration from the area’s coastal landscapes and traditional Southern influences. Lowcountry cuisine is characterized by seafood, rice, and fresh produce, resulting in dishes that are rich in flavor and history. From shrimp and grits to she-crab soup, experiencing the unique flavors of Lowcountry cuisine is like taking a culinary journey through Charleston’s past.
Shrimp and Grits
No visit to Charleston would be complete without savoring a plate of shrimp and grits. This iconic Southern dish features plump shrimp cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce, served over a bed of creamy stone-ground grits. The marriage of savory and creamy flavors creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, shrimp and grits are a quintessential Charleston culinary experience.
Farmers Markets and Seafood
Charleston’s commitment to fresh and local ingredients is evident in its vibrant farmers markets and seafood markets. These bustling marketplaces offer a unique opportunity to connect with local farmers, fishermen, and artisans while sampling the region’s finest produce and seafood. Whether you’re picking up a basket of ripe tomatoes or selecting the catch of the day, the farmers markets and seafood markets in Charleston provide an authentic and immersive culinary experience.
Historic Eateries
Charleston’s culinary scene is steeped in history, and the city is home to several iconic eateries that have been serving delicious meals for generations. From quaint neighborhood cafes to elegant fine dining establishments, Charleston’s historic eateries offer a range of dining experiences. Whether you’re sipping on a refreshing mint julep at a storied bar or indulging in a traditional Southern feast at a legendary restaurant, dining at these historic establishments allows you to taste a bit of Charleston’s past while enjoying a memorable culinary experience.
Denver, Colorado
Rocky Mountain Oysters
Denver, Colorado, may be known for its stunning mountain scenery, but it also offers some unique culinary experiences. One such experience is trying Rocky Mountain oysters, a local delicacy that is not actually oysters at all. These deep-fried bull testicles are surprisingly tender and have a mild flavor. While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, they are a daring and memorable dish that showcases the adventurous spirit of Denver’s culinary scene.
Green Chile Sauce
Denver’s culinary scene is heavily influenced by its proximity to New Mexico, and one of the standout flavors is green chile sauce. This vibrant sauce, made from roasted green chiles, adds a spicy and smoky kick to a variety of dishes. From breakfast burritos to cheese-smothered enchiladas, green chile sauce in Denver is a culinary staple that adds a unique and flavorful twist to any meal.
Beer and Brewery Scene
Denver is often referred to as the “Napa Valley of Beer” due to its thriving beer and brewery scene. The city boasts over 100 breweries, ranging from small craft operations to larger-scale breweries. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just enjoy a cold pint, Denver’s beer scene has something for everyone. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, there is no shortage of unique and innovative brews to explore.
Food Halls and Local Sourcing
Denver’s food halls have become popular destinations for food lovers looking to sample diverse flavors in a communal setting. These culinary hubs feature a wide range of vendors, offering everything from wood-fired pizza and gourmet burgers to artisanal ice cream and craft cocktails. Additionally, Denver prides itself on its commitment to local sourcing, with many restaurants and eateries highlighting ingredients from nearby farms and ranches. Embracing the farm-to-table ethos, Denver’s culinary scene celebrates the flavors of the region while supporting local food producers.
Providence, Rhode Island
Clam Cakes and Chowder
Providence, Rhode Island, is a coastal city that has carved out a unique place in the culinary world. Clam cakes and chowder are two dishes that are synonymous with Providence’s culinary scene. Clam cakes are deep-fried fritters made with minced clams and cornmeal batter, while chowder is a creamy and hearty soup typically filled with clams, potatoes, and bacon. Indulging in these quintessential Rhode Island dishes will transport you to the shores of New England and leave you craving more.
New England Seafood
Providence’s coastal location means that it has access to an abundance of fresh seafood. The city’s culinary scene highlights the best of New England seafood, with dishes like lobster rolls, fried clams, and baked cod. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal at a seafood shack or indulging in a fine dining experience, Providence’s seafood offerings are a testament to the region’s culinary traditions and the bountiful harvest of the sea.
Diner Culture
Providence embraces the classic American diner culture, with charming greasy spoons and retro diners dotted throughout the city. These nostalgic eateries serve up comfort food favorites like burgers, pancakes, and milkshakes, all with a side of old-school charm. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a late-night meal, Providence’s diner culture offers a taste of Americana with a side of friendly service.
Italian-American Classics
Providence has a strong Italian-American heritage, and this is reflected in its culinary offerings. The city’s Little Italy neighborhood, Federal Hill, is home to numerous Italian restaurants serving up classic dishes like pasta, meatballs, and cannoli. From hole-in-the-wall trattorias to upscale fine dining establishments, Providence’s Italian-American cuisine is a delicious celebration of the flavors and traditions brought over by Italian immigrants.
Kansas City, Missouri
BBQ Ribs and Burnt Ends
Kansas City is synonymous with barbecue, and the city offers a wide range of mouthwatering barbecue options. From tender and smoky ribs to flavorful burnt ends, Kansas City’s barbecue is known for its rich, tangy sauces and slow-cooked meats. Whether you prefer your barbecue sauce sweet, spicy, or tangy, you’ll find a style to suit your tastes in Kansas City. Sampling the city’s barbecue is an essential experience for any foodie visiting the area.
Steak and Barbecue
In addition to its barbecue, Kansas City is also known for its incredible steakhouses. The city’s culinary scene features a variety of high-quality steaks, grilled to perfection and served with all the classic accompaniments. From tender filet mignon to juicy ribeye, Kansas City’s steakhouses offer a meat lover’s paradise. Pair your steak with a side of barbecue beans or cheesy corn, and you’ll have a truly indulgent dining experience.
Jazz and Barbecue Sauce
Kansas City has a longstanding connection to jazz music, and this cultural influence can be seen in its culinary scene as well. Many of the city’s iconic barbecue joints feature live jazz performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere where you can enjoy great music and delicious food. The combination of soulful music and finger-licking barbecue sauce is a match made in heaven, allowing you to indulge in two of Kansas City’s greatest treasures.
Food Traditions
Kansas City’s culinary traditions run deep, and you can see this in its celebrated food festivals and events. From the American Royal World Series of Barbecue to the Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioned cook-offs, the city takes its barbecue seriously. These events showcase the passion and skill of Kansas City’s barbecue pitmasters, as well as the community’s love for good food. Embracing these food traditions allows you to immerse yourself in the unique culinary heritage of Kansas City.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
New Mexican Cuisine
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is known for its unique culinary style known as New Mexican cuisine. This regional cuisine combines flavors from Native American, Mexican, and Spanish influences, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful dining experience. New Mexican dishes often feature the use of red and green chiles, which are grown locally and give the food its distinctive heat and depth of flavor. From enchiladas smothered in red or green chile sauce to hearty posole and stuffed sopapillas, New Mexican cuisine offers a one-of-a-kind taste of the Southwest.
Chile Rellenos and Sopapillas
Chile rellenos and sopapillas are two classic dishes that are not to be missed when exploring Santa Fe’s culinary scene. Chile rellenos are roasted and peeled green chiles stuffed with cheese or meat, then battered and fried to perfection. Served with a side of tangy salsa, these flavorful and indulgent treats are a highlight of New Mexican cuisine. After your meal, be sure to leave room for sopapillas, a traditional fry bread that is light, airy, and typically served with honey for drizzling. The combination of the crisp sopapilla and sweet honey is the perfect end to a delicious meal.
Indian Pueblos and Native American Fare
Santa Fe is located in close proximity to Indian pueblos, which are home to Native American tribes and communities. The influence of Native American culture can be seen in the city’s culinary scene, with dishes that highlight traditional ingredients and cooking methods. From blue cornmeal recipes like Navajo tacos and blue corn pancakes to dishes featuring wild game like bison and elk, exploring Native American fare in Santa Fe allows you to connect with the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Mexican Influences
Santa Fe’s proximity to Mexico has also shaped its culinary traditions, and the city’s cuisine features a distinct Mexican influence. From vibrant salsas and tangy ceviche to flavorful mole sauces and hearty tamales, Mexican flavors abound in Santa Fe. Exploring the city’s Mexican-influenced dishes allows you to appreciate the diverse culinary tapestry that has shaped the region’s food culture.
In conclusion, these underrated food cities offer a treasure trove of culinary delights worth exploring. From the farm-to-table culture of Portland and the vibrant food cart scene of Austin to the soulful flavors of New Orleans and the unique blend of Native American and Mexican influences in Santa Fe, each city has its own distinctive culinary identity. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just beginning your culinary adventures, these cities are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you with delicious memories to savor. So pack your appetite and embark on a culinary journey through these underrated food cities – a feast awaits you!